Attending a wedding can be a fun, joyful occasion, but it can also create some anxiety around what to wear, especially for those in their 50s. While trends and styles are constantly evolving, there are some timeless tips to keep in mind when deciding what a 50 year old should wear to a wedding in order to look and feel their best.
Choosing an appropriate wedding guest outfit depends on several factors like the formality and time of the event, personal style, body type, and budget. The golden rules are to avoid outshining the couple, wearing something age-appropriate that flatters your figure, and dressing according to the dress code specified on the invitation.
Some quick answers to common questions:
What is the most flattering style for a 50 year old woman to wear to a wedding?
A knee-length or tea length dress in a solid color or subtle print is usually the most universally flattering for women over 50. An A-line silhouette with flutter or 3/4 sleeves is ideal for most body shapes.
What kind of outfit should a 50 year old man wear to a wedding?
A tailored suit in navy, gray, or charcoal with a collared shirt, tie, and dress shoes makes for timeless wedding attire for men in their 50s. Opt for a single breasted, two-button jacket with flat front pants.
What should you avoid wearing to a wedding over 50?
Steer clear of loud prints, revealing styles, mini skirts, casual denim, and any outfit that upstages the couple or other guests. Don’t wear white, cream, or ivory, which is reserved for the bride.
How can someone over 50 dress fashionably for a wedding while still looking age-appropriate?
Focus on proper fit, higher quality fabrics, and solid neutral colors or muted patterns. Add refined accessories like a pashmina, sequined clutch, or statement jewelry. Stay away from trends better suited for 20somethings.
What style tips can make a 50 year old wedding guest look stylish and pulled together?
Choose flattering silhouettes, pay attention to tailoring details, add a jacket or elegant shawl, opt for dresses in midi lengths, wear properly fitted undergarments, and choose shoes that are stylish yet comfortable for standing and dancing.
Factors to Consider
When deciding what to wear to a wedding over the age of 50, there are a few important factors to take into account:
Formality
The formality and time of day of the wedding should inform your outfit choices. A formal, evening black tie optional wedding calls for more elegant attire like a formal gown, stylish cocktail dress, or dark tuxedo. Daytime or outdoor weddings tend to be more casual, where a sundress, dressy jumpsuit, or jacket and dress pants may be appropriate. When in doubt, err on the side of more formal than less.
Personal Style
While you want to honor the dress code, it’s important to stay true to your personal style. If you gravitate toward classic and preppy clothing, opt for tailored silhouettes and fabrics like tweed or chiffon. If you prefer edgy style, go for an asymmetrical dress or sequined jacket. And if you love boho looks, try an embroidered caftan or floral maxi dress.
Body Type
Dressing to flatter your figure is essential for looking and feeling confident. Look for silhouettes and necklines that complement your body shape. An empire waist flatters fuller midsections, while a wrap style dress works for larger busts. Tall, slender frames can pull off narrow pencil skirts and deep v-necks.
Season
Consider weather and seasonal style norms when shopping for a wedding outfit. Light and airy sundresses are perfect for summer weddings while richer velvets and sparkly fabrics make sense for winter events. Sleeveless or strapless dresses work in warmer months but pair a shawl or cover up for cooler weather.
Budget
As a guest, you’ll likely only wear your outfit once so aim for affordable options, but don’t sacrifice fit and quality just to save money. Department stores, boutiques, and rental services offer a range of prices for wedding guest attire. Set a budget and stick to it.
Outfit Ideas for 50 Year Old Women
Women have lots of gorgeous options for wedding attire after 50. Here are some stylish and age-appropriate wedding outfit ideas for 50 year old women:
The Dress
A knee-length or midi dress in a solid color or subtle print is the standard go-to wedding outfit for women over 50. Look for dresses with sleeves or opt for a coordinating jacket or wrap. Feminine details like a v-neckline or flutter sleeves and an a-line, empire, or sheath silhouette that flatters your shape are best.
The Jumpsuit
If you want an alternative to a dress that’s still elegant, a crepe or satin jumpsuit with wide leg pants and a v-neckline is stylish. Look for shoulder detailing and a wrap or tie at the waist to cinch in and flatter.
The Pantsuit
A dressy pantsuit with some sparkle or texture feels celebratory. Choose a jacket with a plunging neckline to show off a statement necklace. Pair wide leg pants or a flowing palazzo style with heels.
The Cocktail Dress
For formal weddings, a sequined cocktail dress hits the mark. Look for knee or midi length styles with flutter sleeves or off-the-shoulder necklines. Keep accessories minimal with sparkly earrings and a clutch.
The Maxi Dress
Nothing feels more elegant than a floor-length maxi dress. Look for an empire waist and a fluid chiffon, crepe, or jersey fabric. Make it formal with an embellished bodice or keep it beachy with prints and slits.
