What to Wear to a Special 70th Birthday Party
As I prepare to celebrate my milestone birthday on the 15th, I am reflecting on the journey that brought me here on this blog. I am so grateful for this community of like minded women. I am not sure what I thought I would be doing at age 70, but I am certain it wasn’t sharing fashion tips with women my age. I do feel that turning 70 is a gift, a time to celebrate, and embrace the wisdom and confidence that comes with aging. I keep thinking I should wear something special, but I am not one to make purchases randomly. I thought it would be fun to propose some options to those of you, who know me so well. Let’s talk about-What to Wear to a Special 70th Birthday—something that reflects who I am and how I want to celebrate my upcoming chapter of life! There’s a unique freedom that comes with this stage of life—an understanding of what truly matters and the courage to let go of anything that doesn’t. Seventy isn’t about slowing down; it’s about savoring every moment, nurturing meaningful connections, and continuing to evolve in ways that bring happiness and purpose. So let’s chat about What to Wear to a Special 70th Birthday Party (mine).
You might enjoy reading my post The Beauty of Aging: How to Embrace the Pro Age Movement with Humor & Optimism.
Signature Lily Skirt Look
If I have a signature look it is probably the lily skirt from CP Shades (not sponsored). It is universally flattering and super comfortable. I just ordered a black velvet one that I might wear for my party. You can find the available colors at CP Shades here. You can also find several lily skirts on eBay here. The camo scarf is no longer available in green but camel from my friends at Sophie here.
I might wear the hot pink lily skirt with a black cashmere turtleneck and velvet birdies, or the green with similar and a pair of boots.
Shop Lily Skirt Looks
Black Leather Pants
The IBU scarf is no longer available in black and brown but in black and ivory here.
Shop Leather Pant Looks
Velvet Pant Looks
The velvet pants from Eileen Fisher (in many different options) are classics and oh so comfy. The hot pink sweater is no longer available but similar linked below. The necklace is from my friends at Parham Co Studio. The black cashmere sweater is from Quince. The white shirt from J Crew I can’t find anywhere.
Shop Velvet Pants Looks
Dress up a Pair of Jeans
A part of me wants to wear a pair of (slightly worn jeans) and an unexpected jacket or sweater because I still can, right? Who says you can’t dress up a pair of jeans and make them party ready? The perfect combination of comfort and style in my book. I probably won’t but it is tempting. The Caddis glasses are available here. Most of these items are still available but I had to make a couple of substitutions.
The above are some of my most loved “jeans outfits of the week”. Do you have a favorite?
Shop Jeans Looks
What about a Tulle Skirt?
I love my tulle skirts. They are a bit edgy, but not over the top if you pair them correctly,
Tulle outfits I have worn over the years. Why not add a little fun to your party attire?
Shop Tulle Skirt Looks
A Signature Jacket
I love a great blazer or an artistic jacket that reflect your individual style. The beautiful Margaret Oleary sweater that is in my cover photo is no longer available (It is one of the nicest sweaters I own), but I listed a couple on resale sights in the widget below the pics.
Shop Statement Jacket Looks
Thank you for reading What to Wear to a Special 70th Birthday Party. I hope this post might give you some inspiration on how to use what you already own for any upcoming holiday event.
I am not going to go out and make an impulsive purchase that is totally out of character for me. I won’t purchase that special dress, skirt or suit that I think would characterize the perfect 70th birthday, but really isn’t me. I probably won’t purchase a thing. I probably will work with what I have in my own closet because I have much to choose from. I am thinking I will wear the black velvet lily skirt with a favorite sweater, perhaps a scarf, maybe not. I might dress the skirt and sweater up with some of my American Indian jewelry, or some of my vintage rhinetone jewels. What do you think I should wear, and better yet, what would you wear if you were celebrating your 70th? I can’t wait for your input!
CIndy finally catching up and I loved this so much! You have the best style and I can’t wait to see what you wore to your party! I think no one rocks a skirt and jacket like you do.. I think you are the chicest woman and thankful to have gotten so many great tips and ideas from you.. Yay for making 70 look amazing and exciting. xoxo Kim
Thanks Kim! You inspire me constantly!!
