Non-Prude Way to Wear Victorian-Inspired Clothing

You’d think it was time for high tea and crumpets with all the Victorian-style clothing we’re seeing lately.

Feminine tops and dresses with ruffles, high necks, and voluminous sleeves are trending. You’ll also see plenty of lace-up booties, frilly accessories, and some corsetted waist styles.

The big question is: Is this a look an older woman can wear without looking like a prude? Here are a few modern-day Victorian-style outfits that can make all the difference.

1. Mock Neck Victorian Style Top

There is nothing dated or frumpy about this paisley chiffon blouse with the romantic ruffled neckline and sleeves. One of the reasons it looks pretty modern is that the high Victorian neck is a shorter mock neck and the ruffles are small. This blouse looks great worn open, which gives your outfit modern sex appeal.

It’s also easy to wear a Victorian top like this when you pair it with something edgy. Skinny black jeans, mules with chain hardware, and this sharp architectural bag balance the prude potential.

Another great thing about this top is the ruffled yoke helps make shoulders look wider, balancing broader hips. This is a good option for pear-shaped gals.

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2. Dainty Daytime Victorian Collar

An excellent way to get in on the Victorian collar trend is to wear it as a sweater.  I love the juxtaposition of this formal, lacey white shirt collar combined with a soft, cozy knit. Then all you need are a pair of dark, sleek jeans, some of the latest suede booties, and a stylish bag.  Playing with opposites keeps Victorian collars from veering into the frumpy zone.

One other nice thing about the Victorian look is that it’s a great way to cover up your neck or sun-damaged décolletage (if that is a concern) and highlight your lovely face. Don’t like pink? This feminine sweater also comes in black and dark gray.

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3. Victorian Lace-Up Booties

Lace-up Victorian booties have gone mainstream. Some are pretty classic, while others, like the ones I’m showing here, have a cool, modern twist. The chunky block heel and trendy square toe make these Victorian booties elegant show stoppers.

The trick, as always, is to wear them in a  contemporary way, so they don’t come across as being costumey or, worse, make you look as old as Queen Victoria herself. A sleek black turtleneck and skinny jeans do the trick.

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