An over 50 capsule wardrobe is a great idea, whether you're a fashion-savvy woman who knows their style, or one who still struggles to work out what to wear every day. Creating a capsule wardrobe over 50 will help to hone the items in your closet and putting outfits together a no-brainer.
Getting dressed with less stress is never a bad thing, especially when you lead a busy life. Many women in mid-life often find their capacity is at breaking point, whether that's thanks to pesky hormones, looking after elderly parents and children or working in a full-on job. The joy of an over 50 capsule wardrobe is that it frees up valuable brain space for more important things, yet still allows you to look and feel your fabulous best. Just because you're a certain age doesn't mean you can no longer have fun with fashion, but a capsule wardrobe allows you to be stylish, without the fuss.
There are other advantages as well. It can save you money in the long run, preventing those emotional purchases that never get worn. And it's great for the environment too. Fast fashion and our need for constantly changing looks have contributed a great deal to the issues we're facing with the planet. A smaller, and more considered wardrobe will ensure you're really maximizing what you own and can wear it for longer.
WHAT SHOULD A CAPSULE WARDROBE FOR WOMEN OVER 50 CONSIST OF?
A capsule wardrobe for over 50 women doesn't necessarily mean a sea of plain basics - unless that's your bag of course. It's about finding your style personality and choosing a select number of pieces that all go well together. Each item should really work with at least four other items in your wardrobe. Meaning you'll have both wardrobe essentials - like the best sweaters and well-tailored trousers, alongside funkier pieces, like statement blazers or bold jewelry.
So, how many items should a capsule wardrobe for a woman over 50 contain? It all really depends on personal taste, but QVC fashion presenter and stylist, Evey Amery Kurlander (opens in new tab) says between 40 and 50 is the optimal amount.
"I tend to look at them over a year, so pretty much, I'd say you're looking around 40- 50 items in a capsule wardrobe, which probably does sound a lot, but if you break it up across seasons, it's not huge," she says.
While Evey looks across the year, it may be easier to separate your capsule wardrobe out into seasons, as it will make it easier to organize your closet as your fall/winter wardrobe will need to work very differently from your spring/summer one. Regardless of the seasons though, there are some basics that should live in your capsule wardrobe. If needs be you can just change up the fabrics or patterns to make them more summer or winter friendly.
For award-winning personal stylist Lisa Talbot (opens in new tab), it's all about how interchangeable your clothing items are.
"When you start to create a capsule wardrobe, the aim is to see how many outfits you can create from the items you have in your wardrobe e.g. 15 items of clothing that can be interchanged to create perhaps 30 outfits," she says.
To begin your wardrobe, Lisa also suggests choosing basics - such as the best t-shirts - in neutral tones such as black, grey, beige or navy, and then you can add in print and color as you go along.
Here are the starter items every capsule wardrobe for women over 50 needs…
- T-shirts and sweatshirts: Round neck and V-neck styles, both short and long-sleeved
- Shirts: White oversized shirt, a silky blouse, a short-sleeved blouse
- Winter coat: Tailored wool coat, casual style, such as a quilted or puffer coat
- Spring/fall coat: Trench coat
- Jackets: Leather, denim, blazer
- Jeans: Straight, high-waisted jeans in dark, black and white denim
- Dresses: A little black dress (in a thicker material for winter and light cotton for summer), wrap dress, sweater dress, evening dress
- Skirts: Leather skirt, denim skirt, pencil skirt, pleated skirt
- Trousers: Slim-legged tailored trousers, wide-legged high-waisted trousers, joggers
- Knitwear: A simple v-neck or round-neck cashmere sweater, a turtleneck, an oversized cardigan
- Shoes and boots: Trainers, ankle boots, courts, loafers, knee-high boots, evening shoes, sandals
- Bags: Crossbody bag, clutch, shoulder bag, large tote
- Accessories: Scarf, belt, hat, hoop earrings, simple necklace, sunglasses
Once you've got your items, Evey recommends having a play around styling them up and then snapping the looks that you love.
She says: "If you love yourself in an outfit, take a picture of it and have it in your library of style looks because sometimes you can't be bothered with actually thinking about an outfit. If you know that you've had compliments or good feedback with something, you can always go to it and feel good."
