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Heard the one about 50 being the new 30? Or 70 being the new 50? The odd thing is, it's true! If you weren't born yesterday, you'll probably remember when 'old ladies' looked like white haired old ladies, unless they were daring enough to attempt a blue rinse. It's not like that any more. When a big High Street chain with a falling sales problem introduced a new range to tempt Twentysomething shoppers back into the stores, it was a brilliant success. However, the Twentysomethings weren't buying it - it was the over 50s! In other words, there's no age limit on fashion. But fast-fashion, the cheap, ever changing trends that young women love, bore women of a certain age. Classic styles with a twist, luxury fabrics, and beautiful details that flatter become so much more important. |
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Time does take a toll, we have to admit. Sunshine and cigarettes can age skin, and even the leanest figure sags a little as it ages. Previously invisible veins show up insolently in once smooth hands and legs. Necks can change their texture. No one likes it, but there's no point being in denial. Does it mean that after a certain age you have to cover up? Not at all.
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Fashion brands do aim their collections at broadly different age groups, but don't let that define you, or limit you. In any case, if you are petite you have precious little real choice, so why limit yourself further? This is, after all, the time in which anyone fashion-savvy knows that mixing up, say, Primark and Prada, is the smart thing to do. At the top of this page is a suit from Minuet last season. It's a classic style, but the kind of 'dressy' suit that's aimed at special occasions. So why not wear the skirt more often with a pretty chiffon blouse or a crisp white shirt for relaxed daywear? Or how about the classic black coat from a previous season at Precis Petite (above)? It looks good with wool trousers, but much sharper over jeans and a cashmere sweater! A staple of the last few years has been the jersey wrap dress, as invented by Diane Von Fursternberg back in the 1970s, but recently reclaimed by every fashion label. The one above was from Wallis, but you can find them everywhere. With sleeves they are flattering, and can be worn over a camisole or vest top if you want to show less cleavage. If you are worried about jersey being clingy, just invest in a good slip! |
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Every woman needs a cardigan! But don't restrict yourself to 'traditional' shapes and lengths, as in the cliche about twin sets and pearls! Long line cardigans are immensly versatile and very flattering. Take the one above (Wallis, this season). Worn unbuttoned over a T shirt or casual top with trousers or jeans, it will add a lengthening of the torso effect to the petite figure, as well as skimming over any unwanted curves! Nor does it have to be completely casual - with a long silk scarf knotted mid-chest, or perhaps some chunky jewellery, a cardigan like this can be deceptively glamorous. Indeed, accessories are a good friend as we get older. Scarves are not only soft and pretty, they can finesse a less than perfect neck! Big, and multi-stringed necklaces and beads can disguise any crepiness about the cleavage when wearing lower cut tops. Gloves are back as a key fashion accessory, but they are also great UV protection for hands! |
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