I absolutely love threads like this!
I think the most important thing is to find what suits you and what you feel comfortable in. I've had some clothes that others have told me look nice but I just didn't feel like 'me'. I've had to accept that some looks that I love such as floaty dresses etc just don't suit me. I have big boobs and loose clothes make me look fatter than I am.
I think you need to find your style. I have a friend who rocks what I call the Prue Leith/Jenny Eclair look. Chunky jewellery, funky glasses, unusual clothes. She looks fabulous. I'd look ridiculous. I prefer tailored lines, skinny jeans, loose shirts, trainers or boots, a long coat or leather jacket, jersey dresses.
I'm a bit overweight and it's definitely ageing, but I've improved my posture through yoga and using weights.
My tips
- very subtle Botox if you can afford it (although I've realised during lockdown I quite like my face without it)
- drink lots of water
- a good skincare routine, the products don't have to be expensive
- short, well manicured nails. I like a pale polish in summer like Essie Mademoiselle and a dark colour in winter
- a good haircut, professionally coloured. I don't have good hair so this is a struggle for me.
When it comes to my own personal style I've worked out what suits me
- no frills
- no patterns, mostly. I have some pretty kaftans from One Hundred Stars
- good quality fabrics
- minimal jewellery. Usually a watch, a ring, some simple stud or hoop earrings and maybe a chunky bangle or a handful of skinny bangles.
- never earrings and a necklace, one or the other.
- I've had my colours done and with the exception of black tend to try and stick to the colours in my palette.
- good quality, simple styled handbags. Ideally leather but last summer I used a tan coloured tote all summer which I bought for less than £10 in Primark. Lots of people commented on it.
Shops I love -
Cos (some things, not everything works), & Other Stories, Baukjen (a revelation, their jersey tops are really good quality and hang beautifully), Me & Em for palazzo pants, White Company, Uniqlo.
M&S and Next for basics like jeans and t shirts. Some H&M.
Department stores are good for seeing lots of different styles in one place.
Places I avoid - and I really do think if you want to avoid looking middle aged these are best avoided - Joules, White Stuff, Fat Face, Phase 8, Per Una. Most Boden. Radley bags. Fitflops.
Mostly I believe that as you get older 'less is more' works well. Keep make up, hair and clothes simple.