The Over-50s Fashion Icons To Draw Inspiration From For This Season And Beyond

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When it comes to over-50s Fashion icons, the women on this list show that their style only got better with age. When we're younger we can sometimes get overly caught up with trends, but with age comes confidence, bringing with it the advantage of knowing what you like and what works for you.

To be an over-50s fashion icon, you need consistency and the women on our list constantly deliver in the style stakes, creating their own fashion persona that exudes confidence and individuality. While some of these women have known their aesthetic for years, others have come into their own in later years, with an evolving style story, reminding us all that it's never too late to embrace fashion. 

Although you may have nailed your style identity in your younger years, many women find that as we age, our bodies and lifestyles change and our experiences not only shape our personalities but how we want to present ourselves to the world too. And if you're in need of some new fashion inspiration these over-50s fashion icons are the perfect example that you deserve to look and feel great whatever your age.

1. Lauren Hutton

Actress and model Lauren Hutton was a regular face of the glamourous Studio 54 era. Working as a model in New York, with her instantly recognizable tooth gap, Lauren signed a deal with Revlon in the early '70s in one of the biggest modeling contracts of its time.

Now in her 70s, Hutton's style is effortless and totally timeless. With a penchant for tailoring, silky blouses worn with wide leg pants, the best trench coats and relaxed suiting just about sums up the star's take on smart casual attire. A master at the Stealth Wealth trend, Hutton has a habit of always looking subtly expensive, regularly spotted in a neutral palette that oozes class and confidence. Still modeling today, Lauren is currently the face of the global skincare brand Strivectin.

2. Naomi Campbell

Supermodel Naomi Campbell needs little introduction and is certainly worthy of a spot on our over-50s fashion icons list. Beginning her modeling career in 1986 at just 15, the model and businesswoman has spent several decades in the industry, honing and leading in her craft. Becoming one of the most famous supermodels of her generation, at 1.75 meters tall, clothes sit effortlessly on her frame, giving Naomi somewhat of an unfair advantage. Putting that aside, the model has a distinctive style all of her own and is a woman not afraid to stand out. Playful with color and texture, whether it's a full-color-blocked look or layered accessories, Naomi is a style chameleon, dressing appropriately for each occasion. Still rocking the runway, Naomi recently walked for Italian clothing brand Boss, in its spring/summer show at Milan Fashion Week 2023.

3. Jenna Lyons

Making her fame as the creative director and president of American clothing brand J.Crew, 54-year-old Jenna Lyons is known for her signature black-rimmed glasses, which have made their mark as an eyeglasses trend, and a bright red lip, delivering an instantly recognizable and statement finish. 

Starting her career at J.Crew at 21, Jenna worked her way up from assistant designer, to take the helm of the brand, wearing some pretty iconic outfits along the way. Not afraid of print or pattern, Lyons effortlessly mixes everyday pieces such as Breton tops and jeans with androgynous tailoring and hints of glamour, often in the form of metallics or embellishments. A crisp white shirt is her regular go-to, but she ups the ante of this wardrobe essential by teaming it with more eclectic pieces to create a statement look. 

While Jenna's unique spin may seem unachievable, she's actually the master at taking capsule wardrobe heroes and breathing new life into them with more standout items. If you're looking to add edge to the best jeans for women over 50, Jenna is a great person to check out for ideas.

4. Michelle Obama

From the moment Michelle Obama stepped out of the White House as America's First Lady, all attention went on her oh-so-chic wardrobe. Over the years, Michelle's style developed from more formal structured two-pieces to wearing softer silhouettes in the form of unexpected up-and-coming designers such as Jason Wu and Thakoon.

With a love of American retailer J.Crew, known for its embellished knits, tiered skirts, and ruffled blouses, Michelle's feminine but tailored style made her quite the style icon. With a love of designer heels, Michelle was often spotted in a pair of chic Jimmy Choo heels, alongside her signature string pearls, adding a final touch of glamorous sophistication to every look.

The Michelle Obama look is classic with a hint of quirkiness. Classic shapes are refreshed with a strong use of color and embellishment, before being grounded in timeless accessories. Ideal for those who still want to look fairly formal, but inject personality in there too.

5. Linda Fargo

Linda Fargo is the senior vice president of women's fashion and store presentation director at luxury department store Bergdorf Goodman. Based in New York City. It's fair to say she has her finger on the pulse when it comes to fashion. A regular on the New York Fashion Week circuit, Linda is somewhat of a fashion chameleon, with the host of the best designer brands and collections at her fingertips, Linda switches up her style on the regular. 

With an over '50s capsule wardrobe that consists of classic pieces, coupled with new season, trend-led designs, Linda's ensembles always feel effortless, and she doesn't shy away from print or embellishment. Her youthful and energetic looks are a stark reminder that the playfulness of fashion does not have a cut-off point.

While Linda's 'city' ensembles are categorized by their trend focus, when it comes to weekend style, Linda has a love of white jeans outfits, well-cut shirting, and striped tees, for a winning off-duty aesthetic.

6. Demi Moore

While '90s fashion trends are back in style, Ghost actress, Demi Moore has been embracing this aesthetic as her go-to for years. From LBDs to floor-length black dresses and classic tuxedos for women, Moore is a fan of monochromatic, neutral looks, keeping her look sharp. By rarely wearing bright colors for formal events, Moore keeps her ensembles timeless, giving her a minimalist capsule wardrobe that won't let her down.

And while Moore might not be readily embracing the latest fashion color trends, the actress is still clearly a keen follower of fashion, walking the Fendi haute couture spring/summer 2021 show, alongside the likes of Kate Moss and Naomi Campbell. She has also been spotted sitting front row during Paris Fashion Week at the Saint Laurent show. 

7. Iman

It's hard to believe supermodel Iman is nearing her seventieth decade. Somalian-born Iman was scouted whilst studying at university by a photographer and within a year she was featured in US Vogue. A muse for numerous brands over the years including Calvin Klein, Saint Laurent and Issey Miyake, Iman is an over-50s fashion icon to know about.

Back in the '90s, Iman was a regular on the party circuit and lent into the power-dressing aesthetic of the time. Showing off her incredible frame, Iman regularly wore figure-hugging looks, including slinky cocktail dresses for the evening. Fast-forward to 2023 and Iman is as stylish as ever, and her years as a model have meant that she has retained her ability to be playful and experimental with fashion. Seen above in a bright pink sweater and flowy purple pants, Iman isn't afraid to max out on colors for a dopamine-dressing look. Spotted in one of the Met Gala best looks in 2022, Iman dazzled in a striking Dolce Gabbana x Harris Reed design. At 67, Iman is an over-50s fashion icon, even gracing the cover of British Vogue at the start of 2023.

8. Najate Leklye

Many of the over-50s fashion icons on this list might be familiar, but if you haven't heard of the Moroccan mom-and-daughter duo taking Instagram by storm, now is the time to investigate. Daughter Meryem styles her mom Najate in outfits that reference street culture, with a heritage twist and the resulting inspirational ensembles have gained the duo over 100k Instagram followers.

Expect an explosion of color in the form of bright knitwear and printed silk head scarves, covering everything from tie-dye and florals to candy stripes that Najate looks absolutely dazzling in. Some standouts include top-to-toe tonal shades of pink and green, or blazers with tracksuit bottoms. For a spring outfit idea, why not try Najate's lilac and orange color combo that feels very of the moment.

9. Oprah Winfrey

Just shy of 70, Oprah Winfrey is an over-50s fashion icon that has just got better with age. A household name, Oprah has clearly honed her style over time, learning to highlight her hourglass body shape to maximum effect. A fan of nipped-in waists and more tailored shift dresses for a smart ensemble, Oprah's outfits always look well-balanced and harmonious. Not afraid of color or embellishment, Oprah is always appropriate for the occasion at hand. A winner on the red carpet, we love the sequinned shirt dress above, that showcases a more playful element to Oprah's style. Above all else, the TV host and interviewer wears everything with a level of confidence, and it's worth noting that that is the best accessory of all.

10. Jennifer Connelly

With more of a sixties aesthetic, Jennifer Connelly hit the spotlight as a child model before heading into the movie business. With years of red carpet practice under her belt, Connelly is clearly comfortable in her own style and happy to experiment with fashion-forward pieces too. Snapped in 2019, Connelly's Paris Fashion Week street style look, which showcased a pleated skirt over pants, was directional and showed a real ability for interpreting trends. With a wearable style that is easy to replicate, Connelly's off-duty looks include nailing how to style baggy jeans, while her red carpet ensembles cover everything from floor-length gowns to mini hemlines and boots - highlighting her penchant for sixties style.

11. Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon

Award-winning journalist and tv host, Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon is based out of Miami, but her glamorous job takes her to far-flung, sun-drenched locations, making her a great style reference for a travel capsule wardrobe. During her travels, Sarah shares her OOTD (outfit of the day) and best finds to her Instagram account and her rainbow bright ensembles will certainly make you smile. 

Describing her personal aesthetic as 'colorful, eclectic, bold, comfortable and inimitable', Sarah can't live without sneakers, maxi dresses, jeans, off-the-shoulder tops and a statement hat to top it all off. With style influences that stretch from Miami, where she lives, to the Caribbean, where she travels too bi-monthly, Sarah adds "My clothing and how I combine pieces is an expression of my creativity and my personality." And we're loving it.

12. Carla Bruni

Surrounded by the best Italian clothing brands and best French clothing brands it's no wonder that Carla Bruni is one of the chicest over 50s fashion icons. With a career as both a singer and a model, Bruni modeled for the likes of Prada, Dior and Versace, with the polished global fashion houses certainly leaving their mark on Carla's enviable style. 

Favoring a more neutral and pared-back palette, Bruni regularly opts for classic wardrobe essentials and is a dab hand at the Stealth Wealth look. From well-tailored wool coats, to wide-leg pants, Bruni's look isn't overly embellished, but it is always well-balanced and elegant.

13. Cate Blanchett

As a regular on the Oscars best dressed list Cate Blanchett has earned her spot on our over-50s fashion icons list ten-fold. Arguably one of the world's most stylish women, the Australian actress delivers chic with a twist whether it's on the red carpet or a smart casual outfit. 

A dab hand at mixing androgynous tailoring with uber-feminine elements, such as tailored pants with the frothiest of pussy-bow blouses, Cate interprets red carpet style to match her own aesthetic, rather than bowing to pressure to wear obvious evening wear. A brilliant source of inspiration for those who prefer suiting with a hint of vintage softness.

As New York-based Dina Scherer, personal wardrobe stylist puts it, "I admire Cate Blanchett's style as it effortlessly fuses feminine silhouettes with elegant, timeless pieces and touches of colorful and dramatic details. I feel like my style aesthetic is similar to hers, and I often find inspiration from her looks for myself and my clients".  

14. Yasmin Furmie

Yasmin Furmie is a designer and fashion entrepreneur. The South African social worker turned fashion brand owner gives us all a lesson in how to rip up the fashion rule book. A reminder that over-50s fashion doesn't mean frumpy, and at 60 years old, Yasmin wears modern silhouettes with heaps of style, drawing inspiration from the runway and streetwear. Examples of this include bra tops over vests and how to style jeans with dresses. Head to Yasmin's Instagram page for bright prints, contemporary cuts, and of course endless style inspiration.

Yasmin is a regular on the front row at international fashion weeks, she continues to build her label 'Cici The Collection' and was a part of L'Oréal's Age Perfect campaign, which aims to celebrate and empower women at every age.

15. Tilda Swinton

From sharp tailoring to color pop separates you can rely on Tilda Swinton for iconic fashion that delivers the unexpected. An award-winning actress and model, Swinton has paved her own path when it comes to over-50s fashion, with a penchant for timeless classics and androgynous pieces that exude quiet luxury. Regularly wearing chic brands such as Celine, Jil Sander and Haider Ackermann, Swinton's aesthetic is notably expensive by its subtlety, with a focus on cut above all else. And while these well-tailored looks lend themselves to neutral hues, Swinton frequently also inject bold, bright colored clothing into her wardrobe.

New York stylist Liz Teich says "The reason so many admire her style is because it's striking, unique and she's not afraid to take risks. She's a chameleon in her aesthetic just like she is on-screen in her acting".  

Incredibly self-assured in her own personal style, even pops of color follow a more pared-back feel making her a fashion icon.

16. Helen Mirren

Legendary actress Helen Mirren doesn't let age hold her back when it comes to expressing her personality through her wardrobe. She dresses with class and sophistication yet still manages to obtain an unexpected twist and interest with her style. Never one to shy away from form-fitting dresses, Mirren is a fan of a nipped-in waist and a tailored silhouette for a curvaceous finish. 

