Derby stylist to host free fashion event to help ladies over 55 feel fabulous

A Derby fashion expert is leading the charge in the city to dispel ‘ageist myths in fashion’ while helping people embrace body positivity.

Jean Mountain, owner of The Dressing Room boutique, feels fashion myths hinder mature people from expressing themselves through their personal styling.

In a bid to combat ageist myths which include ‘you must dress your age’, Jean is hosting a free drop-in fashion event at Albany Lodge, Burghley Retirement Living development on Wednesday, November 8, 2023.

Jean is a local businessperson in Derby whose background includes roles of former President of the East Midlands Chamber of Commerce and Nottinghamshire Businesswoman of the Year winner in 2021.

Following a lifelong passion for fashion, a key area of Jean’s focus is The Dressing Room where she aims to help people of all ages increase their confidence through their clothes.

Jean is now taking her confidence-boosting mantra and tips to communities where she is keen to help people find their personal style.

The free drop-in fashion event at Albany Lodge will start at 2pm.

Ahead of the event, Jean is keen to share her top five common misconceptions in mature styling, as she challenges fashion myths for the over 55’s.

Here are top tips from fashion expert Jean

You can’t wear black and navy together

This is a myth that people of all ages still believe, however black and navy can look fabulous together, especially when paired with neutral tones such as grey and white, or a pop of colour.

Just make sure the tones are strong enough to contrast so that the outfit doesn’t blend into one.

For example, a navy blazer over some tailored black trousers or jeans, or a black jumper (cashmere or something super soft and cosy) paired with navy midi skirt (satin or pleated) can look effortlessly stylish.

Add a scarf or statement bag for interest and a finishing touch.

Plus-sized women can’t wear prints

This is one of Jean’s least favourite myths as it can be quite harmful.

It’s not uncommon to gain weight as we get older with hormonal changes and the menopause, but fashion should be an expression of your personality at any age or size.

Plus-sized women can and should feel empowered to wear whatever print they feel represents their unique style whether it is floral, animal print, tribal or geometric.

Jean is a strong advocate that if you love a print then you should wear it, as fashion is all about confidence.

If you feel self-conscious but still love a print, choose smaller prints with less ‘negative space’ - areas of the fabric with no pattern - as this can be more flattering for larger body shapes.

You must dress your age

Age is literally just a number, and you should wear what makes you feel comfortable and confident.

Don’t let anyone else dictate what you should wear based on your age.

Jean feels nothing should be off limits, but what many people tend to do as they get older is hide their figures and wear loose, ill-fitting clothing.

Defining our best features can do wonders for confidence, so wear a belt that nips in and defines your waist, or roll up jacket sleeves to show the forearms which can balance an outfit.

If you have great legs, show them off with a shorter skirt, and wear tights if you feel self-conscious.

Jean says we can all be so afraid of showing our arms and legs as we age, but they really can be our best assets.

You can’t mix patterns

Mixing patterns can add visual interest and depth to your outfit, there is no need to be drab and dull just because you’ve hit the age of 50.

Just make sure to balance the patterns and choose pieces that have complementary colours.

Stripes for instance will look fabulous with a bold floral print that picks out the same colours.

You need to spend a lot of money to look stylish

Jean is a keen advocate of looking stylish on any budget and thinks this is achievable if you choose pieces that fit well and make you feel good.

Don’t be afraid to browse secondhand or thrift stores for unique, affordable finds.

Mix these with some wardrobe staples each season and you can look stylish on any budget.

Talking of the event Jean said: “I’m so excited, it’s going to be lots of fun.

“I’ll be bringing lovely seasonal clothing along, including a bit of sparkle for those festive nights out.

“And of course, there will be a range of gorgeous accessories to finish any outfit.

“It’s a great opportunity to pick up a few early Christmas gifts too.

“Don’t think it’s just for the ladies either, I have some fabulous pieces for the fellas too.

“If you have any fashion questions or feel you’re in a fashion rut, then this is the event for you.

“I want everyone to know that being over 55 doesn’t mean you have to retreat into those elasticated pants – you can have a distinctive, modern, fun style that suits you and displays your character from the inside out.”

Marie Buckingham of Burghley Retirement Living said: “We’re delighted that Jean will be joining us for an afternoon of fun, fizz, and fashion.

“The event promises to be the perfect occasion for people to get their fashion fix in the run-up to Christmas, perhaps finding a gorgeous new winter outfit or picking up some fabulous gifts and stocking fillers ahead of the festive season.

“Events like these are part of an ongoing programme at Albany Lodge, it’s a core part of our ethos that life over 55 should be the best time of your life, where you have less responsibility and more time to enjoy doing the things you love, including fashion.”

Burghley Retirement Living is hosting the free fashion event with Jean Mountain and The Dressing Room at Albany Lodge on Wednesday, November 8 from 2pm - 6pm.

Address: Burghley Retirement Living, Bramble Drive, Derby DE22 3ZB.

For more information about the event visit Burghley Retirement Living’s website by clicking here.