Hi Everyone,
I am loving reading this blog and the sharing of ideas. I will be turning 70 in about 4 weeks. What to wear is always on my mind regardless of the occasion. Actually, I plan what to wear to lunch with the girls and even to the hairdresser. So, this blog is so timely. So about 6 years ago, I decided to make several lifestyle changes to improve my overall health after a complete physical indicated I was not as healthy as I once believed. My plan was simple and effective, exercise daily, healthy eating and the appropriate rest. I have maintained this lifestyle and improved health, (lost 30lbs, now a size 6), for the past 6 years. My love of fashion resurfaced after this transformation, and I continue to enjoy creating my style. So, for my 70th birthday in January, I am doing me. Straight leg jeans, long sleeve blouse, faux leather poncho, and knee-high boots are what I will be wearing. Happy Birthday and Happy Holidays to everyone.
Hi Shirley!
Your outfit sounds fabulous, and welcome to the 70’s!!
Hi Cindy,
No wonder I enjoy your blog so much. We share the same birthday—I am turning 70 too! You have many great options for your birthday outfit; you can wear the one that strikes your fancy on the day. We are traveling on my birthday, so I must decide in a couple of days before we leave on the thirteenth. I may wear leather pants and a favorite cashmere sweater. That way, I can reuse both pieces over the ten-day holiday. Happy early birthday, I hope you have a blast at your party! Thanks for your great design, entertaining food, and fashion posts.
Oh my gosh Sylvia happy happy birthday!! Have a fabulous one!!
Happy Birthday on the 15th! I will be 80 on the 14th! Wear what strikes you on the day. Weather can play a big part. Ours here in Colorado has been sunny and mild. Not sweater weather. I’m wearing dark green velvet jeans and a matching green knit top with gold jewelry and black booties. Most of all I want to be comfortable. You are so lucky that you still have you slim small waist. If it is comfortable to war a belt and show it off then that is all I would vote for as you will look splendid in whatever you choose. Have fun! We are blessed to still be here! I intend to enjoy myself on my big number day.
Hi Sydney
Woo Hoo Happy upcoming 80th!! You hit the nail on the head. Of course I want to honor the occasion but I also want to be comfortable. FYI I still have a waist but the belly fat surrounds it.
Hi Cindy
I will be celebrating my 80th birthday soon so I totally understand your quandary! Having followed you for years I would lay out the following on the bed for the big day: a skirt for sure, either one of your fabulous CP Shades maxis or an equally fabulous tulle number; a very lightweight sweater in a showstopper color to belt over the skirt; dark leggings and some Chelsea style boots; and the finishing touch would be a newly purchased statement necklace, preferably one you have been drooling over. Your present to yourself and a celebratory memento of your 70th! I do this every year. So much fun and no exchanges necessary.
In any case, have a wonderful 70th birthday! You will look marvelous in whatever you choose to wear.
Thank you for reminding me Susan! My husband just bought me a pair of Rocki Gorman chandelier earrings. I lost one somehow.
Happy Birthday, Cindy! I wish you comfort and joy on this special day. I just celebrated my 70th in November with my loved ones on a special trip to Charleston and Savannah – fabulous!
Your sassy/classy fashion sense is inspiring and your blog is a highlight of my day.
I vote for the black tulle skirt and red plaid blouse with your special bling accessories. You are a beautiful woman in whatever you wear.
Enjoy!
I love Charleston and Savannah! What a great way to celebrate your 70th!!
Hi, Cindy, it’s Lisa from Logansport. You are exactly 14 days older than I am! I had not even thought about what I would wear on my 70th birthday until I read this. I feel like this is really about more than just the clothes. I will probably choose something in my closet, as well. Maybe even jeans, a white shirt, and a long gray cardigan with some sequins on it. And black boots. And some attitude. Isn’t that what Hoosier girls wear best? I’m sure we will both be lovely in our own way. I admit that I have dreaded 70 for some reason. I am working on an attitude adjustment.
Happy birthday! Let’s go out and rock this decade!
Hi Lisa
Thank you for reminding me you are from Logansport. Lisa Terry graduated with my husband. Have I asked you before if you knew her? I am not dreading 70 at all, but I do need to shape up in my 70th year!! Your outfit sounds fabulous!! Celebrate in style! In February I am going to do a story on my second cousins event venue. I hope you will enjoy it
Yes, I know Lisa T. very well. We went to school together and her sister, Paula, was in my class (’73). We have worked together at the radio station in Logansport and served on a few volunteer committees together. It’s a small world, isn’t it? I can’t wait to see your cousin reunion story. We have been doing a lot of cousin get togethers and totally enjoying it.
I think a 70 year shape up sounds pretty good! Here’s to it!
Hi Lisa
That is right! Now I remember! Paula and I were friends in grade school!
Cindy, whatever you decide will be spectacular … because you always look spectacular … and I look forward to seeing the ultimate choice. Wish we could be with you today to celebrate … 70 years of fabulous and counting. Happy birthday my stylish friend! xo
Thanks Juliet!!
Happy Birthday, Cindy. You have such style and I’m so happy to know you here in blogland. You are always able to pull together outfits that work for so many occasions. You’ve inspired me to finish dressing with accessories (jewelry, scarves, etc.). I think I had gotten a little lazy on accessorizing after retirement. It truly makes the simplest of outfits look special.
Karen B.
Thank you Karen. I feel like you are the best friend I have never met as Lynne says. You guys keep me on my toes as well!
Happy Birthday for the 15th. Glad you are choosing to wear what you have in your wardrobe. You will look wonderful whatever you wear. I still love what you wore to your daughter’s wedding.
Hi Rita
Thank you so much. I would probably wear something very similar today if I were the mother of the bride!
Wishing you the happiest of birthdays! I turned 75 this year and because of you, I have ventured out in my clothing choices! You are my fashion idol!
Hi Donna
Thank you so much I am so happy to hear I have helped you out on occasion. You all keep me thinking of new ways to wear things!
Hi Donna
Thank you so much!!
Happy 70TH. You are amazing you look amazing you dress amazing. So helpful and inspiring to us all. I can’t wait to see you in your birthday outfit. Skirt for sure. You will be amazing yet again! 😁🎉🎊🥳
Hi Linda
Thank you so much! You guys are great!
Hi Linda
Thanks for weighing in…I am pretty sure it will be a skirt!
Happy Birthday! Have you ordered from Chicwish? Thanks
Hi Diane
Yes I have. As I recall it takes about 10 days. They may be faster now.
HAPPY HAPPY BIRTHDAY!! You are such an inspiration! You have style for
days. Always look forward to your posts.
Hi Nancy
Thank you so much. I appreciate your support so much!
Thank you so much Nancy!!
Happy Birthday, Cindy. 70 looks great 😃 on you! Everything you wear looks fabulous. Tulle does look party with hot pink top and sparkling jewelry. Maybe not for your party but I like the gold pants and fluffy sweater picture of you.
Hi Nancy
My daughter snagged that sweater for a wedding recently! I love that sweater!
Welcome to the 70’s club!
I turned 71 last month.
Every day is a gift ❤️
Thank you Carol. I couldn’t agree more!
I bought that many-layered tulle skirt and love it (in black). As I scootch closer to 70, I hope I can stay as cool as you. Style, baby!
Hi Elle! Rock it girl!!
As a 73 year old with tulle skirts in the wardrobe, I say tulle. Lots of others do too, by the look of it. Happy birthday, you glam grandmother, you!
Hi Prue
Always love hearing from you!!
I love the tulle skirts Cindy, on you, I haven’t had the courage to buy one yet but as I turn 70 next November….maybe then! You inspire me for sure and I love to see what your recommends are for fashion and lifestyle items. Your blogs are so wonderful and honest!
Wishing you the happiest Birthday celebration. You will rock whatever you wear❤️
Go for it Judi!!
Happy 70th. Birthday Cindy. As many others here, do rather like the idea of a tulle skirt.
Happy Birthday Cindy!! I too turned 70 this year (in September). I love the sound of the velvet skirt with the glitzy jewellery but I know you’ll look fabulous whatever you wear!!
Happy Birthday! You always look amazing. I can’t wait to see what you decide to wear! The black velvet looks awesome!
I think the tartan blouse and either of your black skirts, tulle or Lilly. Somehow it’s a signature look for you!
