Baby Boomers are proving that getting older is a great reason to look good as evidenced by their spending on clothing. A survey has revealed that Baby Boomer women spend more than $20 billion each year on clothes. This goes to show that women in their 50s and above are just as interested in fashion as younger generations, and some older style mavericks such as Maye Musk, Carmen Dell’Orefice, and Iris Apfel have even taught millennials a thing or two about having a great personal style.
However, a majority of older women tend to stick to classic looks day in and day out, and having the same style year after year may be safe, but a tad boring. If you want a less predictable look this season, consider taking a few style hints from iconic fashion moments. Here’s how to make the best looks of all time work for real life.
Diane Keaton’s “Annie Hall” look
Diane Keaton, who played the titular character in the 1977 Woody Allen film “Annie Hall” sparked a fashion revolution as women all over the globe saw the appeal of the tomboy look. In the rom-com, Keaton’s aesthetic inspired women to don baggy trouser suits, ties, and oversized sunglasses. The Annie Hall look is flattering to women of all ages, especially if you’re tall or have a lanky frame. To make the slick menswear-inspired look work for everyday life, try wearing suits that are cut to flatter the feminine figure. Invest in a well-fitting pantsuit in a print, such as houndstooth or checks in a subdued hue. Pair the look with flats or brogues for an unexpected touch. Accessorize with a fedora and killer shades, and you’re ready to take on the world.
On days when you don’t want to wear a full suit, you can pair the trousers with a crisp white shirt or a plain black blouse. Finish the look a classic pair of pristine white sneakers for a comfy yet classy look that works for anything from running errands to brunch with friends.
Faye Dunaway’s style in “Bonnie and Clyde”
Faye Dunaway and Warren Beatty made running from the law look so good in the 1967 classic “Bonnie and Clyde.” Though it has been more than 50 years since the film came out, the movie’s styling continues to be relevant as the duo’s look continues to influence the fashionistas of today. To get Bonnie’s chic style, pair a camel colored pencil skirt with a soft knit sweater, then top it off with a wool beret. While this look works well for autumn, you can do a summer version of this outfit by wearing a denim pencil skirt that hits just above the knee, a sleeveless thin-gauge knitted sweater in a pastel shade, and a beret or a Panama hat. Opt for minimal makeup and a relaxed hairstyle for a fresh look.
Audrey Hepburn’s outfit in “Roman Holiday”
Most people may argue that “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” may be Audrey Hepburn’s most stylish film, but older women may find it difficult to adopt Holly Golightly’s wardrobe on a daily basis. Hepburn’s style in “Roman Holiday” works better for real life as the actress, who played the runaway princess Ann in the movie, wore a breezy, carefree look for most of the 1953 film. Ann’s white button-down shirt, belted circle skirt, flat sandals, and the scarf around her neck remains a timeless outfit, and you can copy every element of the look today without looking dated. For a spin on the classic, opt for a printed skirt and wedged espadrille sandals. Ditch the scarf and get a well-fitting white shirt, and you’re set for your own adventures wherever you go.
Style knows no age, and older women can have fun with fashion by looking to iconic fashion moments for inspiration. Try these movie-inspired looks to update your style and have fun dressing up!
