Looking and presenting oneself in a certain way holds significant importance, regardless of one’s age. As we age, we may become less certain about our appearance and opt for comfortable clothing rather than fashionable ones. Nevertheless, being above the age of 50 should not stop one from showcasing their style and looking amazing. Some tips on styling can make a considerable difference in one’s appearance. Here are some style guidelines for women who are over 50 years old and require some direction in their fashion choices.
Embrace Your Curves
Being over 50 doesn’t imply that you have to wear loose-fitting clothes to conceal your body. You should accept your natural curves and proudly showcase your stunning figure.
Try wearing snug-fitting blouses and jeans that flatter your figure. This will highlight your body’s shape and create a vibrant and youthful appearance that will catch everyone’s attention!
Pay Attention to Your Legs
If you are a woman over 50, there is no need for you to always wear loose trousers to cover up your legs. While they could work well with certain outfits, it is not necessary to rely on them as your default bottom wear.
One way to make your legs appear longer is by wearing skinny jeans. Additionally, you can opt for wide-legged trousers which are fashionable and also showcase your leg length. By varying your clothing choices, you can highlight your legs and enhance your overall look.
Show Off Your Shoulders
The shoulders play a crucial role in shaping the body’s appearance. Wearing a well-fitting top that accentuates the shoulders can make one appear more youthful, stylish, and slender.
In fashion, it is important to highlight and boost your physical features. Your shoulders can be one of those attractive features! Therefore, avoid wearing tops with shoulder pads and instead, choose ones that flaunt or accentuate them.
Change Up Your Footwear
Most of us have those preferred stilettos or slippers that we use repeatedly, and if they appear to be deteriorating, we only acquire a comparable pair.
Varying your choice of shoes from time to time can have a favorable effect on your appearance. Rather than always wearing stilettos, consider purchasing some wedges, or choose stylish boots to pair with your jeans instead of your usual slippers.
Look for Quality Clothing
The more stylish clothes you wear, the more sophisticated your appearance becomes. As you age, you gain the self-assurance to wear the same clothes repeatedly without feeling the pressure to keep pace with the constantly changing trends of fast fashion.
As you age, prioritizing quality over quantity will enhance both your physical appearance and well-being. Rather than purchasing three ordinary shirts, investing in a luxurious silk shirt can make you look and feel exceptional every time you wear it.
Stock Up on Staples
It’s crucial to have specific clothing essentials in your wardrobe for stylish and refined looks. These items can be used on both good and bad weather days.
The classic pieces of clothing that are always in style consist of a cream-colored shirt, a white blazer, a black turtleneck, and similar items. It doesn’t require much work to appear polished, just a handful of reliable pieces and a considerable amount of self-assurance.
Minimalistic Jewelry Is Helpful
While big and bulky jewelry may appear stylish, it can have the opposite effect. As you age, it becomes increasingly important to prioritize fashion over anything else.
Minimalist jewelry can enhance your outfit by providing a touch of sparkle while still maintaining a subtle appearance. A refined and uncomplicated necklace or a delicate bracelet can introduce an element of elegance to your attire. As you get older, you may have additional financial resources, so it’s a good idea to invest in lovely jewelry pieces.
Get a Statement Bag
While having numerous bags may be enjoyable, incorporating one statement bag can transform a simple outfit into a stunning one. The presence of a statement bag enhances self-assurance and also empowers your overall look.
Fortunately, there are ample choices of designer tote bags available now. You have a wide range of options in terms of size and patterns to choose from. Having a tote bag from a reputable brand in your collection can make a significant difference in your wardrobe.
Embrace the Colors
As you age, you tend to prefer neutral colors like black and white over bold and bright hues. Although these safer options may be suitable for you, isn’t it okay to add a touch of color now and then?
In the 2017 Emmys, Jane Fonda looked stunning in a vibrant pink Brandon Maxwell gown that highlighted her youthful and fabulous appearance. You too can feel like a celebrity by incorporating a pop of color into your outfit.
Get a White Button Down
Further elaborating on the concept of incorporating essential pieces in your wardrobe, I’d like to discuss the timeless and stylish classic white button-down. This versatile article of clothing is a perfect addition to your collection, and can effortlessly transition from a sporty, laid-back look to a more sophisticated and chic ensemble.
Your attire is a significant factor in determining how you can wear a plain white shirt throughout the day. For instance, you can accompany it with uncomplicated jeans and a hat for running errands in the daytime, while for your night out in town, switch to swanky wide-legged trousers and delicate jewelry.
French Manicure It
It’s important to pay attention to every aspect of your appearance when you want to create a good impression, not only the clothes and accessories. Age doesn’t make those things less important.
Maintaining good manicures and keeping your nails well-groomed is an indication that you are well put-together and take care of yourself. People will appreciate the effort you put into your nails, regardless of your age or level of flashiness, especially when sporting French tips.
Mind Your Knees in Your Skirts
It can be difficult to pull off midi skirts when you’re over 50 as it can often miss the mark. Generally, wearing shorter skirts can appear as if you’re striving to regain your youth, so it’s important to be mindful of your age when selecting your clothing.
Sometimes, despite having an attractive and tall body, it may be wiser to choose a more refined and sophisticated appearance. By selecting longer skirts that fall beneath your knees, you can achieve a youthful radiance while still maintaining your adult demeanor.
A Good Watch Can Tell More Than Time
As per the popular saying, a classic watch can have a significant impact on an individual’s appearance. A timepiece is a well-known and timeless accessory that maintains its value despite variations in fashion trends.
