Chic over 50
I hope I speak for a lot of us in our 50s when I say that I pretty much dress exactly as I did in my 30s & 40s. I worry less about pleasing others or fitting in. Confidence in choices and understanding where I am now in terms of body shape and lifestyle changes are embraced & accepted.
2022 real life.
Fashion fades…style remains
Too old for fashion?
I have always looked forward to the new season arrivals. The anticipation and excitement of opening Elle, Vogue, Harpers Bazaar with the words “New Season” is here. Such was my appetite I purchased American and Australian editions. The next “IT” bag, textures, colours, heels, flats you name it. I soaked up every image I knew the name of every model on the catwalks & covers.
I’d scour every high street store for as close as possible copies, eBay finds or Portobello knock offs.
What happened?
I grew up and lived my life. Priorities changed, I picked a job in fashion, still religiously following trends & fashion . Working also allowed for indulgent purchases especially Prada, my shoes & bags needed their own room.
No longer in Vogue.
When I discovered in my 40s, I was no longer part of the game. Younger women who could have been my daughter or granddaughter were half-dressed on the covers. Photoshoots of mini-skirted 17-year-old ‘girls’ inside, featuring stunning clothes with towering heels looked impressive…But now on me now with a midlife body shape absolutely ridiculous.
or “Mutton dressed as lamb”
Easy chic
Where I am now.
It’s no longer a passion to be seen in the new season or new arrivals the moment they hit the internet. Instead, I will buy a few sprinkles to compliment what I already own and invest in a quality bag and shoes.
My chic
Easy, classy and classic. If you choose unfussy elegant staples you will need less room in your wardrobe and endless options.
My Gucci loafers are great for daily running around. They go with any trouser length and the style never dates.
Stripe shirt & tan pants.
Eight different looks easily achievable, a long sleeve stripe shirt teamed with classic tan trousers. The quality bags that I invested in add the wow factor. I have a passion for thrift shops and collecting sunglasses. In the top left image, I am wearing a second-hand leather jacket and a MiuMiu bag that I purchased for £25.
Buy less - buy better
People who follow me on Instagram probably think I have a huge wardrobe but alas no. I rewear and reinvent looks. The Gucci shoes are 22 years old, purchase on eBay for £25.
If you think I pay a lot for my handbags you need to read the bag section.
My bags READ MORE
Oldies & goodies.
Luckily my weight hasn’t really changed I’m still a size 10 or a small. The blonde ponytail swings although sparkled with grey. I don’t like feeling too dressed up, and it’s a big mistake to overdo the sexy look. I don’t do short skirts, cleavage-baring or over the knee boots.
Being older, you learn to keep to your own style.
So really my wardrobe is full of the same pieces I’ve been buying, wearing, putting away, and bringing out again for 20 years. The cross t-shirt above with drawstring pants look as good now as when striding around Camden in my youth.
Staying stylish
Taken last week in my 56th year. To break down the outfit a Zara current season sweater. Hunter wellington boots. A Miumiu bag and a raincoat from the Zara men’s department. The look is modern, fresh, colourful and practical. I am dressed to walk my dog over the fields. The latest fashion no, but timeless stylish accessories ensure whatever age it works.
Out for lunch. The coat packs a punch, it stands out for the right reasons. A vintage coat and classic style bag teamed with thrift shop glasses. Underneath no surprise, if you read my blogs, cashmere black rollneck and trousers. Chic, modern and ageless, if you look good you feel good.
Making fashion work read more
Age has nothing to do with style.
Great style is possible no matter how old you are…the key is understanding your wardrobe & lifestyle needs. A great stylish coat in a neutral colour with a hood & waistcoat in Winter can be reworked for Spring with white jeans and converse.
Be bold.
A touch of daring. I love this coat, it’s fun sometimes a print or touch of colour lifts your look. At any age I don’t think there should be limitations.
“Tired of London ..tired of life”
The joy of living in the City and not owning a car. I live very central and own a dog. The footwear essential is of course boots. I currently have 5 pairs, are my Hunter is my favourite they allow for thick socks to look good, especially after puddle jumping.
Every week I regularly walk either the river Thames or the London canals. Not only good exercise but great to be outdoors and surrounded by nature.
