10 Fashion Mistakes That Cost You Money Over 50

You know I love finding great fashion deals and sharing tips to help us look and feel our best. But what if some of the choices we make are costing us more than they should? As we step into our 50s (and beyond), every dollar counts and it’s time to get real about avoiding fashion mistakes that drain our wallets.

I’m sharing some common fashion mistakes I’ve seen—and made myself!—that can leave us frustrated and spending more than necessary. Let’s fix those fashion faux pas and build a wardrobe that works for us, not against us.

Fashion Mistakes That Cost You Money Over 50

1. Buying Clothes That Don’t Fit Properly

We’ve all been there: you see something on sale, grab your usual size, and assume it’ll fit perfectly. Then you get home, try it on, and realize it’s too tight in the arms or loose in the waist. Instead of returning it, you tell yourself, “I’ll make it work.” But let’s be real—you never wear it!

Money spent on ill-fitting clothes is money wasted. Always try items on before purchasing. And if you’re shopping online like many of us do these days, make sure to double-check the sizing chart and read the reviews.

2. Chasing Trends Instead of Building a Classic Wardrobe

This is one of the top fashion mistakes I see women over 50 making when I’m out and about! Trends are fun to try, but relying too much on the latest styles can leave you with a closet full of clothes that feel outdated next season. Plus, trendy pieces can be tricky to mix and match, which often means buying more just to make everything work. That’s why I recommend sticking to timeless basics you’ll wear for years. You can still have fun with trends by adding a few key pieces here and there without overhauling your whole wardrobe.

Wondering how to add trends into your own outfits in a tasteful way? You can see lots of examples of how I incorporate trends in these posts:

3. Skimping on Quality Basics

It’s tempting to grab that $10 t-shirt or $20 pair of leggings—we’ve all done it! I’ve learned my lesson that cheap basics often lose their shape, fade, or pill after just a few washes, meaning you’ll end up replacing them frequently, which adds up over time. Instead, it’s worth investing in high-quality essentials that will stand the test of time.

Here are some of my posts with recommendations for key wardrobe pieces like leggings, white tops, denim, and more—pieces that are not only durable but also versatile enough to mix and match for countless outfits.

4. Ignoring the Care Instructions

Let’s be real, ladies—how many times have we tossed a “dry clean only” sweater into the washing machine, thinking it’ll be fine? Spoiler alert: it usually isn’t. Improper care can lead to shrinking, fading, or stretching, making the item unwearable.

Before buying, always check the care labels. If something’s high-maintenance and you’re short on time (like me!), it’s probably best to skip it. Stick to machine-washable fabrics whenever you can.

I shared my tips for taking care of your clothes in the winter, including my recommendations for keeping your sweaters, boots, and denim in tip-top shape! I also compiled a list of my favorite cleaning and laundry must-haves from Amazon.

5. Buying for the Life You Used to Have

Our lifestyles evolve, and so should our wardrobes. Take a look at what your daily activities are. Do you spend a lot of time running errands? Or are you still working? Make sure that you’re spending money and purchasing for your current life!

6. Falling for “Sale” Traps

We’ve all been tempted by a sale, right? “It’s 70% off—what a steal!” But here’s the truth: if you don’t need it or love it, it’s not really a bargain. I share a lot of fashion and sale alerts here, but a good rule of thumb is to ask yourself, “Would I pay full price for this?” If the answer is no, it’s time to walk away.

That being said, there are definitely some brands worth the splurge, like these top athleisure brands and premium denim jean brands that truly deliver on quality and style.

7. Overlooking Accessories

Accessories can elevate an outfit. Invest in a few high-quality pieces, like a leather tote, a pearl necklace, or gold hoops. These classics never go out of style and pair well with everything.

I’m a big accessories gurl, and I share about my favorites all the time! You can find some of my favorites in these posts:

9. Skipping Comfortable Shoes

We’ve all suffered through a night in uncomfortable heels, only to regret it later. But continually buying shoes that don’t fit well is a costly mistake. Make sure you’re prioritizing comfort for your feet.

I’ve got quite a few posts to help you find super comfortable, but stylish shoes. Here are some of my favorites:

10. Not Planning Your Outfits

I’m definitely guilty of this fashion mistake for women over 50! Impulse buying can be fun, but it often leads to a closet full of random pieces that don’t work together. Before you make a purchase, take a moment to think about how the item will fit into your existing wardrobe. Can you style it in at least three different ways with what you already own? If not, it might be worth passing on.

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To GOD Goes The Glory!

Verse Of The Day

John 3:34-35 (NIV)
³⁴ For the one whom God has sent speaks the words of God, for God gives the Spirit without limit. ³⁵ The Father loves the Son and has placed everything in his hands.