As a fashion editor, I am often asked to advise my readers on the latest trends to help them feel “up to date,” but in my experience, I’ve found that the best clothes are often timeless staples that look good on everyone, rather than just a passing trend aesthetic. For me, and many other women, I feel most confident when I look my best. Mixing and matching outfits to boost your confidence is a great skill to have. So, when discussing best buys for readers over 50, my advice is exactly the same as for everyone else. Start with wardrobe staples and investment pieces. While the way you express yourself in fashion is ageless, it’s worth building a capsule wardrobe that will hold up through every season and look great for years to come. So, you may be asking, where do you start when it comes to assembling a well-curated closet? I asked the experts for advice.
Designer and founder of WYSE London, Mariel Wise, knows a thing or two about styling women of all ages. Scrolling through her Instagram, we couldn’t help but notice that Mariel’s on-point styling tips and easy-to-replicate looks apply to women in their 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond. If you were expecting ankle skirts or twin sets, stop now. Her inclusive jean collection, penchant for leg-baring hemlines and penchant for minimalist accessories are all homages to her French roots. At Who What Wear, we learn a lot from stylish Parisians.
Whether you’re looking for trendy, investment-worthy pieces or just want to streamline your cluttered wardrobe, scroll through to see seven ways to build a capsule collection from some of the industry’s best brands and shop key pieces that will never go out of style.
1. White shirt
Style Notes: Sorry, T-shirts. When it comes to layering pieces, the classic Oxford shirt wins for its polished finish. Marielle’s choice? The perfect white shirt, of course, especially a loose, relaxed fit. “A loose white shirt makes me feel like Katharine Hepburn, especially if it’s a loose fit and a stiff collar that ‘keeps popping out.'”
Buy a white shirt:
Wise London
Db x Wyse cotton shirt
Perfect with high waisted jeans.
Nothing below
Boyfriend: Weave, White
Nothing Underneath’s bestselling boyfriend shirts come in a variety of colors.
Cos
Oversized linen shirt
A linen option that can withstand extreme heat.
2. Cashmere knit
Style Notes: Even in summer, a fine knit is a versatile piece that you’ll be happy to have in your wardrobe as soon as the temperatures drop. “I founded Wise with cashmere sweaters, and they’re still a staple in our collection,” says Wise. “I think they can be worn year-round, from chilly summer evenings to Christmas.” Take a cue from Marielle and pair a lightweight cashmere knit with shorts or skirts in summer, and layer it over a t-shirt or dress in fall and winter.
Shop cashmere knitwear:
&daughter
Aoife Cashmere Polo Shirt in Dusty Pink
A high-quality knit that’s perfect for summer.
Wise London
Chrissy Cashmere Jumper
Rise and Fall
Premium cashmere classic crew neck jumper
Neutral knits go with any outfit.
3. Flared jeans
Style Notes: While straight-leg jeans are still on trend, when it comes to a shape that flatters every body type (and looks great both dressed up and casual), flare jeans are a reliable option. “Flared jeans are a shape that makes you feel good all day,” says Wise. “They’re such a classic shape, but the dark wash and carpenter pocket details make them instantly modern. Being half-French myself, I like to add a French twist to a lot of our pieces, and I love the Parisian edge that flares give to an outfit.”
Shop flare jeans:
Chloe
High rise wide leg jeans
Proof that the French have perfected the high-waisted, wide-legged jean.
Levi’s
Rib Cage Bell Jeans
Just pair it with a ruffled blouse and brown sandals.
Wise London
Flossy Carpenter Flared Cropped Jeans
This whole outfit is perfect.
4. Layering tones
Style Notes: Color blocking has always been a go-to for fashion insiders to create a classy look, but Mariel also enjoys playing with proportions by using hues all over her body. “I’m not very tall, so wearing tonal outfits is a special trick to make my body look longer,” she advises. “I also like to incorporate interesting and unexpected colors, like this beautiful green, so I don’t always have to rely on monochrome.”
Buy Tonal Dressing:
Wise London
Clemmie Shirt – Coffee Stripe
I thought I had enough striped shirts in my collection, but this changed my mind.
Max Mara
Senna pleated wool-twill wide-leg trousers
Perfect loose leg fit.
A.Emery
Prince suede sandals
A.Emery is a Who What Wear editor favorite.
5. Silk dress
Style Notes: While dresses are a quick garment to throw on for any occasion, Mariel relies on silk dresses for days when she has to adhere to a more formal dress code. “Fabric is very important to me and I think it makes or breaks an outfit. Whenever I put on a silk dress, I feel special and confident all day. Plus, it helps that it’s the perfect outfit to take from day to night.”
Shop Silk Dresses:
Lily Silk
Cowl neck diagonal layered silk dress
You can’t go wrong with a slip dress.
Wise London
Fabienne Silk Dress – Ditzy
Very cute shape and print.
Nobody’s Child
Ivory Satin Lace Trim Nessie Midakushi Dress
I’ll be wearing this for years to come.
6. Jumpsuits
Style Notes: Not a fan of dresses? Don’t worry, jumpsuits have all the ease of a dress with the added practicality of pants. And did we mention they’re just as versatile? “I love effortless fashion, and jumpsuits are that. You can dress them up with heels or go sport chic with flats or sneakers. Jumpsuits are so versatile and perfect for fall outfits, especially when the weather is unpredictable, so I always make sure to have one in my collection.”
Shop the jumpsuit:
Wise London
Db x Wyse Cordell Jumpsuit – Khaki
It also looks great with sandals and a basket bag.
Paige
Harper ankle stretch denim jumpsuit
Your weekend outfit is decided.
Borden
Carla linen jumpsuit
7. Knitted tank top
Style Notes: Planning your outfits can be tricky as the seasons change. When it’s too hot for a jumper but too cold for a T-shirt, try a sleeveless knit for maximum comfort. “I love this transitional staple,” says Marielle. “A knitted tank can be worn with your arms exposed, over a dress for a different look, or layered over a shirt.” The possibilities are endless. Think about the cost per wear…
Shop knit tank tops:
Jigsaw Puzzle
Cotton Blend Crew Tank | Ivory
Available in 8 different colors.
Wise London
Fleurine Scallop Tank – Peridot
The scalloped edging is very pretty.
Don
Kenley Fair Isle knit vest
Next up, we’ve handpicked 21 new items, from dresses to bags, that are perfect for payday
