Whether you attribute it to the fact that Pantone picked Viva Magenta as its Color of the Year or that the Barbiecore aesthetic has gone fully viral thanks to the upcoming much-hyped film, there’s no denying that pink is in. And is that any surprise? This hue is playful, universally flattering, and instantly brightens any outfit. And you don’t have to miss out on wearing pink if you’re over 50.
“Pink is a power color that symbolizes strength, individuality, and a zest for life,” explains Traci Jeske, founder of En Vogue Stylist. She says it’s an especially great color for older women since “pink has a magical ability to rejuvenate and uplift our overall appearance, adding a touch of vibrancy to our looks.”
That said, wearing pink might feel intimidating if you tend to avoid vibrant hues. That’s why we consulted Jeske and other style experts to get their best tips on wearing pink if you’re over 50. Keep reading for all their advice.
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If you’re new to wearing pink, Jeske says accessories are a great place to begin. For example, you might pop on a pink scarf, belt, statement necklace, handbag, or pair of pumps.
“These pops of color can instantly refresh your look and bring a youthful energy,” Jeske tells Best Life.
Melony Huber, a global fashion, textile, and design stylist and founder of La Peony Clothing, says even a Panama brim hat with pink ribbon detailing, or pink stitching in a sneaker or sandal, can add life to your ensemble.
When going this route, try sporting a neutral outfit—say, a simple navy and white dress, gray sweater, or black jumpsuit—so your bold pink accessories can stand out.
From dusty rose to daring magenta, there are endless shades of pink to choose from. Be sure to explore the full spectrum to find one that suits your skin tone and personal style, says Jeske. If you’re not sure which pink is right for you, you might want to consult a professional stylist or get a color analysis done.
As a general rule, Jeske notes that warm pinks with a more orange undertone—like coral and salmon—tend to look better on people with golden undertones in their skin. On the other hand, pinks with blue or purple undertones—like mauve and fuschia—often flatter those with cool complexions.
Another easy way to find the optimal shade for you, says Jeske, is to look at celebrities who have similar coloring to yours and get inspiration from their pink outfits.
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This hue also comes in a wide range of intensities, from soft pastels to richer shades of hot pink.
“Consider your personal style and the occasion for which you’re selecting the color,” says Jeske. “Softer shades can create a more subtle and feminine look, while bolder shades can make a statement and add a pop of color to your outfit.”
Keep in mind that bolder, brighter pinks tend to attract more attention—which can be a positive or negative thing, depending on the event you’re attending and what kind of energy you’re aiming to exude.
Solid pink pieces may feel too bold when you’re first starting to infuse the color into your wardrobe. That’s why Jeske recommends playing around with pink patterns—like polka dots, stripes, and florals—which add a touch of this bright hue without overwhelming your look.
Once you feel comfortable rocking a scarf or cardigan in a pink print, you can start opting for an eye-catching outfit in a head-to-toe pink pattern.
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According to Huber, one of the best things about pink is that you can wear it year-round. The key is to find the right shade of pink for each season.
In the fall, opt for warm and earthy pinks that have a cozy vibe like rosewood and spiced coral. Winter calls for cool, striking pinks like bubblegum and sangria. As the flowers bloom in springtime, you might want to reach for airy and splashy pinks like peach and flamingo—and once the temperatures rise come summer, opt for muted as well as bright neutral-cool pinks like azalea and soft orchid.
“Fashion is ultimately about self-expression, and confidence is key to pulling off any color,” says Jeske. “Trust your instincts and wear pink in a way that aligns with your personal style and makes you feel fabulous.”
So, pay attention to how certain shades of pink make you feel. If a particular pink catches your eye, lifts your mood, or makes you strut with a little more self-assurance, it’s likely the right choice for you.
