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Six White Shirts Women Over 50 can Rock with Confidence

How can a woman over 50 look great without really trying?  Invest in a good white shirt. It’s a classic versatile wardrobe staple that can be effortlessly chic. I originally penned this post about three years ago.  I am asked by readers every day when will I cover white shirts again? The white shirt isn’t just for office wear. Think of the white shirt as a blank canvas where you can create your own personal sense of style. It looks super fresh and chic and draws attention to your face.  Today I am joining my friend Kim for our Signature Style Series.  Let’s talk about Six White Shirts Women Over 50 can Rock with Confidence.

The Classic White Button Down

Why It Works: A crisp, tailored button-up with a collar is a wardrobe essential for women of all ages. Pair it with tailored trousers or a blazer for a polished, professional look that never goes out of style. For spring and summer, I love a great poplin or linen version.

I shared this white shirt from Zara with the beautiful detailing in my Chic Affordable Picks from Zara’s Spring Collection here.  Here I tied it at the waist but it could be worn on it’s own with jeans or pants. The skirt sold out immediately after I featured it but the pretty blouse is still available here.

zara white shirt and zara denim skirt

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This classic white shirt from Athleta is always on repeat in my closet. I am wearing it with the Lysee boyfriend jeans, and sneakers.

lysee emma pant athleta shirt

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The Oversized Boyfriend Shirt

Why It Works: The oversized boyfriend shirt in crisp cotton or poplin is a popular option for women of all ages. Its relaxed fit and longer length makes it a chic comfy option for those of us over 50. The oversized fit of this shirt not only hides any discrepancies but also allows for ease of movement, making it a great choice for those of us who value both style and comfort.

cropped H&M shirt with eilleen fisher pants

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The Tunic Shirt

Why it Works: It is effortlessly chic and flattering.  The longer length covers our assets.
The tunic shirt is a longer, flowy version of the classic button-down shirt. It also often features a high-low hemline and can be worn as a dress or with leggings for a more casual look.

Here I am wearing the wonderful Planet Artists Smock from Artful Home. I have had this shirt for years and it wears like iron.

The wonderful Sojourn shirt by Athleta is no longer available (they need to bring it back) but I did find several on eBay here. I also found a great dupe that is listed under my favorite white shirts at the bottom of the post.

Athleta White Shirt and Jeans

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Tied at the Waist

Why It Works: This style accentuates the waist or defines it

It can add structure to a boxy style, shorten the length of a shirt, and shorten a long waist (that’s me!)

Here I am wearing the CP shades lily skirt (not currently in their lineup), but there are several cp shades lily skirts on eBay here . The linen shirt is also no longer available but very similar to this Frank and Eileen linen shirt here.

Cp shades lily skirt and cp shades linen shirt

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Embroidered or Embellished

Why it Works: Adds a Touch of Artistry
The intricate embroidery of this shirt can draw attention away from any areas we may want to minimize, while still adding unique and artistic details to your look.

This pretty top from Anthropologie is a fun option. I especially like it paired with simple denim.

anthropologie cut work top and jeans

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Cropped

Why it Works: Pair a longer cropped top with high waisted pants or a skirt. 

Make sure it hits where the thinnest part of your waist is. It helps to define the waist, and create more of an hourglass figure. I think this look is most flattering on a pear shape as it balances the top with the bottom.  I have more of an hourglass shape so it is not my best look.  This cotton shirt is from H&M and reasonable if you would like to try out the look. I bought it locally in San Luis Obispo but it appears to be sold out online now. I shared some other favorite cropped looks at the bottom of the post. You can find my bueno sandals here. You can find the fabulous Janessa Leone bag (that will hold your hat) here.

cropped ramie H&M shirt eileen fisher pants, janessa leone straw bag, helen kaminski hat

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Popsugar has a great article on what body types cropped tops flatter.

Harper’s Bazaar The Fascinating History of the White Shirt

To keep your white shirts from yellowing add a few drops of Mrs. Stewarts’ bluing to your wash. 

Here is an article from the Spruce explaining how to use laundry bluing.

bluing for white shirts

 

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Shop my Favorite White Shirts of the Season

Whichever style you choose, the key to rocking a white shirt with confidence is owning it with style and grace. Remember, fashion has no age limit, and with the right attitude, you can look and feel fabulous at any stage of life. So go ahead, embrace your inner fashionista, and let your white shirt be the canvas for your unique sense of style! Thank you for reading Six White Shirts Women Over 50 can Rock with Confidence.

