Ladies, it’s time to ditch the outdated notion that style fades after 50.
After all, with age comes wisdom, financial freedom and the confidence of knowing exactly what you want in life – so why let your wardrobe hold you back?
As we age, it can be easy to slip into bad fashion habits that leave us looking dowdy, drab and – heaven forbid – old beyond our years.
But the secret to looking fabulous – and not frumpy – lies in the details. The right details.
Jamie Reilly, 38, a senior stylist for Westfield and former star of Australia’s Next Top Model, has shared with FEMAIL her eight steps for giving your wardrobe the upgrade it deserves.
She is a firm believer that a great fit can turn an average outfit into a showstopper, and that the right accessories can ‘make or break’ any look.
Read on to learn her other non-negotiables – including why a woman’s best friend is a capsule wardrobe (versatile, chic, timeless) and why it’s always worth splashing out on a good, expensive bag.
And she has a genius ‘little trick’ for perfecting your silhouette that takes just seconds to pull off and makes all the difference.
Jamie Reilly, a senior stylist for Westfield and former star of Australia’s Next Top Model, has shared with FEMAIL her eight rules for women over 50 looking to update their wardrobe
Tailor your clothes – it makes a world of difference
Have you ordered clothes online that don’t quite fit right or find yourself in between sizes? Don’t toss them aside – tailor them!
Sure, it can be a bit of a hassle and cost a little extra, but it’s almost always worth it.
‘Brands don’t make clothes to fit everyone exactly,’ says Jamie.
‘So take a piece to your tailor and get it altered to fit you. You won’t regret it.’
A perfectly tailored outfit not only looks better, but you’ll actually wear it more, she adds.
Because when something fits like a glove, why wouldn’t you want to show it off?
Choosing the correct underwear is crucial – it can make or break an outfit
Jamie Reilly, from Adelaide, is a firm believer that a great fit can turn an average outfit into a showstopper, and that the right accessories can ‘make or break’ an outfit
Jamie isn’t shy about calling out her pet hate: bad underwear.
Nothing ruins a look faster than visible panty lines or straps digging in. And let’s face it, underwear that’s easily noticeable? Totally tasteless.
‘It can ruin an entire look if you can see your undies digging in. Everything needs to be smooth and seamless with no lines, for a more elevated look,’ she says.
‘I personally wear the Lululemon G-strings. They don’t slide down, or dig in – they’re perfect.’
Define your waist by adding a belt
If your outfit is oversized, a belt is your secret weapon.
Cinching it at the smallest part of your waist instantly draws attention and can create that long, lean silhouette all women love.
It has the effect of making everything look in proportion, which in turn gives you a styled, complete look, Jamie says.
This trick works with just about anything- blazers, shirts, dresses, even jumpers. It’s a game-changer when you want to elevate an outfit without overthinking it.
If your outfit is oversized, a belt is your secret weapon. Cinching it at the smallest part of your waist instantly draws attention and can create that long, lean silhouette all women love
Roll up your sleeves to draw more attention to your body
If you want to elongate your body and draw attention to your waist, Jamie suggests rolling up your sleeves to show your wrists – the smallest part of a woman’s body.
She says this often-forgotten ‘little trick’ goes a long way to creating a more polished look – with minimal effort.
‘Rolling sleeves up takes two seconds, and can change the outfit from daggy to elevated.’
Invest in a capsule wardrobe
Whether you’re starting fresh or refining your style, investing in a capsule wardrobe is a must – and it’s surprisingly budget-friendly.
While the term may sound a little space age, Jamie describes a capsule wardrobe simply as a collection of timeless basics that work together and never go out of style.
‘A capsule wardrobe is all the basics you need. Forever pieces that won’t date, they you can mix and match for different looks,’ she explains.
For instance, you can pair a classic white T-shirt with straight-leg denim or black pants, a black blazer and white sneakers, topped off with a cotton striped or white shirt. This simple combination not only exudes sophistication but also shows you’ve got your look together without even trying.
While the term may sound a little space age, Jamie describes a capsule wardrobe simply as a collection of timeless basics that work together and never go out of style
Investing in a capsule wardrobe (like the one seen here) is a must – and it’s surprisingly budget-friendly. This is the best way to create dozens of outfits using a minimal amount of clothes
If you’re feeling basic and boring, add jewellery
A little bit of jewellery goes a long way. Even when you’re in a rush, don’t overlook the power of a few key pieces – a bracelet and the right pair of earrings can elevate your look in seconds.
‘Jewellery elevates any outfit, a little necklace, some earrings, layering bracelets and a watch, you are good to go!’ Jamie says.
Whether you gravitate toward gold or silver, bangles or pearls, the key is to choose what speaks to you. These thoughtful details can transform any outfit- no matter how basic or boring – into something that feels complete.
And if you are aiming to look a bit younger, try something thin and dainty to enhance your look without overwhelming it.
Have a go-to pair of heels in your wardrobe along with high-quality pieces – and a good bag
Have a go-to pair of heels in your wardrobe
Whether it’s a chic pair of black kitten heels or stylish strappy nude block heels, having a go-to pair of evening shoes is essential for any over-50s wardrobe.
‘A nude thin strap heel that elongates your legs and goes with everything will never fail you,’ says Jamie.
‘Either a clear Perspex heel or a nude heel will do the trick.’
These versatile options seamlessly complement all your outfits – whether you’re rocking black, denim, white or a colourful dress. With the right pair of heels, you’ll be ready to step out in style for any occasion.
Invest in quality pieces and a good bag – it will elevate any look
Investing in quality capsule pieces and a beautifully crafted bag or two can elevate your look from dated and flat to modern and chic in no time.
Investing in quality capsule pieces and a beautifully crafted bag or two can elevate your look from dated and flat to modern and chic in no time. Jamie recommends the Oroton Clara mini bag (left, priced at $399) and The Horse Clementine Bag (right, $269.95)
Those looking to splash the cash may wish to consider the Miu Miu Leather hobo bag (left, priced at $5,200) or the Gucci Horsebit 1955 leather-trimmed printed coated-canvas shoulder bag (right, priced at $4,950)
‘I always suggest a black bag that can be worn crossbody, along with an earthy-toned bag in natural brown for summer,’ advises Jamie.
‘These are perfect for when you’re wearing all white or muted natural tones.’
If you haven’t yet splurged on a designer bag, it may be time to rethink your wardrobe strategy. Instead of continually buying similar pieces, focus on those key items that will make a statement.
‘Just buy that pricey bag you’ve had your eye on for ages! Trust me, you will love it and wear it for years to come,’ says Jamie.
If you’re only wanting to spend a few hundred dollars, Jamie recommends brands like Oroton, The Horse and Nakedvice.
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