AS a style coach for women over 40, I’m used to helping people stuck in a fashion rut. But since I started the menopause, I’ve had to take my own advice.
When it comes to shorts, I’d always steered clear. When I was a teen, a family member commented that my legs weren’t very nice – and it stuck with me.
I felt I could never wear shorts and I lived in jeans or trousers. On holiday, I would cover my legs with maxi skirts or linen trousers.
But now I’m 51 and for the last five years I’ve helped other women feel good about themselves and make better style choices.
And I understood what I had been telling myself wasn’t true. I realised there’s NOTHING WRONG with my legs!
Here I rate the High Street’s best leg-baring looks.
The Suit
THE first thing I love about these is the high waist, because it holds my tummy in and makes me feel supported.
Also, they felt very soft and, with a linen blend, they would be great in the heat.
I love this tailored look, too – you could wear this to work, or even to a wedding.
RATING: 4/5
The denim
COMFY and a good length, these shorts have a nice, high waist.
I also love the shirt, with its loose, relaxed fit and the contrasting cuff.
The pinstripe works really nicely with the denim, too – it’s comfortable, but stylish.
Finally the heels create a polished and well-put-together look.
RATING: 5/5
The bermuda
THIS look feels relaxed – it’s a great outfit for a city break, a nice lunch or even the school run.
The jumper is super-soft and comfy, as are the shorts. I really like white shorts – they compliment my complexion, would go well with everything and work for lots of different occasions.
RATING: 3/5
The paper bag
THIS outfit is definitely something I’d wear on holiday.
It is comfortable, breathable and the shoes bring a great splash of gold.
The shorts, which come with a belt, are brilliant. I love their silhouette and the high waist flatters my figure.
Together with the raffia-like texture of the belt, it creates a nice tonal look.
RATING: 4/5
The tailored
PINK is my favourite colour, so the shorts are already a winner for me.
I like their tailored fit, with a slight dart down the middle. They work dressed down with this tee and simple sandals.
They would also look lovely dressed up with a bold blouse so I’d get so much wear out of them.
RATING: 5/5
The khaki
THE khaki shorts were so, so soft.
They hung really nicely on me and although the fabric is quite fluid, they still supported my tummy, which is a bonus.
They are also very easy to wear and would go really well with summery sandals and a tailored jacket, either here or abroad.
RATING: 3/5
The linen
THIS look feels quite smart, even though it’s linen – a fabric which is known for creasing and is associated with being loose and casual.
The smart navy colour reinforces that more dressed-up vibe which I love – and the long, straight shape of the shorts are so comfy.
I recommend sizing up!
RATING: 2/5
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