As we age, our bodies change and so do our clothing choice. For most older adults, their choice of clothing is determined by both the functionality as well as the comfort of the clothing. In some cases, certain clothing choices are also made due to medical reasons. As such, clothing for older adults tends to have a reputation for being boring and unlikely to be fashionable. However, this doesn’t mean that older adults cannot wear clothes that are both comfortable and fashionable at the same time. Read on for a guide to looking fashionable regardless of the event or activity you are attending.
Tips on Choosing Clothes as You Age
Believe it or not, research has actually been done for dressing fashionably after one reaches the age of 60. Upon observation, it is apparent that older adults don’t have to buy younger and ill-fitted clothing to keep fashionable or hide their age. In contrast, following a few simple tips will help to create an age-reduction design that allows you to stay fashionable regardless of age. A non-exhaustive list of some of these tips are:
- Avoid loud and contrasting colors. Instead of contrasting colors, going for complementary colors that promote elegant soft hues appeal more to modesty. If possible, go for colors that have more natural hues which accentuate the skin tone.
- Avoid tight-fitting clothing. Wearing clothes that are loose-fitting will help to hide away abdominal bulges while at the same time meeting the need for comfort. As such, loose-fitting clothing can even help older adults to feel more confident.
- Avoid certain clothing materials. Avoid wearing clothes made of wool and other synthetic fibers as these can cause great friction on the skin. Since older adults tend to have weaker and more sensitive skin, this can lead to painful chafing and abrasions in some cases. Instead, look for materials such as cotton, chiffons, and silk that are more effective in wicking away moisture. These materials also tend to be more breathable in humid environments, allowing for a more comfortable experience.
- Going for styles that flatter the elderly frame. Instead of horizontal patterns, look for clothing with vertical coherence as they are known to help one appear taller and fit. As for older adults with a petite frame, they can also consider using a shoulder pad to rebuild fullness around the chest and shoulder area.
- Wearing clothes that are easy to put on and take off. With old age, certain clothes may not be as easy to put on as it was before. Older adults that have trouble with daily living activities such as putting on their clothes may want to consider assisted living, where they can still live independently yet have assistance with daily living activities such as the donning of clothes.
Keeping clothes clean and tidy. A clean look not only help you appear more fashionable but is also essential for hygiene reasons, reducing the risk of catching invasive bacteria. Being clean and tidy will help to make you feel good about yourself as well.
