There are still occasions when we need to dress up, even though dress standards are no longer as strict as they once were and what we choose to wear is more a reflection of our individual style than of fashion dos and don’ts. A cocktail dress is always in trend for these events and gives us a fantastic reason to play around with our wardrobes. Comfort should be your top priority if you’re over 60, both with regard to the dress itself and your level of confidence while wearing it. Continue reading for style experts’ ideas on how to look good in your dress.
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5 Tips for Wearing Cocktail Dresses Over 60, According to Style Experts
1. Focus on the silhouette
According to Liana Chaouli, an image therapist based in Los Angeles, the dress should complement the wearer, not overshadow them. Therefore, choosing a cocktail dress with a flattering silhouette is crucial. Hourglass figures may opt for fit-and-flare styles, while pear and apple shapes can benefit from A-line designs. For those seeking more coverage, incorporating a cape, cloak, or shawl can be a stylish solution. Additionally, Kara Batey, a personal stylist, emphasizes the importance of selecting undergarments that provide appropriate support and smoothness, while also avoiding visible panty lines or straps.
2. Don’t hide, highlight
Rather than concealing perceived flaws, Elizabeth Kosich, a personal stylist, encourages embracing and accentuating one’s best features. Design details like ruffles can accentuate curves, while off-the-shoulder or cold-shoulder necklines draw attention to the shoulders, an area many older women feel confident about. Similarly, showcasing the forearms and wrists with three-quarter-length sleeves can exude elegance and confidence. Additionally, Batey suggests leveraging accessories and color choices to enhance features such as eye color, while opting for longer dresses can discreetly conceal less favored aspects.
3. Pay attention to the details
While basic guidelines for cocktail dressing are well-known, Brooke Sheldon, a wedding planner, emphasizes the significance of nuanced design elements in achieving a stunning and appropriate look. She encourages embracing dresses with embellishments and intricate details, rejecting the notion that older women should stick to conservative or monochromatic styles. Filogomo echoes this sentiment, advocating for vibrant and standout cocktail dresses, asserting that age should not limit one’s fashion choices.
4. Go monochrome for a classic look
For those who prefer a more understated approach, Sheldon recommends monochromatic dressing as a timeless and sophisticated option. This allows for experimentation with different fabrics, accessories, and footwear while maintaining a cohesive and polished appearance. Choosing classic and simple outlines with minimal competing patterns or colors can ensure a chic and elegant ensemble.
5. Off-script is OK
While jackets are traditional choices for layering over cocktail dresses, Filogomo suggests exploring alternative options such as lacy blouses or scarves. Additionally, she proposes considering unconventional attire like tuxedo suits or dresses for a bold and fashion-forward statement. Kosich echoes this sentiment, encouraging individuals to step outside their comfort zones and experiment with unconventional yet stylish ensembles.
