If you’ve shown up here at a style blog called Dressed for My Day, I’m assuming that you desire to dress in a way that is flattering, a little stylish and maybe even fashionable or on trend. And if you, like me, are well over 50, you also know the pull to look younger, but still look authentic and true to yourself. To those ends today I’m sharing four ways to look more youthful this spring. This is by no means an exhaustive list, but these four pointers can make a difference TODAY in how you look and feel.
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Since I began blogging here in 2018, I’ve developed a few mantras that help me to stay current, more youthful and looking my best. I don’t just preach these to my readers; I remind myself of these “style truths” frequently, too, because I’m prone to stray from them. I guess the mantra that serves me best is, “Don’t try to look younger; aim to look more current and modern instead. Then you’ll actually look more youthful and vibrant.” So yes, today I have 4 ways to look more youthful this spring, but they all actually help us to look up-to-date first.
When we try to look younger than we really are, we can end up looking inauthentic, like we’re trying too hard, maybe even a little clownish. But when we aim to look modern instead, we look current, relevant, in-the-know and engaged. And I’ve found that when I step out in an outfit that makes me feel up-to-date, then I have more confidence. That confidence translates as vibrant and youthful.
Tip #1 – Add a splash of color near your face.
As much as I love black, (and oh, how I love wearing black!) I know that wearing a pretty color near my face actually brightens my features, helps my skin to look its best and draws the focus to my face so I look more engaging.
I’m a bit of a renegade when it comes to color. I like to wear the colors I like, regardless of what “season” I am. (I’ve been told I am a cool summer.) That said, I do generally try to choose those colors that I wear near my face in a shade and tone that looks best on me. I get a lot of compliments when I wear true, blue-toned reds. What about you? What color were you last wearing when you received compliments?
Tip #2 – Wear jeans or pants in a modern silhouette.
If you want to update your wardrobe a bit so that you look more modern, begin with your jeans and pants. You can wear very traditional tops with updated jeans and you’ll instantly look more current, more “with it.”
I hear it from professional stylists over and over – and I’ve learned it’s true for me – that we have to let our eyes adapt to new styles and silhouettes. Most of us don’t like change of any kind. And even those of us who consider ourselves fairly progressive when it comes to modern amenities still struggle when we consider new pants lengths and silhouettes.
Right now the most current silhouettes in jeans and pants include markers such as high or mid rise, relaxed fit, ankle length and wide or flared legs. Yes, straighter legs are also in and you can still find some full length pants in the stores. But I guarantee you’ll be seen as more current if you opt for these modern markers. And remember, when you look more current, you look more youthful. You may have to try on a lot of jeans/pants to find the ones that look best on you, but it’s worth the investment of your time to stay current.
Tip #3 – Wear your hair in a modern way.
I got my hair cut yesterday (after taking these photos) and I asked my hairdresser, “What’s trending in hairstyles right now?” My hairdresser has styled hair for fashion designers at three of the last four New York fashion weeks. She knows her stuff. And guess what she said is the MOST in thing about hair right now?
Healthy! She said that the most on trend thing you can do when it comes to your hair is make sure it is super healthy and SHINY. Shiny is a big part of the equation evidently. To the degree that many brands are coming out with new products that promise to make your hair super shiny, almost like a mirror. Of course, you’ve also got to get regular haircuts to have healthy looking hair, too. And a modern do – she said natural, tousled and layered looks are in – helps, too. Speaking of shiny, I use this on my hair to give it added shine and softness.
Tip #4 – Opt for modern accessories.
If you’ve been around here much, you know I LOVE cognac shoes, bags and belts. But one of the most current trends in accessories right now is ivory and even bright white. Yes, it’s very in style to wear white dress shoes, loafers and sandals.
Honestly, wearing ivory accessories is a stretch for me. But I’m not afraid of doing something new and a little out of my comfort zone in the name of style. That’s what keeps us current! I felt like these blue and ivory railroad striped jeans gave me a good reason to wear my ivory loafers. And since I was wearing ivory loafers, why not add an ivory crossbody bag? That’s not to say that cognac accessories are out, by the way. But you’ll look a little more cutting edge right now in ivory or white.
