After dressing countless women over 60, I’ve discovered what truly works for this fabulous age group. Style doesn’t retire when you do – it simply evolves! My clients always ask what pieces are worth investing in, so I’ve compiled my absolute must-haves that combine comfort, elegance, and that special spark that makes getting dressed fun at any age.
1. Well-Tailored Blazer
Nothing screams ‘I’ve got my life together’ quite like a perfectly fitted blazer. The right cut skims your silhouette without clinging, creating that polished look we all crave.
Forget those boxy, shoulder-padded nightmares from the 80s! Today’s versions come in beautiful, forgiving fabrics that move with you while maintaining structure.
2. Straight-Leg Jeans
Skinny jeans had their moment, but straight-leg denim is your new best friend. They balance your proportions beautifully while offering that bit of forgiveness we appreciate around the middle.
Though finding the perfect pair might feel like dating in your 20s – frustrating yet worth it – once you do, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them.
3. Silk Scarves
Where has this magical accessory been all your life? A silk scarf transforms even the simplest outfit into something spectacular with minimal effort.
Knotted loosely at the neck, draped over shoulders, or even wrapped around a handbag handle – the possibilities are endless! And honestly, who doesn’t love an accessory that doubles as emergency sun protection?
4. Statement Earrings
Whenever a client tells me she feels invisible, I reach for statement earrings. These little face-framers draw attention upward, highlighting your gorgeous smile and sparkling eyes.
Heavy doesn’t equal statement – lightweight resin or hollow metals give maximum impact without stretching your lobes. Plus, they instantly elevate even your most casual outfits.
5. Wrap Dresses
If dresses could talk, wrap styles would say, ‘I’ve got you, honey!’ They cinch where you want definition and skim everywhere else.
The V-neckline elongates your neck while the adjustable waist accommodates those days when lunch was just too delicious to pass up. Honestly, they’re practically magic – flattering almost every body type known to womankind.
6. Comfortable Wedges
Whoever invented stilettos clearly never had to stand for longer than five minutes. Enter wedges: the height without the hurt!
My clients swear by these stability-giving wonders for everything from garden parties to gallery openings. The solid base distributes weight evenly, preventing that awful ball-of-foot burn while still giving your legs that lovely lengthened look.
7. Cashmere Sweaters
Cashmere isn’t just a luxury – it’s an investment in looking effortlessly elegant for years to come. Unlike bulky knits that add visual weight, quality cashmere skims the body with fluid grace.
While the initial price might make you wince, cost-per-wear makes these buttery-soft treasures practically free! They regulate temperature beautifully, perfect for our sometimes unpredictable internal thermostats.
8. Wide-Brim Sun Hat
Dermatologists have been telling us forever, but I’ll say it again – sun protection is non-negotiable! A gorgeous wide-brim hat shields your face while making you look like a film star incognito.
Unlike those flimsy beach versions, invest in one with structure that holds its shape. The bonus? They hide those mornings when washing your hair seemed like too much effort.
9. Quality Ponte Pants
If leggings and tailored trousers had a perfect baby, it would be ponte pants. The structured knit holds you in without squeezing the life out of you.
Unlike regular leggings that reveal every dimple (bless them), ponte’s thicker fabric skims over lumps and bumps. They’re basically the secret weapon in my styling kit – comfortable enough for a nap, polished enough for lunch with the ladies.
10. Structured Handbag
Nothing ages an outfit faster than a slouchy, overstuffed bag. A structured handbag with clean lines instantly elevates your look from ‘running errands’ to ‘running the world.’
Medium-sized is the sweet spot – large enough for essentials but not so big you’re tempted to pack your entire life inside. And please, for the love of shoulders everywhere, choose one with comfortable straps!
11. Ankle Boots
Heaven sent for those days when open-toed shoes reveal unpainted toenails! Ankle boots pair brilliantly with everything from jeans to dresses, creating a seamless line that elongates your legs.
Low to mid heels offer stability without sacrificing style. My clients particularly love those with hidden elastic panels – all the chic with none of the struggle when putting them on!
12. Crisp White Button-Down
Mark my words: no wardrobe is complete without this timeless chameleon. A well-fitted white shirt works harder than any other piece in your closet.
Contrary to popular belief, white brightens your complexion and looks incredibly fresh at any age. Slightly fitted styles (not tight!) create a cleaner silhouette than boxy cuts, which can add unwanted volume where you least want it.
13. Statement Eyeglasses
Why hide behind boring frames when glasses can be your most fabulous accessory? Bold eyewear instantly updates your entire look while drawing attention to your expressive eyes.
Think of frames as face jewelry – they should complement your coloring and face shape. My bolder clients rock vibrant reds and tortoiseshells, while my minimalists prefer architectural shapes in subtle hues.
14. Midi Skirts
Forget those outdated rules about skirt lengths after 60! Midi skirts hit that perfect sweet spot between modesty and style, floating gracefully around mid-calf.
A-line cuts particularly flatter every body type, skimming hips without clinging. Paired with a tucked-in top (even partially), they create that coveted waistline definition that balances proportions beautifully.
15. Lightweight Layering Pieces
Mastering the art of layering is like having a superpower – especially when hot flashes strike without warning! Thin, non-bulky cardigans and unstructured jackets are your secret weapons.
Look for styles that drape rather than cling, creating vertical lines that elongate your silhouette. These versatile pieces transform simple basics into thoughtful outfits while providing that just-in-case warmth we all appreciate.
16. Classic Trench Coat
Some pieces never go out of style, and a well-cut trench coat tops that list. This timeless wonder works with everything from jeans to dresses, instantly pulling any outfit together.
While traditional khaki flatters most complexions, don’t be afraid of navy or olive alternatives. The belted waist creates definition, while the structured shoulders balance proportions – it’s architectural genius in fabric form!
17. Comfortable Flats
Why torture yourself with uncomfortable shoes when fabulous flats exist? Today’s options go far beyond boring ballet styles, with pointed toes, interesting textures, and metallic finishes adding flair.
Look for pairs with cushioned insoles and proper arch support – your feet have carried you this far; they deserve some respect! A slightly pointed toe elongates the leg line almost as effectively as heels without the agony.
18. Tunics
Tunics are the unsung heroes of the 60+ wardrobe – they provide coverage where you might want it while creating a long, lean line.
The key is finding the right length: aim for styles that hit at the mid-hip or just below, avoiding anything that stops at the widest part of your hips. Paired with slim pants or leggings, they create that coveted balanced silhouette.
19. Bold Lipstick
When clients tell me they feel washed out, I hand them a bold lipstick. This instant face-brightener requires zero makeup skills yet delivers maximum impact.
Forget that nonsense about bright colors being ‘too young’ – a vibrant lip brings warmth and dimension to your face. Creamy formulas are particularly flattering, as they don’t settle into fine lines like matte versions often do.
20. Elevated Sneakers
Whoever decided comfort and style couldn’t coexist clearly never met today’s fashion sneakers! These aren’t your gym shoes – think sleek silhouettes in leather or suede with minimal branding.
White or metallic pairs particularly complement a mature wardrobe, adding a contemporary edge to classics. The cushioned support makes them perfect for travel or days when your schedule involves more walking than sitting.