When I was in my 20’s, I never knew a clothing category called “50+ clothing” existed.  Well, I knew older women wore “old lady” clothes, but I never pictured myself as one of those old ladies.  Fast forward 30 years and suddenly that “old lady” is me.  Honestly, being over 55 is not terrible. The alternative is being dead so I much prefer being over 55.  The bad part of being over 55 is walking into a department store and realizing that the fashion industry has put me out to pasture.  

It seems to me that in the world of women’s clothing, there are three distinct camps.

There are clothes for the “young, sexy” 18-24-year-olds.  The skirts are super short, the tops have plunging  necklines and everything is skin tight.  

Then there are clothes for the “chic, fun and sophisticated” women 49 and under.  There is a huge variety of clothing for those women.  Some are form-fitting, body conscious and leave little to the imagination.  Others are more suitable for the office and have a “boss lady” vibe.  Of course, the “moms on the go” are offered everything fashionable and fun under the sun.

And then there’s the fifty-plus category.  Everything is either a tent, a tunic or a muumuu and nothing comes in a solid color.  Instead they are only available in odd-looking, big, loud prints.  The pants they make for us are sometimes available in solid colors, but those colors are often strange and putrid.

I am over 55 but I am not ready to be relegated to the fashion abyss.  Therefore, I have come up with a list of essentials that add a bit of “chic” to my wardrobe without looking forced.  I thought I would share my list with you. 

#1- Classic, Short Denim Jacket
A classic, short denim jacket is a wardrobe staple. It can be worn with just about any dress, skirt or pants and can give you a causal yet chic vibe. I think the key is to make sure the jacket is not too long. Ideally it should stop at or above your hip bone.  When denim jackets are too long, they tend to look boxy, boring and matronly.  Of course, that is the type of jacket they market to us.  Just say no. 

#2- Gorgeous White Blouse
The emphasis here is on gorgeous. Don’t settle for a regular white shirt.  Get a blouse in a cut that flatters your body and frames your face. Think statement piece here.  A gorgeous white blouse can look fabulous paired with anything from a pair of jeans to a festive skirt.  You must add that to your wardrobe. 

#3- Gorgeous Black Blouse
A gorgeous black blouse will also add chic sophistication to your wardrobe.  You can pair it with the same pieces you pair your white blouse, but it will have a sleeker, bolder effect.

#4-Investment Handbag 
Ok, I know that a handbag is not a real investment.  In fact to some, this piece of advice borders on ludicrous and fiscally irresponsible.  So if that is how you, feel free to skip to the next point.  But if you have been wanting a Louis Vuitton or Chanel bag for many years, I am giving you permission to buy it.   If you are over 55, the number of years you have spent on this earth have earned you the right to carry the handbag of your dreams. 

After all of the sacrifices you have made caring for your family and raising your children, you deserve to treat yourself.  And you don’t even have to pay full price.  You can buy your investment bag from a place like Yoogi’s Closet and pay a lot less for your luxury purchase.  The bottom line is adding an investment bag to your everyday wardrobe will immediately up your chic factor and that is the goal. 

#5 – Black Pencil Skirt
A black pencil skirt is every woman’s best friend regardless of her size.  A black pencil skirt will make you look fashionable no matter the occasion or season.  You can choose a pencil skirt that stops right above your knees if you feel like flaunting your pretty legs.  Or a longer pencil skirt that stops just below the knees can be equally becoming. 

#6- Hoop Earrings
I’ve always loved hoop earrings because they are simple yet sophisticated and stylish.  The only thing I would caution you about is wearing really huge hoop earrings.  Huge hoop earrings can make you look like you are trying to be 30 again.  Massive hoops are best left for women under 55.

#7- Wrap Dress
One major reason wrap dresses are on this list is because there is a wrap dress to flatter every figure.  Even if you think your waistline has gotten too thick to emphasize, the tie on a wrap dress can often be adjusted to the perfect location for your body type.  Wrap dresses are also quite versatile.  A wrap dress can be worn for a dressy occasion.  Or you can throw on a denim jacket and turn that same dress into a casual outfit.  It is a must-have addition to your wardrobe.  

Bottom Line
Even though the fashion industry has written us off, we aren’t dead yet and we have every right to look fabulous.  The closet  essentials I listed above are chic and timeless and will level up your wardrobe immediately.    It’s finally your time.  Treat yourself and start slaying!