I still remember the day I pulled out my favorite navy and white striped shirt from the back of my closet. At 62, I’d convinced myself that stripes would make me look wider—like wearing horizontal lines was some kind of fashion crime. But after years of avoiding them, I decided to give stripes another chance. What I discovered changed everything about how I approach getting dressed.
The stripe myth that kept me from looking my best
For decades, women have been told that horizontal stripes add width and should be avoided after a certain age. This outdated advice has caused countless women over 60 to miss out on one of fashion’s most versatile and flattering patterns. The truth? It’s not about avoiding stripes—it’s about choosing the right ones and styling them correctly.
Elizabeth Kosich, a certified image stylist, puts it perfectly: “Every woman after 50 should have a classic blue and white striped something—it performs like a neutral, making it easy and effortless to pair with everything.” This simple piece of advice opened my eyes to possibilities I’d been ignoring.
Why vertical stripes became my secret weapon
The first thing I learned was that vertical stripes naturally elongate the body and create a slimming effect. When I wore a vertically striped blouse tucked into my wide-leg trousers, the difference was remarkable. I looked taller, slimmer, and more polished than I had in years.
Val Watham, a scientist studying visual perception, confirms this: “Vertical stripes make people look taller, while horizontal hoops make them look wide—but narrow horizontal stripes are more flattering than wide ones.” This research-backed insight gave me the confidence to experiment beyond just vertical options.
The width and direction that actually matter
Not all horizontal stripes are created equal. I discovered that thin to medium-width stripes work beautifully on most body types, including mine. The key is avoiding those wide, bold stripes that can overwhelm your frame and create unwanted bulk.
When choosing striped pieces, consider these guidelines:
- Thin stripes: Create subtle visual interest without adding perceived width, perfect for tucking into pants or skirts
- Medium stripes: Offer the best balance between visibility and flattery, working well for tops and dresses
- Vertical placement: Elongates the silhouette and draws the eye up and down rather than side to side
- Strategic positioning: Stripes on the center of garments tend to be more slimming than all-over patterns
The classic colors that work every time
My wardrobe transformation started with a simple navy and white Breton top. This timeless combination acts as a neutral, pairing effortlessly with everything from jeans to tailored pants. The price point ranges from $80 to $150 for quality pieces that last for years.
If you’re looking for other flattering options, explore colors that make you look younger to complement your striped pieces beautifully.
Layering techniques that changed my silhouette
The real magic happens when you layer striped pieces strategically. I started pairing my striped tops with structured blazers, which breaks up the pattern and creates a more sophisticated look. A navy blazer over a striped shirt instantly elevates the outfit for both casual and semi-formal occasions.
Tina Adams, a personal stylist, advises: “Horizontal stripes evoke stories of adventure—the key is in the width and placement to avoid adding bulk.” Her approach focuses on using layering to control how stripes interact with your body shape.
Accessories that make stripes shine
One game-changing discovery was adding a bold red patent leather belt to my striped outfits. This simple accessory, costing between $40 and $80, anchors the look and defines the waist without adding bulk. The pop of color modernizes the classic stripe pattern instantly.
When it comes to completing your look, check out these jeans styles that create height to pair with your striped tops.
The fabric choices that matter most
Quality fabric makes an enormous difference in how stripes look and feel. I invested in a cashmere striped rugby sweater for about $150, and it’s become my go-to piece. The soft, breathable material drapes beautifully without clinging or adding unwanted volume.
Lightweight knits and fine silks work particularly well for striped garments because they move with your body rather than against it. These materials also tend to be more comfortable for all-day wear, which matters more as we age.
Real style confidence at any age
My journey with stripes taught me that fashion rules are meant to be questioned, not blindly followed. Women over 60 deserve to wear what makes them feel confident and beautiful, whether that’s stripes, bold colors, or classic neutrals.
For more inspiration on age-appropriate styling, explore these hairstyles women over 60 love or discover haircuts that boost confidence.
What will you try first with stripes?
The beauty of rediscovering stripes at 60 isn’t just about looking better in photos or receiving compliments—it’s about reclaiming a pattern that brings joy and versatility to your wardrobe. Whether you start with a classic navy and white top or experiment with vertical striped wide-leg pants, the key is choosing pieces that make you feel like yourself, only more confident. If you’ve been avoiding denim altogether, you might find inspiration in this story about returning to straight-leg jeans and discovering newfound confidence.