As I hit 50, I noticed my fashion and style sense evolved beautifully. I'm more confident in how I present myself to the world and know exactly what works for me and what doesn't. It's a perk of reaching this empowering stage of life that I'm excited to share with others.

I learned it's important to focus on what adds value and joy to our lives and let go of the rest. It's not just about the clothes we wear, but also about self-expression and the confidence that comes with age and experience.

Let's celebrate our individuality, embrace our personal tastes, and appreciate the journey that's brought us here. This decade is all about living our best lives and making style choices that reflect our confident, mature, and fabulous selves. Join me as I explore the nuances of fashion and style in our fifties.

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1. Fast-Fashion Fads

I've always loved keeping up with the latest fashion trends, but let's face it - most of them come and go so quickly! That's why I've decided to focus on what suits my personal style and taste better. It's important to celebrate our individuality and choose clothes that flatter us, right? So instead of stuffing my closet with the latest fads, I'm now collecting classic and versatile pieces that can work for any season. For instance, a well-tailored blazer is a game-changer for me. It can elevate a casual outfit or add a touch of professionalism to my workwear. And it's so easy to mix and match it with different styles and occasions. That's what I call a wardrobe staple!

For me, wearing timeless pieces that reflect my personality and mindset is more than just a fashion statement. It's about feeling comfortable and confident in my own skin. When I find a pair of jeans that fits me perfectly, it's not just clothing - it's a reflection of my self-assurance. And let's talk about the little black dress - it's always in style and looks great at any age, any event, and with any accessories. That's what I call a versatile piece! Instead of buying a lot of clothes that I'll never wear again, I invest in high-quality classic items that suit my body and lifestyle. It's a sustainable and elegant way to enjoy fashion, and those clothes become a part of my life story - each telling a unique tale of my experiences and moments. Now that I'm in my fifties, I've realized that I don't dress to impress others anymore. I wear outfits that showcase my sophistication and timeless grace and tell the story of my life's journey.

2. Excessive Costume Jewelry

Back in my younger days, I really enjoyed experimenting with all sorts of bold and flashy costume jewelry. It was a fun, expressive phase, but as I've matured, so has my taste in jewelry. These days, I find myself drawn to a few select pieces that truly resonate with my sense of style. I've developed a deep appreciation for the understated elegance of classic gold or silver jewelry – pieces that exude timelessness and sophistication. A simple gold necklace, a sleek silver bracelet, or even a beautifully crafted watch have become my go-to choices. They're more than mere adornments; they're statements of elegance that enhance my look without dominating it.

This transition from costume jewelry to cherished pieces of gold and silver reflects a broader evolution in my approach to fashion – it's about valuing quality, simplicity, and enduring beauty over the temporary allure of the flamboyant and trendy.

3. Extensive Beauty Products

Now that I'm in my fifties, I've refined my approach to beauty products. It's no longer about piling up an array of potions and lotions. Instead, I focus on quality over quantity. I've learned to understand what truly works for my skin and I stick with it. My beauty routine has become wonderfully streamlined – a reliable moisturizer, a trusty serum, and, of course, sunscreen are my daily essentials.

For me, it's all about enhancing my natural beauty rather than covering it up. I've embraced a less-is-more philosophy, and it feels liberating. This shift to a more simplified beauty regimen not only suits my lifestyle but also celebrates my natural aging process with grace and confidence.

4. Ill-Fitting Lingerie

As I've gotten older, I've realized that it's super important to wear comfy and supportive lingerie. I don't settle for underwear that doesn't fit well anymore. Instead, I splurge on high-quality lingerie that not only feels amazing but also makes me feel awesome. I've learned that the right lingerie can totally change the way an outfit looks, but more importantly, it can seriously affect how I feel when I'm wearing it.

When everything is in the right place, I feel so much more confident and comfortable, and that confidence shows in everything I do. Wearing lingerie that fits perfectly might seem like a small thing, but it's actually a big deal when it comes to feeling good about my body and my own personal style.

5. Oversized Bags

There was a time when I lugged around oversized bags, cramming in everything but the kitchen sink. But as I've moved through life, my preference has shifted towards practicality and comfort. Now, I find myself choosing sleek, medium-sized bags for my daily use.

They're just the right size for all my essentials without putting unnecessary strain on my shoulders. This change to smaller, more manageable bags has not only been kinder to my back but also fits my lifestyle better. It's a liberating feeling, not being weighed down by a cumbersome bag, and it's yet another way I've learned to streamline and simplify my life.

6. Youth-Chasing Trends

I'm at a point in my life where I'm embracing my age with grace, and it's reflected in my style choices. I'm done trying to dress younger. Fashion is all about celebrating my life experiences and who I am today. Every outfit I choose is like a tribute to my journey and confidence over the years. Dressing for my age and experiences is empowering. I love picking clothes that speak to my personality and where I am in life. Every item in my closet reflects who I am today. It's about being myself and not worrying about what society expects a woman like me to wear.