ITEMS YOU NEED IN A CAPSULE WARDROBE FOR WOMEN OVER 50
The basics are the building block for your over 50 capsule wardrobe, and once you've got those, you can inject elements that show your personality. If you are starting afresh, buy the best quality you can afford. They'll wash better and last longer, meaning you can get much more wear out of them.
To ensure your wardrobe still feels modern, it's also great to include a couple of trend pieces each season. Not only will it bring your look up-to-date but will also stop you from getting bored with what you have in your wardrobe.
Don't think of your capsule wardrobe as a finished masterpiece, it will evolve over time. You'll want to remove some items and add new items as your lifestyle and trends change and that's OK. The premise is just to stick to a simplified wardrobe. As soon as getting dressed feels like hard work again, you may have to go back to editing and have a clearout.
THE TYPES OF TOPS NEEDED FOR AN OVER 50 CAPSULE WARDROBE
"Some really good layering pieces like a simple t-shirt, both short-sleeved and long-sleeved are essential for a capsule wardrobe," advises Evey.
Layering is key, enabling you to utilize your wardrobe fully, so plain, simple basics are important, however, don't forget to include a couple of fun pieces as well. A sweatshirt with a graphic print or a silky chiffon blouse will all add interest to your basic pieces.
Whether you choose round neck or V-neck tops all depends on personal preference and your body type. While V-necks are universally flattering, they're especially good if you have broad shoulders. And if you've got a larger bosom, you may prefer a less revealing round-neck or boat-neck top.
For cooler months, don't forget the best cashmere sweaters. While fashion blogger Jacqui Berry (opens in new tab) goes for neutral tones, she also believes color has a place in an over 50s capsule wardrobe.
"Good quality jumpers in neutral colors like black and cream go with so much and work into most wardrobes, but I'd also pick a brighter jumper that would complement a patterned or floral shirt in the same tones," she says.
The types of tops you need in an over 50 capsule wardrobe include: Round/scoop neck (plain and patterned), V-neck (plain and patterned), white shirt, dressy blouse, sweatshirt or jumper.
RRP: $89 / £45 | An easy top that will go with everything in your wardrobe, from your best jeans to midi skirts. Made from organic cotton, it feels great on skin and the three-quarter-length sleeves make it look fresh. It's easy to layer under things too.
RRP: $40 / £19.60 | Whether you're looking for brunch outfit ideas or just want a casual top to team with your jeans, the Breton top is it. The classic stripes literally go with everything making it one of the hardest-working pieces in your wardrobe.
RRP: $22.55 / £18.99 | A simply elegant evening blouse like this one will be much-worn. Perfect when wondering what to wear to a winter wedding, it can dress up skirts, trousers and even jeans, taking you from day to night easily and with plenty of style.
RRP: $33.99 / £19.50 | This is no ordinary t-shirt – this is one of the best white t-shirts around. With a relaxed fit, a basic piece like this will often solve those 'what do I wear' issues pairing with everything from formal tailoring to more casual items.
RRP: $105 / £89 | This pink jumper is easy way if you're looking at how to wear bright colors. It will add a sunshine touch to any outfit, whether it's a simple jumper or jeans combo or for something to wear over a dress for added warmth in the winter.
RRP: $160 / £98 | "A simple and clean white shirt always works beautifully with everything," says Evey. Choose cotton for breathability. A slightly oversized shape will allow you to style it in a myriad of ways and is super flattering for all body types.
THE TYPES OF TROUSERS NEEDED FOR AN OVER 50 CAPSULE WARDROBE
The right kind of trousers can take you from work, to play to chill out time! While you can have a wild card of a bright pair of trousers, if you want to get more versatility, go for neutrals such as grey, navy, black or even khaki.
When it comes to the styles to choose, this is again down to personal choice however, you cannot go wrong with slim, straight trousers. Teamed with a blazer it's office appropriate, adding a simple t-shirt and your best white trainers make for a stylish weekend look.
Jacqui's personal go-to is a pair of wide-legged trousers. She says: "They are so elegant and very flattering for most body shapes."
