Ladies’ dresses for over 50s that are flattering and comfortable

Finding ladies' dresses for over 50s to make you look and feel great does not have to come at the cost of compromising on fashionable trends or edgy styles. However, if you’re struggling to find a frock that leaves you feeling confident then you’re in luck, as Yours Deputy Style Editor, Cigdem Tanrioglu is on hand to help.

Known as the dress queen, Cigdem spends her days finding the perfect styles for women over 50. So much so, that she has even worked with the likes of Kate Garaway and Twiggy on photoshoots. In addition to this, Cigdem has spent years styling women spanning between sizes 6-26 on photoshoots, so it is fair to say she knows a thing of two about finding flattering, age-appropriate clothing on the high street.

Cigdem explains why finding dresses that suit mature women is so important. “Confidence is one of the most important thing to consider when dress shopping. Ultimately, if you feel great in your frock then you will look great it in it too. This theory relates to all age groups, body shapes and sizes. However, as women age, they can often feel more self-conscious about their bodies, and not sure how to dress to accentuate their shape.”

Are you still wondering what you should look out for when dress shopping? Well, you’re in luck as Cigdem has spilled the beans on her top tips for finding the best dresses for mature women. If Cigdem’s recommendations don’t take your fancy, we'd recommend shopping around with each retailer included as each has a great range of occasion-wear for you to explore.

You may want to look for dresses suitable for special occasions or you may be on the lookout for long sleeved daily wear ladies' dresses for over 50s that'll make sure you're comfortable and confident. That's why we've included dresses in a range of styles, sizes and lengths, including petite and plus-size dresses to help you choose according to your needs. It is also worth stocking up on dresses that are season-appropriate like shopping for cotton dresses that will keep you cool in the summer. If none of our top picks takes your fancy, we've also listed our favourite places to shop for flattering dresses with sleeves so you can browse to your heart's content.

Plus, we've enlisted fashion tips and advice from an expert stylist, Styled By Susie, that will come in handy while dress shopping when you're over 50. Along with style inspiration from much-loved celebrities and bloggers, this guide can be your one-stop destination while picking your dresses.

Best ladies' dresses for over 50s

Shirt Dresses

According to Cigdem, a sleek shirt dress is ideal for mature women for three main reasons:
"Firstly, this chic style is incredibly convenient due to its versatile nature. No really, we mean it when we say a shirt dress may be the most versatile item you could own. They’re perfect for wearing when running errands, going to the office and even an evening event depending on the print and pattern you choose.

"Secondly, they’re incredibly comfortable. Most shirt dresses are made from soft, breathable fabrics such as cotton, viscose or linen. These materials are ideal for anyone dealing with hot flushes or heightened skin sensitivity due to hormonal changes as they’ll keep you cool without causing any irritation.

"Thirdly, a shirt dress is incredibly flattering. The longline shape is perfect for making your body look longer and leaner, which is ideal for anyone who needs a little confidence boost."

Wrap Dresses

"For a universally flattering frock that will work for any age, size or occasion, look no further than the humble wrap dress" advises Cigdem. "The wrap dress is a classic for a reason. Defined by their cross-over front, this classic style works by defining your waistline whilst enhancing your bust at the same time – sounds ideal, right?

"Most wrap dresses also feature a hip-skimming A-Line skirt, which will make your entire figure look longer and leaner. Plus, most wrap dresses feature a self-tie function, meaning you can adjust the fit according to your body, which is ideal for anyone struggling with a fluctuating waistline due to hormonal changes.

"In addition, wrap dresses are available in an array of fabrics, colours and lengths, meaning there is a wrap dress for just about any occasion, from a coffee date to a special occasion. What’s not to love?"

Midi dresses

If you want a little extra leg coverage but hate the idea of wearing a full maxi dress, then the elegant midi dress is the one for you.

“I’m a huge fan of a midi dress” explains Cigdem. “Midi lengths can vary between a couple of inches below the knee to low mid-calf lengths, depending on your height and the cut of your dress. However, this on-trend length is especially great for women over 50 as they provide plenty of coverage without looking frumpy, unlike knee-length styles which can look slightly dated.

“Best of all, midi dresses are available in an array of styles, from wrap dresses to smock dresses and everything in between. So all you need to do is decide on what shape you want to wear and you’ll be good to go.”

Tea dresses

For a vintage-inspired cut which looks fabulous on just about any woman, look no further than a 40s style tea dress.

"Known for their defined shoulders and empire waistline, this classic silhouette is ideal for mature women who want to look longer and leaner" advises Cigdem. "In addition, tea dresses are great for mature women as they are usually available in a midi length with sleeves, meaning they’ll cover up all of those body parts we feel less confident about as we age.

"However, a modest fit doesn’t mean you can’t have fun with a tea dress. Typically, tea dresses are available in fabulous, floral prints, but a plain version can work just as well. Look for bold colours in soft, lightweight fabrics for top style points."

