How do you feel about mixed-media fashion? Personally, I love the creativity designers show when they combine a variety of fabrics, contrasting materials, and textured details. However, sometimes the look can lean a little too crafty to me. For women over 50, the goal is to be modern and chic — we don’t want to look too hippie.
That said, many monochromatic and all-black mixed media pieces are sophisticated and wearable. They strategically combine fabrics like leather and knit or satin and jersey for a look that’s elegant and effortless. Mixing materials can also serve a practical purpose — for example, pairing stretch fabric with leather adds both comfort and freedom of movement.
Still, I admit that some mixed media pieces can feel unnecessary. Do I really need a blouse attached to a sweater when I can layer the two pieces myself? But then again, these designs often get the proportions just right. They’re intentionally cut to flatter and stay in place — no constant adjusting required. It’s one-and-done styling that looks polished and put-together without any effort.
YES! I LOOK FORWARD TO #GROWINGYOUNGER
PLEASE SUBSCRIBE ME TO YOUR MAILING LIST.
Mixed Media Fashion: Splurge vs Steal
Below, I’ve rounded up some of my favorite mixed media fashion pieces that work beautifully for women over 50 (and really, any age). Whether you prefer to splurge on designer details and fine craftsmanship, or steal the look for less, there’s something here for every budget.
Grey Sweater with Shirt
Here’a case in point about mixed media doing the layering for you. The shirt tails are the right length and the fabrics lay flat and won’t crumple or slide around. As you can see, you get a lot more detail (buttons, stripes and cuffs) with the designer sweater, but you will pay about a quarter of the price for the “steal” version.
Splurge: Cinq à Sept Megan Mixed Media Pullover Sweater, $395
Steal: Karen Kane Mixed Media Layered Sweater, $109
(Petite and Plus Sizes too!)
Black Puffer Jacket
A classic black quilted down jacket mixes jersey with quilted nylon giving these jackets shaping an allow you to move around town or down a ski slope.
Splurge: Moncler Quilted Down & Knit Cardigan, $1,320
Steal: Pajar Cressy Mixed Media Channel Quilted Stretch Puffer, Now $244
Hoodie Blazer
The Veronica Beard dicky blazer is a luxurious splurge, but is one that you will wear for years to come. The blazer and dickey are sold separately, so you can mix and match, but it brings the price to almost a thousand dollars! This Liverpool Los Angeles blazer is far from the same quality, but it gives you the same look for a fraction of the cost.
Splurge: Veronica Beard Maci Plaid Dickey Jacket Brown Wool-Blend Blazer, $698
and Oversized Hoodie Dickey Grey Braided Drawstring Insert, $298
Steal: Liverpool Los Angeles Tweed Blazer with Removable Hoodie Insert, $159
Black Bubble Hem Dress
The bubble hem is back! This dress style is designed to flatter with its combination of a sleek knit top and crisp woven skirt. Splurge or steal!
Splurge: Simkhai Kenlie Long Sleeve Mock Neck Dress, $845
Steal: ASTR The Label Carerlion Mixed Media Bubble Hem Dress, $138
Mixed Media Denim
These mixed media jeans from Farm Rio include metal studs and inserts of embroidered fabric to create a statement. The DO by Dee Ocleppo pair make a more of a modest statement with mixed fabrics at the cuffs at a more modest price.
Splurge: Farm Rio Denim Metal Details Embroidered High Waist Pants, $320
Steal: DO by Dee Ocleppo Autumn Mixed Media Jeans, $129
Black Ruffle Tee
And last but not least, a mixed media T-shirt is a simple way to wear the trend in a more sculptural way. This Sacai tee is artfully crafted and super chic. But you can pick up this English Factory top for a much lower price.
Splurge: Sacai Mixed Media Poplin & Jersey Pocket T-Shirt, $475
Steal: English Factory Mixed Media Ruffle Top, $85
Mixed media fashion is a chic and modern way to bring depth and personality to your wardrobe. Whether you prefer all black or prefer subtle texture play, combining different materials instantly adds interest and elevates even the most simple silhouette. Do you like mixed media fashion?
You may also like to read The Midi Skirt Suit Trend for Fall 2025: Designer Looks for Less and Best Ways to Wear Knee Boots for Women Over 50 (2025 Style Guide)
This post contains affiliate links which may give us a commission at no additional cost to you.
Are you following Fountain Of 30 on Facebook, X, Instagram and Pinterest? We’ve got lots going on, so join in on the fun! Subscribe to our newsletter here. You don’t want to miss a post and promise not to bug you to death. Join our Facebook Group called Growing Younger where women discuss everything good and bad about being over 50. Additionally Lauren hosts a bi-weekly podcast called Beauty is a Bitch!
Please pin!
