Clinging to the fripperies of youth, is not a good look unless a woman is genetically gifted. Learning how to show some skin in a stylish, more elegant way helps to minimize any mutton-dressed-as-lamb moments.
When a woman waves goodbye to her 40s, the question is how low or high should she now go, and how much skin should be on show? Unless she looks as good as 60-something Helen Mirren in her red bikini, one failsafe rule of fashion is not to reveal too much flesh.
Fashion Tips for Older Women
A woman can avoid looking like she is trying too hard to be young by making sure her figure appears in proportion. When wearing an outfit that has a revealing neckline then it's advisable to balance out the rest of the body's silhouette. This is done by covering up on the bottom-half with a longer hemline. Conversely, when a more mature lady wears a short dress or skirt, then she should make sure her top-half is not revealing too much.
One-Shoulder Dressing
Stylish yet still sexy, showing some shoulder is a sure way to keep on trend. Asymmetric dresses have ruled the runways for 4 seasons now and 2010 is no exception. Whether aged 50 or 70, any woman can look elegant in a stylish one-shouldered dress, particularly one with draping. A well-fitting strapless bra is essential though, and the outfit should follow the "in proportion" rule, with a more demure hemline such as maxi-length or one that finishes on or just below the knee.
Show Some Cleavage
If there is one part of the body that a woman can draw attention to with confidence its her décolletage. Go for elegant necklines which show off some cleavage, such as a scoop or square neckline, rather than being overtly sexy. Choose an outfit in strong jewel tones of burgundy, purple, mauve or blue. These colors highlight and flatter the face and provided a welcome change to black, which can be draining against an older woman's skin. Leave baby-doll pink to those the right side of 30!
For women who do not feel comfortable revealing their cleavage, then a dress with a draped low-back is an elegant alternative.
Cover Flabby Arms
When it comes to bingo wings, three-quarter length sleeves cover a multitude of sins and make arms look slimmer. Women with flabby arms should shun strapless and cap-sleeved dresses and tops in favor of longer-sleeved ones. As an alternative, sleeves in sheer fabrics like chiffon will give the effect of baring flesh. Evening gowns will look glamorous with a contrasting lacy sleeve, which also allows some skin to show through.
Show a Leg
Women with less than lovely legs should never underestimate the power of a pair of opaque tights. A high denier (80+) in a dark color will slim down pins and cover-up any flaws, allowing the mature woman to still look good in a tunic dress or a short pencil skirt.
If hoisery is teamed with an outfit and shoes of the same color, this will give the impression of über long, leaner legs. Thick opaque tights give good leg coverage (like leggings) and provide an opportunity to wear shorter hemlines without feeling self-conscious. Skirts or dresses which finish half way down the calf can be unflattering and ageing, as the hemline finishes at the fattest part of the lower leg.
Fashionable Footwear
Whilst a lady is never too old to wear classic court shoes, a pair of on-trend peep-toes shoes will show off some toe-cleavage. Lower, kitten heels are a great alternative for those who shy away from a higher heel, and are making a big revival in 2010.
Knowing how much flesh to bare can be tricky as a woman gets older. However, just because she has left her 40s behind there is no reason why she shouldn't be fashionable, and flaunt what she's got left! In the words of the iconic French designer Coco Chanel, "You can be gorgeous at 20, charming at 40 and irresistable for the rest of your life."
Gill Hart - Gill Hart is a fashion and image professional who specializes in women's fashion over 50.