Having a high-quality watch is crucial when it comes to enhancing the overall look of your extensive wardrobe. Even if you’re unable to purchase an antique Cartier, there are still options available that convey elegance and refinement.
Chose What Area to Highlight
As you age, you may become more aware of certain parts of your body that have caused you to feel self-conscious throughout your life.
It can be very beneficial to understand which parts of your body you want to accentuate and which ones you would like to conceal. For instance, if you feel like you have shorter legs, try to draw attention to your shoulders instead. By compensating wisely, you can achieve the desired outcome.
Shapewear Is Shaping
Irrespective of your age, seeking external assistance can help you look your best. Wearing appropriate shapewear is highly beneficial in achieving a smooth appearance.
If you’re wearing tight-fitting clothes, shapewear can make a significant difference in enhancing the appearance of your outfit. Otherwise, visible lines can be a major problem for your overall look.
Take Risks
Although being cautious and secure may seem like the smart thing to do, it isn’t always the best option. Sometimes, your years of experience and self-assurance can give you the liberty to be a little adventurous.
Bold prints here and there, color, and a new style of pants are all options you can try. Refrain from letting anybody tell you that you can’t experiment — taking risks is part and parcel of looking glam and finding a new favorite.
Silk Scarves Add Class
A Silken scarf in your wardrobe is a great way to amp up the maturity and sophistication of your outfit. After all, you must have seen all the country club ladies wearing a scarf over their shirts for some added color!
You can tie these around your neck or drape them over your shoulders. The multi-purpose accessory is a fun addition and easy to play around with.
Play Mix and Match
Outfits in your wardrobe mostly follow a similar routine. You know you wear a T-shirt with shorts, tops with jeans, and a dress with a scarf. But it can be good to change it up once in a while.
Pair that shirt with a pleated maxi skirt and some boots for a playful look. You can make a style statement at any age, and playing mix and match is a must for some new inspiration.
“Bigger — Better?” Not for Hair
Many older women love to puff up their hair in giant towers and walk around with a little mound on their top. It might have been all the rage back in the day, but today the fashion trend is long gone.
Now, the bob or the pixie cut is super in fashion for mature ladies. Easy to maintain, sophisticated and chic. It’s the era of short hair, and everybody loves it.
Textures Are Your Friend
Sometimes you want to help guide the attention of the person looking at you away from certain parts and towards a particular one. The stomach and the arms are two of the more popular body parts many of us wish to camouflage.
Opting for textured clothing can help you cover it up beautifully. Scrunched up, pleated, ruffled, or draping are all multiple ways you can manipulate the looker’s vision to show your best self.
Ditch the Oversize Lifestyle
We all know that young women are all about the oversized lifestyle. Extra baggy jeans, shirts a little big, hoodies taken from their boyfriends — it’s all about relaxed and casual.
But, growing older also means ditching the two sizes too big shirts. Maybe you can wear it to a theme party, but otherwise, it’s a big no-no for your everyday style.
Define Your Waist
Another tip talks about the importance of showing off your curve and leaving the sanctuary of your baggy T-shirts. To somebody looking at you, your missing waistline will only make you appear baggy and unkempt.
With maturity and confidence, there also comes a need to define your waistline in the clothes you wear. It’s flattering to your figure, and you’ll appear gorgeous.
Have a Staple Black High Heel
Wearing a skirt or pants? Are your bottoms skinny or wide-legged? Are you opting for blue or black denim? Regardless of the answer to these questions, you can always pair them with a good pair of black heels.
A pair of black stilettos are a must-have in your wardrobe. They’re classy, voguish, and look perfectly good whether you’re 20 or 50.
Embrace the Prints
Older women can feel the need to hide behind plain clothes. Even when it comes to prints, they usually stick to minimalistic or boring prints that are almost invisible to the eye.
Wearing prints not only makes you stand out but also shows off your confidence. Embrace your inner fiery goddess, and wear the prints with panache.
Hair Care Is a Must
If you’ve seen Fleabag, then you know that hair is everything. It’s the difference between a good day and a bad day; it can provide you with a boost of confidence and power.
Taking good care of your hair is essential, no matter your age. Go for a hair spa occasionally, and be regular with your oiling and shampoo. Protect your hair from dirt and heat. After all, hair is everything.
Pack a Peplum
This is one of the styles that can benefit an older woman’s wardrobe. Peplums are a favorite in the fashion world and have been a regular part of it for many years.
With a fitted, waist-defining bodice, peplums are an excellent option for women. You can easily switch from casual to dressy in a matter of moments when it comes to peplums. Pair them with some fitted pants and some high heels!
Every Detail Matters
When dressing up for the day (or the night), keep an eye on the details. It’s not just a tip if you’re over 50, but everybody who wants to make a good impression should keep this in mind.
Wearing the right colors, ensuring that your clothes are clean and pressed, and adding touches like jewelry and accessories — these details can make a wealth of a difference and can change your final look completely.
Choose the Correct Lip Color
Remember when matching your lipsticks and your top color was a thing? Yes, even today, there needs to be harmony between your clothing and lip color, but there’s no need to match them exactly.
A purple top only sometimes calls for purple lipstick! If you need help deciding what shade to apply, go for neutrals or a color a few shades lighter! Many YouTube channels and influencers can teach you to pick the best shade if you’re ever in doubt about how to match your lipstick.
Have Fun With Your Pantsuit
If you’re one of those ladies who loves a good pantsuit, well, you can always take it one step further and make it even better. Ditch those boring color pant suits that bring to mind office wear.
