4 Denim Washes That Flatter Older Women Perfectly

Getting older means making some changes. It's not just about the right makeup, but also dressing for the body you have now. Because let's be honest, the body you had at 25, is not the one you'll have at 45, 65, or older — and that's how it's supposed to be. As hormones shift and you start wondering what really is the difference between perimenopause and menopause, it's completely normal that your body evolves. In other words, what you once wore all the time and loved, may no longer be flattering you. That's why you need to level up, and start paying more attention to colors and cuts, especially when it comes to denim.

It's important to pay attention to denim washes based on your age, height, and body type, because a denim wash that looks amazing on your friend, who's 6 foot and 50, may not look the same on you if you're 5 foot 3 and 45. "Some washes can make you look larger and some can make you look slimmer," personal shopper and wardrobe stylist Katie Schuppler exclusively tells Women. "Darker washes tend to be more slimming, while a light wash or whiskering can make you look larger."

Jeans are an absolute staple and everyone should have at least one or two pairs in their closet. But if you don't, or you know it's time to switch things up and you're a woman of a certain age, then Schuppler is here to help you with her expertise. Thankfully, there are plenty of denim washes that will look good at any age.

Everyone should have at least one pair of light blue jeans in their wardrobe as it's the most common and casual of the denim washes — and a forever staple in the timeless Jennifer Aniston outfits worth recreating. "Light wash denim is great for a casual look, with a pair of sneakers paired with a sweatshirt, t-shirt, or a tank and casual jacket combo," Katie Schuppler exclusively tells Women. However, as Schuppler points out, the key to this wash being flattering is to avoid embellishments and other unnecessary details. With age, comes the era of refinement, so ditch the bedazzling.

One of the best ways to wear denim for women in their 50s and beyond is to go for a sold dark wash. "Dark washes are the most slimming, versatile, and classic," wardrobe coach and personal shopper Lisa Emelo told Today in September 2025. "[Therefore], making them a great choice for creating polished looks." A rich indigo has the added benefit of being slimming, and it can give you an elongated look if you're on the short side. Dark washes also allow for more experimentation with different cuts, because they are so flattering in all shapes and sizes.

If you're 45 or older, then there's a good chance that you at least have faint memories of light gray jeans being popular in the 1970s and '80s, as manufacturers started experimenting with more dyes. While definitely a choice color that wasn't the most flattering on everyone, charcoal gray is a whole other animal. "A charcoal gray is that in-between of black denim and traditional denim so it's a great option to dress up or down," Katie Schuppler exclusively tells Women, adding that a sleek bodysuit paired with heels or a basic white tee, that's accessorized with some necklaces, are great complements. Just be sure to keep those pieces on the dainty side, because the one jewelry mistake that's going to age you is chunky jewelry.

Because it's always good to have a dressier option when it comes to denim washes, that's where black comes into play. After all, elevating your look and staying comfortable is absolutely where it's at when you get older. "Pair [black denim] with a dressier blouse or bodysuit and heels, or a heeled boot, for date night or a girls night," Katie Schuppler exclusively tells Women. "Look for contrast — not black on black or darker colors — to create contrast and make the look more proportional." Schuppler adds that black denim can also be worn casually, making it the most versatile wash you can own.