Fifty is an age you should embrace and enjoy. In this period of self-discovery, many women find it difficult to find clothing that not only fits their bodies, but that make them look and feel good. They want to be trendy and fashionable, while still dressing age appropriate. Gone are the days when frumpy floral blouses and A-line skirts were the norm for fifty-plus women.

These days, elegant women's fashion can be brought at a variety of stores that cater for the more mature women. Here you will find classic and elegant women's fashion catering to your lifestyle, budget and figure. 

While the young may think that looking sexy means flaunting your body, you can show off your sensual side by wearing luxurious fabrics like fur, leather, cashmere and silk and rich colours. What you need to remember is that you don't need to compromise on style for comfort. Also, accessories are great for making a bolder impact if you not as daring with your wardrobe. 

Here are a few do's and don't to looking fabulously fashionable at fifty: 

Don'ts 

• Lose or gain too much weight
• Wear baggy and shapeless clothes
• Wear ditsy, girly clothes and fussy prints
• Wear fussy styles or details
• Be scared of black, it looks great at any age
• Expose your upper arms and neck, as these are usually problem areas for older women
• Wear too short skirts
• Overdo the hair and make-up. Too much make-up can be terribly aging
• Think ponytails are only for young girls. A chic ponytail looks smart and youthful
• Wear shawls or capes
• Overdo the glitz and glamour

Do's 

• Think young
• Opt for natural beauty
• Choose solids like khaki, black, grey and white. You can't go wrong with a black and white combination
• Go for bold, classy patterns in black and white
• Choose items that are classic and that can be mixed and matched
• Opt for minimalist chic and functional designs
• Wear skirts if you have good legs. Knee-length will do
• Remember that age is more about how you feel. If you look great, you will feel great too.

This article was written by Gray and Osbourn, and is a guide to women’s designer clothes  from Frank Usher