Mannequins wearing the latest must-have trends demand attention as you walk through a department store's doors. But these styles are geared toward a younger consumer.
So where are the trendy pieces for the baby boomer woman who wants to be fashionable without looking like her daughter?
Stores would be wise to appeal to boomers, who are willing to spend when it comes to clothes: The average consumer age 45 to 54 spent about $1,900 on clothing in 2010, and the consumer age 55 to 64 spent about $1,500, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics' Consumer Expenditure Survey.
"Your age doesn't have to define what you wear," said Johanna Easter, a personal stylist at Nordstrom in Westfield Garden State Plaza in Paramus. "If a woman wants to adopt a new trend but feels like it doesn't work for her, she can slightly alter it to make it her style."
So how does the baby boomer shopper find what's right for her? Several stylists offered their tips for being both fashion-forward and age-appropriate.
Good fit is key
Make sure your clothes fit and flatter your body. Body-hugging or baggy clothes can distort your appearance.
"The most important thing for women in this age range is to focus on what fits them," said Marian Goodman, vice president of personal shopping for Bloomingdale's. "Don't get hung up on size. Each store uses different fits and patterns, so things will fit differently."
Retailers such as Chico's, Ann Taylor, Liz Claiborne and Eileen Fisher have expanded their lines to draw an older clientele.
Pants at Talbots fit many different shapes. "Our pants are a big seller because we have many different styles and shapes," said Meredith Paley, vice president of public relations for Talbots.
Stick to staples
Investing in a few classic pieces can take your wardrobe from season to season. Such pieces include a pair of slim black pants, a cardigan, a blazer and a pencil skirt.
Neutral pieces can look different with layering or use of color. They may be pricier, but will hold up for a longer time.
"With a cardigan, you can take it from winter to spring by layering a white tank-top underneath, and totally change the look," said Goodman.
Accessorize boldly
Instead of purchasing flashy clothing intended for younger women, show off your personal style through a killer necklace or a waist- accentuating belt.
"Women should feel it's OK to wear chunky necklaces or shoes with a little bit of a heel," said Paley.
Accessories are an easy way to look trendy, but not overwhelmingly so.
"Things like scarves, necklaces and bracelets add trends to [women's] current wardrobes," said Easter.
Trust your instincts
A good look in the mirror will tell you whether or not an outfit is working for you.
"When in doubt, trust the mirror," said Goodman.
"Women want to look good and feel younger, but you should ask yourself, 'Would this look better on my daughter?' It's more important to buy what fits you right."
Staying true to your own style will help you not only look good, but feel good.
"Every woman has at least one outfit that gives her confidence every time she wears it," said Cyndie Washburn-Nester, trend director for J.C. Penney.
"Take some time and analyze why this look works, and once you identify your look, don't stray too far."
E-mail: connor@northjersey.com
Sidebar:
Keep these fashion staples at the ready
Here are some suggested items to complete a boomer's wardrobe
Accessories
What: Nordstrom "Feathers - Large" cashmere and silk scarf
Where: Nordstrom, Garden State Plaza, Paramus; The Mall at Short Hills, Short Hills; nordstrom.com
How much: $88
What: Carole leaf and feather pendant necklace
Where: Nordstrom, Garden State Plaza, Paramus; The Mall at Short Hills, Short Hills; nordstrom.com
How much: $16
Black pants
What: Worthington skinny pants
Where: J.C. Penney, Garden State Plaza, Paramus; Wayne Towne Center, Wayne; jcpenney.com
How much: $36
Cardigan
What: Eileen Fisher drape cardigan
Where: Bloomingdale's, The Shops at Riverside, Hackensack; Willowbrook Mall, Wayne; The Mall at Short Hills, Short Hills; bloomingdales.com
How much: $178
Pencil skirt
What: Chloe plaid pencil skirt
Where: Talbots, Riverside Square Mall, Hackensack; Garden State Plaza, Paramus; 17 S. Walnut St., Ridgewood; talbots.com
How much: $109
-- Erinn Connor
Originally published by E-mail: connor@northjersey.com.
Source: yellowbrix
