The rules have changed in fashion, and for those of you nearing or past the 50-year mark, it’s likely time for a wardrobe refresh. If you haven’t already done so, we suggest you assess that unworn assortment of clothing that's been sitting in your closet for the past few seasons and start considering a cleanout. We recommend cleansing based on this rule: if you didn’t wear it last year, get rid of it. Of course, there are a few exceptions, and it's totally okay to bend the rules for those special investment pieces. Rather than Googling things like "What not to wear after 50," scroll through the list of essentials below and take a look at what you have left hanging in your closet. Are you missing a great pair of slim-fitting jeans that genuinely make you feel great? How about that flattering leather jacket you can layer over a dress or pair with jeans to instantly upgrade your look? Each of the wardrobe staples below should make you feel confident, sexy, on-trend, and truly fabulous. Ready for an upgrade? Shop our list of the 10 best fashion essentials (and how to style them!) for women over 50, curated by us—just for you. Opening image: everlane.com
Did you like our list of the 10 Best Fashion Essentials for Women Over 50? Then we think you'll love our 10 Best Foundations For Mature Skin, too!
October 2, 2020
Product Expert:Georgia Jones
Top 10 Lists serve as unbiased shopping guides to the most trusted product recommendations on the internet. Products are scored and ranked using an algorithm backed by data consumers find most valuable when making a purchase. We are reader-supported and may earn a commission when you shop through our links.
The Rankings
Everlane The Washable Silk Relaxed Shirt
WARDROBE ESSENTIAL: A BUTTON-DOWN SHIRT
LOVED FOR: This shirt is just like your favorite slouchy and sophisticated button-down but with a silky-smooth update. Even better, you can toss it in the wash—no dry cleaning fees necessary.
STYLE WITH: Style this loose-fitting shirt with your favorite pair of jeans and call it a day.
Everlane The Italian GoWeave Easy Pant
WARDROBE ESSENTIAL: A PAIR OF WEAR TO WORK PANTS
LOVED FOR: Easy is right. These top-selling pants from Everlane have an elastic waistband for an incredibly comfortable fit, clean pleats for a polished look, and crease-resistant fabric that keeps them looking pristine all day long.
USERS SAID: "These pants are super comfortable while somehow remaining very flattering, and they're easy to dress up or down. They're my favorite to travel in since they have an elastic waist but don't wrinkle. I have them in two colors and am ready for a third!"
M.Gemi The Felize
WARDROBE ESSENTIAL: A CHIC PAIR OF FLATS
LOVED FOR: These have been waitlisted over 36,000 times, and it's not hard to see why. Handmade in a tiny Tuscany workshop, each shoe is beautifully crafted down to every last detail—including taking a flame to the edges to singe away any loose threads.
WHY WE LOVE IT: "These are the most comfortable flats I have ever worn—no break-in period necessary. The suede is so soft, and they instantly mold to your foot. These might be my new go-to travel shoes."—Beth Zerdecki, Chief Product Officer
Wit & Wisdom Ab-Solution Skinny Jeans
WARDROBE ESSENTIAL: A GREAT PAIR OF SKINNY JEANS
LOVED FOR: With their power-mesh panels, interior-control waistband, and booty-lift construction, these could quickly become your new favorite pair of go-to jeans.
STYLE WITH: Add an oversized sweater and your favorite fall booties for a cute day-to-night ensemble.
J.Crew Sophie Open-Front Sweater Blazer
WARDROBE ESSENTIAL: A BLAZER
LOVED FOR: With the look of a blazer and the super-soft feel of a cozy sweater, office attire doesn't get much better than this.
HELPFUL TIP: This style runs large, so we recommend sizing down for the best fit.
Zella Live In Jogger Pants
WARDROBE ESSENTIAL: A PAIR OF JOGGERS
WHY YOU NEED IT: The lightweight knit and slimming cut makes these joggers so versatile.
STYLE WITH: Have you checked out our Top 10 Lounge Cardigans? Each one of them would make the perfect addition to these joggers.
Everlane The Boss Boot
WARDROBE ESSENTIAL: A PAIR OF ANKLE BOOTIES
USERS SAID: "I am absolutely obsessed with these shoes! They're comfortable, sleek, and high quality. I bought my regular size, and I didn't have to break them in. Completely worth the purchase!"
HELPFUL TIP: Sizes below a 6.5 run large, and sizes above a 9 run small.
Riders By Lee Indigo Denim Jacket
WARDROBE ESSENTIAL: A DENIM JACKET
LOVED FOR: This jacket has just the right amount of stretch, so it's extra cozy and easy to layer.
FUN FACT: This highly reviewed find is Amazon's number-one best-selling denim jacket.
Rothy's The Sneaker
WARDROBE ESSENTIAL: A PAIR OF SNEAKERS
LOVED FOR: Thanks to the snug, sock-like fit, these slip-on sneakers require no break-in period—they're cozy right out of the box.
FUN FACT: Rothy’s slip-on sneakers are crafted from recycled water bottles that were once destined for the landfill. Bonus: They're also machine washable.
Everlane The Cashmere Crew
WARDROBE ESSENTIAL: A CASHMERE SWEATER
LOVED FOR: Meet the buzziest cashmere crew on the internet. Ultra-soft, warm, and available in a variety of beautiful shades, it's a fall and winter wardrobe must-have.
WHY YOU NEED IT: Everlane uses certified Grade-A cashmere from Inner Mongolia, but they sell it at the same cost that most retailers sell Grade-C. Trust us—you can't go wrong here.
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