The Most Flattering Ways to Go Bare-Legged at 50+

Some women have legs so flawless at 50 they appear to be wearing stockings … which they’re not. Others have the firm thighs and toned calves of runners or the long shapely gams of supermodels … which they’re also not. It’s a bit of luck, good genes and perhaps a lifelong commitment to exercise. They ignite envy in the rest of us (me included!) who dread the spring/summer drama of going bare-legged. Whether your goal is to wear shorts or a tights-free dress, here’s how to blur, cover and camouflage and leave your pants at home:

(Left to right) Jennifer Garner and Gwyneth Paltrow

Jose Perez/Bauer-Griffin/GC Images; JOCE/Bauer-Griffin/GC Images

1. ID the real problem

Few mature women think they have “perfect” legs. As a beauty and style editor/personal shopper, I hear celebs and everyday women alike complain in dressing rooms about veins and discolorations, wobbly thighs and chunky calves. My advice? Get into body-positive mode, then look in a full-length mirror. What bothers you most? It’s either going to be discolorations or leg shape — not both. Yes, you’ll need to splurge on a few essentials, but consider it a mind/body investment that’ll set you free from anxiety and boost your warm weather style.

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(Left to right) French Connection Gretha Floral Midi Skirt in Sheer Lilac; Boden Women Easy Wrap Midi in French Navy, Flower Stem; A New Day Women’s Linen Wrap A-Line Skirt in Pink

Bloomingdale's; Boden; Target

2. First stop? A midi skirt 

Start the exposure process by taking advantage of the trend for midis. The mid-calf hemlines get you used to the bare-legged freedom of sun and air. Sound silly? It works — especially for those used to a full coverage casing of leggings, jeans or pants. A-lines with a slit and wrap styles that reveal a discreet flash of knee and thigh as you move and sit are the next dare-to-bare step. Try the French Connection Gretha Floral Midi Skirt in Sheer Lilac ($98, bloomingdales.com), the A New Day Women’s Linen Wrap A-Line Skirt in Pink ($28, target.com) or Boden Women Easy Wrap Midi in French Navy, Flower Stem ($96, bodenusa.com/en-us).