Thanks so much for stopping in for a little style inspiration. What is the most modern thing you’ve worn lately? Did anyone notice or give you a compliment? How did it make you feel to step out in something you knew looked current? I’d love to hear from you in the comments below. Just click on JOIN THE CONVERSATION below. Have a great day!
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Blessed for My Day
We’re never too old to try new things…unless we limit ourselves in that way. Likewise, we’re not too older to keep learning, growing and becoming more like Christ. At this point in life we may be prone to “coast” in many areas, but we must choose not to settle in our spiritual growth.
The apostle Paul wrote to the Philippians that he had not laid hold of Christlikeness and maturity in his faith yet. And he was an apostle and missionary, dedicated to proclaiming the gospel and discipling believers. But he didn’t rest on his laurels. Instead Paul continued to press on toward the goal of knowing Christ more deeply and resembling Him more closely. Let’s make that our pervasive goal as well. And let’s do something today to reach for it.
Brothers and sisters, I do not regard myself as having taken hold of it yet; but one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. ~ Philippians 3:13-14
Love the pop of white in your accessories. Looks very fresh and smart. I agree with you about color – definitely brings warmth and approachability to our looks. I have green eyes and always get a nice comment when I wear aqua or teal. You look great in the red top!
Hello, I enjoyed BFMD today. Please give me some examples for me to “reach for it” today. Thanks
I think taking time to read the Bible thoughtfully is always a step in the right direction. It also as opportunity arises to do or say the Christlike thing rather than what the flesh wants to say or do would be reaching for it. Obedience always leads to spiritual growth.
I guess for me the most modern thing I wore last was a very casual outfit I wore yesterday in monochrome. I don’t usually “do” monochrome but thought I’d give it a try. We were going plant shopping and my husband asked why I was so “dressed up”. Hahah. I wasn’t. I was wearing beige/sand colored khakis, a sand/oatmeal colored cotton t-shirt, natural colored Birkenstock sandals and my ivory messenger Coach bag. All the pieces are super casual but the fact that they were all in the same tone made it seem more elevated and yes, modern. A “newish” for me look. I’ve done monochrome before (albeit rarely) but usually when I’m more dressed up…not really tried it with more casual pieces. I loved it!
Congratulations to Lucy! Your style tips are always appreciated. Love the red on you!
I’ve never been one to try and keep up with changing styles, buying new items mainly for practical reasons: replacement, special occasion or a great sale impulse. I found last year that my wardrobe was greatly improved by removing those items that were a definite yesterday; ankle skinny jeans, leggings, tunic tops and dated office shoes. I added straight leg jeans, assorted tees and current sneakers. It made a big difference. With the spring closet change I continued that effort. I’ve now enjoyed finding a few current items remaing true to my style preferences I always appreciate the inspiration and encouragement.
Bless you, Kay for your spiritual posts! They bless my day! Thank you for the gift card as well which was a total surprise and joy!
Color next our faces…. Great tip! Better than lipstick 😊
I recently bought a pair of super wide leg Levi’s and have had so many compliments each time I have worn them. Way out of my comfort zone of straight leg styles but boy are they flattering and comfortable!
Congratulations to Lucy!!!
I love the red on you. I have never been a red fan but I am trying new colors and it looks good on me.
I’ve been looking for white/ivory jewelry and haven’t found any so far. I’ve looked at Chico, Macys, Dillards and Nordstroms. Do you have a suggestion. I don’t like the fake plastic jewelry that is popular now
I also love the red top on you Kay with the denim.
Next I am wanting to purchase some cognac colored sandals for summer. You are correct they elevate the outfit shown by you.
I purchased the Hillside ankle ivory/grey jeans at Talbots and wore it with a cute Talbots blue dressy tee for a casual Easter backyard brunch. I received many compliments.
