Dressing Up Jeans for Older Women
Thanks to a suggestion from one of my blog readers, we are giving the challenge of dressing up jeans a go. Considering that every woman has at least one pair of blue jeans in her closet, I thought we could all easily do this.
Quote of the day: “The secret of living a life of excellence is merely a matter of thinking thoughts of excellence.” Charles Swindoll
I know many events are more casual now. In fact, even when we went to the musical, Hamilton here in Denver, there were many people in their jeans. It’s not my usual way to play dress-up, yet can it work?
I’d like to introduce Mary to these next two blog posts. Nancy was still on vacation in Ireland during our photo sessions, so I asked another friend to help out. Mary joined us in the Forever Fierce Midlife Matters Facebook group and has recently started working with Premier Designs Jewelry which I had to indulge in buying a couple of pieces recently.
I love that all three of us chose a different variety of blue jeans for the idea of dressing up jeans. Now I have to know if you’d wear blue jeans for a dressy event? If so, how would you style them?
Jodie’s (50+) Outfit
Dress: La Macon from Sassafras (similar here)~~Jeans: Express-thrifted (similar here)~~Wrap: Chicos c/o (similar here)~~Shoes: (similar here)~~Earrings: (similar here)~~Purse: Banana Republic (similar here)~~Arm Warmers: I DIYed them
Why I Wore This Outfit
Since this isn’t my normal way to dress up, I was at a loss at first. Then my husband asked about my velvet dress in a conversation, and a light bulb went off. I’ve worn this dress this winter under a jacket and vest, and I wondered how it would work over a pair of jeans. The three of us tried wearing a dress over a pair of jeans on the blog, and I have to admit it wasn’t the best look. However, I have seen others wear this style successfully, so I thought I’d give it another go.
The wrap is a no-brainer because I’m always cold when we go to events. Besides, it’s easy to remove if I get warm. I’m not in the habit to grab a wrap like this, but it was a great choice for this outfit. This one is reversible to black also. If you wanted a black one, they aren’t expensive. Wraps can be annoying because they don’t stay put, so then I might suggest a kimono.
And true to my style, I had to add in a punch of color somewhere. That’s the reason for the orange wristlet.
How You Could Change This Outfit
Wearing heels is not for everyone so let’s talk about dressy flats. They are out there and could work with this outfit too. I’m sure black would be a basic that most of us would wear. But how about gingham (yes, I realize I’m still obsessing over gingham shoes-LOL)? Or a silver pair could be considered dressy?
What Makes this Work
I have to admit after the three of us tried wearing a dress over a pair of jeans on the blog last year, I wasn’t too sure I could pull it off. However, I think that the style of the dress makes a huge difference as well as the length of the dress.
I also think that velvet is thought of as dressy, so the material adds a touch of fancy to the jeans. I’m sure most of us consider velvet as a winter material. Yet many fancy events end up being so cold with the air conditioning, that it might work.
Who Could Wear This Kind of Style
In a way, this isn’t much different than a tunic and leggings, so if you like that look on you, then this shouldn’t be any different. What that would translate to would be to make sure the jeans are form-fitting. The dress has enough volume, so you’d want the jeans not to have much volume.
Interesting Tidbit
I bought this dress just last fall at our Seattle blogger meetup. Since it’s sleeveless I haven’t worn it much this winter. And I love how the black, leather bow is attached to the dress which is the reason I didn’t wear a necklace.
Mary’s (60+) Outfit
Jeans: Ellen Tracy (similar here)~~Tunic: National Geographic (similar here)~~Shoes: (similar here)~~Necklace: Premier Designs (here)~~Earrings: Premier Designs (similar here)~~Bracelet: Premier Designs (here)~~Purse: Michael Kors (similar here)
Why Mary Wore This Outfit
Mary said this is her favorite tunic because of how colorful it is! Truthfully, this is probably the easiest way to dress up a pair of blue jeans by making the focal point so colorful. And it’s not like you have to spend a lot of money on a wonderful top.