(Or the hot pink blouse and skirt), but i see others have touted the tartan/ skirt combo too!
Dear Cindy: Happy birthday and thanks for all the great fashion, lifestyle, decorating and recipe thoughts. I, like your other readers, am in love with your vegan pant and tulle skirt looks. Tartan always does me in. I have a bit in my wardrobe now, thanks to you!
Whatever/wherever you do or go to celebrate your special day, you will be the best dressed one there. Well, with the exception of Steve and Scout!
Cheers,
Carla
happy x 70 birthday! you are such an inspiration. love love x70 your style.
bon
Happy Birthday!!! Your talent for putting outfits , shoes, accessories together is the BEST! You have Always inspired me to have fun with fashion and enjoy being creative. I love all your outfits but always take a double look at the tulle skirt, tartan plaid blouse and broaches over buttons!!! Love it! Have fun with whatever beautiful outfit you come up with❤️
Happy Birthday! All of these outfits look great!
Happy Birthday Cindy !! You look fantastic in everything you wear and l am sure you will nail it whatever you choose. But Summer will be an excellent guide 🙂 Have a glorious celebration!!! Lots of love xo
Happy Birthday Cindy! We share the same birthday (Dec. 15),I’m just a few short years behind you…. You always look great and present so many wonderful options to mix and match. I really like your signature black skirt and tartan blouse or the black pants with the tartan jacket, along with a brooch for a bit of sparkle. Cheers!
Would love to see you in the black velvet lily skirt or a tulle skirt – paired with a beautiful top that makes you feel good! Either skirt would add a festive touch and should be comfy as well. Sure you will look and feel beautiful in whatever you choose!
Love you post today! And happy birthday! I’m having trouble pinning it today to Pinterest. Can you help me? Thanks Cindy!
Well, Happy Birthday! I adore you in the black tulle skirt and the beautiful tartan plaid shirt with the cool pins where the buttons are. The belt! You look amazing!!!!
Regardless of what you wear, you’ll be the most fabulous woman in the room. Happy 70th sweet friend. xoxox, Brenda
Happy Birthday Cindy. As soon as I started reading todays blog, the Lily skirt came to my mind. It is definitely your signature style. One if you do not mind me saying I have adopted. I want you to know how much I love your blog. I look forward to each new one that comes out. Thank you for all you do to help remind all of us older women that we are still relevant and matter. Wishing you a very happy birthday.
Hi Cindy,
Wishing you a very Happy Birthday!
Whatever you decide to wear I know you will look fabulous. I vote for the velvet skirt, with something uniquely you on top. (Love those CPShades skirts, I have two now.).
All the best for a very happy celebration and a wonderful Christmas.
Xo Heidi
(I turned 70 this past july) Don’t feel any different….it’s just a number. Wishing you a very happy birthday, have a wonderful celebration! You look wonderful, anything you decide to wear will be fantastic!
Cindy, I could never begin to offer suggestions for your 70th birthday party! Your style is so unique and simply you and yes, I LOVE it. You will look gorgeous and classy in anything you wear. I’ve said before, I would love to trash everything in my closest and start afresh with your style! Ha! I celebrated my 70th two years ago. Very casual, by the pool with family. I wore flared ankle jeans with a shirt that said “STEPPING INTO MY 70TH BIRTHDAY LIKE A BOSS” with an animal print stiletto shoe on the front. Lots of fun!
Happy Birthday!!!
You will look fantastic no matter what you decide to wear!!
Enjoy your 70s! My 70s have been amazing.
Been following you for years. Truely feel the black leather oants with the red tartan blazer is party ready and super stylish in you and my fav. Some outfits above are not dressy enough so it is time to celebrate and needs to be dressier. Only other outfit appropriate to me, is under the i es to buy, again a red pattered shirt marked on sale. I think december, holidays, party and red on you! Hands down!
You will look elegant in any of these options. I love the idea of a black velvet skirt with a colorful, silky top. I also love the black velvet pants with turtleneck and brocade (?) scarf with brooch at the shoulder. And whether you choose dressed up jeans for your celebration or not, I am in love with the festive Jean outfit. That red blouse is divine, and so is your hair! Happy upcoming birthday!