Instead, go for printed material that will wow everybody who crosses your path. Checkered patterns or one with strips is a great idea if you’re looking to amp up your daily outfit.
Be Careful With Makeup
Getting older means having older skin, of course. Your skin already has a lot of wear and tear from the dirt, sun, and years of makeup use. The result? Some itty-bitty wrinkles and lines!
Don’t try to cover everything up with foundations and concealers. The more you apply, the more noticable it becomes! Lighter formulas and some powders can work wonders for your face!
Opt for Skin Tone Enhancing Colors
Knowing what color your skin tone responds best to can change the game for you entirely! Some skin tones pop with pinks, while other skin tones love some black!
With some experimentation and trial and error, you can figure out whether you’re a cool summer or a deep winter! The right color palette can make your skin pop and make you look and feel beautiful.
Find the Perfect Pair of Jeans
We all buy multiple pieces of denim over our lifetime, but finding the perfect pair can feel like the solution to all our wardrobe problems. Whether they’re straight-cut or mom jeans, you’ll “know it when you see it” that they’re your ideal jeans!
The perfect jeans will transform everything you wear and elevate all your outfits. Whether you’re wearing a t-shirt or a fancy top, this pair of denim will make your outfit.
Graphic Tees Add Some Fun
Older women like to wear more and more plain tees! This is usually because they prefer to avoid turning to graphic tees as they did in their younger days!
Truthfully, graphic tees are just a way to add some youthfulness to your outfit! Pair it with chic jeans and a pair of super cool sneakers for the final look. You can even layer it with a blazer for added flair.
Invest in a Statement Piece of Jewelry
When you’re younger, having a different accessory for every outfit can be a driving need. You end up buying dozens and dozens of pieces of jewelry, like earrings, bracelets, and rings, that cost next to nothing and last almost the same amount!
However, when you’re over 50, you should know the right way to pick your jewelry. A unique chunky necklace or a pair of bright earrings can help you stand out when you go to formal gatherings.
Belt Your Waist
Whether wearing denim or a sheath dress, a belt can be a great way to level up a look. It helps defines your waist a little better and helps draw the eye to the definition.
Not to mention, for dresses, a good belt can help hide any belly that might be visible! You can always invest in one good designer belt and wear it for royalty points from your friends.
Edit Your Wardrobe Every Couple of Years
Another tip that isn’t just for the oldies but for people of all ages and gender — go through your wardrobe regularly for that much-needed purge.
Everything you haven’t worn in years, looks like it might be more your daughter’s style, or just doesn’t fit anymore needs to leave the sanctity of your wardrobe. This way, you know your preferences and even get space to wear new clothes.
Don’t Be Afraid of Trends
Just because you’ve lived half a decade on the planet doesn’t mean you can’t be excited about new things! Even something as fleeting as fashion trends.
Fashion trends are a great way to keep up with the world and figure out what suits you and what doesn’t. Remember the time when co-ord sets had a moment? Now they’re a favorite of many people, including women over 50.
Always Stock a Classic Black Dress
Audrey Hepburn and Chanel, these two powerhouses, have established the importance of having a classic black dress in the wardrobe, and boy, has it paid off for so many.
As you age, choose a knee-length or mid-calf black dress as a staple instead of the classic LBD. You can accessorize the black dress in different ways for every occasion.
Stock Up on Some Tank Tops
Tank Tops have no age limit. Just like jeans, they’re a wardrobe staple from when you’re a teen into your adulthood! They can work with everything — over shorts, jeans, skirts, under cardigans, sweaters, and even tops!
They’re the perfect summertime clothing item, but they also work throughout the year. Find a tank top fit that you like and stock up on some colors to have some fun alternatives.
Choose Your Shorts Wisely
Yes, we all love wearing shorts and showing off our legs when we’re young but as you grow older, choose bottoms! You can’t still strut around in hot pants while giving people peeks at your cheeks!
Instead, opt for shorts that are comfortable and a little airy! Denim shorts are also a great option as long as they’re a decent length. Bermuda shorts and linen shorts are two of the best shorts for you to wear.
Too Much Logo
Some people love to flaunt all the big brands they have in their wardrobe, and going logo-heavy is a part of their style quotient. But these days, it’s all about “the less, the better,” even when it comes to big-name brands.
Having a subtlety about the brands you wear shows maturity and confidence. Let your confidence and style do the talking instead of the big bucks you might have shelled out for your branded belt.
Sleeve it Out
Many older women are conscious about their arms. This problem occurs as the skin around the area starts sagging. A good sleeve can work wonders if you’re one of the women looking for ways to cover your problem arms.
Long, 3/4 sleeves are an optimum choice, as well as comprehensive or bell sleeves. If you’re looking for something feminine and delicate, you can opt for a lace sleeve.
Buy Some Good Jumpsuits
If you’re bored of the same old shirt/jeans or dress combinations, you can always wear trendy and fabulous jumpsuits! These are a one-in-all outfit — chic, classic, and a little edgy!
You can find a jumpsuit for all occasions, from a black tie to a lunch out with the ladies! You can even pair up your jumpsuit with a jacket for some added glamor.
Layer it Up
If you’re uncomfortable about your body — be it the shape, the size, or anything in between, there is a surefire way to look glamorous and give yourself a break from the anxiety! Just layer it up!
Layers help add mystery to your body while giving a fashionable feel. A long jacket or a cardigan, a black leather jacket, or some trench coats are all a way to make you look good without wearing clothes that are too tight.
