Fashion Guide for Women in their 50s

Remember when trousers were forbidden at the office and pantyhose were a must? Well, those days are gone. The workplace has become progressively more casual, and, to be honest, it's often difficult to tell what's appropriate.

Today's office looks run the gamut, from jeans and flip-flops to outdated power suits and pumps. Dressing somewhere in between those two extremes is the best choice for female professionals in their fifties. Suits are out; separates are in. Mix, match and layer wardrobe essentials and accessories; you'll not only look chic, you'll expand your wardrobe while saving money.

First, update your styles and your style rules. For example, ditch the boxy blazers with shoulder pads and accept that it's OK to wear white after Labor Day. Next, invest in tailored pieces that flatter your figure and are made of quality fabrics like cashmere, wool and cotton. Talbots, Ann Taylor and Jones New York are good sources for these wardrobe basics.

Some classic pieces for your wardrobe:

Now, mix it up:

When it comes to giving away your age, one of the biggest pitfalls is casual dress. Unfortunately, many women tend to fall into these two categories: those who dress like a 20 year old and those who wear the same outfits they wore 20 years ago. Let's face it, ladies, neither strategy works.

One thing you can wear in your 50s (and at any age) is a nice pair of jeans. Until recently, the choice for women in their fifties was limited to elasticized "mom jeans." Fortunately, manufacturers are now designing jeans for every body type, making it easier to find a flattering fit.

A pair of well-fitting jeans is worth the investment. Take the time and try on a variety of sizes and styles to find the most flattering, age-appropriate fit. Be aware of the following five areas when you choose a pair of jeans:

Once you have the perfect pair of jeans, complete the look with a classic top, a fun accessory and the right shoe. Keep in mind, the narrower the leg opening, the more delicate the shoe. And never wear tennis shoes with jeans. That's an outdated look.

There's no reason to go out for a night on the town dressed like the mother of the bride. For most black-tie events, long is no longer the rule. Dress lengths for women in their 50s range from floor-length to knee-length and everywhere in between.

Finding the perfect dress for a black-tie event is always harder when you wait until the last minute. Plus, you tend to spend more. Keep an eye out for the dress of your dreams year-round so you'll be ready when the invitation comes along; or you can always fall back on that famous wardrobe staple, the little black dress.

For women of any age, a black dress is perfect for an evening out, and the perfect black dress is one that is versatile enough to take you from business functions to the red carpet. Follow the guidelines for choosing a style to compliment your body, and dress it up with jewelry, shoes, an elegant evening bag and a wrap. Be careful not to go overboard with too much bling.

Getting older is a tough reality to face -- literally. A look in the mirror reflects a person you hardly recognize, which makes it tempting to avoid mirrors altogether. Luckily, hair and makeup can go a long way to make you look young and fresh.

The hairstyle that looked so perfect on you when you were in your 40s may no longer be suited to the 50-year-old you. Styles change and so does your face. If you've had the same style for years, consider adding layers or angles, changing the length or doing something as simple as switching your part. Adding a soft fringe of bangs can do wonders to hide a wrinkled brow. Bangs also draw attention to your eyes and away from a sagging jowl.

It goes without saying, gray hair makes a woman look older, even if it's a great platinum mane. If you plan to color your hair, go several shades lighter than your natural base color, which helps to lighten your face and de-emphasize any lines or wrinkles. Count on touching up every four to six weeks.

Hair color is not the only thing that can affect how old (or young) you look. "Helmet head," or hair that doesn't move, and up-dos are outdated. Don't think that hitting 50 requires you to have short hair. Long, shiny, well-kept locks are a sophisticated look.

When it comes to makeup, soft and subtle is the way to go. Accentuate your eyes without going overboard. Gone are the days of heavy foundations, streaks of blush and bronzers that are supposed to make you look tan. A dewy face with a natural blush is best. Choose paler shades of lipstick and nail polish.

Perhaps the reason women go crazy for stylist Lloyd Boston is that he celebrates their positive features and encourages them to try new things, so they feel fabulous at any age. His sound advice not only applies to women in their 50s, but also to those in their 30s and 70s. Among his recommendations are...

A woman who dresses in well-made, well-fitting clothes can feel confident and that confidence will make her look better than anyone else in the room.