All these are beautiful ideas and would be a smashing look! I turned 70 2 years ago, December 21st. We had a party at our home with mostly family, as it was during Covid. I wore Merlot color velvet pants from Eileen Fisher and a magenta cashmere sweater. The pictures we took that night were some of the best of me and my family ever. Such a treasure. To top off that night, my sweet hubby gifted me with a Van Cleef Alhambra necklace! So amazed! Whatever you decide to wear, you will be fabulous!
TULLE SKIRT!
ASK THE GRAND DAUGHTER WHAT YOU SHOULD WEAR!
Great idea Eliz!! I will do that!! So sorry you won’t be here!
Happy Birthday! I will be 70 on my next birthday and my daughter keeps asking me why I am dressing so much better these days and I tell her “Cindy Hattersley!” You look wonderful in everything but I really like the idea of the pink Lily skirt and black turtleneck or the velvet pants with the fringed scarf. And maybe it should be a last minute “ah ha” moment with whatever vibe you are feeling.
Happy birthday! I love the hot pink and also the black velvet. I’d fancy it up with rhinestones for extra sparkle. Enjoy your special day!
Happy Birthday! You can wear any of those outfits, you look lovely in them all.
No matter what you decide to wear to your party, I know you will look FABULOUS! Seventy looks awesome on you! ♥️
Hi Cindy,
Wear what reflects who you most are. I can see you in a CP Shades velvet maxi skirt with a turtleneck and one of your gorgeous Indian necklaces and bracelets.
Boots would look great if they are comfortable for you to wear. Your choice of what you wear that day often depends on the weather, place where you will be and sometimes your mood.
Your birthday will be celebrated in a special way, it lands on the “full moon.”
I want to wish you an early birthday, may you continue to be blessed with all the gifts that surround you.
🎉🎂🎉
Hi Katherine
Thank you so much. I treasure each and every well thought out comment from you…you are the best!!
Happy birthday Cindy, I enjoy your posts so much and you give me so many creative ideas. I know you will look fabulous in whatever you choose. I turned seventy in June and bought a new dress for the occasion ,but ended up wearing old favourites. Enjoy your day and please keep posting. Vicki( in Ireland).
Happy Birthday! You look fabulous, and I enjoy following your blog. You have a great sense of style and the self confidence to pull it off is inspiring.
Wishing you a great year ahead, and have a wonderful time at your party!
I love your style & your pairings, but where & how do you store all of this? Do you have a giant walk-in closet? I would love to see your closet & how you manage & organize it all. Thanks!
I love the hot pink color on you. It says happiness. However, I would be tempted with jeans and a nice shirt & jacket just because. But you will look great in whatever you choose! 70 is not bad…rather freeing truthfully.
Enjoy your SPECIAL day! 🎂🎂🎂
I turned 70 over Labor Day weekend. I had a Dessert and Dance party with my nephew as DJ. Lots of fun. I wore Eileen Fisher. Black pants and a black linen long open sweater, her bronze silk crinkle cami (currrently on sale by the way) and statement jewelry. Wore some black dress sandals. Had a buffet of desserts that guest could help themselves because I was dancing outside all night! Great way to bring the new decade in.
You look wonderful in everything you showed us but I would love the hot pink skirt with a black cashmere turtleneck! And don’t forget to wear a pin somewhere! Maybe at the waist??? Happy Birthday!
Congratulations and Happy thoughts on your 70th birthday. Wear whatever brings a smile to your face on your special day. A heartfelt Thank You for the inspiration you give me to enjoy dressing up and experimenting with new looks and colours. The joy you live comes through in your posts and it’s contagious. Know you spread happiness to so many of us.
Happy 70th dear friend,
Your wisdom flies off the pages of your blog as you encourage readers to embrace and express their uniqueness in all the dimensions of our lives. You inspire us to choose wardrobe pieces and accessories carefully so that when special occasions arrive, our closets become our personal shopping kiosks. And, you elegantly model your values in all you choose and wear.
Your’e the “lily skirt ” woman, so your black velvet one, a colorfult sweater, a belt, sparkly jewelery with a pair of your colorful birdies will say “Cindy” is celebrating seventy.. May it be a most lovely time.