You can also play around with fabrics. A pair of leather slim trousers will inject a touch of rock and roll into your wardrobe, while a brightly colored pair of trousers will definitely encourage some dopamine dressing.
There's one style of trousers that all over 50 capsule wardrobes need and that's jeans. Evey recommends that high-waisted jeans are a good choice as they're universally flattering and allow your silhouette to be supported, while Jacqui says it's really all about trial and error.
"There are so many fits around, it really does depend on what suits you," she says.
"Take a load of styles into the fitting room and just try them all on to see what suits you. Another option is to order online, then you can try them on at home and see what 'goes' with them from your wardrobe."
The types of trousers you need in an over 50 capsule wardrobe include: Slim-legged tailored trousers, wide-legged high-waisted trousers, joggers or elasticated relaxed trousers.
RRP: $245 / £150 | The stripe down the side and the slightly cropped length make these tailored trousers look sporty and modern. Elevated basics like these are essential if you want to discover how to dress simple but stylish - team with basics like a white shirt and the best loafers for a luxe look that won't date.
RRP: $108.80 / £63.20 | A pair of wide leg trousers bridges the gap between super smart and super casual. Not sure what to wear with wide-leg pants? Keep your top half more form fitted to balance your shape and as these are high-waisted, you can easily tuck in your favorite top to highlight your waistline.
RRP: $43.99 / £25 | With sports luxe a major fashion trend, the best joggers aren't just for the gym. Team this pair with a cozy cream knit for those days when you want to chill. And if you do want to work out in these, they are made from a moisture-wicking, quick-dry fabric to help regulate your temperature.
RRP: $107 / £90 | Flared jeans are super flattering, especially for pear and hourglass body types. If you're not sure how to style flared jeans, it's easy - keep the top half simple and fitted to balance out your frame and you'll get all the leg-lengthening focus on your bottom half thanks to the wider hem line.
RRP: $89.18 / £75 | These jeans are a must in any over 50 capsule wardrobe. The darker shade of denim is super flattering and the high waist makes these a great pair of slimming jeans, while the vintage feel will make them look like you've been wearing them for years without them looking tired.
RRP: $110 / £69 | Don't keep cream or white denim just for the summer. Teamed with a chunky knit and your best Chelsea boot, they create a modern look whatever the weather. The high-rise waist and wide leg give a flattering fit, while the cream is actually just as stylish and versatile as traditional blue denim.
THE TYPES OF DRESSES NEEDED FOR AN OVER 50 CAPSULE WARDROBE
When it comes to finding the best dresses for your over 50 capsule wardrobe, choosing those with structure over loose-fitting, baggy dresses will make all the difference.
You need dresses that can literally be worn in various ways so it's good to stick to basics that fit well. Saying that there's also space in your closet for special evening dresses, however, try to resist overly statement styles, if you want pieces you can still wear it in a multitude of ways and re-style for different functions.
For Lisa, it's all about including dresses that make you feel good.
"With many styles of dresses available, you can really choose the perfect one for you, your personality and your lifestyle," she says.
"Whether it's a block color or print, mini, midi or full length, empire line, shirt dress or tea dress, have the dress style in your wardrobe that you love and want to wear."
The types of dresses you need in an over 50 capsule wardrobe include: A little black dress, a wrap dress, a jumper dress, a denim dress, and a cocktail dress.
RRP: $93.17 / £79 | Introducing you to the ultimate little black dress. Not only does the pin-tucked silhouette highlight the waist, but the sleeves are a great length and there are pockets too. The A-line skirt adds movement without swamping the figure.
RRP: $94 / £62 | Wondering how to wear a wrap dress, layer over a roll neck and team with knee-high boots for a cozy look. Or add a smart blazer and heels for when you're not sure what to wear for a wedding. The geo print gives this one a cool retro vibe.
RRP: $190 / £130 | The long silhouette and waist tie on this knitted dress is great for apple body types as it elongates the torso and creates a nipped-in waist. A super versatile dress, it can also be worn undone, cardigan style for extra wearability.
