“Trying Too Hard”: How Midlife Women Can Simply Their Style…and Look Effortlessly Elegant

One of the things I hear from you ladies over and over again is that you want to look stylish without looking like you are “trying too hard”. And I get it. I hear you.

I mean, I REALLY HEAR YOU. Your words are stuck in my head when I scroll through social media. I will see an outfit from another influencer and think, “She’s trying too hard with this outfit…Oh she is trying WAY TOO HARD with this look…” 😂

As midlife women, we often find ourselves torn between wanting to stay youthful and stylish while avoiding the pitfall of appearing like we’re trying too hard. The key lies in embracing effortless style and simplifying our wardrobes with neutral colors. By doing so, we can exude an air of confidence, sophistication, and timeless elegance that transcends fleeting trends. So, let’s explore how you can effortlessly refine your style and create a wardrobe that speaks volumes without saying a word.

Effortless style is all about looking put-together without appearing like you’ve tried too hard. It’s about embracing your unique personality and dressing in a way that feels natural and comfortable to you. Here are some tips to help you achieve effortless style:

Effortless style is all about looking put-together without appearing like you’ve tried too hard.

– Valarie

💌 Don’t forget to sign up for my weekly email with weight loss tip, healthy recipes, and weekly sales roundup. Sign up below…it’s FREE!

🎄🕎 PLUS…I am only sharing IN MY NEWSLETTER ONLY: –

⁃ holiday healthy eating meal plans (coming in November);

⁃ money saving tips;

⁃ stress-saving tips;

⁃ gift ideas;

⁃ holiday hacks;

⁃ and MORE!

It’s FREE! Sign up HERE so you don’t miss out!


Similar Posts:


Gray Cashmere Button Up Cardigan + White Shell Tank + Black Straight Leg Jeans + Black Loafers + Black Handbag = Simple Chic Outfit

Color Palette:
Cool Neutrals = Gray + White + Black

1. Know Your Body:

Understanding your body shape and what flatters it the most is essential for effortless style. Dress in clothes that highlight your best features and make you feel confident. Embrace your curves, accentuate your waist, or go for a relaxed fit if that’s what makes you feel comfortable.

Camel Cardigan + Striped Tee + Straight Leg Jeans + Neutral Slip On Sneakers + Crossbody Bag = Stay At Home Outfit (or Errands Outfit)

Color Palette = Warm Neutrals (Camel)

2. Stick to a Color Palette:

Having a color palette that suits you well can simplify your wardrobe and make it easier to mix and match. Neutral colors like black, white, gray, beige, and navy are timeless and versatile. They create a cohesive look and allow you to effortlessly build outfits without much thought. Add pops of color through accessories or statement pieces to keep your style interesting.

Gray Coatigan + Black Shell + Black Straight Leg Jeans + Black Loafers + Black Handbag = Effortless Style

Color Palette =
Cool Neutrals (Gray + Black)

3. Invest in Quality Basics:

Building a wardrobe with high-quality basics is the foundation of effortless style. These timeless pieces will last longer and withstand changing fashion trends. Invest in items like a well-fitting pair of jeans, a classic white button-down shirt, a tailored blazer, a little black dress, and comfortable black or nude heels. These staples can be dressed up or down for various occasions.

Camel Cardigan + Black Button Up Shirt + Black Straight Leg Jeans + Camel Loafers (similar linked) = Office Outfit (Business Casual Outfit)

Color Palette:
Warm Neutrals = Camel + Black

4. Embrace Minimalism:

Simplicity is key to effortless style. Avoid cluttering your outfits with too many accessories or excessive patterns. Opt for clean lines and minimalistic jewelry to keep your look chic and polished. Remember, less is more. Choose one statement piece or focal point and let it shine.

Brown Cashmere T-Shirt + Brown Slip Dress + Mary Jane Ballet Flats + Neutral Handbag = Everyday Elegant Outfit

Color Palette:
Warm Neutrals (Brown + Beige)

5. Dress for the Occasion:

Effortless style doesn’t mean dressing casually all the time. It’s about adapting your style to different occasions while maintaining your personal touch. Dress appropriately for the event or setting while staying true to your style. A well-tailored dress or a tailored pantsuit can exude elegance and effortlessness, while a stylish pair of jeans and a blouse can be perfect for a casual outing.

Denim Jacket + Striped Tee + Wrinkle Free COMFY Black Pants + On Cloud Sneakers + Hobo Bag = Stay At Home Outfit (Everyday Outfit)

Color Palette:
Cool Neutrals = Navy + Denim + Black

6. Confidence is Key:

No matter what you wear, confidence is the ultimate accessory. Embrace your unique style, own it, and carry yourself with poise. When you feel comfortable and confident in your clothes, it radiates effortless style and makes a lasting impression.

In sum, effortless style is about simplifying your wardrobe, embracing timeless pieces, and dressing in a way that reflects your personality. We are going to work together to pair down and rebuild your wardrobe AND your style, starting with what is already in your closet and working up from there. Let’s simplify your style TOGETHER!


Midlife Posh Closet uses affiliate links within this site. Purchasing an item through a link from MidlifePoshCloset.com or Midlife Closet social media (Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube) may result in a commission. Merely clicking on a link does not result in a commission, but if an item is purchased as a result of the link, a commission is earned. If you have any specific questions about my disclosures or affiliate links, please feel free to contact me directly at val@midlifeposhcloset.com

4 thoughts on ““Trying Too Hard”: How Midlife Women Can Simply Their Style…and Look Effortlessly Elegant

  1. I really really enjoy your posts. I’m newly retired and working so hard to simplify my wardrobe. This helps so much. Thank you.

Leave a Reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

%d bloggers like this: