Timeless Style: 10 Wardrobe Staples Every Woman Over 60 Should Own

As we age and our bodies are not as tight and fit as we were when we were younger, it’s easy to get sloppy about our appearance. We may also collect and horde items that don’t fit or we never wear that cram up our closets.

I’ve always been a fan of minimalism. Classic and timeless wardrobe pieces are essential to looking stylish without taking up much space.

I have listed 10 items below that you can take anywhere and mix and match whether you are grocery shopping or embarking on a world cruise. They are pieces that stand the test of time and never go out of style.

Sharp dark pants

Black is a slimming color and if you have a big butt or tummy to hide, a dark color will camouflage it. You can substitute black for navy or dark brown to avoid looking washed out. but a well-fitting pair of deep-hued slacks is a wardrobe essential.

I prefer high-rise pants without an elastic waist but it depends on your body type. High-rise gives you tummy control. You can go stretchy for comfort but elastic spells old lady. I found two pairs of slacks on Amazon that come in petite sizes if you are under 5’4”. They are ultra comfortable and look great dressed up or a casual occasion.

A tailored blazer

A well-fitted blazer is excellent for covering up body flaws and always looks chic. I recommend a single-breasted blazer if you have an ample bust as a double-breasted blazer will double your size. Linen is comfortable in warm weather but a medium-weight fabric always looks stylish and will not add too much bulk to a full figure.

The length of your blazer depends on your height and body shape. If you want to cover a tummy or large hips wear a longer blazer. However, if you are petite, that could make you look shorter.

A simple dark dress

Again, navy or dark brown can be substituted for black but a simple dark-colored dress can be transformed for casual or evening affairs. Think about a style you can easily layer with a blazer, sweater, or jacket.

3/4 length or long sleeves are best to hide flabby arms. A V or scoop neck will look more attractive if you have a large bust. The most flattering length for most older women is knee length or midi.

Ankle boots

Half boots look sharp with pants and even a dress but must be comfortable and sturdy if you are older. They add edge or personality to your look depending on the style.

I find pointy toes and heels uncomfortable and prefer low heels and a rounded toe, but you must gauge your comfort level. The last thing you want to do is fall so don’t take chances if you can avoid it.

A pencil skirt

A dark knee-length pencil skirt is ultra-slimming when layered under a blazer, tunic, or blouse. If you have a small waist tuck in your blouse or tee shirt. If you are larger, tuck in a matching colored shirt and wear a contrasting blazer, jacket, or flowy open blouse over it.

Not every older woman wears skirts or dresses but they are handy for dressy occasions.

Dark jeans

The darker your jeans, the more slimming they will look. Jeans are in style globally. I prefer flared or boot-cut high-rise jeans to skinny jeans, but it depends on your body shape. Skinny jeans have a tendency to ride up and you have to have narrow hips to pull them off.

If you wear wide-leg jeans or palazzo pants, pair them with a tighter top to avoid looking like a sausage. Wear skinny jeans with a long flowy blouse, tunic, or jacket.

Denim jacket

A denim jacket is an American style that is timeless and classic. However, I recommend you avoid wearing denim jeans and jackets that are ripped or distressed. If you have read my blog over time, you know I hate ripped jeans because they look like you hurt yourself especially if you are older. But, that’s just me.

Flat shoes

You may choose to torture your feet when you are young but as you age, comfortable shoes are a must!  Choose sturdy and safe styles to wear. Most of the aches and pains in your body derive from nerve endings in your feet and hands. Ask any reflexologist. The wrong shoes can throw out your back, make you fall, or get blisters, corns, or bunions. No thanks.

A comfortable pair of sneakers can be worn with almost any outfit. Stick to black, off-white, or tan rather than multi-colored and super thick. Wear power walking shoes for fitness walks or hikes, but to stroll around town you may prefer lightweight sneakers with good treads and bounce.

Sweater

A sweater will keep you warm and cozy when it’s chilly outside. I prefer cashmere for comfort and because it isn’t as bulky. Cashmere sweaters come in all styles and necklines. Wear a V or scoop neck if you have a large bust, or a turtle neck or mock turtle to stay extra warm.

Cashmere requires extra maintenance so make sure to have a cashmere sweater repair kit on hand to remove the pilling. For a slimming look, match a dark sweater with dark pants, or a tan sweater with cream pants. Striped Breton sweaters are timeless but vertical stripes may be more flattering than horizontal depending on your body shape.

White Blouse

A timeless and classic white long-sleeved blouse will never go out of style. They look amazing with jeans, trousers, or a skirt. You may want one in cotton and another in silk to match the occasion.

I try to avoid a white blouse with large pockets at the bust because it accentuates my bust size. I also look for ¾ length sleeves or sleeves that roll up to prevent dipping my sleeves in my soup.

Your timeless capsule wardrobe

The 10 items listed above are components of a capsule wardrobe, a collection of about 35 pieces that mix and match together. Sticking to limited pieces will save you space. Each item if purchased for high quality will last you for years. As a woman over 60, you will never be out of style, and it will save you money in the long run.

Don’t feel obligated to wear black or other dark colors. I only suggested them if you want to look slimmer. If you choose a color you love and wear it on the top and bottom with a contrasting layering piece it will be just as figure-flattering.

Take this essential collection with you when you travel. It will save you in suitcase weight because the pieces are interchangeable and you will feel good about how you look when you do.