Elastic Is Fantastic: Wardrobe Wins for Wise Adults

Just because you're older doesn't mean you don't want to have fashion magazines' latest “must-have looks,” but let’s be honest, older adults don’t need complex buckles, delicate fabrics, or tie-up knee-high combat boots.  We've earned the right to breeze through parties with confidence and comfort and have learned that the clothes we love the most are the clothes that love us back. 

You know them, older adults who prove that style doesn’t retire, it just gets smarter. Your friend who, at seventy-two, glides into brunch in a wrinkle-resistant blouse and cushioned slip-ons that look straight off a Paris runway but feel like a hug. How about your artsy aunt who wears tunics splashed with color that wash as easily as they inspire, paired with sneakers that let her dash from gallery to coffee shop without missing a beat. Then there's your neighbor, a minimalist who keeps it sleek with crisp neutrals, magnetic closures, and shoes so streamlined they could double as modern art. And take a second look at some of the more stylish older men in your life, who know comfort doesn’t mean sacrificing class.  Soft, breathable sport coats pair perfectly with trousers that stretch when he does, and his slip-on loafers deliver both polish and practicality. Together, they show that chic can be practical, fashion can be functional, and the best wardrobes are the ones that don't show their age.

So when shopping for clothing and shoes for yourself or an older loved one, comfort is important but so is ease of living, proper fit and reinforcing personal style.  The right choices can make a big difference in daily life. Here are the key factors to keep in mind:

Comfort no longer comes with a sacrifice.  Today breathable, stretchy, wrinkle resistant, modal fabrics are everywhere not just in the loungewear department.  Look for breathable cotton, bamboo, or moisture-wicking blends that feel gentle on the skin. Elastic or adjustable waistbands provide ease of movement, and easy on and off adaptability.  Look for modern brands like Lululemon or DKNY that offer these features on their every-day looks without looking frumpy.

It is no secret that older adults need a bit more warmth than they did when they were younger.  As a result, layering options become that much more critical.  Consider adaptive features on easy-to-wear front-closure top layers.  Look for smooth-gliding zippers, large buttons, magnetic or Velcro fasteners or dusters with no fasteners so they can easily remove the top layer when that sudden hot flash hits. 

Pockets may seem like a small detail, but for older adults they can make a big difference in everyday comfort and independence. Well-placed, roomy pockets provide a safe spot to carry essentials like keys, tissues, or a phone, without needing to juggle a bag. For those with mobility challenges, pockets reduce the need to bend or reach awkwardly, keeping items close at hand. Clothing with secure, easy-to-access pockets aren’t just a fashion feature, they’re a functional lifeline that adds convenience, safety, and dignity to daily wear.

For loved ones that love the outdoors, consider UPF-rated clothing.  Fabrics with built-in sun protection shield skin from harmful rays even when not wearing sunscreen and help to prevent overheating when spending time in the mid-day sun.  Look for UV-blocking long sleeve shirts and blouses and add a modern wide-brim hat, an essential for outdoor activities, to protect their face and neck from sun damage.

Like fashion at any age, proper fit is the key to looking sharp but for older adults it is also practical.  Avoid oversized items that can snag on furniture as you walk by or droop on the floor causing a trip up.  And throw out items with rips, wholes and stains so you can feel confident and walk taller when you enter the room.  OK, keep your favorite wholly sweater you've had since college, but please just wear it around the house.

And don't forget, like most everyone else these days, older adults do not want to waste their time or money on delicate or difficult fabrics. Look for quality stitching and durable materials that withstand wear and tear. Avoid dry-clean-only items and consider quick-dry, wrinkle resistant fabrics that are ideal for travel if your loved one is frequently on the go. 

To finish your look, know that your shoes can make the difference between looking put together or looking like you're falling apart.  Luckily today's shoe trends fall right into step with the needs for older adults.  Slip-on designs are more fashionable than ever, with elastic panels or wide openings that make shoes easy to put on and remove without bending or ties. Non-slip, durable, lug soles that improve safety and extend shoe life, aren't just for workboats, they can be found on walking shoes and loafers on many top fashion brands like Sperry and Steve Madden. Look for shoes with warm lining to keep feet cozy during colder months and cushioned insoles and arch support to reduce strain on joints and improve balance.

At the end of the day, older adults want it all and why not?  Style and fashion can be found in clothes that also let you feel confident, keep you comfortable, and don’t require a YouTube tutorial to put on.  So go ahead buy that Kimono and those fashion sneakers and look fabulous... BFore Aging in Place.