Styling her tresses, Mirren loves to experiment with accessories and can regularly be seen sporting a headband adding a more youthful, signature style to her look. Despite being an over-50s fashion icon, Mirren, 77, still regularly trials new trends on the red carpet. The narrator of the highly anticipated Barbie Film, it seems that Barbiecore style has rubbed off on Mirren who stepped out at a film premier recently in a daring fuchsia pink cape with oversized bow.

17. Shauna Grow

With friends constantly asking for style advice, Shauna decided to collate her fashion choices and tips all in one place and her blog, 'Chic Over 50' was born. Inspiring women to embrace their age and style, Shauna, who is based in Utah believes that, "Women over 50 are just beginning in our journey of influencing and supporting others to be their best selves".

At just 5ft 1.5inches, Shauna is ideal for those looking for petite style advice, including the best petite jeans, the best petite dresses, and the best stylish tops to wear with jeans, showcasing a wide range of wearable outfits that are easy to take inspiration from. Due to her petite frame, Shauna's aware of not over-loading on accessories, so she can wear the outfit, rather than the other way round. A keen follower of fashion trends, she's a dab hand at interpreting the latest looks to her own style.

18. Kristen Scott Thomas

Most famous for her roles in The English Patient and Four Weddings And a Funeral, British actress, Kristen Scott Thomas is perhaps an over-50s fashion icon we don't see quite enough of on the red carpet these days. Oozing a glam French aesthetic, Kristen is the ideal choice of icon if you're looking for inspiration for what to wear in Paris. Favoring elegant base layers, such as chic midi or full-length skirts and dresses, alongside more tailored pieces, Kristen adds a little je ne sais quoi to outfits with statement texture (as shown above). While she is regularly spotted in a neutral color palette, Kristen isn't afraid of punchier hues and snapped outside Valentino's runway show, Kristen's feathered cape, coupled with a zesty blouse and crease fronted pants made her one of the best-dressed guests. While this over-50s fashion icon might not be in the limelight as regularly as others in this list, when she is, her style always delivers.

Understandably, Fashion Has Changed Over The Years

Q I'm a 75-year-old male with questions about our fashion values today. In the '50s and '60s I learned what to do and not to do. I was taught early to remove any hats or head covering before entering a building. My mother would darn holes in my pants before I returned to wear them again. Common sense told me to take off dark glasses indoors. Women would always wear conservative clothing. Today is a total 180. You can go to a store and buy clothing that is ripped and is acceptable to wear in public. Everywhere you go men and women are wearing hats, hoods and head coverings of all types in- and outdoors, even at the dinner table. Country music people have cowboy hats that seem to be glued to their heads. Am I wrong about today's values? I am shocked to see this every day at the grocery store, church, mall and on TV. What has happened? Your comments would be greatly appreciated.

A There certainly is no question that dressing norms have changed from the 1950s and '60s. And it's understandable that these test your sensibilities. I would say that dressing norms have changed consistently throughout history.

Topless dress was commonplace in ancient times. Single-layer togas were worn by men at one point; women would later wear boned corsets, with nearly a dozen layers. The scarf, then necktie, began more as foppery than professional dress. Trousers had eras when the fabrics were so heavy, scratchy and stiff that they could be injurious. White wigs were (and in England and elsewhere still are) worn by male politicians and lawyers, and nearly every religion included a head covering that was appropriate both indoors and out. In many ways today's low-key style is just a part of that evolution; even so, that doesn't mean that everyone will always welcome it.

I have also heard young and not so young people point out that they view these changes as an improvement in values. They feel that staid standards, limitations, strict rules, and often expensive business uniforms are being replaced by opportunities to show creativity, individualism, and either indifference to or extreme focus on clothing.

Obviously, I generally prefer the look of authority, seriousness and respect that draw us to a man in a fine suit, a coordinated shirt and tie, matching accessories, with careful grooming, and without a hat. But those are the old societal norms that people grew up with. Whether it was Elvis in tight pants, John Travolta in an open shirt, Steve Jobs in a T-shirt, or those country singers, past generations have seen successful trendsetters wearing quite different apparel from what the world had come to expect.

