Elegant Casual Outfits for Women Over 50: 25 Chic & Effortless Looks

Elegant casual outfits for women over 50 don’t have to cost a fortune. All you need are some quality well-fitted basics, a good color palette and comfy shoes. In this article, we’ll show you how to create 25 different styles that will look chic!

Elegant Style Knows No Age

Unfortunately many women will be told at some point that you can’t be fashionable after a certain age. This just isn’t true! You can absolutely look smart, modern and comfortable in everyday clothes.

The key to looking elegant and laid-back is to create a stylish yet relaxed outfit. This means using shapes that flatter your body, quality fabrics that give that luxury feel, and timeless pieces. For example, pair a plain white shirt with Dark Denim, or a soft knit with wide Leg Trousers. Or try a flowing midi dress with a cardigan.

Remember, the most important thing to get a great style at any age is to feel confident! The 25 different outfits below will help you create a stylish wardrobe by using some great tips on colours, shoes, accessories and budget!

How To Create Elegant Casual Outfits for Women Over 50

There are six factors you need to consider to create an elegant and laid-back style. Once these are sorted almost any outfit will look intentional.

• Well fitting clothes – The most important factor to consider when creating an elegant outfit is ensuring your clothes fit well. Clothes that aren’t too tight or baggy will flatter your body and look more polished. Get some quality alterations done.
• Classic with a twist – Pair classic items with modern pieces. For example, straight Leg Jeans, a blazer or plain white shirt. Then pair with a slouchy sleeve, wide leg or subtle texture.
• Neutral colours and elegant combinations – This means using colours like beige, cream, navy and grey as a base. Use one or two rich colours to create interest.
• Luxurious fabrics – Use soft knits, linen blends, flowing crepes and brushed cotton. Fabrics that are tight or wrinkle easily won’t look very elegant.
• Minimal Accessories – Use one or two quality pieces like a delicate necklace, leather belt or silk scarf.
• Comfy shoes – Loafers, ballet flats and clean leather sneakers.

25 Elegant Casual Outfits for Women Over 50

Below are 25 different elegant and laid-back outfits to create for mature ladies. Use the pieces to create your own outfits based on your wardrobe, weather and personal style.

1. Straight Leg Jeans + Blazer

This is the ultimate laid-back yet elegant outfit! Pair your straight Leg Jeans with a white t-shirt or simple blouse. Then add a blazer in beige, navy or black. Add loafers or white sneakers. The structured blazer will add some elegance whilst the jeans will keep you relaxed.

2. Wide Leg Trousers + Knit

Wide leg high waisted trousers will give you a long and elegant line. Pair with a lightweight knit, minimal jewellery and comfy flats. Tuck the front of your knit in slightly to create a defined waist.

3. White Shirt + Dark Denim

You can never go wrong with a crisp white shirt! Pair with Dark Denim jeans. Add a leather belt and classic handbag. Roll up your sleeves and leave the top button undone.

4. Midi Dress + Lightweight Cardigan

Flowy midi dresses are super easy to wear. Pair with a neutral cardigan, ballet flats or sandals. Add a delicate necklace for a feminine and comfy look.

5. Monochrome Outfit

One colour will look very luxurious. Use cream trousers with a beige knit top. Add neutral shoes and matching handbag. Vary the textures between knit, linen and leather.

6. Straight Leg Jeans + Striped Top

This Breton top paired with straight Leg Jeans will give you a relaxed French look. Add white sneakers or flats and a simple scarf. Use a white and navy or black and white Striped Top for the most elegant look.

7. Linen Trousers + Elegant Blouse

Linen is a breathable fabric perfect for warmer weather. Pair with sand/white/soft grey linen trousers and a draped blouse. Add flat sandals. The slight wrinkled texture will look intentional.

8. Solid/ Subtle Print Maxi Dress + Denim Jacket

Pair your solid or subtly patterned maxi dress with a Denim Jacket. Ensure your jacket sits nicely over your hips (not cropped). Add sandals or white sneakers.

9. Black Trousers + White Slouchy Shirt

This black and white outfit will look sharp. Choose well fitting black trousers and a soft collar slightly slouchy white shirt. Add loafers and a slim watch.