The Skirt Set
Match a knee-length pencil skirt with a silky camisole or fitted blouse. Choose a fun pattern or texture like lace or brocade for the skirt and opt for a solid top. Finish with heels and jewelry.
Outfits for 50 Year Old Men
For men over 50, the tradition suit reigns supreme when dressing for a wedding. However, there are some modern updates you can make while still looking polished and appropriate:
The Suit
A two-button, single-breasted suit in navy, gray, or charcoal is the standard. Tailor it for a trim fit and proper length. Finish with a collared dress shirt, coordinating tie, dress belt, and leather shoes.
The Sport Coat
Swap the full suit jacket for a dressy sport coat in a fun texture like tweed or pattern like houndstooth. Pair it with dress pants, a button-down, and tie.
No Tie
For a more modern, relaxed look, wear the tailored suit jacket and pants with an open collared dress shirt. Opt for a bold pattern or texture and casual leather dress shoes.
Linen Suit
A light linen suit is perfect for summer and destination weddings. Khaki, light gray, or subtle plaids look sharp. Wear the jacket open with the sleeves rolled up.
Dressy Separates
Build a polished outfit with separates like a blazer, slim cut pants, a button-down shirt, and loafers. Layer on a vest or sweater depending on the formality.
The Tuxedo
When “black tie optional” is specified, opt for a traditional black tuxedo with satin or grosgrain lapels. Wear with a white dress shirt, black bow tie, and shiny dress shoes.
Age-Appropriate Style Tips
Dressing stylishly for weddings after 50 is definitely possible by following some key guidelines:
Choose Classic Over Trendy
Focus your outfit on timeless, elegant styles and fabrics versus trying to wear whatever 20-somethings have on the runway. Things like tailored silhouettes, wrap dresses, chiffon gowns, and tuxedos will always be in fashion.
Show Off Your Assets
You have the confidence that comes with experience and wisdom so subtly showcase your best attributes with plunging necklines or figure-flattering silhouettes while remaining tasteful.
Invest in Quality Pieces
While your clothing budget may be limited, consider spending a little more on a classic dress, suit, or accessories you’ll rewear over cheaper disposable fashion.
Skip the Mini Skirts
Leave ultra short hemlines to the younger guests and opt for a midi or tea length that hits at the knee or just below. A high side slit can add a sexy touch.
No Matter Your Size, Fit is Key
An impeccably tailored outfit in luxe fabrics will always look expensive and stylish. Make sure clothes skim your shape rather than cling or drown you.
Accessorize and Dress it Up
Fancy events call for pulling out some sparkle. Add some glam with statement earrings, a sequined clutch, stilettos, a silk scarf, or an embellished handbag.
Stay True to You
Choose an outfit that makes you feel confident, elegant, and like the best version of yourself. If you love bold prints or asymmetric styles, wear them proudly.
What to Avoid After 50
When shopping for wedding guest attire after age 50, there are some fashion pitfalls to avoid:
Anything White, Cream, or Ivory
Don’t risk being mistaken for the bride by wearing anything that comes in bridal hues. Opt for colors or metallics.
All Black Outfits
Skip the edgy, all-black dress or suit, which can look dreary at weddings. Choose a black dress with a colorful shawl or black pants with a lighter colored top.
Casual Denim
While designer jeans can work for casual weddings, traditional blue denim reads as too informal so avoid jeans. Opt for dress pants or a jumpsuit instead.
Loud Prints or Sequins
Steer clear of overpowering prints and excessive sequins, which tend to look over the top on mature women. Subtle patterns and strategic sparkle work better.
Stiletto Heels
Ultra high stilettos aren’t the most comfortable or age-appropriate footwear. Low block heels or wedges are a better choice for stability and dancing.
Mini Skirts
Unless you have extremely toned legs, a mini skirt past 50 can risk entering tacky territory. Knee-length or below is best.
Anything Too Tight
Avoid outfits that are too clingy or restrictive as they highlight lumps and bumps. Seek stretchy fabrics that gently skim your shape.
Conclusion
Attending weddings after 50 can feel daunting but with some thoughtfulness around dress codes, comfort, and current style norms, you can look elegant, stylish, and age-appropriate. The key is opting for flattering, sophisticated silhouettes in luxe fabrics topped off with a touch of sparkle or a colorful accessory. Dressing to enhance your natural assets and staying true to your personal tastes will ensure you feel confident and beautiful at any wedding regardless of age.
So whether the wedding invites say black tie optional or beach casual, trust your instincts and choose the outfit that lets your inner spirit shine through. If you focus on fit, quality, and timeless style suited to your shape and personality, you’ll look and feel your best to celebrate with the happy couple.