RRP: $139 / £79 | While your LBD can be worn to most occasions, sometimes you'll want to ramp up the glamor. Whether you're looking for the best Christmas party dress or something for a formal event, this ticks all the boxes just add red lippy.
RRP: $53.50 / £45 | Introducing the most wearable dress in your wardrobe. Denim goes with everything and shirt dresses can be worn a multitude of ways. Not sure how to style a shirt dress? Try layering it over turtle necks or adding a colorful scarf.
RRP: $95 / £75 | While not strictly a dress, jumpsuits are a great dress replacement. There's a flattering jumpsuit to suit your shape, but one that has wide legs, a V-neck and a waist tie will look good on nearly everyone. Choose a quirky print to add some fun.
THE TYPES OF SKIRTS NEEDED FOR AN OVER 50 CAPSULE WARDROBE
Even though dresses are easy to throw on in the morning, an over 50 capsule wardrobe works best with lots of separates as this allows you to create different looks easily. Skirts, therefore, are essential, but you don't need to go crazy. Choose the right two or three styles and you'll be able to wear them for lots of different occasions.
For Jacqui, the obvious first choice for an over 50 capsule wardrobe is a pleated skirt.
"They are timeless and very versatile and can be dressed up with a nice pair of heels or teamed with trainers or chunky boots for a casual street style," she advises.
When it comes to length, Evey says midi is best, as it's flattering for nearly everyone.
"I do think midi skirts are good because they tend to hit the balance if you are different heights and also body proportions," she says. "They can be quite slimming and also elongating as well."
Mix and match the fabrics and patterns you choose for your skirts to add extra interest. Sheer layers add a romantic touch to any outfit, while leather gives a cool edge.
If you don't choose a cocktail dress to add to your over 50s capsule wardrobe, then an additional evening skirt, such as a sequin skirt or a floaty, ruffled number, will work for a more formal occasion.
The types of skirts you need in an over 50 capsule wardrobe include: A pleated skirt, a denim skirt, an A-line skirt, a dressy skirt.
RRP: $95 / £65 | A leopard print skirt is a great way to add some fun to your wardrobe. Don't be afraid of the bold print, it's perfect for wearing with wardrobe basics. Dress it up with a cami and gold jewelry or team with trainers and a chunky knit for casual.
RRP: $95 / £65 | Not just for warmer months, denim skirts can work in the winter if you go for a darker shade and a structured fit like this one, which will help you create lots of denim skirt outfit ideas. Tuck in a floaty blouse or a sweater for a chic style.
RRP: $46.50 / £39.50 | A skirt doesn't always have to be black to be versatile, especially when it's leather. Not sure how to style a leather skirt? Try tucking in a crisp white shirt for an office-appropriate look, finishing it with chunky loafers or a ballet pump.
THE TYPES OF JACKETS/COATS NEEDED FOR AN OVER 50 CAPSULE WARDROBE
Just like fitted dresses look smarter as we get older, tailored jackets have the same effect and should definitely be included in any over 50 capsule wardrobe.
"I prefer to wear fitted jackets over anything like wide leg trousers or pleated skirts as it balances out the whole look," says Jacqui, who says she would also include a long-line blazer, denim jacket and faux leather jacket in her capsule wardrobe.
When it comes to coats, if you can only afford one, choose the best wool coats in your budget. Buy cheap, buy twice, as the saying goes, and this is especially true with an overcoat. Choose a classic style in a neutral shade such as camel or black and it will last you many, many years.
The types of jackets or coats you need in an over 50 capsule wardrobe include: A blazer, a denim jacket, a wool overcoat, a down-filled coat, a leather coat, a shacket or a trench coat.
RRP: $85.99 / £49.50 | Unless you need to be suited and booted for work, an oversized, relaxed blazer is not only more versatile but also bang on-trend. If you're unsure about how to style a blazer, an easy look is to team it with a t-shirt, jeans and white trainers.
RRP: $259 / £139.99 | A belted design, is one of the best slimming coats you can buy. The belt allows you to create a nipped-in waist, which works well for both hourglass or pear shapes. Camel is a great and timeless choice for a winter coat.