10. Knit + Pleated Midi Skirt

Pleated midi skirts will look amazing as they will flow nicely. Pair with a fitted or slightly cropped knit and Ankle Boots or sleek sneakers. Choose a skirt with an elasticated or comfy waistband.

11. Dark Jeans + Long Cardigan

Long cardigans will create extra height and give a cosy relaxed feel. Pair with a simple t-shirt, dark jeans and Ankle Boots. Ensure you choose a fine knit to create a drapey effect.

12. Tailored Ankle Trousers + Button Up Shirt

Tailored ankle trousers will show off your shoes. Pair with a white/pale blue or subtly patterned button up shirt. Add ballet flats or loafers.

13. Jumpsuit + Minimal Accessories

Jumpsuits are perfect as they’re one piece. Choose a soft drapey fabric in a neutral or dark colour. Cinch your waist with a thin belt if desired. Keep your jewellery minimal and add flat sandals or sleek sneakers.

14. Denim Jacket + Floral Midi Dress

A Floral Midi Dress will look feminine and fresh. Pair with a Denim Jacket to keep it grounded and relaxed. Choose a smaller/muted floral for a more elegant feel. Add Ankle Boots for cooler weather.

15. Wide Leg Jeans + Fitted Knit Top

Wide Leg Jeans will balance out your fitted knit top. This will create a modern and flattering look. Add white sneakers or low block heels.

16. Neutral Blazer + Comfy Sneakers

Camel, grey or cream blazer with clean leather sneakers will create a modern look. Pair with a t-shirt, slim trousers or jeans. Perfect for travelling or walking around.

17. Elegant Tunic Top + Slim Fit Trousers

A longer tunic will sit nicely over your midsection. Pair with slim trousers. Choose a flowy fabric. Add flats and a statement necklace.

18. Satin/ Pleated Midi Skirt + White Tee

A good white t-shirt will look amazing with a slightly tucked in satin or Pleated Midi Skirt. This creates a relaxed top and elegant bottom. Add sandals/sneakers and a small cross body bag.

19. Light Knit + Straight Leg Trousers

This is one of the easiest outfits and will look great! Pair a flattering coloured light knit with neutral straight Leg Trousers. Add a scarf.

20. Black & White Laid Back Outfit

Black and white will always look sharp. Pair a white blouse with black trousers or a black knit with white jeans. Keep jewellery minimal. Maybe add some silver jewellery and a black leather bag.

21. Linen Top + Slouchy Jeans

Linen will keep you cool. Pair with slouchy jeans. Roll up your sleeves. Add flat sandals or loafers. Keep jewellery minimal.

22. Wrap Dress + Comfy Flats

Wrap dresses will flatter most body types as you can adjust how tight they are at the waist. Choose a knee length or midi wrap dress. Pair with cushioned flats and a delicate necklace.

23. Cropped Jacket + Tailored High Waisted Trousers

Pair a cropped jacket with high waisted Tailored Trousers to create extra length in your legs and a defined waist. Choose a structured fabric such as cotton in a tweed style or twill. Add loafers or low heeled booties.

24. Knit Dress + Ankle Boots

Knit dresses will keep you cosy and look elegant. Choose a midi length in a neutral or rich jewel tone. Add Ankle Boots. Layer with a long coat or scarf.

25. Classic Jeans + Cashmere Knit + Loafers

This is the ultimate laid back and elegant outfit! Dark well fitting jeans, a soft cashmere or cashmere blend knit and polished loafers. If you want to copy one outfit from this list, this is the one!
If you want something that will look great in the office too, have a look at our business casual outfit ideas.

Essential Pieces For Elegant Casual Outfits for women over 50

These fashion essentials will form the basis of most of the outfits above. Invest in quality versions.

