Are you a MILF? Carol Vorderman sparks debate with her new fashion edit for JD Williams
Carol, aged 65, has partnered with the fashion retailer on a campaign that celebrates "Midlife Is Living Fearlessly" an edit of clothes that showcase her signature style
When it comes to dressing with confidence Carol Vorderman has always been top of the class. She has never shied away from form-fitting clothes that showcase her figure and complement her personality. Her latest campaign for fashion retailer JD Williams has placed her back in the spotlight as she aims to redefine the term M.I.L.F as a celebration of mid-life and the joy that comes with owning who you are.
The acronym MILF first entered mainstream culture in the early naughties, but the term is emotionally divided in opinion, with some women seeing it as an amusing and flattering compliment, while others feel offended and annoyed. “We all know what it originally stood for, but words evolve." comments Carol. "I’ve always taken it as a bit of a compliment, to be honest. Sometimes a word becomes more about how people use it than where it started. If I were to redefine it, for me it’s about being fabulous and fearless. Living your life fully."
Midlife Is Living Fearlessly - Carol Vorderman redefines the term with her clothing edit
Carol's selection is based on classic, clean-cut pieces that showcase her signature style. She models sharp, tailored separates, including a chic navy pin-stripe waistcoat and matching trousers that will be an elegant addition to your winter capsule wardrobe. I also love the classic crisp white shirt, a key item that can be worn buttoned-up for a contemporary look (add a tie for the ultimate in power dressing) or undone and dressed down with jeans.
Get the look
Waistcoats have been a mainstay of my wardrobe for the last couple of years, and I love the nipped-in shape of this pinstripe version. The bold gold buttons elevate the look and add glamour. Follow Carol's lead and add chunky gold jewellery to take the waistcoat from the office to after-work drinks.
These wide-leg trousers are gently flared and will work with everything from high heels to your best white trainers. Teamed with the waistcoat, they make a great co-ord, or add a best cashmere jumper for an elevated weekend look. The wider hem helps to deliver an hourglass silhouette.
Crisp and classic, a white shirt is a capsule wardrobe hero that's loved by stylists who want their celebrity clients to look effortlessly elegant on the red carpet. Pamela Anderson recently wore an oversized white shirt to the Golden Globes, giving it a modern edge. Size up if you want to achieve the same vibe.
However, it's not all about masculine influences or styles that are 'borrowed from the boys'. The edit also includes a feminine cocoa coloured polka-dot dress, reminiscent of the iconic style worn by Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman, and a frilly pink knit that would soften the edges of a tailored suit. Carol has put her spin on the styling by choosing to cinch in her waist with a selection of belts, but the pieces will look just as good left unbelted, if you prefer.
Although florals are proving to be one of the key spring/summer fashion trends for 2026, polka dots are bouncing up the style charts. This dress has a dropped waist, so add a belt if you want to accentuate curves - this collection is all about wearing clothes that you feel great in, and confidence comes with comfort.
Here's the perfect example of practicality meeting timeless style. I've owned this trench in camel for a few years, and it's the most reached-for item in my coat cupboard. This navy update is even more practical as the darker shade will be easier to keep clean. Navy is a softer alternative to black and more flattering on most skin tones.
Flirty and fun, this short-sleeve jumper adds a touch of frivolity to Carol's edit. The frilled edges take it from basic to better. Carol's added a belt to draw attention to her waist - and why not? Wear with skirts or trousers, if you don't fancy a belt, you could wear it loose, or tuck it into the waistband of whichever separates you fancy.
When it comes to pricing, the numbers add up to great value - you'll find a classic navy mac for £60 (that looks just as good as the best designer trench coats) and the majority of the edit is under £50, proving that you can achieve a look that will boost your confidence without chipping away at your savings.
When it comes to the term MILF I'm still on the fence, but there's no denying the impact this campaign has had on social media. Most of the mid-life influencers on my feed are full of praise for the positive message it's highlighting, while there's a significant group left feeling offended. But look past the marketing and the heated debate, and you'll find a collection of affordable and flattering clothes that will do their bit to boost your confidence.
"I’ve lived through a time when women were often overlooked, judged, or expected to fade quietly into the background," says Carol. "I remember being 39 and wearing a short dress that felt fabulous to me, only for it to become front-page news about ‘should a woman of 39 wear a dress above the knee! Those experiences could have knocked my confidence, but instead they taught me the importance of owning your life on your own terms. Now, at 65, I feel more powerful, confident, and at home in my body than ever. I want to encourage women to reclaim the narrative around this stage of life – to embrace their strength, their beauty, and their desire to live fully without apology. For me, it’s about celebrating midlife as a time of courage, happiness, and freedom – a chance to live fearlessly and on our own terms.”
And I think we can agree... Hallelujah to that.
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