So, which white shirt style will you be rocking with confidence? Share your favorites in the comments below!

Now let’s pop over and visit Kim!

NORTHERN CALIFORNIA STYLE

 

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Elizabeth@pineconesandacorns says

    Not sure where my comment went! Love this post and could not agree with you more, white shirts are timeless!

  2. Elizabeth@pineconesandacorns says

    Cindy, 3 years, 5 years 20 years white shirts are timeless. You look fabulous in all of your outfits. Thank you for bringing this back!

  3. Beth says

    I love today’s fashion post. There is nothing nicer than a crisp white shirt. I bought the Sojourner’s shirt last Spring. It is simply perfect for March and April here in Central KY. I almost wore it last summer when we had lunch, but it was too warm a day.
    About your blog on the wonders of older homes. I live in a 1906 cottage, which II love, but it certainly is a money pit. I did a huge renovation about 7 years ago, but there are still things to fix. I love my neighborhood and it is a perfect place to entertain in. And this home is perfect for my needs for now and as I age. So I like reading your Cottage suggestions. Two terrific blogs. Thank you.

  4. Heidi says

    Hi Cindy,
    I have to be careful before I read your posts because I always am tempted to buy everything! I have a bunch of white shirts and they seem to fit the criteria, so I’m in the clear this time.
    You always look amazing and so darned chic. My inspiration!
    Xo
    Heidi

  5. Sandra sallin says

    Love love love a white shirt. I have at least 3 that you recomended and approved of. I love your style. And Im so proud that I have 3 approved shirts. I always enjoy and learn from you!

  6. CharM says

    Your white-shirt post is a keeper, along with Kim’s! Ideas are real-life gorgeous. Which white shirts might most diminish a thick belly with no waist?

  7. Juliet says

    The topic of white shirts never gets old … they’ve got to be in the top 3 wardrobe staple pieces. I love how you tie yours at the waist … and wear them oversizes. I am loving the cropped styles. Thanks for the bluing tip. Several of my white shirts recently succumbed to dreaded yellowing. It’s time to replenish and I’m going back to the beginning to shop your options. xo

  8. nancy says

    Dear Cindy,
    Thank you for a helpful post. You look great. I think we might have similar builds. Can you tell me please what size Lily skirt you wear?
    Thank you,
    Nancy

  9. Francesca B says

    Gorgeous post thank you Cindy. That Zara shirt you posted is such a winner and looks so chic!
    Have a fabulous day!

  10. kim says

    Cindy really enjoyed this post. Didn’t realize it was an older one as I always learn something new and you find the coolest things. I think I need that Athleta shirt! I loved it when you first got it. You look terrific in the Anthro blouse we both have! Isn’t it pretty with the cutwork? The cropped blouse looks great on you I think..I also love your skirts.
    You make everything look chic!
    xo

  11. Heidi Hataway says

    Love your posts. I got the Zara skirt before it sold out. Question about the athletica whiter shirts on eBay. I’m 5 ft 2 and 120 lbs. should I get a small or extra small. I’m not familiar with their sizing. Thanks! Heidi Hataway

    • Cindy Hattersley says

      Hi Heidi

      In that particular shirt I got an XS per the salespersons advice and it fits me perfectly. I am taller and a little heavier.

  12. Mrs. M. says

    ~ Howdy Cindy, I thoroughly enjoyed your post on wearing a white shirt (in Fall) after 50. It left me so inspired that I immediately went to my closet. I do have a white blouse (that I love) from years ago when I lived in South Florida. It’s by Violet & Claire with ruffles down the front and on the sleeves. The fabric is pleated all over, it buttons down the front with ties near the top. However, it’s not a classic white shirt. So, I’m ordering a Pre-Owned Ralph Lauren white shirt from my Poshmark account. You look great in all your outfits and yes, you did miss your calling as a print model! Whether you believe it or not, you’re quite photogenic and have a great smile which is infectious :). Lots of women hold to the adage that “you can’t wear white after Labour Day” which is pure poppycock. In my late 60s, (with a birthday approaching on 7 October) I’ve learnt to think outside the box by doing just the opposite. Thank you for your inspirational posts esp. on looking good and buying less–which extends the longevity of our clothing. I’m a huge fan of vintage clothing myself. ~

  13. Karen B. says

    Cindy,
    You, my friend, missed your calling. You have the style of a model and could easily be a catalog model. I loved all the outfits you pulled together. I have a couple of white tunic no-iron shirts from Chico’s and they are a staple in my closet.
    Thank you for the ideas.
    Karen B.

  14. Elizabeth@pineconesandacorns says

    Cindy, you look fabulous in every photo. Love white shirt and have many, now I have more ideas on how to style them. Have a wonderful week.

    • Cindy Hattersley says

      Hi Elizabeth

      Thank you so much. My white shirts were getting a little tacky. I was happy to find a couple of new ones

  15. kim says

    Cindy,
    Fantastic post! I so love white shirts… I saw the Athleta shirt and it’s darling and the way you styled it gives me so much inspiration!! My favorite look on you is the jeans and pony tail. Love you in jeans. We could all use more white jeans. Gotta share this! xo

    • Cindy Hattersley says

      Thank you so much Holly. At my age any pictures that aren’t taken during the golden hour show way too many flaws!

  16. Susie says

    What wonderful pieces and suggestions! Would you mind giving your size in the Sojourn shirt? I’ve read the post 5 times..but I might have missed it. I saw the other Athleta shirt was XS.
    Thank you

    • Cindy Hattersley says

      Hi Susie

      So sorry I ordered a small because I was under the wire and our store did not carry it. I may have been able to wear an XS but the small was just fine.

  17. Wren says

    You look like a teenager in the white shirt, jeans and sneakers with ponytail. Cute, casual look. The picture of you with the animal print shawl wrapped is one of the best pics I think you’ve ever taken! Love that sojourner style. Like another reader mentioned, I was “supposed” to wear ivory rather than stark white but I too think my silver hair helps me get away with white. Another rule I heard years ago was don’t wear anything whiter than your teeth. That’s pretty darn unreasonable!

    • Cindy Hattersley says

      OMG Wren…I have been haunte by that “don’t wear anything whiter than your teeth”. Sadly I think it is true. Keeps me on my toes with the white strips! Thanks for saying I look like a teenage….I wish!That’s so interesting that you think that picture is good. It was so dreary out I had to doctor the pictures up so they wouldn’t look so blurry..maybe that is why I look good ha ha
      !!

  18. Janet says

    I just don’t think you can ever go wrong with a white shirt. My current one is by Planet at Artful home. I think you recommended it some time ago and I always get compliments on it. All great ideas here! Thanks.

  19. Gray says

    The Monticello catalog is from Thomas Jefferson’s home in Charlottesville – Monticello! It’s like the Williamsburg catalog. Thanks for the blue – who knew?

    • Cindy Hattersley says

      Hi Gray

      I think I may have gotten that catalog many years ago. We used to travel to the East coast frequently. Hope to once again when Steve retires.

  20. Jennifer says

    You look amazing in your white shirts!! That Sojourn is such a stunner. I’m with you, you can’t have too many white shirts. I love how you wrap your wraps. So chic.

    • Cindy Hattersley says

      Hi Jennifer

      I was like you so tempted to buy but waited. It is a fabulous shirt! I love the other one as well!

  21. Téa says

    Hi Cindy – I’ve owned the blueing and haven’t used it in YEARS – Can you please recommend your method for using it with a front loading washing machine? Last time I used it, I had a top loader and let all my white towels soak in it for a bit. Thanks for any advice. LOVE your blog.

  22. Pennie Kelley says

    Cindy I just ran across Cote De Texas blog about your daughters wedding in 2012. Everything looked absolutely beautiful! Such a labor of love! My daughter is getting married May 4 and I would love to know where you purchased the white shirt and skirt you wore so fabulously! Thank you so much for your info.