1. Well fitting straight Leg Jeans – Choose dark/medium coloured jeans with some stretch. Mid to high rise will be more comfortable. Avoid heavily distressed.
2. Tailored black/ navy trousers – These can be dressed up with a blouse or down with a knit. Will work in almost any season.
3. Classic white button up shirt – Choose a thick cotton or cotton blend. Avoid anything see through.
4. Quality basic tees – Choose well fitting white/black/gray/navy tees. Look for flattering necklines and a good weight to create a drapey effect.
5. Neutral knits – Choose soft crew neck or v-neck knits. Cream/gray/camel/navy will work well.
6. Structured blazer – One good blazer will instantly upgrade your jeans and t-shirt. Choose a classic neutral colour and length that will flatter your hips.
7. Lightweight Cardigan – Perfect for layering over dresses/tops. Great for keeping warm in chilly restaurants or air conditioned areas.
8. Midi Dress – Choose a solid colour or small print. Look for a flowy fabric.
9. Comfy loafers – These will upgrade your jeans, trousers and skirts. Choose leather with cushioned soles.
10. Classic white sneakers – These will look great with almost anything. Choose a clean minimalist design.
11. Elegant handbag – A structured tote, cross body or handbag in black/tan/navy will look great with many outfits.
12. Minimal jewellery – Choose some simple earrings, a delicate chain and classic watch.

If you want to create a versatile wardrobe without buying too much, have a look at our capsule wardrobe essentials for Women Over 50.

Best Colours For Laid Back & Elegant Outfits

One of the quickest ways to create an elegant outfit is to use colours. Choose from;

• Neutral – Beige, cream, ivory, taupe and camel. These will give a calming and luxurious feel. Easy to pair.
• Classic – Navy, black, white and grey. These will flatter and are always in style.
• Rich – Burgundy, emerald, chocolate and teal. These rich jewel tones will add a warm and elegant feel. Especially around your face.

How To Use Neutral With Accent Colours. Base your outfit around a neutral colour. Add one accent colour. This will create a balanced and intentional look. For example, a camel coat, navy knit and burgundy scarf. Or cream trousers and emerald top. Try to stick to three colours.

Monochrome Looks. Wearing a monochrome outfit will create an elegant feel. Using tones of one colour such as cream, beige and camel will create a seamless look. This will look polished and create extra length. Vary the fabrics/textures to keep it interesting.

If unsure, hold the item up to your face. Choose colours that will brighten your skin and eyes.

How To Choose Comfy & Stylish Shoes

The best stylish and comfy shoes for older ladies will have supportive soles, sturdy soles and a good shape. There are six different styles to create almost any outfit!

• Classic loafers – These will look polished and will work with jeans, trousers and midi skirts. Choose ones with cushioned soles and flexible leather.
• White leather sneakers – These will look clean and minimalist. They will give everything a modern look. Keep them spotless.
• Ballet Flats – These will look soft and feminine. Work well with dresses, cropped trousers and skirts. Choose ones with arch support and a secure fit.
• Low Block Heels – These will add some elegance. One to two inches will give more stability than stilettos.
• Ankle Boots – Sleek Ankle Boots in black/brown/taupe will work from autumn through to early spring.
• Comfy Sandals – Choose ones with leather straps, cushioned soles and a back strap/ankle support.

Outfit Pairings

• Jeans – Loafers, white sneakers, Ankle Boots and low block heels.
• Trousers – Loafers, ballet flats and low block heels. Ensure your trousers are ankle length to show off your shoes.
• Skirts – Sneakers for a relaxed look. Ankle Boots for cooler weather. Ballet flats and sandals for warm weather.
• Dresses – Flats, sandals and Ankle Boots.

If you have any issues with your feet, such as bunions or plantar fasciitis, a podiatrist will be able to advise you on what to look for.

How To Add Accessories Casual Outfits for an Elegant Look

Accessories will take your basic outfit to an elegant look. Keep it simple by choosing one or two statement pieces.

• Minimal Gold/Silver Jewellery – Use small hoops, a fine chain or simple bracelet. Keep to one metal tone.
• Classic Handbags – A structured tote, cross body or handbag in leather or faux leather will instantly look polished.
• Leather Belts – A thin belt will help define your waist. Work well with dresses, cardigans and long blazers.
• Silk Scarves – Tie around your neck, bag handle or loosely around your knit. Add some colour and elegance.
• Sunglasses – Choose a classic tortoiseshell or black frame. Instantly look polished.
• Watches – Choose a slim simple watch with either a leather or metal band.
• Simple Statement Necklaces – Choose one meaningful piece. Keep your earrings simple and wear a solid coloured top.

