One of the goals of this blog is simple: I want to show that many of the fashion rules aimed at women of a certain age can be broken. Putting aside the fact that the phrase woman of a certain age is often used derisively, it’s worth mentioning that age brings wisdom. And with age, I have learned that it’s actually pretty rare for categorical rules to be, well, “categorical.”
“Don’t wear distressed jeans.”
“Women over 50 shouldn’t wear shorts or skirts above their knees.”
“You’re too old to wear leather pants.”
“Wear an age-appropriate outfit.”
“Don’t wear a bold lip color.”
And on and on. We’ve all heard them—the fashion dos and don’ts of getting older. But today, I want to show you something simple: it’s not about what you wear; it’s how you wear it. That’s the key. You’re not too old to wear… because clothes have sizes, ladies, not ages.
Not too old to wear leather pants
Leather pants. Today, I’m featuring a pair of black faux leather pants (J.Crew, limited sizes) paired with a pair of suede boots. Paired with an otherwise prepster look—white shirt (Banana Republic), black Crewneck Sweater (Banana Republic), and herringbone blazer (J.Crew old, similar), the leather pants add only the slightest flair to an otherwise subdued look.
Imagine pairing these tops with a pair of jeans instead—or even black slacks. Great looks, for sure. Tried and true. But totally different. The leather pants breathe life into this outfit, and they provide visual excitement to an outfit any woman of any age can pull off.
Faux leather pants (J.Crew, limited sizes) | Faux leather pants (similar) | White shirt (Banana Republic) | Black Crewneck Sweater (Banana Republic) | Herringbone blazer (J.Crew old, similar) | Blazer (similar 2) | Blazer (similar 3) | Suede boots | Black satchel (Ralph Lauren, old)
Faux leather pants (J.Crew, limited sizes) | Faux leather pants (similar) | White shirt (Banana Republic) | Black Crewneck Sweater (Banana Republic) | Herringbone blazer (J.Crew old, similar) | Blazer (similar 2) | Blazer (similar 3) | Suede boots | Black satchel (Ralph Lauren, old)
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Classic herringbone blazer
On Sunday, we brought you the essential tops any woman should have in their wardrobe. Featured prominently was the mighty blazer. I love a classic herringbone blazer (J.Crew old, similar) in particular. My go-to style is undoubtedly “preppy,” and very few garments embody that look more than a herringbone blazer. (Maybe a pair of loafers?) This is an old blazer that I wear often, but I’ve found similar blazers from Talbots and Nordstrom.
Faux leather pants (J.Crew, limited sizes) | Faux leather pants (similar) | White shirt (Banana Republic) | Black Crewneck Sweater (Banana Republic) | Herringbone blazer (J.Crew old, similar) | Blazer (similar 2) | Blazer (similar 3) | Suede boots | Black satchel (Ralph Lauren, old)
Faux leather pants (J.Crew, limited sizes) | Faux leather pants (similar) | White shirt (Banana Republic) | Black Crewneck Sweater (Banana Republic) | Herringbone blazer (J.Crew old, similar) | Blazer (similar 2) | Blazer (similar 3) | Suede boots | Black satchel (Ralph Lauren, old)
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Satchels
It’s not very often that I call out my bags in a post. But I’m just feeling this black Ralph Lauren satchel lately. Perfectly pairs with today’s all-neutral outfit, but as we all know, black pretty much goes with anything. So, it’s flexible. I’ve had it for years, so I rounded up this similar satchel for you.
Faux leather pants (J.Crew, limited sizes) | Faux leather pants (similar) | White shirt (Banana Republic) | Black Crewneck Sweater (Banana Republic) | Herringbone blazer (J.Crew old, similar) | Blazer (similar 2) | Blazer (similar 3) | Suede boots | Black satchel (Ralph Lauren, old)
Faux leather pants (J.Crew, limited sizes) | Faux leather pants (similar) | White shirt (Banana Republic) | Black Crewneck Sweater (Banana Republic) | Herringbone blazer (J.Crew old, similar) | Blazer (similar 2) | Blazer (similar 3) | Suede boots | Black satchel (Ralph Lauren, old)
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In case you missed it
If you’re looking for continued ways to add fun and excitement to your outfits, check out these shoes that add levity to your outfit.
last week, we started a series called back to the basics that discusses building a wardrobe with core essentials, or as i like to call them, the basics. remember, every successful wardrobe is built on a strong foundation, and often, some pre-work is necessary to lay that foundation. the first step begins with a closet cleanse. after you’ve finished that, assess the state of your wardrobe. ask yourself, “yeah, i want that new skirt with a bold print, but do i have anything that will go with it?” you will if you have the basics; you won’t if you don’t. remember, we’re looking to build a wardrobe containing essential women’s fashion: bottoms to tops.
always remember: the basics as the items that marry any two garments together. they are typically year-round pieces that easily transition from one season to the next—outfit to outfit. basics are neutrals: black, white, nude/camel, grey, and navy. the goal of building your wardrobe with the basics is to have a closet filled with those essential items that will carry you during any transition period with as few updates as possible. when your wardrobe foundation is built correctly, you will only replace a few items each year which is easy on your pocketbook.
