How to Dress for an Office Job Over 50

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By eHow Contributing Writer

Article Rating: (2 Ratings)

It's no secret that the rules of proper attire can change with age. Plus, with the rising popularity of casual Friday, the rules can be confusing, especially at the office. By following a few guidelines, though, you can always look elegantly put-together at work.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Step 1

Look your age. That doesn't mean you have to put on orthopedic shoes and a dress that was popular in the '70s or '80s. It means if you are 50 or older, don't try to dress like you are 20 and wear short tight skirts and tops that are too revealing. The goal is to look, and feel, like you are aging gracefully.
Step 2

Go for the "classic" look. Knee-length skirts, blouses, dress pants and button-up shirts are all great staples in any wardrobe. Try to keep one of the pieces a more conservative color, like navy or black and accent with neutral colors. Women older than 50 rarely go wrong when wearing a timeless look.
Step 3

Try new trends, even if your basic look is timeless. The key here is to limit the number of trendy items in one particular outfit. One way to do this is to wear traditional clothing pieces, and accessorize with a new style of handbag or shoe.
Step 4

Choose a comfortable style of shoe, one that's not too showy. Heels shouldn't be more than three inches tall. Office policy can differ when it comes to things like open toes and straps, so be sure to check with human resources if your office has a dress code.

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Comments

majeral said

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on 7/12/2009 Well this was written in 08. I am 66 , I have some silver among the brown, I have never worn dark colors unless it is dark red, purple, or blue. And while your advice may be ok. I can tell you that the interviewer is going to notice if you even "hint" of being old in thinking mind and body. I have found the best thing to do is go in with the attitude that you are interviewing them. Ask questions that are important for you to know going in. Be secure in you knowledge that you can help them be better.Thank them and above all SEND A WRITTEN NOTE OF THANKING THEM THEIR TIME ON INTERVIEWING YOU.