Maxi dresses

As we get older, many of us begin to shy away from flaunting our legs in shorter styles, which is where the maxi dress comes into play.
"Usually available in a floor or ankle length, the maxi dress is a summer staple for mature women due to their soft, elegant, breezy nature which allow women to keep cool without showing too much skin," says Cigdem. "Perfect for boosting confidence, maxi styles can be worn both casually and formally, with most options featuring a figure-flattering empire waistline, which will make your legs look incredibly long – even if they aren’t!"

Floral Dresses

For a printed dress that will work over the years to come, look no further than the classic floral frock.
Yours Deputy Style Editor Cigdem Tanrioglu is a fan of this timeless print too, “I love a floral print dress. They’re perfect for adding a touch of youthful fun to your look without compromising on comfort or fit.
“The trick to finding the best floral dress for mature women is to stick to classic shapes, like a shirt dress, tunic or wrap style. This way you can ensure you have the best fit for your body, allowing the print to do the rest of the work.
“Keep your accessories simple, sticking to plain block colours. This way you can let your printed dress do all of the work, resulting in a sleek look that could work for any occasion.”

Best British stores to buy ladies' dresses for over 50s

If your diary is looking full of big events this upcoming season, you'll probably be looking for more than one special dress. We've rounded up a fabulous selection of cocktail dresses for over 50s that are both figure-flattering and stylish to cater for a whole host of occasions.

But, with so much choice on the web, you can easily spend hours scrolling through websites in search of the best dresses for mature women. So we've rounded up some British brands you can count on when it comes to elegant, casual, and stylish fashion for us older ladies.

1. Seasalt Cornwall

Distinctly Cornish and with a seaside vibe, the Yours team love Seasalt Cornwall's quirky style and pretty prints. Their clothing collection features beautifully flattering dresses and versatile tunics in soft, plain and patterned natural fabrics, all in lovely nautical colours, emphasising blues and reds. Stocks UK sizes 6-20.

2. Cotton Traders

Cotton Traders' story goes all the way back to the 70s… so, they know their stuff! They have lots of floral maxi dresses, perfect to pair with a cardigan when the weather gets a little frosty. Stocks UK 8-22.

3. Boden

If you're a fan of vibrant colours and pretty patterns in complimentary cuts, look no further than Boden. Whether you're a fan of minis, midis, or maxis, their offering includes so many options that you'll be able to style with flats, white trainers, and heeled sandals alike. Stocks UK sizes 6-22.

4. Wallis

Not only do Wallis offer great tailoring and wearable separates, but they offer it all at a reasonable price point. Designed with a contemporary feel, their clothes focus on quality and fit. You can expect beautiful jersey floral dresses and chic floral shifts perfect for those special occasions when you want to stand out from the crowd with something a little different. If you struggle with finding the length, the brand also has a petite range of dresses especially designed for women 5' 3" and under. Available in UK sizes 8-18.

5. M&S

In recent years, M&S has reviewed and relaunched its clothing brands in a bid to appeal to a broader range of shoppers, with highlights from their Classic range being absorbed into the main M&S Collection. M&S says that pieces in the range are now designed to be worn and loved by women of all ages. With more than 200 different dresses available website, there's something to suit all shapes and tastes. Stocks sizes 6-24.

If you love M&S as much as we do, we've rounded up all the best M&S dresses for you to shop in one place.

6. Matalan

A classic from the high street, Matalan is home to a range of affordable dresses in all lengths and styles for all occasions. Their mission is to provide quality clothes suited to family budgets, which means they also stock homeware and clothes for the whole family. Stocks UK sizes 6-28 as well as petite and plus-size options.

7. Monsoon

Discover day dresses with the key colour palettes and prints, including classy floaty silhouettes and midi lengths at Monsoon. Stocks UK sizes 8-22.

8. John Lewis

If you're ever lost on where to look, take a trip to John Lewis. A favourite for all things fashion, beauty and home, John Lewis is home to a huge number of brands, sizing options, and dresses for all occasions. Alongside their own John Lewis ANYDAY range which is surprisingly affordable, you can find brands including Ghost, Fat Face, Nobody's Child, and some of the other brands on this very list. As mentioned, definitely a great place to start

9. Hobbs Ltd

Hobbs Ltd. is great if you're looking for something for a special occasion and you want to dress to impress. Hobbs Ltd. stocks luxury clothes, shoes and accessories to suit any occasion. Treat yourself! Stocks UK 6 to 18.

10. Amazon UK

It may not be where you think to go instinctively, but Amazon Fashion is full of dress options from both well-known brands and more obscure ones. You can find casual dresses and occasionwear, and better yet if you're an Amazon Prime member, you can get plenty of options for next-day delivery. Perfect for emergency holiday outfits or if you just don't like waiting around!

Which style should I look for?

We're all about choosing the style you feel most comfortable in, but there are certain styles that are recommended for women over 50 for the most flattering fit:

A-line dresses: Designed to skim off the hip in an 'A-shape', this style of dress accentuates your waist whilst flowing over the stomach, an area some consider a 'problem area' as they get older.