Most of my purchases are from Talbots, due to their large section of petite clothing. I am 5’1”.
Thanks again Kay for all your great styling tips!!
Another great, helpful post, Kay. And thanks for the tip about the shine hair serum. I’ve been looking for something like it. Have a great day!
Hope you get to feeling better. 😢 I like the pop of red with the pants. Looks great!
Congrats to Lucy on her new baby and how fun that you get to work with your daughter again.
I recently bought a Veronica Beard maxi dress in a 90% Tencel/10% Elastane blend. Kay, I would never have known about the brand if it wasn’t for you. I would never have thought to wear a long casual dress, but your posts gave me inspiration to try it on. Nordstrom Rack had this $595 dress for $79 and I have worn it twice so far (regretfully for two different funerals). I received so many compliments the first time I wore it that it really boosted my confidence to want to wear it the second time. In addition, the dress is so comfortable on. It will be great for travel because it is so comfortable. Thank you!
Love, love, love the railroad stripe pants you showed today.
My recent “current” purchase was Ally’s silver kitten heel slingbacks. Every time I wear them someone younger than I stops me and tells me they love my shoes. I learned about Ally shoes from you and they’re great –thanks.
I have ivory slip on loafers I haven’t really worn. I’ll give them a try today.
Kay, hope ypu feel better soon. Congratulations to Lucy!
Thank you for the tips to look more modern and youthful. Your fashion advice is helpful and allows me not feel so invisible as I age.
Great tips Kay! Hope you feel better soon.
HA, you’re a summer, no wonder true red and lilac/lavender/wisteria looks so amazing on you! The color that gets me the most compliments: dark teal (I’m a blue autumn (also called dark or deep autumn)). The most modern style I’ve embraced: trouser jeans. I feel awesome when I find a way to incorporate a modern style in a way that is truly “me”.
The pop of red looks beautiful on you!
Your springtime landscaping is also beautiful!
I’m in on all you have to say except white. I love white but a white dress reminds me of a nurse. White loafers a nurse or waitress. Trying to get out of my comfort zone with these ideas but prehaps white sandals or a white dress with a black or cognac belt will help. I do love white pants!
Congrats to Lucy!
Sorry you’re not feeling well, hope you feel better soon!
I like the red top on you, and the striped jeans . Really cute!
I love your pop of red! A few weeks ago, I wore a bright pink sweater to work. My boss and several others commented when they saw my sweater, it made them smile. Interestingly, on the way home from work, I heard a radio DJ state that studies have shown wearing bright colors can positively influence mood and create a sense of happiness. Also, they suggest that bright colors like yellow, orange, and pink can trigger the release of endorphins, which are known to have mood-boosting effects. Additionally, bright colors can evoke feelings of joy, optimism, and energy. I’ve always liked wearing bright colors, and maybe that’s one reason why.
I love the red sweater tank under the denim jacket!
You look very nice today~as always.
I purchased the striped jeans from Evereve you’re wearing today. They are so cute but unfortunately don’t fit me correctly. I’m planning to go in to the store to check another size.
Congratulations to your assistant.
I am wearing more monochromatic outfits and I really enjoy them. The retro sneakers are currently a favorite. I think they really update my look. I am going to try these railroad stripe wide leg pants but I have serious reservations! Lol. My legs are short. I’ll lyk if they work for me! Feel better!!
Good advice for the fashion and devotional. Since I went silver I’ve changed my colors to more bright and cool. I’ve gotten compliments for wearing a spring like green and blues. Neutrals like beige make me look drab now. When I had brown hair I looked best in warm colors. Sometimes I can’t believe how silver almost platinum my hair is especially in the front. The back is more like pewter. I had to get a short pixie cut which I don’t really like but I wanted to get rid of the colored hair fast. I’m learning how to style it to look modern. Pixies can look aging if not styled right.
I got out my white Kate Spade purse the other day — didn’t know I was on trend! Yay!
