4 ways to dress with colour in your 50s and beyond, according to a fashion expert.

Women have long been told what we can and can’t wear, and the older we get, the louder those voices become.

Once you reach the age of 50, you’re suddenly being told that you can’t possibly be seen in colour. The beautiful shades of bright greens and pinks you wore in your 20s and 30s, get replaced by black, white and different varieties of beige. 

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It’s one of those outdated rules that need to be let go. It’s 2023, and women can wear whatever the heck they want.

If you're someone who just genuinely enjoys wearing neutral shades, then more power to you. But if you’ve been conditioned to believe that as an older woman, you can’t wear anything that’s too vibrant, then hopefully by the end of this article, you'll feel differently.

I spoke to someone I consider a fashion expert. Monique van Tulder not only empowers mid-life women to prioritise themselves and their wellbeing, but she also has a killer sense of style. One look at her Instagram will give you all the inspo you need. 

Kaftans, printed dresses and bold accessories are part of her regular rotation, so I just knew I had to ask her for some fashion advice.

“I’ve been chased into airport bathrooms because a stranger loved my brightly-hued dress. I strongly believe that colour makes life happen,” Tulder told Mamamia.

So without further ado, here are Tulder’s tips on how women can wear colour in their 50s and beyond. 

Tip #1: Experiment with your best shades.

Image: Instagram @moniquevantulder.

According to Tulder, women in their 50s should get comfortable adding colour to their wardrobe.

While it can be intimidating, it’s a great way to experiment with fashion and discover your own personal sense of style — something that tends to get lost as we age.

“Now is absolutely the time to wear colour,” said the life coach. 

“You want to wear the colour, it shouldn’t wear you, so experiment with your best shades. Look at photos and be honest with yourself. What colours make your hair look more vibrant or your eyes pop? That’s how you know if that specific shade is right for you.”

According to Tulder, neutral tones, while elegant, can be unforgiving, especially when it isn’t the right shade for your complexion. 

“It’s hard to get right,” she said. “The only time I wear neutrals is when I go to yoga.”

Tip #2: Figure out what you prefer.

Image: Instagram @moniquevantulder.

Colour isn’t binary, and everyone is going to have different preferences. You may prefer block colours, or, you might gravitate towards bold prints and designs. 

“When you reach your 50s, you realise that there really are no rules. If you wear what makes you happy then it shows on your face,” said Tulder.

“Both colour and prints are flattering on everyone, regardless of shape and size, so don’t be afraid to experiment.”

Tip #3: Follow fashion influencers who are in the same age bracket as you.

Image: Instagram @venswifestyle.

Believe it or not, there are plenty of fashion influencers out there who are in their 50s and beyond, and boy, are they KILLING it. 

There’s Tulder, but there’s also Iris Apfel, Renia Jazdzyk and Jenny Kee AO, just to name a few.

“As we age, it becomes more okay for us to take risks,” Tulder said. “We’re able to pull certain clothes and accessories off without looking ‘too costumey’.

“Look at fabulous older models and influencers for inspiration. Colour also looks fantastic with silver hair.”

Tip #4: Ask your friends what colours make you shine.

Image: Instagram @moniquevantulder.

If you want brutal honesty, then go to your friends, because they’ll always tell you what you need to hear rather than what you want to hear.

You’re not sure about that new dress you bought over the weekend? Or what about those bright trousers you wore to brunch the other day? Turn to your girlfriends. 

Not only do they know you, but they also know what pieces flatter you the best.

“Definitely ask your friends what colours make you shine,” said Tulder. 

So now that you have Tulder's tips in your back pocket, will you be adding more colour to your closet? Let us know in the comments below!

For even more style inspo, follow Monique van Tulder on Instagram here.

Feature image: Instagram/@moniquevantulder