Whatever You Wear, Do it With Confidence
Whether you’re 20 or 50, confidence is the one thing in your arsenal that can change your outlook and outfit. A confident woman is second to none and holds the power to arrest the attention of everybody the moment she walks into a room.
Therefore, it doesn’t matter if you’re wearing a thrift store dress or carrying a designer bag, whether in shorts or a black dress; as long as confidence is there, you know you’re going to kill it.
Fashion is a variable concept that tends to change from season to season and year to year. However, these moms and their senior daughters were here to prove that some outfits never go out of style.
Bring it Back from the Nineties
Traditionally, prom dresses resemble long gowns. But this mother and daughter duo taught us that you can rock a short dress to prom and still look picture-perfect. Another all-black classic, this tea-length dress with a flared silhouette worked just as well at this daughter’s 2016 prom as it did for her mom back in 1991.
Mesh, Beads, and More
When this teen wore her mother’s old dress to prom, she did so with a joke. She posted these two pictures with the caption, “1989 is like, super in right now.” Her mother responded, “I can hardly find words. Yes, this vintage dress came from my closet – right out of 1989, my senior prom!” As gorgeous as this dress is, it’s no surprise that it still worked so well years later. The mesh fabric neckline and the beading are particularly beautiful.
Peachy Keen
This teen found a gem as her mother shared on social media where she stated, “Look what we found at my mom’s!” It was a great find, indeed! Instead of opting for a bright prom dress, these ladies went more subtle with a neutral peach that brings a pop of color without being too harsh. Even better, after 26 years packed away, they pulled the dress and shoes out only to realize they were the perfect size for this generation’s prom-goer.
A Red Statement
This teen posted her prom look with the caption, “Found my prom dress in my mom’s closet. I wore the same dress my mom wore for her prom 2015 | 1990.” The dress is definitely a statement thanks to its eye-catching red color. Plus, the neckline really draws the eye thanks to the beadwork on the chest. While her mother’s accessories complement the dress well, we have to appreciate the earrings that this daughter wore to match the beading.
Blue Sequin Dream
This mother-daughter pairing went for a bright color and some beautiful tailoring to catch the attention of everyone at their proms. Not only do both of these women look stunning in this blue, sequined gown but it’s made all the better by the details. For instance, the beading on the neckline is stunning enough to capture the attention of anyone with an eye for fashion. Plus, they both add their own flair with their taste in makeup to match the gown.
Beaded and Beautiful
When Aiden Whittemore was getting ready for prom, she posted this picture of her date alongside a picture of her mom in the same dress. Captioned, “Me (2017) in my mom’s junior prom dress (1996),” we have to appreciate these ladies’ sense of style. They opted for a more bold look for their prom appearances but instead of choosing a flashy color, they drew eyes with beadwork that reflected the light gorgeously. We also have to admire what great condition the dress is in too!
All in the Alterations
This teen wore her mom’s old prom dress to her own prom and posted the results with the caption, “Saved money on prom by going vintage – I wore my momma’s prom dress!” We have to say, the results are stunning. She also showed us that there’s more to wearing a vintage dress than just putting the dress on. With a little tailoring and a few alterations, she brought this dress into the modern era without making it unrecognizable.
A Bit of ’70s Flair
The 1970s is one of those iconic eras that we still love to harken back to. From the music to the fashion, there’s a lot that we’ll still borrow from. While the suit that her mom’s prom date wore might raise a few eyebrows today, this teen rocked her mom’s prom dress to her own prom like it was brand new. She posted pictures on social media saying, “Since I was wearing my mom’s senior prom dress from the ‘70s, we had to recreate this gem.”
A New Tradition
When this teen shared her prom photos alongside her mom’s, she captioned it, “I think we just started a tradition…” We have to say, it seems like a great tradition to start! This simple black dress is made all the more gorgeous by the details. With embroidered details and a fabric layer that catches the light just right, both mother and daughter looked great for prom. This daughter’s statement piece jewelry also makes the look work well.
A Red Silhouette
This red dress with a slender silhouette is the type of dress that never goes out of style. This mother and daughter rocked the same dress years apart and it withstood the test of time well. This is also another case where the design of the dress is timeless as well as stunning on the people wearing it. For instance, the plunging neckline and the slit up the skirt are two details that have stuck around for ages for a reason.
Grandma’s in it Too!
This set of photos is particularly impressive because you get the chance to see this gown through multiple generations. While the silhouette has slimmed down, you can still tell that this is the same dress. Moving from the left to right, you can see grandma in the first picture followed by her daughter and two granddaughters all in the same gown. This ball gown was first worn in 1962 but it still looks stunning in the most recent photo in 2013.
Shaking it Up
These two ladies rocked the same prom dresses too. Mom first wore this collared gown back in 1996 for her prom while the daughter brought it back for her prom in 2016. The collar on this dress, alongside the lacework, is really what makes it pop. However, the most interesting thing in the side-by-side is how they made the look their own each time. While the mom opted for a neutral look, her daughter livened it up with neon hair and plenty of accessories.
Saving it for This Day
This hand-me-down dress was just waiting for the day it could come off the rack again. As it would seem, it was an effort that was well worth the wait. This teen posted her prom dress with the caption, “My mom had been saving her old prom dress for all these years just so her future daughter could try it on.” It took some pretty heavy planning ahead but the end result is gorgeous and both mother and daughter look fantastic.
Adding Length
When this teen posted her passed-down prom dress with the caption, “My mom going to her senior prom 1987 vs. me going to my senior prom 2017 (same dress just a few changes made,” we were blown away. Seeing an altered dress isn’t out of the ordinary but we are used to seeing older dresses shortened to make them look more modern. Interestingly, this teen chose to add length to the dress, making it look stunning and creative.