Congratulations to Lucy! My dad used to urge my mother to wear brighter colors as she got older, and he was right. I wore ivory loafers with a mixed ivory leather and straw bag last week. I purchased gray wide leg jeans last fall and one specific look that got many compliments was when I paired them with an off-white, cropped length cable knit sweater and a chunky gold necklace for casual holiday events, but they are useful all the time. For the coming summer I just bought very wide leg black rayon/linen pants that almost look like a long skirt when I’m not moving – so comfortable!
I enjoyed your style tips to keep us modern. All your tips were meaningful. The hardest one for me is to embrace wearing ankle length pants. So thank you for nudging us along the road to more modern pant lengths.
I am a cool Winter and I get the most compliments when I wear true red and the color blue. I like white or cream shoes for Spring and Summer. Think it looks more youthful.
I like the striped jeans. I like they are high waisted. I think I get by with a size 8 in them. What size are you wearing? I tetter between an 8 or 10.
They run large, Sherry. I would usually wear a 10 probably, but sized down to a 6 in these.
I really liked you in the red sweater with the light washed jeans. I think it was a softer contrast since you are very fair with light hair. On Easter I wore a very saturated deep pink sweater which garnered a compliment from my husbands 92 year old uncle. The right colors really matter! God Bless.
I too get so many compliments when I wear red & I do love red! I’m glad white is trending for accessories. It is indeed very wearable & easy to find. I find change hard. It seems like I just accept a trend, buy it & learn how to style it when the style changes! Goodness. I wish I could adapt quicker.
I love the red sweater with the jeans. I could totally do that as I am a dark winter. Have you done your season color before that I have missed? Just curious.
I just asked my DH which outfit I wore lately that he liked. He said he liked the beige monochromatic outfit I wore to dinner Saturday. He said I looked real nice. So, there you have it! 2 trends white/beige & monochromatic! It doesn’t hurt that the pants were silk and top was a linen blend knit sweater. The next night I wore a blue blazer with a button down – I just didn’t feel right in it! Too corporate. I felt off. I can learn something from both of these outfits! Today to go shopping I wore red raincoat, sneakers & purse, white T and blue jeans. Received a compliment on my color choice 🙂 Half little red ridding hood and 1/2 patriotic! I have added cognac! LOVE IT! Thank you. Also, I am adding elevated slide sandals to the wardrobe and I plan to lean into skirts/skorts over shorts. We will see!
I am grateful for your sense of adventure in trying new trends, styled classically. I especially like how you balance outfits with contrast such as the white purse and loafers picking up the railway stripe. I have tried to use color and contrast like that and I love it when young women compliment me.
Congratulations to Lucy-what a precious time of life as a mom. And happy Easter to all! C
I appreciate the tips for looking stylish over 50. I’m a teacher and struggle with wearing anything on my feet except running shoes for standing all day. I wear running shoes even with dress clothes. Can you offer suggestions for shoes that are just as comfortable but less casual? Thanks!
Hi Renee. Did you see my recent video about comfortable shoes for travel? Some of those might work well for you. Also, I love wearing any of my Paul Green shoes. They are pricey, but well worth the investment if you are on your feet all day. Just a couple of pairs would serve you well, such as these and these. They have other styles to choose from that are dressier, and they have sandals, too. These shoes feel pretty amazing to me.
Thank you for these suggestions. I’m eager to give them a try!
I loved reading your blog this year and watching the Wed. YouTube’s. I think you’ve given so much wisdom for purchasing and putting outfits together for our style and lifestyle. I have to be really careful not to buy something just because it’s cute and looks good on the influencer etc. I did much better in my purchases for 2025. I appreciate you mentioning the body changes that happen after 60. I just told my husband I don’t know if I want to wear shorts this Summer. lol I truly thought I’d always wear shorts. I’m going to be watching closer this year how you put together cool Summer outfits that aren’t shorts. But I have to say one of my favorite pairs is ones you modeled from Talbots. My first Talbots purchase. Have a good evening.