Dress for your age

THIRTIES

WOMEN are most challenged in their 30s, but with a robust wardrobe you can juggle pregnancy, motherhood, a demanding career and a social life.

Most 30-something women experience a style shift. As the figure matures, changes in body shape and size make clothes shopping more frustrating. The smart thing is to balance comfort and practicality with sophistication.

Take your cue from Gráinne Seoige, Kate Winslet and recent first-time-mum Penélope Cruz, who look effortless despite their busy lifestyles.

Understanding your body shape helps you to decide what to wear in your 30s. Choose items that are less casual and more tailored. Washable, durable fabrics will serve you well. Look for versatility — you should be able to wear an item in at least three different ways.

A wrap dress, draped skirt and stretch jeans help you multi-task pregnancy, motherhood and work. Try an adaptable blazer, belted cardigan or military-style cape. Shoes with a wedge heel, pumps and flat equestrian-style boots are kind to frazzled feet and can be worn with everything. A plain watch, simple necklace and stud earrings are worth the investment.

FORTIES

The dawning of middle age can be daunting. Ignore the latest trends and aim for a refined, sophisticated look. Go for higher-quality fabrics and accept this might mean bypassing certain shops. Co-ordinate outfits and opt for classic, structured and well-cut clothing.

Skirt length is a concern for women in their 40s. You can’t go wrong with just below the knee, and opaque tights allow for fun with your hemline. Sportswear is difficult to pull off, especially if you have weight around the middle.

Be selective about opting for the latest fashions. It’s best to sample trends with well-chosen accessories. You can easily pull off bright shoes, handbags and funky jewellery — they give life to any outfit.

Think about developing your own signature style. Look to stylish 40-somethings like Michelle Obama, Julianne Moore and Sharon Ní Bheoláin.

Make sure your wardrobe includes semi-fitted trousers, a shift dress and a fitted skirt. You’ll get maximum wear out of a versatile blouse, a waterfall cardigan and a jersey empire-line top. Court shoes with a chunky heel, fitted boots and kitten heels are wardrobe basics. A statement cuff, scarf or cocktail ring will add a kick to your look.

FIFTIES

By 50, most women know what suits their shape and skin tone. Avoid the time-warp by creating a polished, tailored look with clean lines and minimal detail. As always, comfort, practicality and style go hand-in-hand.

A classic pair of dark, medium-rise jeans with simple stitching will look smart and youthful. Team with a fitted blazer and heels and you can’t go wrong.

A challenge is wardrobe versatility — stick to simple, interchangeable cuts and designs. Choose accessories such as handbags, scarves and jewellery in proportion to body size. Your bag and shoes don’t have to match and mix things up by combining neutrals such as stone, tan and grey with pseudo-neutrals like navy, khaki and plum.

Don’t be afraid to reveal a bit of skin — a sliver is attractive. If you’re conscious of the upper-arms, a fine scarf, shrug or sheer sleeves are clever, stylish ways to disguise. Avoid basic t-shirts and be wary of fussy detail, such as bows and gold buttons, as they can be aging.

Miriam O’Callaghan, Oprah Winfrey and Dawn French fly the flag for well-dressed women in their 50s.

Essential wardrobe items include a structured pencil skirt, fitted trousers and bootcut jeans. A draped v-neck top, white shirt and waterfall cardigan are good investments. Go for adaptable court shoes, equestrian boots and ankle boots along with a classic leather tote or clutch bag.

SIXITES

In your 60s, refined elegance and chic are the order of the day. Combine simple, quality tailoring with timeless style.

Dress appropriately as opposed to maturely and if you wore a trend first-time around, steer clear. Look to Susan Sarandon, Meryl Streep and Mary McAleese for inspiration.

Many women in their 60s worry about exposing the neck, but a sheer scarf or simply turning your shirt collar up will camouflage the area.

Have fun with textures such as silk, cashmere and leather — all add an air of interest and luxury.

Colour becomes more important as we age and knowing which tones give you that youthful glow is essential. Solid block colours in rich jewel shades such as emerald and amethyst look classic and expensive. Monochromatic colour schemes, for example navy worn with lighter blues, are wearable and flattering. For a modern style, you can’t go wrong with the ageless black-and-white combination in patterns like pinstripe.

Treat patent, sequins and glitter with caution. Avoid frills and volume, which can look stuffy and cluttered.

Choose classic shapes in the form of belted coats, car coats and blazers. You’ll look great in a shirt dress, wrap dress or tailored trousers.

Neutral court shoes, flat boots and fitted fabric boots are clever wardrobe components and simple gold earrings, a gold necklace and brooch will work with almost anything.

* Breda Stack, www.lifestylecoach.ie and www.facebook.com/lifestylecoach.ie