Little Black Dress
There are certain styles that always stay in popularity. Back in 2015, this teenager nailed an iconic style with a Tweet that read, “Wore my mama’s dress to prom.” One of the reasons that this dress works so well years later is that it’s a flattering, sleek outline with features such as a slit up the skirt that is still used in today’s fashion. However, it’s helped along by the fact that it offers a pop of color with the golden straps.
A Classic Look
This dress lasted through two generations for good reason – it’s a gorgeous gown that anyone would be able to appreciate. The simple design is absolutely timeless and classic. The mother posted the picture of herself and her daughter wearing the same dress at their separate proms with the comment, “My daughter’s prom was this past weekend and she wore my prom dress from 20 years ago as well – black dresses are never out of style.”
Be Bold
We wonder how this mom felt about her daughter’s re-working of her prom dress from 1986. After all, she didn’t wear it to a traditional prom but her school’s tacky prom. Tacky proms are a concept that turns traditional proms on their head. They mimic a prom but students are encouraged to dress tacky, as the name suggests. This teen used the chance to throwback to decades past by pulling out her mother’s boldly patterned dress for the night.
A Vintage Masterpiece
This generational set of images is stunning in a variety of ways. It was posted with the caption, “Mom and I shared several dresses, 24 years apart.” While the images and caption don’t mention a date, we can estimate that the mother in this set of photos went to prom in the 1950s. After all, just take a look at those gloves – they were made popular in the 1950s alongside a very ’50s-esque hairstyle. However, the dress still looked in-style years later!
Stunning Sequins
There are certain bits of fashion that have always served as a statement piece. For instance, this dress that’s absolutely covered in black sequins for a glittering finish. This mom posted these two side-by-side photos with the explanation, “Me at prom on the left in 1990. My daughter in my dress going to her prom in 2014.” Both of these women rocked their bold look at prom well and left us stunned with the results.
Mom’s Dress, Dad’s Picture
It seems like this teen not only inherited her mom’s prom dress in this photoset but a familiar pose with her dad as well. It makes for a touching family photo album. The dress itself is bold and eye-catching as well. While her mom, Amy, wore it in 2003, this teen, Tori, wore the dress again at her 2016 prom. It’s a bright blue and between the patterning and material, it almost looks as though it glitters under the light.
A Pop of White
Sometimes, a spot of contrast is exactly what it needs to stand out. For this dark red gown, the answer was white lace appliques that really escalate the style of the dress. The mother in this duo posted the pictures saying, “1993 that’s me on the left and 23 years later my daughter on the right did the same thing for her prom 2017. I’m happy she likes my style. This is the second time she got to wear my dresses from high school…Moms rock.”
From Wedding to Prom
This image is particularly touching because this teen opted for her mom’s vintage dress but it wasn’t a prom dress at all! Instead, this teen wore her mom’s wedding dress to her prom. It might be a little shocking to see a long red dress used for a wedding rather than a white one but it wasn’t always this shocking. Apparently, wedding dresses weren’t popularly white until 1840 which Queen Victoria made it popular. Before that, red was a common choice.
A Little Bit of Lace
There’s no wonder that this prom dress looks so good later on – the style is timeless! Not only does it prescribe to the black gown standard of formal attire but it has beautiful details to boot. This mom posted these pictures with the caption, “Who knew my only daughter would wear MY prom dress 22 years later! She looked absolutely beautiful!” We have to say, the dress is gorgeous and both women wear it well. The lacing around the neckline makes a particularly great statement.
Homemade With Love
When this mom shared these two photos, she stated, “Prom 1980-something, prom 2016.” Even sweeter, she mentioned that the dress was even a little more sentimental than it looks at first glance. The dress wasn’t originally purchased for a prom either but rather made. Not only did this teen get a chance to wear a gown her mother wore to her own prom, but it’s a dress that her grandmother made as well! Plus, how lucky are they that the dress fits through the generations?
Burgundy Beauty
While this mother didn’t quite get the chance to see her daughter wear her dress to her own prom, she did get the chance to see her in the dress. “She didn’t wear it to prom but I at least got her to try it on and stand in the same spot the morning of her prom day at my parents’ house…20 years later.” Honestly, it’s impressive not only that they both look great but that they managed to get the same picture as well!
White on White
This teen shows us that not every timeless dress has to feature a darker color scheme. Instead, this mother-daughter pair decided to both rock a white floor-length gown to their proms. The side-by-side pictures were posted with the caption, “I think it’s the most beautiful, but I’m a little biased toward my own family…circa 1987 and 2017.” We particularly love the fact that while the gown stayed the same and these two ladies’ dates wore matching roses, they shook up the tux colors.
Pretty in Pink
This pink dress is a fun, bright choice for prom and this mother and daughter shared their preference for their bubbly formal dresses through the generations. “Some may recognize the dress Roxanne wore to prom. I wore the dress in 1988 to my senior military ball. I am sure we have a few pictures at my mom’s of me in the dress but this is the one I have. We had no alterations to the dress,” this mother posted. How convenient!
Glamorous in Green
We actually got to see this look thanks to a third party. The picture was posted with the caption, “My little sister decided to wear my mom’s prom dress for her prom this year and it’s making me so emotional.” Black and green aren’t used together too often for prom dresses but after seeing this, we think it should definitely be a bigger trend! The daughter even made a bold, vintage choice when she added elbow-length opera gloves to the prom – a gamble that paid off!
