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Fall fashion should feel cozy, chic, and effortless. But sometimes, the wrong style choices can unintentionally make us look older, dated, or even invisible. The good news? With a few simple tweaks, you can go from frumpy to fabulous this season.
Here are the top seven fall fashion mistakes midlife women make—and how to fix them with confidence and style.
Mistake #7: Not Updating Your Skincare Routine
The Problem: As the weather cools, skin naturally dries out. Many women stick to the same lightweight products year-round, leaving skin looking dull and tired.
The Fix: Switch to a richer moisturizer during fall and winter. Hydrated, glowing skin is the best accessory—it makes every outfit look better. Think of your skincare routine as the foundation of your entire style. My favorite is this Ole Henrikson Banana Bright Instant Glow Moisturizer and Eye Cream that give my skin the glow that you ladies always comment on. (I purchased these with my own money – no gifting!)
Another gifted product I am loving right now is the Ole Henriksen Peach Plumping Trio. I’ve always been a fan of the Pout Preserve Lip Treatment as a way of getting that “freshly injected lip” look…without the pain and expense of lip injections. (Thank you to Ole Henriksen for sending me a new color in Peach Glaze.) But I’m REALLY loving the combination of the Peach Glaze Glow Niacinamide Serum and the Peach Glaze Glow Mist:
- Peach Glaze Glow Niacinamide Serum is a PLUMPING serum: it instantly brightens and plumps skin with antioxidant-rich hydration for a glowy skin.
- Peach Glaze Glow Mist is something I keep in my tote bag to mist my skin and add hydration throughout the day. It is a refreshing ultra-fine facial mist powered by peach ferment, peach juice, and vitamin C for instant brightening and plumping hydration.


Mistake #6: Outdated Prints and Florals
The Problem: Old-school plaids or busy autumn florals can instantly date your outfit.
The Fix: Opt for modern neutrals and subtle patterns instead. Camel, cream, burgundy, and monochrome looks always feel fresh. If you love prints, make one sleek statement piece the star of your outfit instead of going head-to-toe.


Mistake #5: Wearing Outdated Denim
The Problem: Denim is timeless, but certain cuts—like baggy, low-rise, or heavily embellished styles—shout another decade. Bootcut jeans, if not styled carefully, can lean “matronly.”
The Fix: Update your denim with modern cuts: straight leg, slim, or wide-leg. Choose dark washes or clean finishes for an instantly polished look that elevates even casual outfits.


Mistake #4: Too Many Bright Colors
The Problem: Some stores push bold brights and loud color combos for midlife women. While cheerful, too many brights can cheapen your look and clash with fall’s natural beauty.
The Fix: Let Mother Nature inspire you. Autumn offers the best color palette—rust, burgundy, taupe, navy, and earthy neutrals. If you crave brightness, add it through accessories like a scarf, bag, or statement shoes.


Mistake #3: Over-Accessorizing
The Problem: Too many accessories can overwhelm your outfit and tip it into chaotic territory (think “Mrs. Roper” vibes).
The Fix: Coco Chanel’s advice still holds: “Before you leave the house, look in the mirror and take one accessory off.”Keep accessories intentional and minimal for a refined, elegant finish.

Mistake #2: Choosing the Wrong Cardigan
The Problem: Cardigans are cozy, but the wrong one—long, shapeless, or droopy—can age your look.
The Fix: Go for structure. Choose cardigans with clean lines, quality fabrics, and flattering cuts. A belted cardigan or one with a defined shape adds polish. If you love longer cardigans, pair them with slim pants or tailored jeans to keep your outfit chic instead of frumpy.


Mistake #1: Wearing “Old Lady” Shoes
The Problem: Outdated, clunky shoes can drag your outfit down—no matter how well-dressed you are otherwise.
The Fix: Trade them in for sleek ankle boots, loafers, or chic sneakers. A pointed toe works wonders by elongating the leg and instantly modernizing your look.
Final Thoughts
Style in midlife isn’t about chasing every trend. It’s about making smart choices that highlight you. By avoiding these common mistakes and embracing these easy fixes, you’ll feel confident, polished, and unforgettable this fall.
✨ Want more style secrets? Join my Midlife It Girl Status membership, where I share exclusive fashion formulas and closet rescue tips you won’t find anywhere else!
“I am 5’0 with a 26” inseam and generally wear size 2P. All items fit TTS (true to size) unless otherwise stated.“
- Valarie
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Live watching you and hearing all your tips!
Could you send the link to the ballet shoes with strap ! It’s in the shoe part of the video. The shoes look black , but were referred to as leopard print.