Hugs from Mercer Island,
Diney
I vote for something with a tulle skirt. That just says celebration! I can’t wear those, too short, but love the look. Congratulations on turning 70. I am now 84 and loving creating outfits inspired by your posts.
Happy Birthday Cindy! I just had my 75th birthday celebration. It’s a gift to still be here to celebrate with family. I didn’t buy anything new to wear to my party & we all had a wonderful time. Enjoy your special day!
I think you look best in your lily skirt with a beautiful colorful top! Second choice is the black leather pants with your fitted jacket and a colorful scarf. Whatever you decide you will look stunning! Enjoy your birthday!
Wishing you a lovely Birthday and a year filled with good health, lots of love, and many of God’s blessings!🎂🎁🙏🏻❣️
Definitely the velvet Lily skirt — that is so YOU! You are the queen of beautifully accessorizing your outfits, so I know that what ever you choose will be perfection. Happy 70th! And welcome to this decade. It was a mind-bender when I turned 70 last December, but what I feel most at this age is peace and a joy in who I’ve become and in the life I’m living. Truly knowing and loving what’s most important to you in your life is the key. Wishing you all that!
While you look soo sophisticated in black, it the pink that makes you glow with happiness!
I just love it! So there’s one vote!
Wishing my 70th wasn’t in the rear mirror! I celebrated in a black dress with red roses surrounded by family,
It is a milestone for sure !
Enjoy!
You bring so much joy to is all!
Cindy Happy birthday! and I always enjoy looking at your outfit combinations. My 81st soon: black jeans, burgundy top, Mary Janes, black Fossil handbag, gold jewelry, and easy on the cake to keep in shape.
The tulle skirts scream sassy, savvy, sexy Seventy! So grateful for you sharing so many fun and interesting articles with us!
Go celebrate beautiful YOU and have an amazing birthday month!
I am seconding Dianne’s comment (and others) who are urging either a tulle skirt or the CP Shades skirt, so very much “you”. After seeing one of your posts about Tulle skirts I bought one for myself and when I wear it, I just feel like I am at a party — a fun, fabulous party!
(I also have to second Florence’s request for a peek inside your closet and tips on storing and accessing all your beautiful clothes and accessories.)
A very happy birthday to you — I turn 70 in April 2025 and am so pleased to follow your blog.
You look smashing in every one of the photos! Since you said you’d probably go with a black velvet skirt….I would suggest a colorful blouse or sweater, such as a fuchsia or chartreuse that you wear so well. And while I love and admire your Native American jewelry, I’d say rhinestones for sure! They’re more celebratory and also fit in with your birthday’s proximity to the holiday season.
You are amazing in your attitude, energy and enthusiasm for all things that make a visual impression. All good wishes for many more milestones!
Oh, Diane! I totally agree with you on the tulle skirt. Cindy wears them so well and it speaks to her stylish, playful personality.
Happy 70th birthday Cindy! I celebrated mine last year. Like you, I wore a pretty dress I already owned and felt good in. Why buy a new one, right? My three children gifted me a lovely gold necklace that I wore that night. Life is good so celebrate that milestone birthday with happiness.
All of the choices are delicious. My vote is for the tulle skirt. 70 and sassy!
Definitely a skirt. CP or tulle, it’s your call. I like the vintage turquoise or rhinestone accents, so you have a mix of age & new. I have a quote on the wall from Richard Gere: “I am old but I am forever young at heart. We are always the same age inside. Know that you are the perfect age. Each year is special and precious, you can only live it once. Do not regret growing older, it’s a privilege denied to many.” Happy birthday!
Oh dear, I have looked at your suggestions and thought there would be loads of replies and I wouldn’t need to bother but I can’t see any. I feel that you help us, well me, so much you that deserve us to do the same for you! I prefer one of your tulle skirts, I love the look and I think it suits you wonderfully. I like your tartan shirt also, adding some of your diamonds broaches. I love your velvet birdies with them . I hope my suggestions help, but choose something you feel comfortable in as well as makes you feel good.
Wear something you love and look fabulous in (lots to choose!) and that telegraphs the health and happiness that your family and friends hope you will continue to experience. What ever clothing sends the healthy, happy and looking forward to the future message will be perfect.