Keep it Classic
When this young woman was getting ready for her prom, she pulled her mom’s old prom dress out and struck gold. This stunning gown takes confidence and pretty good taste to pull off. The dress itself is already impressively patterned, drawing the eye more than a simple black dress would on its own. In addition, the abdomen cutout is an interesting touch that makes this dress memorable. Plus, the additional fabric around the abdomen adds to how dynamic the design is.
Proud Mama
This proud mama posted these two pictures of herself and her daughter wearing the same prom dress, 17 years apart captioned, “Who wore it better??? Love that my baby is wearing my 17-year-old dress.” We have to say, choosing who did wear this dress better is pretty close to impossible since both women pulled it off so well. They also breathed their own style into this dress at each prom. While mom rocked long locks, the daughter opted for an elegant updo.
Patterned for Prom
This mother and daughter took the chance at their proms to go above and beyond to show off their love for the timeless pattern of polka dots. Her mom posted the picture with the description, “Estee went to prom tonight wearing my senior prom dress from 1991! Beautiful girls, awesome dress!” We also appreciate that this polka dot dress uses a sash to show off a different dotted pattern and the asymmetrical skirt length.
Made for Generations
Once again, this teen is here to show us that some styles are timeless when she wore her mom’s prom dress to her own prom a generation later. Again, this dress is timeless, in part, thanks to its color and cut. The body of the dress is black and its classy collar gives it a bit of color and pop. Even though this teen didn’t tailor her dress too much to bring this vintage choice into the modern era, it withstands the test of time.
Red as a Rose
This time, it was a proud dad that posted about his wife and daughter on social media. He captioned it, “My wife and I 1997 prom, our daughter’s 2017 prom same dress!” Both photos show this dress in mint condition despite them being taken 20 years apart. Plus, the dress itself is absolutely gorgeous from the color of the gown to the cut and even the plunging neckline that is finished off with a small gem to complete the look.
Simple Elegance
This simple black dress working through the generations is another example of how a dress can last through generations and still look perfect in the prom pictures. This black dress is ankle-length with a plunging neckline that makes it absolutely stunning. However, it’s made all the more impressive by the intricate beading on the dress. We can see it a little better in the 1995 picture of the mother wearing the dress but the beading also catches the light.
What a Beautiful Gown
This mother and daughter pair wore the same dress years apart and both of them look like they’re rocking a brand new look. Posted with, “Share as my daughter wore mine just this past Sat[urday]! My prom 1996, hers 2017,” it really shows that a good dress never goes out of style. There are a few alterations between the photos such as a lengthened skirt slit but both women made it their own!
A Pop of Red
Let’s be real here — this is one stylish mother-daughter duo. The mother (on the left) wore this red, sequin number to her senior prom in 1994. Still, she knew that it was too nice a dress to give away or get rid of as the years passed. And it’s a good thing she felt that way! 22 years later, in 2016, her daughter (on the right) revived the same dress and looked just as stunning as mama bear did decades before.
You’ve Got a Peach of My Heart
So many things popped out at us as we were looking at this split of a mother and daughter wearing the same dress years apart. Not only does this mother-daughter duo look extremely alike but both of their dates have eerily similar features as well. Then again, you know what they say — “history repeats itself.” In any case, we can understand why this daughter decided to dust this little number off to wear to her prom. After all, this peach gown really is timeless!
Same Size!
How fantastic is this strapless tulle gown?! It’s so simple yet so elegant, and those royal blue accents make the dress absolutely pop! On the left is a mother wearing the gown to prom in 1988. On the right, her daughter is wearing the same exact dress to her senior prom in 2016! The best part? She had to make zero alterations to the dress because she and her mom are the same exact size! Some things really just work out perfectly, don’t they?
Lady in Red
Despite the fact that the left picture is a tad bit blurry — ya know, being that it was 1989 and everything — it’s clear where the daughter (on the right) gets her radiant smile from. In fact, it looks like this gal got most of her features from that beautiful mother of hers. And considering that they look so much alike, why shouldn’t they wear the same dress 25 years apart? After all, it’s a classic number whether it’s 1989 or 2014!
Peplum Is Still In
There’s no denying that this royal blue, peplum dress was the ultimate style in the ’80s. Even with that being said, though, it’s clear that this little number hasn’t gone out of style. After all, this daughter (on the right) recreated her mother’s senior prom look with a modern touch. Although she decided to ditch both the black hand gloves and stockings that her mother once wore, this gal rocked this ensemble and undoubtedly made her mother very proud.
Revamped and Worn Again
How adorable is this mommy-daughter duo? While this may not entirely look like the same dress, it turns out that it is, just years apart! In order to give it a modern feel, the daughter (on the right) revamped and made alterations to the very gown that her mother wore to her own senior prom! It’s clear that this dress — which is now just a tad less puffy and slightly shorter — holds a lot of sentiment for these two beautiful ladies.
A Timeless Piece
From this photo, it’s pretty clear that some looks just never go out of style. Although this mother and daughter wore the same dress 22 years apart, there’s no denying that this dress works whether it’s 1995 or 2017. After all, they both look absolutely stunning. While mama bear went for a half-up half-down hairstyle, her daughter decided to wear her hair completely down with a bedazzled headband — and, of course, a touch of red dye to match the dress!
