Have you gotten your invitation yet? It seems that everyone and his mother (or son or daughter) is throwing a party this spring or summer. Whether they be weddings, anniversaries, graduations, or just celebrations bringing people together, it seems like we’re all going to need to shop our closets (or spring for some new items) to get us into the party mood.

But for many of us post-pandemic, there’s a sartorial dilemma: Do we want to resume our previous look, up our “game” a bit with some new staples that will let us blend in appropriately (but perhaps with a bit more glam) or do we go bold, and stand out, and make a strong statement about who we are and how we want to present ourselves going forward? Blend in or go bold: which do you choose? Either way, you’ll have plenty of company (and admirers) if you follow the advice of fashion experts.

Let’s start with blending in, for those of us who want winks and nods rather than making waves. Town and Country magazine recently published a piece on the 25 style secrets for women over 50. Experts weigh in on everything from shoes to accessories to shapewear and shirts, along with tailoring, fit, color, and jewelry (opt for daintier, they recommend). With the motto of “age has nothing to do with style,” these experts will get you fashion-ready and feeling great without worrying about side-eye glances from those who detect a fashion faux-pas. Similarly, The Telegraph recently shared its “Seven Secrets That Will Guarantee You’re Always Well Dressed.” Commenting on the look of New York City women who seem to always have their fashion act together, writer Lisa Armstrong quotes Ralph Lauren, who confidently states, “I’ve always believed in timeless clothes that have no age attached to them.” Along those elegant lines, Armstrong recommends you focus on tailoring, color (monochrome somehow seems big right now), classic patterns, and upgraded staples. Again, you’re not making waves- you’re just sure to get appreciative approval from women in the know. 

Alternatively, some of us take the hold-no-prisoners attitude when it comes to post-pandemic dressing, A recent post in the Guardian profiles several bold and idiosyncratic dressers who switched from basic to flamboyant without looking back. For example, with the mantra “life is a celebration,” 64-year-old Arlina McIntosh has embraced color, shape, and spectacle in the skirts she now designs and wears. As she states, “What’s the point of growing older if you’re not going to be bold about your decision-making?” Also embracing bold colors and non-traditional shapes is 70-year-old Faye McNiven whose attitude (“I won’t fade into the background”) is reflected in the bright cheery colors she dons, which cheer her up and put her in a more positive state of mind. 

And if you’re looking for inspiration (and perhaps an item or 2 to pick up), you may want to peruse the new website, Beyond Style, whose website and app hope to lure Baby Boomers to shop among the 300 stores and 6000 brands available on their site. With everything from luxury items, outlet options, and eco-conscious brands, it won’t matter if you’re trying to blend in or be bold- it seems like there’s something for everyone!