The most glorious moment on the red carpet is not when a 20-something steps in front of the camera in her custom haute couture. It’s when a woman, who has been in the business for decades, glides in wearing a timeless gown that transcends the trends. There are two things that set this type of woman apart: simplicity and confidence.
To achieve that, you don’t need to have a Tom Ford gown or Louis Vuitton heels (though that never hurts). Instead, it may be time to rethink your fashion essentials.
Here are six simple ways to look and feel your very best.
1. Embrace Your Shape
Say goodbye to old bras, stretched-out underwear and worn-thin camisoles. You’ll instantly look more slender and self-assured when you have better foundational garments. Put simply, your bra probably doesn’t fit properly: 80% of women wear the wrong bra size. Keep your bust boosted and supported with a professionally fitted bra.
Another tip: Go up a size in your shapewear so it doesn’t restrict your mobility or breathing. Camisoles and knee-length slimmers are contemporary replacements for girdles and slips, and much easier to maneuver in than full bodysuits.
2. Invest In Quality T-Shirts
Get rid of touristy or oversized t-shirts, or anything with animals, embroidery, stains, pills or pulls at the bust or waist. Opt for a jersey or cotton-Spandex blend fitted t-shirt. It will cost more than you’re used to spending on a t-shirt. Do not skimp here. As tempting as a cheap t-shirt may be, it just won’t hold up well. Fitted t-shirts can be layered under cardigans or structured blazers, and still look polished with a pair of jeans (more on those next). Scoop-neck and boat-neck styles are a bit more dressed up.
3. Buy Great Denim
It’s time to toss out the capris, loud-pattern pants and slacks you’ve had since Jimmy Carter was in office. But don’t replace unflattering pants with sad-bottom jeans that sag, wrinkle or have wild rhinestone decorations. Instead, find jeans or trousers that fit your body (no matter what size) in a classic cut, such as straight-leg or a slight flare.
Darker denim looks particularly polished. Like the t-shirts, don’t skimp on price. If jeans are well-made and you take care of them (don’t put them in the dryer or use them for gardening), they’ll last a long time.
If you just can’t bring yourself to spend more than $200 on a pair of jeans, try this for inspiration. Go into a clothing store and try on a pair of expensive jeans. When you find one you like, take note of why the style works so well:
- Are the back pockets placed high or low?
- Where does the waist fall?
- Is there stretch or are they a crisp denim?
Then find a pair in your price-point that follow this formula. Dress up your denim with a button-down blouse, a cashmere sweater or one of your new fitted tees.
4. Relax In Ponte Pants
Say farewell to sweatpants purchased in the same place you buy toilet paper and shampoo! Ponte pants feel like pajamas but look like elegant trousers, luxury leggings or slim slacks. When you head out with your grandkids, you’ll look pulled together, but you’ll feel comfortable.
5. Flatter Your Figure With A Wrap Dress
Trade out that empire-waist dress or ankle-length skirt for a wrap dress. This style is sophisticated and complements many sizes and shapes, thanks to an emphasized, adjustable waist. (A faux wrap dress also works well and is not as fussy.) If you’re concerned about showing off cleavage, choose a bandeau bra, camisole or shapewear tank to both smooth and cover. A wrap dress in black or navy will easily transition from lunch to cocktail hour.
6. Make Your Vintage Accessories Modern
Open up your jewelry box to find style inspiration. You’ll be right on trend when you layer two or three of rhinestone necklaces together, or wear several complementary rings on one hand. Those fantastic sunglasses you saved from the 60s? Wear them with panache and know you’re right in style.
