Updated on December 22nd, 2020
A great pair of denim jeans may be the workhorse of every woman’s wardrobe, but finding the perfect pair is something of a holy grail. Wander into the denim section of any clothing store and the endless array of overly trendy styles from drainpipes to busted knees can be enough to break even the savviest of shoppers out into a cold sweat.
But that doesn’t mean you should forgo the denim as you age. In fact, a great pair of jeans is a closet staple that will work well into your sixties and beyond. Ensure you look fab not drab with our top tips for buying jeans over sixty.
Skip the Trendy Styles
The great thing about growing older is that you’ve seen faddy trends come and go — and you don’t feel the need to buy into them! Wearing seasonal trendy styles when you’re no longer in your twenties can look incredibly ageing. Ripped, shredded or ‘mom’ style jeans will get you attention for all of the wrong reasons. Classic slim leg or slightly bootcut styles are timeless options.
Look for Jeans with Stretch
Fabric technology has come a long way in recent years and denim is no exception. Jeans with added stretch are not only more comfortable (no annoying digging in around the waist) but they’re more more flattering too. Look out for jeans with 15% added stretch to skim lumps and bumps and create a sleeker silhouette.
You Can Do Skinny
You may be forgiven for thinking skinny jeans are best left to the teenagers, but they can be flattering on all ages and figures when worn correctly. Treat skinnies like leggings and wear them under long, tunic style tops or with tailored pieces. The form fitting shape will pull you in and make your legs appear slimmer and longer.
Next time you’re heading to the changing rooms, pick up a pair to try on — you might be surprised at just how great you look. Getting stuck in a style rut can make your wardrobe look dated so don’t automatically reach for the same shape every time.
Go for Dark Wash
As we grow older, we tend to get thicker around the middle. Dark washes look smarter and the great news is, they’re slimming too.
Look out for dark blue and black washes for the most flattering results. Teamed with blouses, ballet flats, chunky knits or soft tailored blazers, dark jeans strike the perfect smart casual daytime balance.
Get the Rise Right
The key to looking great in your jeans, no matter what your age, is all in the fit. No matter how much you spent on your jeans, if they don’t fit well they’ll always look terrible.
Avoid high rise jeans which can accentuate a round tummy and flat bottom, and stick to mid-rise jeans instead. If you’re pear shaped or you carry extra weight around the tummy area, a mid-rise design will pull you in and create a smooth shape.