Avoid Looking Frumpy In Shorts after 50

I’m past sixty now.  

I don’t know if this is a thing for you or not, but I find myself asking questions like:   Should I still wear shorts?  And if I do wear shorts, how should I style them?  Here in Florida, I see a lot of frumpy shorts, and, like many middle-aged women, I don’t want to be frumpy.  

I am, for the record, a believer we should wear what we like.  Besides, it’s hot in the summer and many people find wearing shorts comfortable.  I personally don’t find shorts cool nor comfortable, so I don’t wear them often. I find it difficult to find shorts that are both flattering and comfortable, but I am taking one for the team here in an effort to elevate shorts for all of us.  I even bought a new pair to style.

I see lots of shorts “outfits” that consist of shorts and a matching oversized T-shirt, often with a large appliqué matching the pattern in the shorts.  I see lots of polyester and elastic waistbands.  I see shorts that don’t fit well, sometimes too tight, but most of the time older women wear too loose.  Occasionally, I see women wearing shorts that are way too short, and too low on the hips, but not as much in the 55-60+ community.

How to look good in shorts over 60:

1. Be mindful of the fabric.  Cotton or linen shorts look more stylish and are cooler than synthetic fabrics.
2. Pay attention to your backside.  Take a look at yourself from behind and make sure the shorts are neither too baggy or tight in the back.  It’s also a good idea to sit down to make sure your shorts are comfortable while sitting.
3. Choosing the right length can be challenging; some years longer shorts are in fashion, other years they are shorter.  Get to know the length that flatters your leg and shape the most.  For example, I don’t look good in shorts that are too long, and I won’t wear shorts that are “too short”.  Years when mid-length shorts are in fashion, I will often add to my collection, while other seasons don’t buy any at all.  (Because I rarely wear shorts I typically only have two or three pairs.  Currently, I have navy, brown, and white.)
4. Take note of the silhouette (Yes, shorts have a silhouette!).  A-line shorts tend to be very flattering on many figures, and are “in” right now.  Camp shorts tend to flatter most figure types, but Bermuda shorts can be a bit trickier as are really short shorts.
5. Are you a high rise, mid rise or low rise girl?  Curvy, pear and hourglass figure types look good in high rise, inverted triangle, apple and straight figure types look better with mid rise and lower.
6. Take the time to really look at yourself in the mirror, or better yet, have someone take pictures of you front and back.  I have learned so much about what looks good on me from seeing photos.

Putting together an “elevated” shorts outfit:

1. Button-down shirts with shorts always looks classy, as does classic white t’shirt or a good tank shirt. 
2. Be mindful of your footwear; wearing a cute wedge or clean white trainers is a great look as do  cute sandals. 
3. Add a linen blazer to create a classy vibe.
4. A touch of jewelry such as a simple gold chain and hoop earrings or a nice belt finish the outfit.  Don’t forget a good straw or leather bag.

Here’s what  to avoid:

1. Polyester shorts with matching T shirts.
2. Unflattering footwear.
3. Loose, poor fit, especially in the back.
4. Shorts that are too short, and in general outfits that “show too much” (If you wear a shorter pair of shorts wear a more modest top, and vice versa.
5. If you wear sandals make sure your toenails are trimmed and shaped.
6. Add a little self tanner,  leg makeup or moisturizer to your legs to give a healthy sheen to your skin.

When not to wear shorts:

Florida is a very casual place to live, and we often see shorts worn to formal restaurants, the theater, and even to special events like weddings.  Call me old school, but I’m a believer in dressing for special events. Unless you have put together a very chic shorts outfit, shorts should be worn to casual events only.  If you are a person who doesn’t like to wear dresses, a nice pair of linen or cotton trousers are best for more formal occasions, even here in Florida.

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