Like the odd wrinkle that appears across your forehead uninvited, a fashion rut is the silent apparition sneaking up and ageing you without warning. Chances are if you’re hanging onto anything that’s about to hit double digits, it’s ever-so-gently dragging you back into the dark ages of your wardrobe (or those ancient Facebook photos you’ve thought wisely to untag). Before you grab your purse and hightail it to Forever 21, read on – all it takes is a handful of simple seasonal updates to fashionably turn back the clock.
First things first: hemlines. You want to look ‘youthful’, not ‘young’. If it feels at home on your daughter or your niece 99% of the time it shouldn’t double up a generation gap or two later. Too short and you’re toeing mutton-dressed-as-lamb territory, too long and you’re (quite literally) dragging yourself light years ahead in age with fabric. Hover around knee-length skirt and dress-wise to keep your overall look sprightly.
Country Road gathered shift dress, $229
LIFEwithBIRD mid fray white skirt, $180
Ginger & Smart Axis navy shirt dress, $289
David Lawrence lace skirt, $199,
Next up: shoes. A stiletto isn’t necessarily what’s required to turn back the clock, but a shoe is one of the simplest ways to jump on board with a trend without overcommitting. If your ol’ faithful ballet flats have seen better days, think outside the square – an espadrille, block mid-heel, ankle boot or strappy sandal are all options to add a little sartorial spring back in your step without much effort.
ATP Atelier Carmen leather sandals, $318
NEXT ankle boots, $136
Soludos rose gold espadrilles, approx. $120.97
Country Road Maddie peep-toe heels, $179
What are you adorning yourself with currently? Diamonds and pearls are always welcome, but jewellery trends come in waves too – and like shoes, are so no-excuses easy to jump on board with it’s well worth the investment. Layered fine rings, necklaces and delicate bracelets all add a loose, gypsy-like feel to your everyday (save the heirlooms for special occasions).
Susan Driver Bloom Petal 18ct Gold Ring, $750
Susan Driver Bloom Silhouette Round Gold, $425 and Bloom Opening Ring Topaz, $820
bycharlotte Midnight Bloom necklace, $165
Tailoring + luxe fabrics = fountain of youth. If the blazer fits, buy it. Too long, too tight or too big is doing your body a disservice, so think less is more – the best of what you can afford is always going to last the distance over disposable high street pieces. When it comes to tailoring, quality construction is paramount – don’t be shy to get your alterationist on board if you existing favourites need a little love.
Joseph Kong wool-twill slim-leg pants, $317
Karen Millen Cotton Trench Coat, $675
David Lawrence Jagged Blouse, $189
Gant jacket, $819
Rodeo Show Romeo Vest, $349.95
Great-fitting denim acts as a wardrobe essential for all ages, but is an underestimated youth booster when it comes to reworking your separates in a new light. White shirting, tees and blouses hightail it from dull to positively on-point with a great fitting pair of jeans – a great fitting pair is worth every penny.
MAVI Kerry Mid Rise Cigarette, $149, and Alexa Mid Rise Skinny, $149
Guess Power skinny jean, $99.95
Country Road skinny jeans, $119
Lastly, look to the greats. Charlotte Rampling, Lauren Hutton, Susan Sarandon – these women have maintained a level of style through a) knowing and b) acceptance. Great style doesn’t necessarily equate to keeping up with trends – it’s being conscious of what suits your personality, your lifestyle and your body shape unashamedly. Edit! Be ruthless. If it doesn’t look great now, it won’t in five years time – so best to love your wardrobe in the present.
Feature image via Zimbio
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