How You Could Change This Outfit
There are so many varieties of tunics available that might tickle your fancy. I’m always a fan of the asymmetrical detail which is flattering on everyone. Heck, you might even think about your bathing suit cover-up as a great option because some of them are so lovely.
What Makes this Work
I love how Mary and I created almost the same look. Granted she is wearing a tunic since the slits would prevent her from wearing it alone. And maybe this is why a tunic-like this works so well? The slits allow you to see the jeans more and add a vertical element to the outfit.
Who Could Wear This Kind of Style
Just like with a tunic and leggings, this kind of outfit is great if you want to cover up a belly. If you happen to be an hourglass shape or top-heavy, then the look would be better with a more fitted type of tunic.
Interesting Tidbit
These are Mary’s favorite summer shoes because they are so comfortable and go with everything. I’m sure part of the reason they are so comfy is the ankle strap. That wonderful strap keeps your shoes in place while you walk. If you’re looking for a different color pair, I found some pink ones that are perfect for summer.
Charlotte’s (80+) Outfit
Jeans: Bill Blass (similar here)~~Vest: Clio (similar here)~~Top: Hudson’s (similar here)~~Shoes: (similar here)~~Brooch: (similar here)~~Earrings: (similar here)~~Bracelet: (similar here)~~Purse: from Trendz c/o (similar here)
Why Charlotte Wore This Outfit
My mom chose this pair of jeans because they are her only dark blue ones. She figured the bow-tie blouse would help to add a feminine element to the look, but she considered it too plain by itself. That’s where the vest came in.
How You Could Change This Outfit
I do think that a topper or vest is a great way to add another element to an outfit. Most vests at the store now are more casual unless you like the longer vests. Then again, you could choose a short sleeve kimono which could be the topper.
However, if you didn’t want another piece over the blouse, there are many bow-tie blouses that are fabulous. Details like a lace collar, floral print, or even ruffles can make the blouse seem nicer for the occasion.
What Makes this Work
I really like that my mom didn’t tie the bow per se on the blouse. Letting it hang long and then adding the brooch on top of it, makes it seem very elegant.
And the purse adds such a whimsical element to the entire look. If you are looking for a fun purse for under $50, then you should check out this ice cream one or this butterfly one.
Who Could Wear This Kind of Style
I know many of my friends don’t like to tuck in their shirts anymore for many reasons. If you are one of those people, I think it’s just as fun to leave the shirt underneath hang out under the vest or topper.
Since my mom’s jeans are more of a wider leg and boot cut variety, it’s usually better to pair these with a more fitted top. And if you leave the shirt untucked, then I like it better if it ends above the crotch.
Interesting Tidbit
If you notice my mom’s “fuzzy” bracelet, you’d laugh to know it used to be a scrunchie for her hair. My mom is one of those people that rarely throws things out, so just because she doesn’t have long hair anymore, is no reason to get rid of a hair accessory. I’m sure she could think of many other ways to repurpose it if you gave her the time.
Tips & Tricks
Most of us in the older generations consider the darker and non distressed jeans less casual. So if you are thinking about wearing your jeans to a fancy event, that’s where I would start. There are also trousers made with denim that could be a great mix of the two styles.
If you’ve been wondering about the different styles of jeans, I recently discussed mom jeans vs straight leg jeans.
The Facts
Even if you wouldn’t consider purchasing your clothing online, it can be helpful to look through my links to see what is available! It certainly doesn’t hurt my feelings, if you click on them but don’t like them. Just so you know, one of the ways I make money from this blog is through these linked items.
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If you haven’t purchased jeans in a while, here are some modern options. I know jeans are one of the hardest items to purchase (besides bathing suits) so my suggestion is to order a ton online. Make sure the return policy is agreeable, and then try them on when you’re in a good mood, with a glass of wine, in your own home! And I know many people will spend over $100 on their jeans, but I still think I can find some great pairs for under $75 (or even less):
