Denim Skirts for Women Over 50: How to Style
Denim skirts are a fashion trend that hasn’t graced the front of fashion magazines since the early 2000s. Over the last two years, I have seen them absolutely everywhere! Whether you love them or hate them, it appears this fun alternative to jeans is here to stay for a while. I think they are the perfect mix of casual and dressy, and I’ve been having so much fun trying out different styles and lengths in my closet. Today, I’m sharing a few denim skirts I’m loving for women over 50 and some ideas on how to style them.
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Why Every Woman Over 50 Needs a Denim Skirt
Before we dive into the fun part (AKA styling, LOL!) I want to talk about why you should try out denim skirt in your own wardrobe. First of all, a denim skirt is not only classic and comfortable, but they’re super easy to dress up or down. Whether you’re heading to lunch with friends, running errands, or enjoying a casual evening out, you really can’t go wrong with throwing one on!
Denim skirts are great year-round, no matter the season. In the summer, you can pair them with sandals and a tank top. In the fall and winter, they look fabulous with tights and boots. Plus, you can wear them everywhere you would wear a pair of jeans, except now you won’t be worried that you’re underdressed. The best part? They work for all ages. Whether you’re 25 or 65, a denim skirt can be a chic addition to your wardrobe.
Choosing the Right Denim Skirt for Women Over 50
One of the first things to consider when styling a denim skirt is the fit. As we age, our bodies change, and finding a skirt that flatters your figure is key. Here are a few things to look for when selecting the perfect denim skirt.
Length Matters
For women over 50, a knee-length or midi denim skirt tends to be the most flattering. A skirt that hits just above or at the knee elongates the legs and offers coverage without looking frumpy. Midi-length skirts are also a fantastic option, especially for more formal or polished looks. Avoid anything dragging the floor that might look frumpy or matronly.
Fit & Cut
Look for a skirt that skims your body without clinging too tightly. A-line or pencil cuts are classic and flattering for most body types. Avoid anything too short or too tight, as it can look too youthful or uncomfortable. Skirts with slits make walking and crossing your legs when sitting much more comfortable.
Dark Wash vs. Light Wash
Dark-wash denim skirts are more slimming and versatile. They can easily be dressed up or down, making them perfect for both casual and slightly more formal settings. Light wash skirts are fun for summer or a more laid-back vibe, but I don’t think they give off a polished look like a dark wash does.
Details to Consider
Look for skirts with minimal embellishments. A clean, streamlined look is going to be more elegant and timeless. As a general rule, I try to skip denim with heavy distressing or lots of rips and that includes my denim skirts.
How to Style a Denim Skirt for Women Over 50
Now that you know you want a denim skirt in your closet, let’s talk about how to style it! Whether you’re going for a casual look or something more elevated, the key is to balance comfort with style.
1. The Casual Everyday Look
For those days when you’re running errands or meeting friends for coffee, you want an easy and effortless outfit. Here’s how to style a denim skirt for a casual, chic look:
- Pair with a Simple T-Shirt or Sweater: A classic white or striped t-shirt always looks great with a denim skirt. In cooler weather, swap the tee for a lightweight sweater. Choose neutral colors like white, beige, or navy for a clean and classic look.
- Add a Cardigan or Denim Jacket: Layering is your best friend, especially as temperatures fluctuate throughout the day. A cozy cardigan or even a lightweight denim jacket (yes, double denim can work!) adds warmth and style without being too heavy.
- Footwear Options: Sneakers are a fantastic option for a casual look. White or neutral-toned sneakers keep the outfit looking fresh and youthful. If you prefer something a little more polished, a pair of flats or low-heeled ankle boots will do the trick.
- Accessorize with a Crossbody Bag: For an everyday look, a small crossbody bag is both practical and stylish, but you could also grab your usual tote bag!
2. The Elevated Evening Look
If you’re heading out for a casual dinner or want to dress up a bit for a special occasion, a denim skirt can still be your go-to piece. Here’s how to elevate your look:
- Choose a Blouse with Elegant Detailing: Swap your casual t-shirt for a blouse with interesting details like ruffles, lace, or bell sleeves. You can also go with a top with an elegant print to add a little interest!
- Blazers Add Instant Sophistication: If you want to give your outfit a more polished vibe, throw on a blazer. A structured jacket instantly elevates any look. You can see some of my favorite blazers here.
- Step Into Heels or Heeled Boots: If I’m heading out for a date night, I’m usually grabbing my heels. Block heels or heeled ankle boots are both comfortable and stylish. Just don’t pick a heel that’s too formal for a denim skirt!
- Accessorize with Statement Jewelry: Add a pair of statement earrings or a chunky necklace. Don’t overdo it—one or two bold accessories are all you need to complete the outfit.
