How to build a capsule wardrobe for women over 60

A capsule wardrobe for women over 60 is a brilliant time saver and will always ensure your style is seamless. If your wardrobe overflows with clothes, yet you still find yourself staring blankly each morning wondering what to wear, a streamlined approach to dressing is the answer.

Creating a capsule wardrobe for women over 60 will help hone the items in your closet, allowing you to declutter your clothes and organise your closet to create a well-functioning edit of styles you currently love and wear. It will also help identify any key areas in your wardrobe where you feel you're lacking so that you can bolster with new items to create added versatility.

Fashion is a journey, and our personal style evolves with us. As we mature, our priorities and bodies change, which can influence what we wear. Reevaluating your wardrobe to create a capsule collection specifically for life in your 60s is a fantastic way to rediscover how you want to express yourself through fashion.

How to build a capsule wardrobe for women over 60

Not unlike an over 50s capsule wardrobe, you first need to think about your lifestyle and wardrobe needs and use this as a basis. Fashion and style expert Miranda Holder says the first step to creating your capsule wardrobe is to take stock of your wardrobe.

“The first step is to explore your options, either with the help of a personal stylist or through the endless resources in books and online,” she says. “Consider your body shape, colouring, style personality and lifestyle, then have fun developing a look that is ‘all you’.”

You will want to create your over 60s capsule wardrobe according to season, and we recommend only tackling six months’ worth of wardrobe in one go. That means you may want to start with an autumn and winter capsule wardrobe, tackling spring and summer capsule wardrobes before the start of the season .

You need to think about what your day-to-day activities look like. Do you need a capsule wardrobe for work? A travel capsule wardrobe? Or, if you're considering retiring in the near future, are you looking for largely smart casual outfit ideas, with additional items for evenings out?

“Tailor your capsule wardrobe to suit your lifestyle and preferences,” advises Franny, founder at Wild Clouds. “Ensure that the prints and colours reflect your personality, making you feel confident and comfortable in your clothing choices.”

What should a capsule wardrobe for women over 60 consist of?

There is no set number of items, and even a minimalist capsule wardrobe is more about keeping a tight edit, rather than dictating a limited number of clothes and you should set your limits based on needs and space.

“Choose quality over quantity,” advises Miranda. “Why not try to fall in love with the process of building the perfect wardrobe and think of your clothing as a collection you are curating? Throw yourself into researching what might be the perfect pieces for you, and purchase the best possible quality you can.”

Ideally, you want to ensure that everything you keep in your over 60s capsule wardrobe gets a regular outing. If you find certain items languishing at the back, either make a concerted effort to wear them or consider selling clothes online to make space for more useful pieces.

We have compiled a list below of the types of items that should be in your edit, however, these are merely a guide. If you are a dedicated denim follower, you may find you want more of the best jeans for women over 60, and fewer skirts, or vice versa. How you build your over-60s capsule wardrobe will need a personal slant.