RRP: $130 / £79.95 | The best denim jackets don't steer too much away from the original trucker styling. Alternatively, a denim shacket, like this one, can be worn with many outfits. The dark shade and collar make it a bit smarter to get maximum wear.
RRP: $148 / £98 | Checks are one of the big coat trends this season, and this is one of the best trench coats we've seen. With a subtle check that will go with the neutral tones in your wardrobe. The tie belt at the waist and sleeves are nice design touches.
RRP: $346 / £295 | The best leather jacket to choose is one that fits into your style. This modern, cropped take on a biker jacket is a smart alternative to the classic look and will look great thrown over a midi dress for a chic and easy, smart casual outfit idea.
RRP: $279 / £205 | Cozy and stylish is what makes this recycled down-filled puffer coat one of the best winter coats out there. With a detachable hood and an adjustable waistline, to add shape, this puffer jacket is a classic that will last you for years.
THE TYPES OF SHOES NEEDED FOR AN OVER 50 CAPSULE WARDROBE
Jacqui thinks these three pairs are the minimum amount of shoes you can have in a capsule wardrobe - a pair of loafers, trainers and a strappy sandal for evenings out. However, you might want to expand on this so you can ensure you're prepared for every event.
Trainers are a must, even if you never go near a gym. They work well to tone down dressier items, such as a wrap dress, to make them perfect for daywear.
"If you are thinking you don't want to have the look of a sports trainer, go for a leather one or a leather look," advises Evey, who says stylish trainers don't have to cost the earth thanks to straight-to-market brands like M&S and Next offering variants.
The other must-have shoe Evey believes every over 50 capsule wardrobe needs is a flesh-toned court. A favorite of Kate Middleton, it's super versatile and flattering.
"I always tend to add in neutral court shoes as they go with everything and are very elongating to the leg as well!"
The types of shoes you need in an over 50 capsule wardrobe include: Trainers, loafers, high heels, courts, ballet pumps, ankle or knee-high boots.
RRP: $72 / £52 | Thanks to Miu Miu's cult ballerina pumps, this style of shoe is having a resurgence. This two-tone pair have more than a touch of Chanel about them. The perfect shoes to wear with leggings, ballet pumps are your go-to when you want something a bit smarter than trainers but more casual than courts.
RRP: $85.99 / £49.50 | These white trainers will go with everything in your wardrobe. The glittery star uplifts them from plain white trainers, while the Insolia Flex® technology used in them means you can be on your feet all day in total comfort. comfort. A stylish option for wearing with skirts and dresses.
RRP: $34 / £32 | While biker boots are very much one of the big fall winter shoe trends 2022, you can't go wrong with a classic ankle boot with a low, block heel. Not only will they go with everything in your wardrobe - from jeans to midi dresses — but the chunky low heel is also super comfortable to wear all day.
RRP: $85.99 / £49.50 | While chunky loafers are very much in vogue, the best ones for women, strike a balance between fashion and formal. Smart enough for work but also a great match for mom jeans, the gold metallic accent adds a luxe touch that gives a runway-worthy feel.
RRP: $328 / £183 | A favorite of Kate Middleton, these beige suede courts are a go-to for any smart occasion, whether it's a christening, a wedding or a cocktail reception. The soft neutral tones will work well with most things in a capsule closet, regardless of the season. The pointed toe elongates legs too.
RRP: £55 (UK Only) | Every wardrobe needs a glam pair of heels, especially these strappy sandals which tick three of the shoe trends 2022 – party, metallic, and '90s. Ideal for when you need to add an extra bit of glitz to your outfit, they'll jazz up everything from party dresses to a jeans and a nice top combo.
THE TYPES OF BAGS NEEDED FOR AN OVER 50 CAPSULE WARDROBE
Yes, you may want to buy every bag going, but a good over 50 capsule wardrobe really only needs three - a tote or shoulder bag for when you need to carry around more than usual, the best crossbody bag for every day and an evening or clutch bag.
If totes aren't your thing or you need to lug a laptop to the office, look at the best work backpacks for women, as an additional to your closet. But overall, less is more when it comes to bags.