last week, we talked about basic tops. this week, it’s all about bottoms. and since so many of you love Talbots, most of my recommendations are pulled from there today. are you ready? let’s dive in.
essential women’s fashion bottoms: skirts
a skirt in any neutral color will work. but most women have at least one black skirt. if you have room for only one skirt choose a style that can work for day and night. length, fit and fabric are key.
pencil skirt | ponte skirt |a-line skirt | midi skirt | maxi skirt
both a ponte or seasonless pencil skirt are perfect for the office, but they can be dressed down for the weekend with a jean jacket. if possible add a variety of styles: a-line, wrap, midi, and maxi.
pants
some women might forego a skirt altogether and head straight to pants. again, length, fit, and fabric are key.
trousers | ankle pants | crop pants | wide-leg pants
a trouser in will work year round. again, add a variety of styles that suit your figure: ankle, straight leg, and wide-leg.
denim
yes, blue jeans make the basics list. a pair of denim can be dressed up or down with ease and work for so many occasions. straight leg blue jeans in a dark rinse are the most versatile style. but mix in a variety of styles to give you options.
straight leg | ankle | flare | boot cut | skinny
in my opinion, you can never have too many pairs of blue jeans: boyfriend/girlfriend, ankle, distressed, frayed, flare, wide-leg, cropped flare, boot cut. the list goes on and on. and, yes, some of these styles are trendier than others. once upon a time skinny jeans were a trend. now they are a closet essential. don’t forget to add white, black, and grey into the mix. plus denim skirts.
cargo pants
some of you might be scratching your head wondering why (J.Crew) cargo pants made the basics list. aren’t cargo’s trendy?
honestly, these make my classic list as they flatter any figure but have a little edge. and now they’re a wardrobe staple. green or camel are my top color choices. try a straight leg or ankle.
lbd
the little black dress isn’t a bottom, technically. but this is a wardrobe basic nonetheless.
flare dress | wrap sheath dress | a-line dress | shift dress | shirdress
add a variety of styles to your closet. sheath, wrap, halter, a-line, shift, shirtdress. if you choose wisely one dress can work for any occasion. in order to accomplish this follow these guidelines:
- length: not too short
- fit: not too form fitting, let it hug your curves not squeeze them
- style: don’t show too much skin or bare too much information
- fabric: not too dressy
next week we’ll take a look at, wait a minute, why not keep you guessing? happy Sunday, ladies!
last week, i shared a few tips and tricks on how to purge your closet. now that your wardrobe has been pared down, you might be scratching your head wondering what the next step is. today, we’re going to talk about wardrobe essentials and staples that will carry you from season to season and make getting ready in the morning a breeze.
what are the core pieces needed to build your wardrobe’s foundation? well, the basics aren’t glamorous. they don’t grab your attention when you step into your favorite store. there are no ruffles, bows, or sequins attached. but i promise, if you want to be well dressed or look effortlessly chic you have to build your wardrobe with the basics. and you can never have too many wardrobe staples. these are the pieces that easily transition from outfit to outfit and span the seasons. the more basics you have on hand, the more outfit options available. remember, this is only a guideline as there are different styles and fits to choose with any wardrobe essential.
when you take the time to invest in the basics, you are laying a foundation for a functional wardrobe that will prepare you for anything. and who doesn’t want that? off to work on Monday morning? headed to a charity luncheon? how about date night? or a quick weekend getaway? if you have the basics on hand, there will be no more struggles to put together a fabulous outfit for any occasion. today, we’re going to talk tops that can easily pair with anything ranging from a statement skirt with a bold print. those tops are neutrals: nude, black, grey, white. (and for winter olive, navy and burgundy are great alternatives.)
are you ready to learn how to build your wardrobe foundation?
wardrobe essentials and staples: the basic tee
there’s a variety of styles when it comes to tees. here are my favorites: henley, crew, v-neck, scoop, long sleeve. the v-neck and scoop are the most flattering tees for any figure. yes, i consider stripes a neutral. (and so does Jenna Lyons.)
basic tanks and cami
tanks have wide straps, and a cami has thin strips. i suggest having both on hand, as these are the essential pieces that can layer underneath tops that might bare too much… information. like a wrap dress or shirt. they also allow you to rotate your favorite jackets, blazers, and cardigans with ease. a nude cami is a perfect solution for sheer blouses. a silk cami is an elegant layer.
button ups and blouses
button up shirts and blouses are that one item in your closet that easily transitions with ease from the office to date night or weekend casual. add a sleeveless and short sleeve for summer. long sleeves work any time of year. there are a variety of styles available: wrap blouse, pussy bow, trim, peplum all work.
chambray shirt
denim or chambray has attitude but is typically considered a laid-back. it’s perfect for a day of errands, but don’t be afraid to dress it up for a night out. there’s all kinds of washes: dark wash, medium wash, light wash. lots of choices!
sweaters
crew necks, v necks, and cardigans are all hard working staples. choose cashmere for winter. cotton for summer. who doesn’t love year-round options? think outside the box with cardis: chunky knits, waterfall, open, grandpa, and dusters.
next week we will take a look at basic bottoms: skirts, pants, and of course denim. maybe a few extras. see you then!
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