10 Must-Have Wardrobe Items for Women at 50+ (2024)

FAQs

What is a 10 item wardrobe? ›

The principle is to create a seasonal wardrobe consisting of ten core items- tops, bottoms and dresses- which form the staples of your wardrobe. Then to these pieces you add layering cardigans, t-shirts, leisure wear, shoes and accessories.

Investing in garments that fit you well and are constructed from high-quality fabrics will ensure your capsule wardrobe stays timeless. We suggest spending more on basics that you will wear every day such as t-shirts, blouses, and trousers. so that you always have a solid rotation of versatile, classic items.

It's okay to wear fashionably loose bottoms, as long as you have a fitted top or even a smartly-fit blazer. Or you'll look great with a slouchy sweater, as long as you're wearing fitted bottoms, like skinny jeans. What you want to avoid is baggy clothing covering every inch of your body.

Don't keep items 'for best'

Wear a dressy top with your jeans for a less dressy night out, or dress down a smarter pair of trousers by wearing them with a jumper or casual top. Start wearing your clothes and enjoying the confidence that comes with wearing things you feel good in.

When I buy new clothes, I make a shopping list, size up my options, and stick to the 70/30 rule that Kathryn Finney taught me: “70% of your closet should be classic pieces like a great white top and awesome black handbag, and the 30% should be for trendy, fun pieces like orange skinny jeans.

The basic rules of the 10-item wardrobe is that it consist of 10 core items each season. It does not include outerwear, occasion wear, accessories, shoes and under shirts (t-shirts, tank tops, camisoles etc) things you would wear under sweaters and shirts.

According to a report referenced by Vogue in 2022 that leans on sustainability goals, “The researchers found that a “sufficient” wardrobe consists of 74 garments and 20 outfits in total.

SWEATER | SHIRT | EARRINGS | WATCH | JEANS | LOAFERS | BAG

Here's a timeless, classic casual look that comes together in a snap. The collared shirt and loafers add some structure and polish, without being fussy. And yes, feel free to wear socks with those loafers.

How to be pretty at 55? ›

If you're trying to be elegant, start by wearing classic styles of clothing, like knee-length skirts and tailored button-down shirts, and choosing clothes made from high-quality fabrics, like silk and satin. Never too baggy, never too tight; the clothing of an elegant woman looks like it was made to fit just her.

Over 50, the key, is to balance current trends with a more understated elegant aesthetic. You may opt for a bright color in a classic silhouette, an accessory or an on-trend shoe such as a leopard print athletic slip-ons instead of your worn-out runners.

Wearing black does the same thing to wrinkles and dark shadows! Rather than black, try earthy neutrals like gray, camel, or olive. Or keep the black but wear a brighter color next to your face. A colorful top or a pretty scarf will not only brighten up your face but make you seem more open and fun.

One noticeable change for women as they age is an increase in body fat. It is common to see a decrease in muscle mass, causing your body to feel less strong than it did in your youth. Women may also develop wrinkles from reduced elasticity and firmness of their skin, or thin and graying hair.