While Evey recommends neutral shades for your bags, she says color can have a place, especially if the rest of your wardrobe is in muted tones.
"If you don't like to actually bring color into your fashion, I suggest adding color with your accessories, such as a gorgeous bright bag," she says.
The types of bags you need in an over 50 capsule wardrobe include: Tote or shopper, crossbody bag, evening bag or clutch.
RRP: $150 / £105 | The best tote bags are those that can hold everything, while still looking super stylish. The minimal design of this bag ensures it will complement everything in your wardrobe and it comes in a wide choice of colors, plus, it's made out of vegan leather, so it's kinder to the planet as well.
RRP: $1,365 / £995 | This is the one bag you'll turn to on repeat, so if you can, invest in one of the best designer crossbody bags This Mulberry one is classic enough to never date, and the leather will just get better with age. It features detailing such as the Mulberry lock and chain to make it a stand-out purchase.
RRP: $69.90 / £49.99 | From one of the coolest Spanish clothing brands, comes this perfect LBB - Little Black Bag. Zara's bag may be black but it's not boring. The beading and fringing ensure it's evening ready and will go with a variety of looks from bright jumpsuits to little black dresses, all with great movement and style.
THE TYPES OF ACCESSORIES AND JEWELRY NEEDED FOR AN OVER 50 CAPSULE WARDROBE
This is where you can have fun with your wardrobe, and as Evey says, accessories and jewelry are a great way to inject some personality into your over 50 capsule wardrobe basics. To keep a look directional, you can refresh this part of your wardrobe seasonally, giving a nod to the latest jewelry trends or sunglasses trends.
"You can always add a pop of personality with accessories, especially if you are not somebody who feels confident to wear a lot of print or motif pieces," recommends Evey. "You can be a bit cheeky and show some fun styling."
Evey loves a leopard print scarf for injecting that fun into your wardrobe. Whether you tie it around your neck, use it as a headband or tie it around your bag, it's a super versatile piece that can help you change up your look.
When it comes to jewelry Evey says classic, simple pieces are key and choosing things like hoop earrings and simple chains means you'll always be able to accessorize your items stylishly.
She says: "I always think you can't go wrong with a classic, such as diamond studs or hoops. They are something that I always think of as really beautiful."
The types of accessories and jewelry you need in an over 50 capsule wardrobe include: Scarf, belt, hoop earrings, a hat, sunglasses, a piece of statement jewelry, a simple gold pendant.
RRP: $41 / £28 | This scarf will add a pop of color to any outfit. Add a retro touch by wearing it around your neck, perfect with a crisp white shirt, or tie it in your hair. Not sure how to wear headbands? Fold your scarf into a triangle, roll it up and wrap it around your hair finishing with a cute tiny knot adds a twist to your look.
RRP: $450 / £295 | When choosing the best designer belts opt for styles you'll wear with everything. Case in point, this beauty. With its logo clasp and stylish mock croc effect, this belt will elevate even jeans and a shirt into a thing of beauty. The statement buckle creates a center point, nipping you in too.
RRP: $17 / £12 | No longer the preserve of grungy teens, the beanie is one of the best winter hats, working with casual outfits as well as smarter coats. While black goes with everything, wearing a brighter, contrasting color to your coat will add interest to grey winter days for a pop of mood-boosting brights
RRP: $157 / £129 | Evey suggests that long pendants are great if you have a small torso as they elongate your frame. Choose one that has an interesting charm and can be worn alone, but also work with plain necklaces to layer up for a bohemian feel that instantly injects interest into any outfit. This works in silver or gold.
RRP: $12.50 / £8.50 | The beauty of gold hoops is that, unless you have super sensitive ears, they don't have to cost the earth. These simple ones are great worn alone or if you have other ear piercings and want to layer up your lobe look. Hoops have become a real jewelry staple, adding a fresh and modern feel to any look.
RRP: $90 / £65 | Whether you go for chandelier earrings or a bold necklace like this, a statement piece of jewelry is essential in any over 50 capsule wardrobe. They're not just for dressing up either. When working out how to style oversized t-shirts, plonk this over the top and voila, an instantly stylish outfit.
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