Times keep changing. Since covid, more people are working from home; we now accept a very different level of formality. In social settings, the world has become much more tolerant of seeing a man wearing jeans or a hat. But even with Zoom meetings, we do expect at least some degree of "proper dress" in any situation related to business. Also, when not in the office, there still are special occasions, such as weddings, funerals and important meetings, where it makes sense to avoid overly casual styles, and to dress up a bit.

Although you mention that you see this everywhere, including on TV, I have noticed that TV seems to be the only place where men still do follow the old "rules" of proper dress. I see news anchors, weather men and politicians decked out in handsome suits, shirts and ties -- all well-tailored and well-coordinated. Because such dressing is dear to my heart, I am pleased to see it, even though it does seem to be a rarity these days.

All of that said, men wearing torn jeans, a cowboy hat and dark glasses dining in a fine restaurant must recognize the impression they are creating. Even though I don't like the look, it may actually project an image that makes sense for that region and that wearer.

Please send your men's dress and grooming questions and comments to MALE CALL:

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The Bay's Massive Bay Days Sale Is Almost Over: Shop 1000s Of Items Up To 60% Off

It's your last weekend to shop Bay Days deals at The Bay.

In case you haven't checked out the Bay Days deals at The Bay, you'll want to act quickly before the sale ends. Shoppers can save up to 60 per cent on fashion, beauty, home goods and more — but only until Sunday (April 30).

You can shop markdowns on thousands of items, including everything from casual jeans and T-shirts to date night-worthy dresses and spring accessories. No discount code is necessary, as all prices are as marked.

If you're ready to indulge in some retail therapy, I've rounded up the top sale picks from The Bay that you won't want to miss!

Vero Moda Milo String Fastening Culotte Jumpsuit. Image via The Bay.

For a stylish alternative to a dress, reach for this culotte jumpsuit for your next special occasion.

$42 $85 at The Bay

Boscia Exfoliating Peel Gel. Image via The Bay.

Smooth, brighten, and firm skin with this gel peel that delivers gentle yet effective exfoliation.

$34 $45 at The Bay

Calvin Klein Adrien Sneaker Suede. Image via The Bay.

These casual sneakers bring an elevated feel to your wardrobe with an all-over suede design.

$90 $150 at The Bay

En Saison Jeune Mini Dress. Image via The Bay.

Heading on vacation? Then pack this chic printed mini dress — a great choice for a tropical getaway or a European visit.

$94 $135 at The Bay

Tommy Hilfiger Ivy Custom Fit Polo. Image via The Bay.

This polo shirt is a wardrobe staple, and can be worn both on and off the golf course for a polished look.

$39 $60 at The Bay

 

Style Collection 6.5-QT Precision Stand Mixer. Image via The Bay.

This powerful stand mixer boasts 12 speeds and a 600-watt motor to make it easy to whip up cakes, breads, cookies and more.

$200 $550 at The Bay

 

Columbia Outdoor Cedar Cliff Waterproof Hooded Jacket. Image via The Bay.

Stay dry this spring in this waterproof hooded Columbia jacket. It features Omni-Tech waterproof/breathable fabric to handle even the toughest weather.

$80 $145 at The Bay

Calvin Klein Underwear Full Coverage T-Shirt Bra. Image via The Bay.

Available in sizes 32B to 36DD, this simple T-shirt bra offers a solid foundation for all of your everyday outfits.

$42 $60 at The Bay

Under Armour UA Brawler Track Pants. Image via The Bay.

These sporty track pants are designed for comfort, with a breathable fabric that wicks away sweat and dries fast.

$33 $55 at The Bay

Steve Madden Duri Wedge Slide Sandals. Image via The Bay.

A wedge sandal is a wardrobe staple come spring and summer, and this neutral pair will go with just about anything in your closet.

$60 $80 at The Bay

Staub 4.8L High Round Cocotte. Image via The Bay.

This large 4.8L cocotte is made of enamelled cast iron, combining the advantages of cast-iron cookware with the benefits of high-quality enamel glaze.

$200 $500 at The Bay

Sweaty Betty Athlete Seamless Half-Zip Top. Image via The Bay.

This activewear top from Sweaty Betty is ready to take on your next workout, whether it's a run, a HIIT class, or a hike.

$88 $118 at The Bay

Let us know what you think by commenting below and tweeting @YahooStyleCA! Follow us on Twitter and Instagram.

Originally published April 28, 2023 at 10:44 AM

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