Puffy Sleeves No More
If we’re being honest here, the photo on the left totally screams the ’90s. And while the puffy sleeves are no longer exactly “in,” we’re sure glad that this mother decided to hold onto her prom dress. Why? Well, years later, her daughter ended up finding it hidden in the back of the closet. After making some minor changes to the gown to fit her own style, she wore it to her own senior prom and looked undeniably radiant!
Red Velvet
Call us crazy but the daughter (on the right) is a spitting image of her mother (on the left), especially when she’s wearing that dress! Speaking of this form-fitting gown — we think we just fell in love. After all, it’s a deep red velvet ensemble with a mesh accent around the waist and a slit going up the thigh. Now, that’s what we call style! It’s clear that these ladies think so too, judging from their beautifully confident smiles!
Repurposed & Loving It
Why spend money on a new dress when you can just shop in your mother’s closet? Well, that’s exactly what this gal did. Years after mommy dearest wore her prom dress in 1987, her daughter found it sitting up in the closet collecting dust. She thought that this would be the perfect opportunity to wear something completely different than everyone else so she repurposed the puffy-sleeved ’80s gown to give it a much more contemporary feel. Between the “new” dress and those awesome sneakers, we can only assume that this gal turned heads at her own prom.
Forest Green
It’s not every day that you find a gown as stunning as this one. With that being said, it makes sense as to why this mother (on the left) held onto it years after her own prom. While simple, there’s no denying that this dress screams elegance — with its forest green color, v-neckline, and thigh-high split. Despite the fact that it was worn almost two decades apart, mother in 1998 and daughter in 2017, we really don’t see this going out of style anytime soon.
How Precious!
We hate to say it but it certainly looks like mama bear (on the left) was much happier wearing this gown to her senior prom in 1999 than her daughter is now. Between its color and cut, we can definitely say that this is a special gown. And both of these ladies are absolutely rocking it, even if the daughter doesn’t think she is. In any case, we’re glad that mommy dearest here decided to hold onto the dress. Without her, we wouldn’t have this precious side-by-side photo!
Point-Toed Heels to Peep-Toed Pumps
This mother-daughter duo are absolute visions in this black satin gown! If it weren’t for the quality of the photo on the left to give it away, we’d say that this is the same gal. After all, the daughter (on the right) made no alterations whatsoever to the dress as she and her mother are luckily the same sizes! In fact, the only things she did differently for her junior prom was were her hair down rather than in an updo, and swapped out the pointy-toed heels for peep-toed pumps!
Eye-Catching
Okay, we know that said we fell in love with another dress, but we think that we may have actually found the one! In all honesty, this dress is unlike anything we’ve ever seen. Not only is it unique but it’s also completely eye-catching — we can’t stop looking at it! It’s no wonder why this mom decided to keep the dress even after attending her junior prom in 1990. It’s as if she knew that years later in 2014, she’d have a daughter that would want to wear the exact same dress to her own prom!
Time & Time Again
Ugh, is this dress not gorgeous or what?! It makes no difference that this mama wore the gown to her senior prom in 1996 and that her daughter wore it 21 years later in 2017. Despite the two decades, this dress still hasn’t gone out of style — and we honestly don’t think it will, for that matter. With its beautiful neckline and eye-catching accents, not to mention that thigh-high split, it’s hard for us to believe that this gown can’t be worn time and time again. After all, this mother-daughter duo just happens to be proving our point…
A Change of Accessories
Let’s be real, here — this blue sequin gown looks amazing on both ladies. While it’s pretty obvious that these photos were taken years apart from each other, there’s no denying that this spaghetti strap dress works no matter what year it is. How amazing is it that just a simple change of accessories can completely transform a dress to fit the trends of that time period? While mommy dearest went with a decked out shawl to cover up her shoulders, her daughter went for a bare-shoulder look…
Black Satin
Everyone knows that the color black is an absolute classic and undeniably timeless. That could be the reason why this mama bear decided to hold onto her satin dress even after her prom night as she knew that this piece could be worn again — and that it was. This time, though, it was worn by her beautiful daughter. While this mom completed her whole look with an updo hairstyle, though, her daughter decided to go with loose curls for a more laid-back appearance.
That’s How We Do it in Texas
Here we have a stunning mother-daughter duo from Texas. According to Twitter user @KrystinMullins7, she and her mother wore the same exact dress — 20 years apart — to their prom at Crowley High School. The best part about all of this? Krystin’s younger sister carried on the tradition by wearing the same gown to her prom just a few short years later! And who can blame these ladies? Their mother chose a stunning dress so, it makes sense as to why they wanted to keep this ritual alive!
A Modern Touch to a Classic Look
As soon as we saw this side-by-side comparison of a mother and a daughter in the same dress just years apart, we couldn’t help but let out a sigh of amazement. There’s no denying that they both look absolutely stunning. What’s more, though, is the fact that these ladies gave the gown a completely different look with only a few small details. Rather than wearing white point-toed heels and carrying around a bouquet of flowers with blue accents, this daughter swapped those accessories for open-toed pumps and a red clutch.
The Perfect Combination of Baby Blue & Lavender
Aren’t these two women an absolute vision? Don’t let the quality of the picture on the left deceive you. This mom and daughter are, in fact, wearing the same gown. And, of course, we’re absolutely loving it! This prom dress has the most classic of features — from the baby blue-lavender color to the elegant print and even the way that the gown cinches in at the waist, making for an utterly timeless piece. Let’s just hope this gal decides to hold onto the dress for her potential future daughters.