Shift dresses: This style of dress is always popular and well-suited to most body types. More often than not, they are sleeveless but there are cap sleeves, balloon sleeves, and long-sleeve options for those who are self-conscious about their arms.

Shirt dresses: Available in lengths ranging from mini to maxi, a shirt dress can be dressed up and down and is a lovely lightweight option for the summer/ those going through menopause. As well as having a flattering V-neck shirt design, this style of dress often comes with an optional tie waist or belt to accentuate the waist.

Wrap dresses: With similar flattering features to the shirt dress, a wrap dress drapes around under the bust, accentuating the bust and waist. This a great option if have a smaller chest you want to emphasise, or a larger bust you want to flaunt!

Midi dresses: You'll spot many midi dresses in our list and that's for two reasons; they're both on-trend for year-round wear and a great all-rounder for a flattering fit. With so many stylish options available, this style of dress covers any and all problem areas, leaving you feeling your most confident and comfortable.

Can over 50s wear off-the-shoulder dresses?

Yes, we're of the mindset that you can wear anything you feel comfortable in and off-the-shoulder dresses are great for the summer or in formal gowns for special occasions. That being said, you may not spot many over 50s wearing off-the-shoulder dresses. We love what Robin LaMonte has said on the matter on her blog, 'Hello I'm 50ish':

"Because baring shoulders isn’t a general style women over 50 wear, it will get criticised, especially by other women over 50. I saw comments from women who work out that they wouldn’t bare their shoulders after 50. Why the heck not, I thought to myself? When did baring your shoulders become inappropriate for women over 50?"

She went on to write, "Age has nothing to do with baring your shoulders if you feel confident doing so."

Ladies' dresses for over 50's: Celebrity fashion inspiration

Before you hit the shop button on the best dresses for mature women, we've looked to some of the most incredible women on TV to help give you the style inspiration you need. We say that there is no age limit on feeling fabulous, and these ladies prove it!

If Good Morning Britain host, Susanna Reid, can wow us in a pencil dress, so can you. She's wearing a Closet London Navy Blue Pencil Dress, and we think she looks incredible. We're a big fan of Susanna's dress sense and have shared more of our favourite dresses from the GMB presenter.

Another TV legend and our fashion go-to is Lorraine Kelly. We think that the gorgeous Megan Slinky Recycled Jersey Frill Detail Midi Wrap Dress from Pour Moi would make a fantastic addition to your wardrobe. Plus it comes in a bunch of gorgeous prints and colours! For more Lorraine Kelly fashion favourites, take a look at our round-up of her looks.

And finally, if you love comedian Judi Love as much as we do, you can also add a pop of pink to your wardrobe with this Pink Animal Print Wrap Midi Dress from River Island, a flattering, wrap-front, waist-cinching dress for ladies under and over 50.

The best over 50 fashion blogs and Instagrams to follow

You don't just have to look to the women on the telly for inspiration when looking at ladies' dresses for over 50s that look great and feel comfortable. Many mature women are taking to the internet to show off their glamorous garments. These are some of our favourite over 50 fashion influencers:

Alternative Ageing

Senior Style Bible

Accidental Icon

Dorrie Jacobson runs Senior Style Bible and had this to say about finding the right dresses for mature women, "Number one style rule to live by? Forget about being 'age-appropriate. Defy the rules…No one should dictate your style to you. It's a means of self-expression. Make it your own."

She then went on to talk about our favourite fashion subject - shoes, "What do you look for in footwear? I love statement shoes. I usually dress from the shoe up…So my footwear really needs to turn heads.

"At 80, I still wear high heels almost every day because they're my trademark. People probably wouldn't recognise me without them."

Now all that's left to do is go shopping for the best dresses for mature women from the comfort of your living room and revamp your wardrobe.

Ladies' dresses for over 50s: Fashion tips from the experts

Meet the expert: Susie Hasler runs Styled By Susie, specialising in styling real women on a budget whose body type has changed due to pregnancy, gaining or losing weight, or menopause.

"Many of the mature ladies who I work with prefer to have a little more coverage in the summertime, rather than opting to bare all," says Susie.

"My clients aren't too keen on showing their arms or too much cleavage - and there are so many ways you can dress stylishly while not looking frumpy. If you're not keen on sleeveless styles, try a cap sleeve."

She also recommends opting for a patterned dress if you normally dress head-to-toe in black.

"The tummy area can be troublesome for many women, particularly post-menopause. Dressing in summer clothing can make many ladies feel exposed, and it can become tempting to wear black to hide away.

"However, a pattern is actually going to flatter the figure much more as it glosses over lumps and bumps and is much more summery than black!"

Eleanor Weaver is the Deputy Homes & Garden Product Editor for Yours, specialising in home décor, furnishings and appliances. Having worked commercially on Yours magazine and Yours.co.uk for the past six years, she's previously hosted Yours Live events and loves looking for home inspiration online.