3. The Transitional Fall/Winter Look
As the temperatures drop, your denim skirt can easily transition into your fall and winter wardrobe. I styled this denim skirt from J.Jill with this gorgeous cardigan and a pair of booties, and I love how it turned out. Here are some more tips on how to style a denim skirt for cooler weather:
- Pair with a Knit Sweater: A chunky knit sweater can add cozy texture to your outfit while keeping things cute stylish. Turtlenecks are a great way to keep warm while looking put-together.
- Add Tights or Leggings for Warmth: When it gets chilly, throw on a pair of opaque tights or leggings under your skirt to keep your legs from freezing. Black tights are a safe, slimming choice that pairs well with any wash of denim, but you can always go with nude!
- Complete the Look with Boots: Tall boots are my shoe of choice for fall and winter outfits. Knee-high or over-the-knee boots keep you warm and add a touch of sophistication. Ankle boots will also work well with your denim skirts, especially when paired with tights.
Alternatives to Denim Skirts
While denim skirts are a classic, they might not be everyone’s cup of tea. Fortunately, there are plenty of stylish alternatives that offer the same level of versatility and comfort. One great option is the denim dress, which provides an effortless, one-piece solution for an instantly pulled-together look. Denim dresses come in various cuts—from A-line to belted shirt dresses—and can easily be dressed up or down.
Another fantastic alternative is a pair of wide-leg denim pants. These provide a chic, contemporary take on denim while offering more coverage than a skirt. They’re a great option for those who love the feel and look of denim but prefer pants over skirts.
If you just prefer non-wide leg denim, I have plenty of recommendations for various jean styles over in this post and denim shorts in this post.
Do you have a denim skirt? Let me know in the comments!
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I love the look of the A-line maxi denim skirt on you! Need to look for mine in the storage area. thanks for all your suggestions and also the beautiful Bible verses which calm my heart.
I have an olive green midi length denim skirt, and I love it. So comfortable to wear and looks a little more elevated than always wearing jeans. Enjoy reading your blog!!
I’m glad you are enjoying the blog!
I appreciated your tips on skirt length. I like modesty, but don’t want to look frumpish. I think I’ll go with a shorter length paired with taller boots.
yes! I have 2 midi length, dark and light wash, and a knee length darker wash. Love them!!!
I have zero but I really love ♥️what I saw. Makes me want to get 1,2, or even 3.
I’ve always loved denim skirts so glad they are back. Fall and winter with boots is so easy.
I’ve always loved a good denim skirt in knee-length and midi-length, so I really like your suggestions in this post… And I especially love the pic of your doggy! Lucy is a cutie!
Haven’t worn a denim skirt in years. I think I need to look for one soon!
I don’t have a blue jean skirt but I love them. They are so easy to style. I like the column slit skirt style best. Your Lucy Lu is adorable
She is a doll!
Glad these are back in style!
You look so cute in these jean skirts. Thanks for showing us different ways to style them. Hope you feel better.
I have two denim skirts and want to buy another. I love them!
Cute skirts
I do not have a denim skirt anymore. I wore so many denim skirts, dresses, and jumpers when I taught school that it’s heard for me to buy any denim other than jeans! You are showing some reall cute ones though.
Thanks for the denim skirt inspiration. Now I just have to decide which style!
Yes, I have two denim skirts from JC Penney- one long and blue, one knee-length and black. 💗
I have 3 denim skirts. I wear them a lot in the summer since I don’t wear jeans in the summer. I like that you can tuck your top all in and are more forgiving than pants or jeans in the tummy area.
Perfect post timing! I just purchased a denim skirt and a olive green cargo skirt.
No, they all look boxy and tired. Denim skirts might be on trend, but no thanks.
Denim skirts are so versitile. I had a maxi shirt with a front slit that I wore for years when I worked outside the home.
For some reason, I just can’t figure out how to wear a skirt anymore. It just hugs that muffin top at my waist. That is the ONLY Place on my body that is fat. I do love denim dresses. They are an easy go to option.
When I feel like wearing a dress but that’s a bit too formal for the occasion I put on a denim skirt. I have a medium wash pull on skirt that hits at the knee and it always feels right with a tucked in tee and cardi on top. I also have a new denim maxi but haven’t worn it much. I will probably wear it with tights and boots when it gets chilly.
I am 5’ 2” and wondering if a A line maxi skirt is best? Or shorter version?
Carole, it ODs really a matter of preference. I prefer a midi so that I can wear them with boots.
I have a denim skort…does that count? Lol
Online descriptions were sometimes difficult to translate. On site’s midi length really meant knee length and another’s midi meant down to the floor. After many purchases and returns, I found these two at Nordstrom: Jones New York Denim Midi Pencil Skirt and bought them in West Point Wash and Onyx Wash. Only wish the front slit wasn’t so high. Will be wearing them with tights and boots this fall and winter.