Adjusting how we dress is inevitable as we age, but maintaining personal style through these transitions takes effort. Dressing to flatter your (ever-changing) body shape can be a challenge, too. But don’t be discouraged. There are always creative solutions to accentuate, balance and camouflage your way to looking smashing. Read on for 5 excellent wardrobe tips that will keep you chic through midlife:

1. Wear more knits
   Knits are breathable, less restrictive and have more drape, all of which make for a more forgiving and flattering silhouette. Knitwear is a resilient fabric too, which accommodates fluctuating waistlines.

2. Wear matte fabrics
   Shiny fabric finishes (satin, sequins, bright silks, etc.) bring out imperfections in the face and body, so are less flattering as we age. Instead, stick with matte fabrics that tend to soften overall appearance.

3. Consider adding layers
   Adding layers is one way to maintain your personal style yet age with grace. If your signature style is body con dresses, for example, add a sheer organza wrap or long sweater layer to help camouflage and soften the line.

4. Lengthen silhouette
   Since we tend to gain weight as we age, tricks like wearing vertical stripes, vertical pleats, asymmetrical hemlines and princess seams lengthen the silhouette and so are more flattering.

5. Accentuate waistline
   As we age the midriff area tends to thicken, so creating a waistline becomes more important. Adding a belt, peplum details or changing to an empire waistline is the best way to flatter the silhouette.

See HellaLife.com press feature here.