Just because it’s in stores, doesn’t mean it’s in style.
You know I’m a truth teller over here, and so this is another video where I shout at bad, dated, or simply unflattering clothes. I’m over the outdated trends that keep clogging up our stores. Today, I’m breaking down 16 dated and unflattering trends that I just can’t unsee. Most of these are aimed specifically at women over 50, and they are not your friends. Let’s dive into what’s coming for us (and why we need to fight back).
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Cold Shoulder Tops: A Thing of the Past
First up, cold shoulder tops. They’ve been out of style for at least 60 years. They reappear from time to time, but always with a twist and nothing like the oversized printed polyester pieces you see here. If you’ve still got a couple lurking in your closet, it might be time to let them go.
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Handkerchief Hem Skirts: The Ragged Reality
Then there are handkerchief hem skirts. Sure, uneven hems can be trendy when done right, but these tropical, front-dropping versions only serve to shorten your legs and add bulk. Instead, seek out a version from a contemporary brand like Anthropologie or Free People—one that plays with texture in a subtle, modern way.
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Overly Bedazzled Jeans: Too Much Bling
Remember the bedazzled jeans of 2010? The ones with chunky jewels on every pocket and a distressing overload? They’re not just uncomfortable—they’re visually overwhelming. If you love a little sparkle, try opting for studded jeans instead. Modern embellishments from brands like Veronica Beard or Reformation are a much better choice.
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Long, Shapeless Tunics: Lose the Baggy Look
I get it: sometimes we want something flowy. But those long, shapeless tunics made of slinky, patterned material only add bulk, disguising your figure rather than flattering it. Instead, go for a structured long shirt or a tunic with subtle, modern tailoring—trust me, it makes a world of difference.
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Big, Heavy Statement Necklaces: Not the Statement You Want
Statement necklaces should elevate your outfit—not drag it down with overwhelming bulk and sparkle. The old, jewel-encrusted bib necklaces might have been cool once, but today they are just dated. Instead, opt for a sleek, bold collar necklace in solid gold or with minimal embellishment that speaks to your personal style, or go for an over the top style with some edge that feels and looks more elevated and expensive.
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Tie Dye Lounge Sets: Casual, But Make It Cute
Tie-dye isn’t inherently bad, but those multi-colored, washed-out lounge sets are not the best use of the print technique and can look really sloppy. We can do so much better by elevating our loungewear—think pull-on styles in rich, dark hues or updated fabrics that look both chic and comfortable. A coordinated, modern set goes a long way in making casual feel polished.
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Capri Pants: A Cautionary Tale
Oh, capri pants. The ones that end at exactly the widest part of your calf and highlight every imperfection. Whether they’re the “pedal pushers” or overly tight versions, most capris just don’t work. If you really want to try them, make sure they’re from a brand that has perfected the modern, sleek silhouette—and be ready to stand at the perfect angle to pull them off. I think ankle pants are a much more modern and flattering option.
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Distressed Jeans: Keep It Natural
Overly distressed jeans with random bleach dots and mismatched washes are a no-go. The key is to choose a pair where the fading looks natural and uniform. Stick to all light, medium, or dark washes for a timeless look—because chaotic distressing only screams “cheaply done.” Also, skip rips tears and shreds this season as they are out of style.
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Elastic Waist Pants: Hidden Elastic is the Key
I love comfort as much as the next person, but those bulky elastic waist pants in knits and polyester are not a good choice. They add unnecessary bulk around the midsection. Look for pull-on styles with a hidden elastic that offers both comfort and a sleek silhouette—brands like Everlane have nailed this look.
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Bad Beaded Necklaces: Quality Over Quantity
When it comes to beaded necklaces, less is more. Oversized, plasticky bead sets are a relic of the past. Instead, opt for organic pearl designs or high-quality stone beads that look like they were meant to be a statement piece rather than a trend.
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Bolero Shrugs: Time for an Upgrade
Bolero shrugs, especially the short, flimsy knit ones, are just not cutting it. They’re often all about covering arms without considering the overall look. If you need that extra layer, choose a structured bolero or a sweater-coat style that adds elegance instead of bulk. A dressy design from White House Black Market or this cool white leather one from Alice & Olivia make a much better investment.
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Bad T-Shirts: Structured and Substantial
Flimsy, patterned t-shirts aimed at mature women are not the modern classic staples we should be wearing for spring. Instead, look for well-structured crew or v-neck tees made from quality cotton or ponte. A classic, simple tee always wins over one that’s printed, features a curved hem or made from a slippery knit.
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Uber Chunky Platform Sneakers: Not Worth the Height
I’m all for a bit of lift, but those overly chunky platform sneakers—especially the sparkly, thick white ones—are a recipe for disaster. Instead, moderate platform options like the Adidas Gazelle or the refined Sam Edelman sneakers offer a boost without overwhelming your outfit.
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Knit Ponchos: Keep the Volume in Check
Ponchos can be fun, but the overly bulky, thickly knit versions are not. They add too much volume and can make you look shorter and heavier. If you’re going to rock a poncho, choose one with drape and gathering that’s moderate and modern—a wrap style in gray cashmere or a statement piece from Alice & Olivia can work wonders.
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Dated Floral Print Blouses: Go for Elevated Prints
Floral prints can be gorgeous—when they’re done right. The problem is with the dated, overly obvious palettes and prints that look like they were designed in a bygone era. Instead, opt for sophisticated patterns with rich, saturated colors from brands like Vineyard Vines or The Kit. A simple button-down or a well-tailored blouse makes all the difference.
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Waterfall Cardigans: A Flimsy Fallacy
Finally, waterfall cardigans in thin, flimsy fabrics are a huge no-no. They add bulk, shorten your legs, and give a sloppy look overall. I recommend ditching them in favor of a classic, substantial knit cardigan or even a sweater-coat that doubles as a casual blazer. The right piece can elevate your entire outfit.
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In Conclusion
I know this was quite a rant, but I had to call out these trends that just aren’t doing any favors—both for our style and our confidence. Just because something is available in stores doesn’t mean it’s in style. By choosing modern, well-crafted pieces, we can build a wardrobe that truly stands the test of time.
If you enjoyed reading my take on these outdated trends, please give this post a like and share it with a friend who might need a little fashion guidance. Let’s keep fighting the good fight against style that’s simply not working.
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