If I know two things to be true, fashion is ageless and great style is forever. But as a fashion editor, I'm still often asked if certain trends are "age-appropriate". Whilst I understand the intention behind the question, I can't help but feel disappointed. After all, the power of a great outfit is universal, and we're at our most confident when we look and feel our best (and believe me, that has no age limit). So when it comes to discussing the relevance of current trends for a reader over 50, my advice is exactly the same as it would be for anyone else: start with wardrobe staples and investment pieces that will work with what you already own, and inject some fun and vibrancy by introducing microtrends like colours and accessories that speak to your unique style.
No one knows this better than influencer and communications director Marie-Louise Maxwell. Scrolling through Instagram, I noticed just how many current runway trends she manages to incorporate into her wardrobe, but all with her own interpretation.
Red? You'll find it in the form of cosy knits. Statement handbags? She has sparkles, clutches and crossbodies in spades. Denim? No problem; Maxwell has a comprehensive jeans collection. And— tall girls, take note—she has the insider scoop on the best brands for those over 5"8'. So, who better to turn to for tips on how to build a fashionable wardrobe over 50 than Marie-Louise?
Whether you're looking for trending buys, investment pieces, or the pillars to looking polished, keep scrolling to uncover styling tips from one of the best on Instagram, and to shop the key pieces that will bring new life to your usual rotation.
Ageless Trends That Look Fashionable in Your 50s
1. MIDI SKIRTS
Style Notes: Sorry, minis, but the runways have spoken and pencil skirts and midis are officially back (that is if they ever left), and Marie-Louise agrees.
"This denim midi skirt is one of the most hard-working pieces in my wardrobe and is an all-season winner. At the moment, I style it with knee-high heeled boots, whilst in the summer I'll pair it with sliders. It's such an easy length for all ages—just look for those with stretch for extra comfort. The only challenge is keeping my 24-year-old daughter from borrowing it!"
SHOP MIDI SKIRTS:
Stella McCartney is a specialist in premium-quality denim.
So chic, especially worn with an oversized knit.
It always pays to have a good leather skirt in your arsenal.
A floral pattern never hurt any one.
The perfect style for dressing up for dinner.
2. WAISTCOATS
Style Notes: Looking for a low-maintenance top that always looks expensive? The answer is an easy waistcoat.
"A simple waistcoat is the easiest way to freshen up your style," notes Maxwell. "I was so excited when they came back a couple of seasons ago as I had a stack in my wardrobe archives. It’s another winner for every age, and my favourite look is to wear one buttoned-up with my Victoria Beckham jeans, but they look equally great open and worn over a blouse or knit too."
SHOP WAISTCOATS:
Black always looks premium with gold jewellery.
To pair with indigo-wash jeans.
Paige knows how to get a denim waistcoat right.
You just can't argue with an Aligne piece.
Now this is bound to get the conversation started.
3. TRACK PANTS
Style Notes: Let it be known that joggers are no longer the reserve of athleisure—they can be just as easily dressed up as jeans. So, should you be looking for a comfy trouser trend that works for weekends and days in the office, Maxwell relies on chic sportswear.
"I have lived in these Adidas joggers for years, and your wardrobe is missing a trick if you don’t own a pair. Not only are they affordable and comfortable, but they're forever cool. Simply style them up with a white T-shirt or slouchy knit."
SHOP TRACK PANTS:
You can't beat H&M's prices and quality for the high street.
Maxwell's favourite pair.
This camel shade is so easy to style.
This loose cut is both chic and comfy.
If you really value your comfort, wide-leg jogging bottoms are the way to go.
4. TONAL DRESSING
Style Notes: If there was one viral trend to come out of 2024, it would undoubtedly be the return of grey. Charcoal, slate, pebble, mist—it doesn't actually matter the shade, but the most effective nod to the trend came from wearing it head-to-toe in colour-blocked layers. And it's sticking around for 2025. "If you're stuck for a statement outfit, go tonal with one colour," suggests Maxwell. "Grey is the colour of the season, and if like me you’ve got a few grey jumpers in your closet, this is the easiest of looks to re-create. I bought this flippy knitted skirt and matching jacket from Zara to create this bold, tonal look."
SHOP GREY CLOTHING:
You can never be hurt by Toteme's outerwear.
I love this oversized style.
As Maxwell proves, this looks even better with opaque tights.
The ultimate luxe suede loafers.
This is the outfit.
5. WIDE-LEG JEANS
Style Notes: Skinny, straight, mom, boyfriend—we experiment with denim trends a lot, but one style with real longevity is the wide-leg, and thanks to a runway renaissance, they're back in stock and more stylish than ever. "I love the androgynous style of the pleated, wide-leg trouser trend, and I always cinch in the waist with a statement belt to create a strong silhouette. Not only are they supremely comfortable, they look just as chic with high-top trainers as they do with heels. Denim with burgundy happens to be my favourite colour combination at the moment."
SHOP WIDE-LEG JEANS:
I own these in multiple washes.
I love this shade of ecru.
One of our editor's favourite high-street jeans.
The perfect fit.
A subtle kick-flare.
6. LUXE LOUNGEWEAR
Style Notes: Who says that your favourite off-duty uniform can't be elevated to the ranks of everyday wear too? For Maxwell, even the humble hoodie should be considered a wardrobe staple. "A chic hoodie is my all-time wardrobe essential. It’s a core piece in my work-from-home wardrobe which I’ll dress up under a blazer for meetings too. My advice? Go oversized. It looks great with leggings and can be elevated with a simple tuck into the waist of your favourite jeans."
SHOP LUXE LOUNGEWEAR:
You won't believe just how soft Allude's cashmere is until you actually touch it.
Keep it casual with jeans or dress it up with a midi skirt.
If you need me, I'll be wearing these for the foreseeable.
Pure comfort.
These would look so good with a crisp, oversized button-down.
