The Wardrobe Staples All Woman Over 40 Need

Let’s talk about wardrobe staples…

We all know age is just a number, but that doesn’t mean we should be running around dressed like a frat boy (she typed while in leggings and a ratty oversized sweatshirt). Whether you’re a fashionista (or a Maxxinista, hey TJ Maxx) or more of a laid-back dresser, having some chic clothing staples in your wardrobe can make getting dressed a heck of a lot easier. I know style is subjective, and what I consider wardrobe staples might be very different from what someone else considers wardrobe staples, so if these aren’t your cup of tea I totally get it! With that being said, or typed, here are my picks for chic wardrobe staples every woman over 40 should own…

The Perfect Pair Of Jeans

Jeans are the holy grail, you NEED a pair you love in your wardrobe. Find a pair you’ll wear for years to come to get the most bang for your buck. For me, that’s a classic wider leg trouser style in a dark wash with a medium or high rise. Dark trouser jeans are incredibly versatile, they can easily be dressed up or down. And you don’t have to spend a ton of money (Old Navy denim has been hitting lately, and J.Crew regularly has great sales), but when you think about the cost per wear of even a more expensive pair, they’re like free according to girl math.

A White Button Down Shirt

I’ve had a complicated relationship with white button downs. For a long time I avoided them completely because they gave me cater waiter vibes (I wrote about it here), but I’ve come around. I’ve grown to truly appreciate their versatility and I now rely on them for an easy outfit formula; white button down + any bottom = outfit. I’ve even made white button downs my getting dressed crutch when I’m feeling down. It’s also the perfect canvas for showcasing your fave accessories and never goes out of style.

A Neutral Color Blazer

Girl Boss, Gaslight, Gatekeep like the Boss Babe you are in neutral colored blazer (my pics are black and navy). A structured third piece like a blazer adds some polish to your outfit; it can take your jeans and t-shirt from running errands to dinner out.

The LBD Or The LND

The LBD (little black dress) is ICONIC, but the color black isn’t the best for everyone, myself included. My pale pasty ass looks better in navy, hence the LND (little navy dress). An LBD or LND is a secret weapon for any occasion. They’re timeless, versatile (I feel like I’m using that word a lot but that’s what makes a staple a staple, people), chic, and always situationally appropriate. You can change the entire vibe with simply swapping accessories; harness or pearls, either work!

A Structured Handbag

A structured handbag; tote, crossbody, clutch, whatever, in leather or faux leather will always be in style and work with any outfit. I mean, look at Princess Di’s bike shorts and bag looks!

Trousers

A pair of tailored trousers is a must for a polished look. You can pair your trousers with sweaters, button downs, blouses, vests, even t-shirts and sweatshirts; they’re not just for work!

Something You Absolutely Love

The most important staple you can have in your wardrobe? Something you absolutely love and you feel like your best self in when you wear it. We should all have at least one piece we love to wear, and that we feel gorgeous in. If you don’t have that, disregard the rest of the list and focus on adding a piece you love to your wardrobe.

Remember, personal style is all about expressing yourself and feeling confident. Consider these wardrobe staples as your foundation for creating endless looks. Mix and match, play with textures, and don’t forget to have fun.

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