I've started looking at my fashion choices in a different way, and it's made me feel more satisfied and aware of who I am. I like putting together outfits that show off my journey, accomplishments, and my true self. Being true to yourself is a sign of strength, and the way I dress shows that I'm not trying to be anyone else. My style is now a perfect mix of class, comfort, and personal expression, and it's a reflection of a life well-lived and the endless possibilities the future holds.

7. Excessive Makeup

As I've gotten older, I've realized that makeup has a different role in my life. I still use it every day, but I've changed the way I apply it. I don't hide behind heavy foundations or bold eyeshadows anymore. Instead, I prefer a more natural look that lets my true self shine through. I usually put on a light foundation or tinted moisturizer, a little mascara, and some lipstick or gloss to feel put-together and lively. I focus on enhancing my features rather than covering them up.

This change in my makeup routine isn't just about the products I use. It's also about embracing my natural beauty and feeling confident in my skin. I've learned to love the fine lines and unique textures of my face because they're signs of a life well-lived. So, when I put on makeup now, I aim to accentuate my best features. Whether I highlight my eyes or add a pop of color to my lips, each step is about enhancing my natural appearance.

Simplifying my makeup routine has been surprisingly liberating. It's saved me time in the mornings, so I can enjoy my coffee or grab a few extra minutes of sleep. This change in my makeup philosophy reflects a broader shift in how I view life. It's about finding joy and confidence in authenticity, and appreciating the beauty of aging gracefully. For me, makeup is a tool to enhance the person I've grown to love and accept – myself.

8. "Aspirational" Clothes

I used to buy clothes that I thought were perfect for the life or roles that I wanted to have. For example, I bought fancy cocktail dresses for fancy events that I never even went to, or sharp business suits for a corporate job that I eventually left. But over time, I realized that it's essential to align my wardrobe with my real life, rather than an imaginary version of it. Now, my wardrobe reflects who I am and the life that I genuinely lead. It is filled with clothes that I love, feel comfortable in, and wear frequently – cozy sweaters for lazy Sundays, stylish yet comfortable pants for casual outings, and versatile tops that work for various occasions.

This shift has been incredibly liberating. It's about dressing for the person I am today, not the person I once wanted to be. I no longer feel pressured to dress for a life that isn't mine, and instead, I focus on finding pieces that bring joy and comfort to my everyday moments. Each item in my wardrobe has a purpose and a story, whether it's a beautifully cut blouse that feels like a second skin or a pair of well-fitting jeans that boost my confidence.

Rather than chasing fashion trends and the illusion of a particular lifestyle, I cherish the reality of my life and choose clothes that honor my journey. This approach has not only decluttered my closet but also brought clarity and authenticity to my personal style. It's me celebrating the true me – a gal who knows herself, values comfort and elegance, and dresses to feel good and confident rather than to meet others' expectations. I don’t try to look like I’m in my 20s or 30s anymore, instead, I dress to celebrate my experience and who I am today.

Every outfit I choose is a nod to the journey I've been on and the confidence I've gained over the years. It feels amazing to dress in a way that honors my age, experiences, and unique personality.

9. One-Season Wonders

I used to love those 'one-season wonders', you know, those trendy fashion pieces that look amazing but only last for a short time before they go out of style or fall apart. But now, I'm all about building a wardrobe of classic pieces that I can mix and match for years to come. Sure, some of them cost a bit more, but they're worth it because they last longer and can be worn in so many different ways.

I've realized that versatile and durable clothes are the way to go. A timeless trench coat, a cozy cashmere sweater, or a pair of quality leather shoes are the kinds of items that never go out of style and can be worn year after year. It's so satisfying to pull out a favorite coat or a pair of boots and find that they still look and feel amazing.

This change in my fashion sense isn't just about clothes, it's about understanding my personal style and making choices that reflect that. I value longevity over the temporary excitement of fast fashion. I want clothes that make me feel good, not just look good. These timeless pieces are like old friends, each with a unique story and a special place in my life, contributing to a style that is truly my own.

10. Uncomfortable Shoes

Man, I've worn so many high heels over the years! Don't get me wrong, they look amazing, but comfort is just as important. Nowadays, I've changed my shoe collection to include more stylish and comfortable options. I love flats, ankle boots, and low heels. They're perfect for any occasion, whether I'm running errands or going to a fancy event. The best part? My feet are happy at the end of the day.

I've realized that sacrificing comfort for style isn't worth it. It's great to find shoes that look amazing and feel amazing too. Whether it's cushioned flats for the day or low-block heels for a date night, I prioritize shoes that support my lifestyle and my feet. It's all about finding a balance between fashion and practicality.

This change in my shoe preference is more than just about comfort; it's about making wise choices that benefit my well-being. My feet don't ache anymore after a long day. Instead, I feel confident and comfortable, knowing my shoes complement both my style and my desire for comfort. It's a small change that impacts my daily life positively, proving that style and comfort can go hand in hand.

Do you have any things you no longer buy that I missed? Let me know in the comments below!