How to Rock an Off the Shoulder Top After 50
Want to look effortlessly elegant after 50? An off-the-shoulder top is the perfect way to feel chic, confident, and just a little bit flirty—without trying too hard! It’s sophisticated, sexy, and never over the top.
Wondering how to style it in a way that feels flattering and age-appropriate? No worries! Whether you’re in your 40s, 50s, or 60s, I’ve got you covered. Keep reading to learn my top three styling tips, plus some outfit ideas to help you wear this look with confidence.
blue and white off-the-shoulder top
How to Wear an Off-the-Shoulder Top to Look Classy and Feel Comfy
Start with a Good Strapless Bra
I’ve always loved the look of off-the-shoulder tops, but I’ll be honest: I avoided them for years for one simple reason: the dreaded strapless bra.
I have to feel comfortable, and every strapless bra I ever tried was either too tight, constantly slipping, or just didn’t feel good. Honestly, it didn’t seem worth the hassle.
That all changed when I discovered the Wacoal Red Carpet Convertible Strapless Bra. This bestselling bra is a game-changer! It stays snug without digging in, and best of all, I don’t have to pull it up constantly.
If you’ve been avoiding off-the-shoulder tops for the same reason, I recommend giving this one a try.
*Note: If you are really big-busted, I totally get it. You will likely need more support. I’d suggest a cold shoulder top, which is similar to an off-the-shoulder top but with straps so you can wear a regular bra underneath.
Wear an Off-the-Shoulder Top with Sleeves
An off-the-shoulder top might seem a bit bold at first ( I mean, we’re not 25 anymore), but it’s actually a flattering, classy way to show off a little skin—something that keeps us looking youthful! If you want to feel more comfortable, try one with long or 3/4-length sleeves.
The extra coverage helps balance the bare neckline, so you feel stylish yet totally at ease. After all, feeling great in what we wear is all about balance!
Prep your Skin
Your shoulders and décolletage are naturally beautiful at any age! But if your skin feels a little dry or crepey, a good moisturizer can help you feel more confident rocking an off-the-shoulder top.
I’ve had great luck with City Beauty Invisicrepe Body Balm—it really plumps up the skin. Nature Well Clinical Retinol Advanced Moisture Cream from Amazon is another favorite of mine. Both do a great job of hydrating and softening skin, especially if it’s feeling a little dry (thanks, hormones!).
After a shower, I just slather one on, and sometimes I’ll add a little Jergens Natural Glow & Firming Self Tanner for a subtle glow. It’s a small step, but it makes a big difference in how I feel when I wear something off-the-shoulder.
Now, let’s check out some of the cutest off-the-shoulder tops for summer and learn how to style them confidently!
Chic Outfits with Off-the-Shoulder Tops to Look Modern
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Floral the Shoulder Top with Black Pants
Here’s a pretty abstract floral top from none other than Vince Camuto. Camuto used to be the king of Footwear, but now he’s more the king of the Shoulder Tops (Lol!).
I can’t tell you how many of these tops I have posted on this blog over the last few years. He obviously has a winning formula: mature woman love. This is one of his signature off-the-shoulder styles. It’s called a bubble top because of those pretty ruched 3/4 length sleeves.
The best way to style one of these stand-out statement tops is simple. Wear it with black pants, as seen here, or white pants, and let the print do the talking ( because it’s talkin’!). Keep the shoes the same color as the pants, and add a bag in one of the colors from the top for a clean, elegant look.
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Chambray Off-the-Shoulder Top and White Jeans
Natural, casual, and relaxed… Chambray is always such a welcome fabric in spring and summer. This chambray off-the-shoulder top is especially pretty because of the sweet white embroidered dots. It’s such a feminine top and so nice and laid-back, too. I think the only way to wear this (at least in my mind) is with white.
These bright, crisp white cropped jeans really set it off and give it a very modern look. How do you like the bag and sandals? They have gorgeous texture and such an elegant look that really elevates the chambray, too, don’t you think?
Shop the Look
Pink Tie Waist Off the Shoulder Top
Here’s a pink dot off-the-shoulder blouse with really nice details. Instead of having to tuck in, you have a banded waist and that really cute tie to one side. This is a really cute look that helps highlight your waist. The print is lovely, too—pink tone-on-tone dots for a more subtle look than contrasting dots. I love the romantic feel of this.
In this case, I’ve contrasted it with a rougher, more masculine fabric -denim and then added some ladylike accessories to create that yin and yang feeling even more. Opposites attract.
More off the Shoulder Tops Online Now
Now, just in case you are wondering……
Where would you wear an off-the-shoulder top?
You wouldn’t wear an off-the-shoulder top to work ( too casual and alluring ) or any place with heavy air conditioning ( you’d freeze). But all these tops would look great if you were going somewhere special on the weekend, having a meal at an outdoor café, or going on vacation. There’s no right or wrong, but the vibes these tops give off are romantic, flirty, and a little sexy, so take it from there. A date night would be perfect!
Over to you!
Are you feeling more confident about wearing an off-the-shoulder top? Would you wear one at 40, 50, or 60+? Let me know your ideas for how to style an off-the-shoulder top! I’m all ears.
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Hi Deborah
I need to go to a late afternoon wedding in August (not particularly formal) and was planning to wear a pair of white crepe pants and a navy cold shoulder lace top with pearls. I’m 59 – so I’m wondering 1) is the cold shoulder (not off-the-shoulder) still in style, and 2) am I just too old for it? I’m 5’11” and 175 pounds. This is an important day, so I want to look my best.
Thanks so much!!!
Hi Lee, Cold shoulder is fine, and yes, this sounds lovely. You are not too old. Crepe, Lace, and pearls display perfect for an informal August wedding – Romantic and summery.
Cheers, Deborah
When I first saw this style in In Style magazine, I didn’t think I would go there. But you’ve done it again, Deborah! Your choice of off-the-shoulder tops shows how this look can be classy for us 40+fashionistas. I’ll wear one of these on my next visit to Las Vegas.
Hi Jane, Glad I inspired you, and what a terrific idea to wear one to Vegas! Have fun! Cheers, Deborah
Hi Deborah, I love your blog, and this is the first time I have commented.
I live in Australia, so this trend won’t hit here until later this year, although some of the Winter sweaters we see already are off-the-shoulder. I have broad shoulders, and do I mean general? (Ah, dear….genetics!). Is there a way of wearing this trend or adapting it not to make them look even wider or accentuate them? Or should I forget about it?
Kind regards, Monica
Hi Monica,
I love hearing from my Australian readers!
Great question, Monica! Yes, you can wear an off-the-shoulder but must balance things out. Wear your off-the-shoulder top with a fuller skirt or wide palazzo pants to do this. This will give the illusion of a fuller hip, creating that perfect hourglass shape. Can you visualize how fab you will look? I hope that helps! Cheers, Deborah
Thank you so much for your advice, Deborah. I will try your suggestions and look forward to experimenting with this trend.
Kind regards, Monica