15 Women Share How Their Personal Style Evolves with Age

“Personal style” can be as elusive to define as beauty itself. Yet, one can spot it in a heartbeat—like when your best friend wears her favorite oversized sweatshirt inside out just because it feels like her. Or when a colleague opts for a vintage tool bag over a flimsy canvas tote, embracing an identity that is distinctly her own. Personal style isn’t just about clothes; it’s about making a statement, reclaiming who we are, and even rediscovering our elegance after life throws us curveballs.

Here, 15 women from various generations share how their personal styles have evolved with age, offering insights that inspire all of us to dress for the versions of ourselves we aspire to be.

Defining Style in Your 20s

Finding Intention

Paige Kozak reflects on her 20s, a time filled with pressure to define her style. “I wanted to embody a sense of quiet luxury,” she says. However, she quickly learned that there’s a fine line between blending in and standing out. "I’d rather be noticed for my choices, like a deep green cashmere sweater or playful pink socks, than overlooked."

Embracing Effortlessness

Lady Jean Campbell shares her fashion journey, emphasizing a mantra of simplicity. “A great black coat is my go-to—an instant outfit.” She chooses textures that catch the light, proving that even the simplest pieces can convey intention and flair.

Vintage Soulmates

For Jane Lewis, it was an extraordinary pair of vintage Levi’s that encapsulated her essence. “They’re both laid-back and expressive,” she explains. "They allow me to dress down with ease but can be elevated with a silk blouse or kitten heels—a perfect balance."

Navigating Style in Your 30s

Creating Your Own Narrative

In her 30s, Jazzi McGilbert elegantly transitioned from fashion editor to bookstore owner. “I value clothes that serve my lifestyle, not the other way around,” she states. Vintage tees and classic styles become essential when running a busy business.

Rediscovering Yourself

Tish Weinstock found that motherhood transformed her wardrobe approach. “After taking a step back, I realized it was my turn to dress for joy,” she shares. "Bright colors and fun styles became my newfound playground."

The Power of Variety

Julia Fox encourages embracing a wardrobe that reflects daily moods rather than conforming to societal expectations. “Your clothes can be costumes announcing who you are today,” she says, emphasizing joy over trends.

Style Evolution in Your 40s

Dreamy Realizations

For Sarah Kunst, age allows the pursuit of long-desired styles. “I’m finally able to buy those runway pieces I dreamt about as a kid,” she says, exuding excitement about blending nostalgic items with fresh finds.

Effortless Elegance

Caroline Issa finds joy in mixing cherished vintage pieces with contemporary styles. “Fashion month inspires me to elevate my daily outfits,” she notes. Well-curated pieces can create a statement that resonates with both the past and present.

Utility Meets Style

Lora Kim reflects on her career shift, saying, "Utility is my new elegance." By adopting a versatile wardrobe that prioritizes comfort, she finds a refreshing balance between professionalism and personal expression.

Thriving in Your 50s

Nostalgic Exploration

Anja Tyson’s daughter inspires her to revisit her fashion roots, cultivating a love for secondhand treasures. “Witnessing her embrace individuality reignited my passion for past trends,” she shares, highlighting the joy of rediscovery.

Embracing Individuality

Cady McLain emphasizes the importance of staying true to oneself. “After stepping away from social media pressures, I’ve realized my closet is fabulous the way it is,” she beams, learning that personal style should never be dictated by trends.

Flourishing in Your 60s and Beyond

Bold Reinventions

Laurie Grinker has embraced changes, even rediscovering eyeliner from her youth. "It brings back a feeling of confidence and ease," she says, highlighting how personal style evolves with inner growth.

Celebrating Comfort and Style

Evi Abbas chooses to celebrate her age by mixing vibrant accessories with comfortable pieces. “Fashion should balance comfort with individuality,” she notes, enjoying the creative challenges that come with each aging chapter.

The Art of Everyday Living

Elaine Mellis embodies a unique mantra: style is another way to infuse art into life. “My combat boots encapsulate both comfort and flair,” she smiles, proving that style can be both practical and expressive.

As we journey through life, our personal style isn’t just a reflection of the clothes we wear; it mirrors our evolution, the stories we tell, and the identities we embrace.

Embrace Your Journey

So, dear reader, what does your style say about you? Take a moment to explore your own wardrobe and the narratives it captures. Remember, fashion isn’t just about trends; it’s about expressing who you are and who you aspire to be. Let’s celebrate that journey together!