• T-shirts and sweatshirts: The style you choose will largely depend on your body type and the silhouettes you are most comfortable with, but round neck, V-neck, boat neck and both short and long-sleeved styles should be considered.
• Shirts: While a classic white shirt is a pretty solid foundation piece for a capsule wardrobe, this is a great item to add some interest into your capsule wardrobe. "A good choice for a print could be a shirt, which can work with jeans or a plain skirt, and also as a layering over-shirt or jacket, over tees and camisoles, perfect for spring and summer,” says Franny.
• Jackets: A trio of classic styles will work both in early autumn and during spring when the weather is too warm for a coat, but you'll need a light layer. “I would include a long line blazer,” says fashion blogger Jacqui Berry. “They bring an outfit together really well for a chic and classic look.” Look also for a denim cover up and a leather jacket to cover you for all occasions.
• Spring/autumn coat: The best trench coats, or even a light parka are the perfect choices for this time of year, when a layer is needed, but heavy wools or the best puffer coats are too much.
• Winter coat: Two winter coats are ideal for this category, a smarter, tailored design such as the best wool coat, and a more casual one such as a directional puffer coat, or quilted style. Having at least two types of coats for the season can help you dress your look up or down.
• Jeans: The best jeans are considered a wardrobe essential and we would second that if denim is central to your look. There are no jean styles that are off-limits when you hit your 60s but you may want to prioritise comfort and support - high-waisted jeans are great for this. The best straight-leg jeans offer instant polish and are easily styled for smart or casual occasions and are probably the most important cut to have in your closet. Jacqui advises a trying on session to discover the style that suits you best. “Take a load of styles into the fitting room and just try them all on to see what suits you,” she says. “Another option is to order online, then you can try on at home and see what 'goes' with them from your wardrobe.”
• Trousers: If you're a big jeans wearer, then trousers are likely to be another key building block in your wardrobe. Tailored trousers are great for smart or casual occasions and can make your look feel a little more put together. Select your silhouettes based on what you're most comfortable with. Simple-to-style wide-leg trousers deliver a floaty and elegant aesthetic, whereas straight-cut or crease-front trousers feel a little sharper.
• Skirts: There is lots to consider for skirts for a capsule wardrobe for women over 60s. Firstly think about the silhouettes that you feel most comfortable in. The most popular skirt shape is often an A-line, as it creates a defined waist before flaring over hips, bums and thighs. However, slim-fit pencil skirts aren't just for a 9-5 and similarly, long skirt outfits can help you create a more boho capsule wardrobe. When it comes to fabrications, think about when and where you'll most likely where your skirts. A denim skirt is always a winner for casual occasions, while a leather skirt adds polish and sleekness to any ensemble.
• Dresses: If a dress is your go-to, one-and-done look, then you might find you need a large selection, as it's harder to mix and match when it comes to frocks. There are a number of key silhouettes to consider and once again, what you choose will be based on your body type. Miranda says that a wrap dress is universally flattering. “They can also be dressed up or down in a flash with a clever switch of accessories and are utterly ageless - this classic style will never date,” she says. A little black dress is an obvious choice, but there are no boundaries in terms of colours or prints. And always make sure you have one evening dress to hand for special occasions.
• Knitwear: Cashmere and wool are the best when it comes to winter knitwear, keeping you cosy, while remaining breathable. For summer knits, look to cotton and linen for light layers that won't overheat you. In terms of shape, this category covers everything from sweaters to cardigans, consider polo necks, round neck and oversized designs too. And while neutrals are always a good idea to extend their wearability, don’t be afraid to add a print or two. “Anything leopard print works really well in a capsule collection,” says Jacqui. “I have a super stretchy turtleneck top that fits with so many outfits.”
• Shoes/boots: You'll need a solid selection to go with every outfit. A good list to start with is trainers, ankle boots, courts, loafers, knee-high boots, evening shoes and sandals.
• Bags: As with shoes, while you might have your best tote for every day, you'll also want a crossbody bag for when you need to go hands-free, a clutch for evenings out, as well as possibly a smart shoulder bag.
• Accessories: “Never underestimate the power of the finishing touches to bring a look together and reflect a little personality, making a simple outfit far more special,” says Miranda. If you're big on accessorizing, lean into those key pieces that can up-style basics and classic pieces, giving them a seasonal refresh. Consider a selection of necklaces, cocktail rings, hoop, drop and stud earrings, belts or different widths, versatile scarves and a pair of chic sunglasses.
• Swimwear: The best swimwear for women over 50 should pretty much cover you for an over-60s capsule wardrobe. Look for great support and fit that still gives a gentle nod to trending styles, so you're always ready for your next adventure. The best black swimsuits are the most timeless, but don't be afraid to embrace bolder designs.

Items you need in a capsule wardrobe for women over 60

We've put together a starter kit of essential pieces for a stylish and versatile over 60s wardrobe. This is just a jumping-off point, though! Feel free to add your personal touch and pick items that reflect your unique style.

Remember, the key is to choose pieces that mix and match seamlessly, allowing you to create endless outfit combinations and get the most out of your wardrobe.

Miranda Holder

Miranda Holder is an acclaimed fashion stylist and expert who studied fashion at Central Saint Martin’s and whose portfolio proudly showcases a variety of high-profile names in entertainment, from number-one girl band Little Mix to Boy George and Hollywood actress Vanessa Williams. Miranda is also a regular media commentator and TV fashion expert on QVC, and lecturer at London College of Fashion.

Franny

Franny broke away from the fashion industry's throwaway culture and polluting processes to create a timeless collection of sustainably produced clothes marked by whimsical prints and practical styles. Fueled by a passion for ethical fashion and 15 years retail supply chain experience, she meticulously researched sustainable production and eco-friendly materials, resulting in long lasting genderless clothing which are plastic free, vegan and organic.

Jacqui Berry

Over 50s fashion blogger and shopping enthusiast, Jacqui Berry started her blog Mummabstylish back in 2016. She loves sharing her top buys and tips on how to find your personal style after you hit the big 5-0.