From Sass to Smiles
How cute is this mommy-daughter duo?! Despite the fact that this mama originally wore her prom dress during the ’80s, there’s no way anyone can deny the fact that this piece lives up to the trends of today. After all, just look at her daughter! She looks just as stunning as her mother did over 20 years beforehand! What we truly love about this side-by-side comparison, though, is how their personalities completely shine through — from sass to smiles!
Refined to Punk Rock
As if this list wasn’t already impressive enough, this mom and daughter prove that, yet again, some looks will never go out of style. All it takes is a few changes in accessories. While mama bear here went for a more refined look — with dangly earrings and a simple necklace — her daughter took on a more punk rock approach. Not only did she swap out silver for a black choker, but she also completed her look with a pair of Converse sneakers rather than a strappy heel.
Ruby Slippers
Call us crazy but this gown is giving us serious ‘Wizard of Oz ruby slippers’ vibes, and we honestly can’t get enough! After all, both this mom and daughter look absolutely incredible in this eye-catching, red dress despite the 26-year gap. According to mama bear here, “This pic of me in the dress was taken in 1993 […] I’d say it held up well! Never in my wildest dreams did I think Tori would ask to wear it to her prom.”
1981 to 2013
We know what you guys are thinking. This doesn’t look like the same gown. Well, whether you believe it or not, it’s very much the same dress with a few minor alterations. While mommy dearest here wore the white gown at full length to her 1981 prom, the daughter added her own modern spin on it by getting it hemmed above her knees. Still, she made sure to hold onto the best features — the lacey straps and heart-shaped neckline.
Powder Blue
If we’re being honest here, it seems as though this daughter is way happier wearing this prom dress than her mom was back in the day — or perhaps, she just didn’t want to take any photos at that moment hence the lack of enthusiasm that’s written across her face. Nonetheless, there’s no denying that both ladies look absolutely breathtaking in this powder blue gown. Not only does it feature a frilly neckline, but it also includes a ribbon accent around the waist.
Recreating the Past
We’d be lying if we said that this mom and daughter don’t look eerily similar. If we didn’t know any better, we’d think we’re looking at the same photo. Not only did this daughter wear her mother’s royal blue gown to her own prom, but she also recreated the exact pictures that her mom had taken years before. Despite the fact that they have slightly different complexions, they both look like an absolute dream in this ’80s-esque gown.
The Greatest Alterations Ever Made
Alright, so, this may have not been a prom dress exactly but this side-by-side comparison is too good not to share. We all know how expensive wedding dresses can be so, it makes sense as to why this mom decided to hold onto hers over the years. Little did she know that her gorgeous daughter would find a way to reinvent it so many years later. We mean, how gorgeous are these alterations?! So chic yet so fierce!
The 1980s Are Back!
What?! Is this side-by-side comparison not mind-boggling?! This mom and daughter have almost all of the same features. The only thing setting them apart is the color of their hair. In any case, they both look absolutely stunning in this form-fitting red dress. And although a few years ago, we could probably do without the puffy sleeves — a dead giveaway that the gown is from the 1980s — it seems like this feature is actually coming back into style.
’70s Floral
While this floral dress isn’t necessarily the most classic piece to make the list, we have to admit that it works just as well in the 2000s as it did back in the ’70s. This mama bear wore the prom dress with her hair down and completed the entire look with a bouquet of flowers. Her daughter, on the other hand, is rocking the piece with her hair tightly pulled back into a bun. Either way, we’re absolutely in love with this dress.
Nearly Identical
These photos might have been taken almost 20 years apart from each other but it’s hard to ignore the fact that this mom and daughter look nearly identical, especially in this classic black gown. Aside from the addition of spaghetti straps and a new light pink, satin belt, this daughter has kept her mama’s dress exactly the same — and they both look like a dream. Both mommy dearest and her daughter completed the entire look with a few simple accessories.
Belle of the Ball
Sometimes, fashion doesn’t work years later but, as we’ve learned so far, sometimes the concept of fashion being transient just doesn’t hold up. While we don’t quite get an official prom picture for the daughter in this case, we do have this picture the mom snapped with the caption, “My oldest daughter trying on my prom dress a couple of years ago.” It’s a stunning gown, even if it does look a little more yellow in the second picture, that would make anyone the belle of the ball.
Mom’s Got Your Back
This mom shared her daughter ready for prom, surprisingly in the same dress she wore to her own USMC ball back in 1995. This wasn’t exactly planned either. When this teen ordered her original prom dress, it left something to be desired. So, she raided her mom’s closet while she was at work, took the old dress to a tailor, and revamped it into a new design to wear it to her own prom. She rocked it too!
Same Dress, Same Pose
This mother and daughter went all the way with this shared dress. Rather than just stopping at wearing the same garment, they even struck the same pose with their dates! The dress was first worn by the mother when she was 17 years old and heading out for her prom in 1987. When her daughter wore it again, she proved that good taste never goes out of style in this pink dress with a white lace overlay.
Best in Blue
When it comes to prom dresses, you have plenty of room to explore with the color, cut, and general design. This mother-daughter duo used color to their advantage and rocked a vibrant blue. Posted with the caption, “This vintage prom dress is 23 years old. Glad it got to dance again,” we’re pretty glad too since both women look stunning at their respective proms. Plus, while a plunging neckline is popular, this high neckline is absolutely stunning.
Back in Black
To round off our list, we have one more black dress that managed to remain timeless and breathtaking. Even though this teen borrowed from her mom’s closet for prom, you’d never be able to tell! Like many of the timeless dresses on this list, this dress opts for a slim silhouette and an all-black color palette. The floor-length gown even shakes it up a bit with a neckline featuring an interesting cut and some intricate beading.