Fashion Rules Change For Baby Boomers

By Eisla Sebastian, Contributing writer

Just one generation ago, 50 was considered old. Today, 50 is the new 40.

Baby boomers are young at heart and have the health and physical appearances to back up their young spirits.

However, finding modern fashion that is age-appropriate but that doesn't make you look old can be difficult, especially if you don't know what to look for. Fortunately, the rules for a modern, hip wardrobe for aging baby boomers are simple.

Dress Your Age

One of the biggest fashion mistakes that you can make as a mature adult is to dress in clothing that is not appropriate for your age. Wearing fashion that is too young for you is just as damaging to your image as wearing fashion that is too old for you. Find clothing styles that are age-appropriate and that fit your personality and lifestyle.

Find Clothes That Fit

Another very important fashion rule that you need to follow is to buy clothes that fit your body. Don't try to squeeze your size-12 body into a size 8; it is not flattering and you will be creating a body shape that will make you look terrible.

Also, don't dress in clothing that is too big for your body size. Clothing made from quality fabrics and that fit your body properly will make you look fashionable, classy and pulled together.

Choose Colors Carefully

As you mature, your skin tones change. This means that the colors that looked good on you when you were 20 aren't necessarily going to look good on you when you are 50. According to Stacy London from the TLC series "What Not to Wear," baby boomers will want to wear softer neutral colors like khaki, navy blue and charcoal during the day.

She goes on to suggest that you save whites and blacks for evening wear to avoid harsh day looks.

If you want to add color to your wardrobe, select from the jewel-tone palette with colors of sapphire blue and emerald green.

Selecting Accessories

When you are a mature adult, you will want to choose your fashion accessories carefully.

Generally you will want to avoid wearing a lot of small pieces and instead opt for one or two large pieces. For example, a great chunky bracelet and a large clutch, or a large hat and a large beaded necklace can add style and flare to a basic outfit.

When selecting your accessories, remember to follow the color choice rules above.

Class Up Modern Designs

One of the most flattering dress styles for the mature body is a wrap dress. However, if you have a larger bust line, this style of dress can turn from a classic shape to a trashy shape. To fix the problem of showing too much cleavage, wear a soft camisole in a contrasting or complementary color under your wrap dress, low-cut dress or low-cut shirt.

This will soften the appearance of the clothing item without diminishing its sensuality.