  23. debra @ 5th and state says

    Love the Artful Style shirt on you! I too love white shirts and cannot have enough. I ditto Foxcroft of Nordstroms, no ironing, slimmer waist, long, ,,,,, they hit all the buttons for me

    great post Cindy

    Debra

  24. Taste of France says

    White shirts always look dressy. They can elevate jeans to something dressy/casual.
    I love Anne Fontaine. Years ago, I did a weekend trip with a bunch of friends, all women except for one guy. We went into an Anne Fontaine store. The guy could not understand how we managed to spend more than an hour in a tiny shop that sold nothing but white shirts. But, oh, so many great ways do do white shirts! Since then, Anne Fontaine has added colors and even other clothing like dresses.

    • Cindy Hattersley says

      Her shirts are wonderful. I am so glad you mentioned them. They are classics and last forever. I used to have one but don’t anymore. You can never regret investing in a classic! She used to have a shop on Santana Row. I rarely get out to shop. I wonder if it is still there?

    • 1010ParkPlace says

      Be still my heart… Anne Fontaine’s white shirts are fabulous! The price tag always jerks me back, but the shirts are worth it. xoxox, Brenda

  25. Sandra Sallin says

    I couldn’t agree more. I love white shirts, actually anything that surrounds my face in white. I think it’s especially great looking with white hair. It’s my new favorite color. I too love The Artist’s Shirt. You have many more creative ways of wearing it. Great post with so many great ideas. Couldn’t find that J. Crew top. Oh well. Keep these ideas coming!.

    • Cindy Hattersley says

      Hi Sandra! I linked the J Crew top. You can click on the picture or on the widget below. Hopefully it isn’t sold out!

  26. Nancy says

    I used to love Jones New York no iron pinpoint cotton, bought them in white, pale pink and pale blue and wore them all of the time! Also love Chico’s, JJill, LLBean. Classic uniform, crisp shirt, black cropped pants, ballet flats, OOTD!

    • Cindy Hattersley says

      Hi Nancy
      Jones New York used to be a good one. I am going to have to give J Jill another look since two have mentioned them again now. You can’t go wrong with a classic uniform I agree!!

  27. Kathy Meyers says

    How do you launder your white shirts? I find dry cleaning makes them yellow over time. I usually wash and iron (UGH!) them. I’d love to know what you do.

    • Cindy Hattersley says

      Hi Kathy
      Good point glad you brought that up. I don’t dry clean hardly anything anymore. I was mine in the laundry and if they start to yellow I add a little Mrs. Stewarts bluing. I am going to link to it in my post. Dry cleaning really ruins white shirts including deteriorating the buttons over time. So glad you asked!

  28. Sheila-Merle Johnson says

    I have never been a white shirt girl – my early image consultant training steered me to cream or ivory, not white – and I have always loved knit fabrics, not woven. But here I am at the ripe young age of 74 and breaking all the rules, so maybe I will try one. You are always beautiful in one.

    • Cindy Hattersley says

      Hi Friend!
      I never used to wear white either Sheila-Merle until I let my hair go gray. Now I find it does wonders for detracting from the wrinkles etc.

  29. Pamela Whitcomb says

    I have a JJill white shirt that is a great addition to my wardrobe. Might have to check out the eyelet one you recommended. You look darling in anything!!

  30. Celia Becker @ www.AfterOrangeCounty.com says

    I am forever reminded that you are a woman of my own heart, as I am such a lover of the basic white shirt. My closet is overflowing with them. I have to say my favorite brand is probably Foxcroft from Nordstrom. I also have many basic white shirts from Chicos, but I know what you mean about their fit being less than perfect in general. I just think the white shirt is chic, can go anywhere, go with anything, and is timeless.

    • Cindy Hattersley says

      Yes we are! I am going to check the foxcroft out. You can’t have too many white shirts now can you?!!

  31. classic casual home says

    I have the Talbot’s short sleeve in Petite and it doesn’t need much ironing if any…I also like J. Crew perfect shirt (have it in different colors) and Ann Taylor’s white shirt. You always look amazing in a white blouse! I have to buy that eyelet one…pretty with jeans!

  32. LA CONTESSA says

    How FUNNY I just looked at The MONTICELLO catalog and they have THE OLD fashioned MEN’s white shirt in there and I have turned the corner down!
    THE SUN IS OUT!
    WHAT ARE WE DOING AT OUR COMPUTERS!!!!!!!
    YOU should be pulling weeds and I still need to cut The lavender BACK!!!!!!!
    OFF I GO!

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