Pair a plain white t-shirt, jeans and flats with a silk scarf, small earrings and leather tote. Nothing has changed but suddenly your outfit looks styled! A good tip is to remove one accessory before heading out if your outfit looks busy.

How To Look Elegant On A Budget

You can create some stylish and elegant outfits on a budget for mature ladies by being smart with your choices.

• Invest In Versatile Basics – Spend a little more on pieces you will wear weekly such as jeans, blazer and shoes. Focus on how much you are paying per wear.
• Buy During Sales – End of season sales are the best time to buy coats, knits and boots. Keep a short list.
• Pair Cheap Clothes With Timeless Accessories – A cheap t-shirt will look much better with a good leather bag, silk scarf and simple jewellery.
• Choose Quality Looking Fabrics – Look at the fabric. Thick knits, smooth cottons and flowing fabrics will look more luxurious than thin shiny fabrics.
• Mix & Match – Take photos of your favourite outfits. You can mix and match different pieces. Five tops and four bottoms can create twenty different outfits.
• Don’t Buy On Impulse – Ask yourself if you can think of three outfits to pair with the item. If you can’t then don’t buy.

Get them altered – A small alteration to your hem or waist will make your budget piece look like it was made for you.

Read our guide to fashion mistakes women over 50 should to avoid when styling to help you create more flattering and polished outfits.

Casual Outfit Ideas for Different Occasions

Below are some everyday outfit ideas for Women Over 50.

• Errands – Straight Leg Jeans, soft t-shirt, Lightweight Cardigan and white sneakers. Add a cross body bag.
• Shopping With Friends – Loose shirt or Striped Top, comfy jeans and cushioned loafers/sneakers. Layer up with easy to remove layers.
• Brunch – Midi dress or pleated skirt, fitted knit, ballet flats/sandals and pretty scarf.
• Casual Lunch Dates – Blazer over blouse, dark jeans, loafers and small earrings.
• Family – Soft knit, Tailored Trousers or wrap dress in a flattering colour. Choose comfy fabrics to wear throughout the afternoon.
• Travel/Vacation – Wrinkle resistant wide Leg Trousers, breathable top, lightweight jacket and sleek sneakers. Keep to a neutral palette.
• Casual Dinner – Knit dress and Ankle Boots. Or black trousers, silky blouse and slim belt. Add a bit more jewellery.
• Walking – Stretchy straight trousers, long sleeve t-shirt, light jacket and supportive sneakers. You can still look neat whilst being comfy!

Have a look at our stylish autumn outfit ideas for more inspiration depending on the season.

Fashion Mistakes To Avoid When Creating Elegant Casual Outfits

These small mistakes can ruin your outfit so here are my top seven to avoid!

1. Too baggy! You want your outfit to have some shape so avoid wearing too baggy clothes. Pair with something more fitted.
2. Uncomfy shoes! If you are wearing shoes that are causing pain to your feet then it will show in your posture and walking.
3. Too busy prints! Only have one print in your outfit and keep the rest plain.
4. Poor fit! Avoid wearing clothes that are too long, hanging off shoulders or cutting into your skin.
5. Too many accessories! If you can count 3+ standout accessories then you have too many.
6. Stale looks! If you are wearing an old look then give it a twist. Try new shoes with a different shape, modern cut jeans or different layers.
7. Not matching. Ensure the clothes you are buying can be mixed with at least 3 items in your current wardrobe.

Avoiding these mistakes will be much more helpful than trying to follow trends.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Elegant casual outfits for women over 50 will be based around well fitting clothes, comfortable fabrics and timeless pieces. Confidence will also play a big part.

Use the 25 looks above as just a starting point. Try mixing up your looks, changing the colours or using one accessory idea. You will know which looks work for you as they will reflect who you are.

You don’t need to spend a fortune to look elegant. Just think about your choices, use some staple items and pay attention to detail.
Want more? Take a look around PurelyWear for some fresh fashion inspiration. We have guides to elegant looks for special occasions and summer outfit inspiration.