Many women in their 50s may wonder if they can still pull off wearing skinny jeans. While trends come and go, denim styles like skinny jeans have remained popular for years. The key is choosing the right fit and style for your body type. Here’s a quick look at whether women over 50 can wear skinny jeans and how to pick the perfect pair.
Can women over 50 wear skinny jeans?
Yes, women in their 50s, 60s and beyond can most certainly wear skinny jeans if they choose to. While super tight and low-rise skinnies may not be the most flattering fit for all mature bodies, many 50-something women look amazing in slim cut and stretchy denim. The key is opting for dark washes in premium denim blends that contour your shape without being painfully tight.
What to look for in skinny jeans for women over 50
Here are some tips on how to choose the best skinny jeans after 50:
- Stretch denim with a bit of give to sculpt your shape is ideal. Look for jeans made with 2% spandex or elastane.
- Mid to high-rise is more flattering than low-rise. Look for a 9 to 12 inch rise.
- Dark indigo denim is universally slimming on all body types.
- Avoid distressed details like whiskering, fading and ripped knees.
- Straight skinny legs balance out curvy hips and are easy to style.
Focus on fit
The most important factor in choosing flattering skinny jeans over 50 is fit. Be sure to try on several styles and rises to determine what suits your body best. Here are some fit tips for older women wearing skinny jeans:
- Look for a snug but not skintight fit through the hips and thighs.
- Ensure the jeans don’t gap at the back of the waistband when sitting.
- Select ankle length jeans to balance your proportions.
- Size up for a more comfortable skinny jean – they should never pinch.
Measuring for the right skinny jeans size
To find your ideal size, accurately measure your waist and inseam length:
- Waist – measure around your natural waistline above your belly button.
- Inseam – measure from your crotch down to your ankle bone.
Use these measurements to select the right size. Slim and skinny jeans tend to run small, so consider sizing up in the waist for comfort.
Best fabrics for skinny jeans on mature women
Look for these fabrics when shopping for skinny jeans over 50:
- Stretch denim with lycra – Ideal for retaining shape while allowing movement.
- Soft denim with a bit of drape – Prevents sagging and wrinkling.
- Rigid denim – Holds its structure but can be less comfortable.
- Premium denim blends – Contain modal, rayon, tencel for softness.
Top tips for wearing skinny jeans in your 50s
Follow these simple tips to look stylish in skinny jeans after 50:
- Add some shape with a blazer or fitted jacket on top.
- Balance slim legs with a flowy silk blouse or tunic.
- Try a bootcut or flare jean for a leg lengthening effect.
- Pair skinnies with heels or wedges to elongate your silhouette.
- Cuff or roll ankle length jeans to show off cute shoes.
Styling skinny jeans for a polished 50s look
Keep your look refined and age-appropriate by styling skinny jeans the right way:
- Avoid cropped lengths that can shorten the leg.
- Stick to solid dark washes instead of whiskering or fading.
- Choose straight legs over exaggerated skinny shapes.
- Wear dark slim jeans with blazers or cardigans for the office.
- Add some sparkle with dressy tops, jewelry and accessories.
Best shoes to wear with skinny jeans over 50
Complete your skinny jeans outfit with these shoe styles:
- Ankle boots or booties – try block or stacked heels for comfort and lift.
- Ballet flats – look for tapered pointy toes to elongate legs.
- Low wedge espadrilles or sandals.
- Pointed toe flats.
- Kitten heels or slingbacks.
Should women over 50 avoid skinny jeans?
Most mature women can wear skinny jeans if they select the right rise, fit, fabric and length to flatter their shape. However, some petite, apple and rectangle body types may prefer other styles like:
- Bootcut jeans to balance curvy hips
- Trouser jeans for a tailored slim leg look
- Straight leg jeans for an easy slim silhouette
- Wide leg jeans to accentuate a small waist
In the end, choose denim that is comfortable and makes you feel confident.
Skinny jean outfits for women over 50
Here are some chic head to toe outfit ideas with skinny jeans for women over 50:
Casual daytime look
- Dark wash skinny jeans
- Printed blouse or lightweight sweater
- Ankle boots or ballet flats
- Canvas tote bag
- Statement necklace
Dressy evening look
- Black skinny jeans
- Satin camisole or tank
- Blazer or cropped cardigan
- Strappy heels or wedges
- Leather clutch
- Chandelier earrings
Smart office look
- Ponte knit skinny pants
- Silk blouse
- Blazer
- Loafers or kitten heels
- Structured tote
- Pearl stud earrings
Weekend casual look
- White skinny jeans
- Breezy tunic or top
- Converse or slip on sneakers
- Canvas crossbody bag
- Stackable bracelets
The best skinny jeans for women over 50
Here are 10 recommended skinny jeans styles for mature women:
| Brand | Style |
|---|---|
| NYDJ | Marilyn Stretch Skinny Jeans |
| Joes Jeans | Icon Ankle Skinny Jeans |
| J Brand | Maria High Rise Skinny Jeans |
| DL1961 | Florence Instasculpt Skinny Jeans |
| Everlane | Authentic Stretch Skinny Jeans |
| Liverpool | Sienna Pull-On Skinny Jeans |
| Madewell | Perfect Vintage Skinny Jeans |
| Banana Republic | Sloan Skinny Ankle Jeans |
| Levi’s | 712 Skinny Jeans |
| Talbots | No Gap Skinny Jeans |
Skinny jean outfit ideas for 50 year old woman
Use these sample outfits to inspire your own skinny jeans looks after 50:
With tunics and leggings
- Black skinny jeans
- Long colorful tunic
- Black or nude leggings
- Tall riding boots
With flowy blouses
- Dark denim skinnies
- Silky animal print blouse
- Black blazer
- Pointed toe flats
With oversized sweaters
- Grey skinny jeans
- Oversized cable knit sweater
- Ankle boots
- Scarf
With printed kimonos
- Blue skinny jeans
- Long printed kimono
- Solid camisole
- Ballet flats
With plaid button downs
- Black skinny jeans
- Boyfriend plaid shirt
- Ankle boots
- Crossbody bag
Conclusion
Skinny jeans can definitely still be stylish and flattering for women over 50. The key is choosing dark washes with a bit of stretch in a mid or high rise silhouette. Look for skinny jeans made from soft stretch denim that gently hugs your curves. Complete your outfit with flowy tops, blazers, and heels for a refined yet trendy look. With the right pair of skinnies that fit your mature body type, women in their 50s and beyond can rock this versatile denim style for years to come!