If you feel stuck in a style rut, it's time to revolutionise the way you get dressed and building an over-50 capsule wardrobe is the first step. This game-changing approach is your ticket to effortless style and a wardrobe that works as hard as you do.
As I get older, I am less interested in following the latest trends. Instead, I want my wardrobe to reflect my personality and provide style solutions. I believe that building a wardrobe based on good-quality pieces is the solution. When you have the fundamentals covered, you will always have fail-safe outfits. Knowing how to build a capsule wardrobe may seem daunting at first, but once you've nailed the basics, it will completely transform your style – and your life.
Choosing an outfit can feel overwhelming at any age, and as we get older there are added factors that can cause additional stress. As we navigate our 50s and beyond, life can feel like a constant balancing act. Add hormonal changes and a fluctuating waistline, and you get the picture. This is where an over-50 capsule wardrobe shines. With versatile and flattering items at hand, you'll find getting dressed easier, feel more confident in your clothes, and even free up some valuable time and headspace.
HOW TO BUILD A CAPSULE WARDROBE FOR WOMEN OVER 50
“Clothes should make you look great, feel confident and put a smile on your face,” says personal stylist Lisa Ta]lbot, who helps her clients to curate their wardrobes.
“An (over-50s) capsule wardrobe should be built around your style, personality and lifestyle, which means that every time you open it, it feels like you and supports you in what you are doing, whether that’s work, seeing friends or walking the dog. Think about the items you enjoy wearing and use these as the base items to build outfits," says Lisa. "It’s about creating more outfits with less clothes.”
Key items such as a great white shirt and a pair of flattering jeans will become the building blocks you need to pull a look together. Once you have a capsule collection of foundation items, you can mix and match to create classic, fail-safe outfits. Then you can begin to add some personality pieces that will add interest and reflect your sense of style.
You've probably already got a pretty good basis from which to start your over-50s capsule wardrobe. I suggest beginning with decluttering your clothes, you may discover long hidden gems that you had forgotten about. Use our guide and make a list of things you are missing, then start to slowly add these pieces into your wardrobe. It's worth noting that these items are going to get lots of wear for many years to come - so it's worth investing in the best quality you can afford.
ITEMS YOU NEED IN A CAPSULE WARDROBE FOR WOMEN OVER 50
- Tops: Consider tops that are both versatile and flattering, such as a classic shirt, a cashmere sweater and a good quality white t-shirt.
- Trousers: Ignore the trends and instead choose the best jeans for your body shape. A pair of tailored, well-fitting trousers are also an essential, along with a more casual relaxed style.
- Skirts: Opt for classic styles. A-line, midi and slip skirts are all stylish and comfortable to wear.
- Jackets and coats: A well-chosen jacket or coat can effortlessly elevate and transform your outfits.
- Dresses and jumpsuits: Choose versatile styles that can be dressed up or down, ensuring you have stylish options for any occasion throughout the year.
- Shoes and bags: Invest in classic styles in neutral shades for maximum versatility and effortless coordination with your wardrobe. Consider splurging on designer bags or shoes, as they can elevate your entire look and last for years to come.
- Accessories: These accessories help to diversify your wardrobe. Belts and scarves will add a pop of colour and jewellery can give any outfit a touch of your own personal style.
Tops
Simple tops are great for layering, enabling you to utilise your wardrobe fully, whatever the season. "Some really good layering pieces like a simple t-shirt, both short-sleeved and long-sleeved, are essential for a capsule wardrobe," advises QVC fashion presenter and stylist, Evey Amery.
A basic white t-shirt can be worn under a shirt for extra warmth. Wear it under a classic black cashmere cardigan, and it will reflect light towards your face and brighten your complexion. A striped Breton top can be paired with jeans for an easy everyday look and add a pop of colour by knotting a bright sweatshirt around your shoulders.
In winter, pair a cashmere jumper with wide-leg trousers and add flat ballet pumps for a classic, chic ensemble. "Good quality jumpers in neutral colours like black and cream go with so much and work into most wardrobes" advises blogger Jacqui Berry "but I'd also pick a brighter jumper that would complement a patterned or floral shirt in the same tones," she says.
"For cashmere, my favourite place has to be Reformation," says w&h Fashion Ecommerce editor Caroline Parr. "I bought a classic black jumper by the brand years ago and it's still my most-worn winter item. Then I added a camel version to my capsule collection last year and it feels like a bit of everyday luxury. It washes well, and I keep them looking fresh with an occasional debobble with my Philips fabric shaver."
It's hard to overstate the versatility of this classic white t-shirt. Made from 100% organic cotton, it's a premium heavyweight jersey. A basic piece like this will also solve those 'what do I wear' issues pairing with everything from formal tailoring to more casual items. Check out our guide to the best bras for mature women for the best t-shirt bras to wear underneath.
This neat-fitting top is super-soft and has generous sleeves, making it an ideal layering piece. Wear it under the cashmere cardigan in winter for even extra warmth, or pop it under a lightweight midi dress to extend its wear from summer to autumn.
"A simple and clean white shirt always works beautifully with everything," says Evey. Choose linen for breathability in hotter months or a crisp cotton for year-round wear. A slightly oversized shape will allow you to style it in a myriad of ways and is super flattering for all body types.
Whether you're working out how to style wide leg jeans or want a top to team with your favourite blazer, the Breton top is it. The classic stripes literally go with everything making it one of the hardest-working pieces in your wardrobe. Add a floral or animal print scarf to give it even more personality.
A good quality sweatshirt in a strong pastel or rainbow bright shade will be useful in many ways. Team with your jeans and trench for everyday chic or tie over the shoulders of your summer dress to give it a sporty edge. I've had this 100% cotton style for a few months and it washes really well, with no loss of colour or shape.
Trousers
A flattering, well-cut pair of tailored trousers in a neutral colour will become your wardrobe hero. Invest in a heavier fabric in a darker shade for winter and a lighter weight linen or cotton for the warmer months. The best shape will depend on your body type, but you can’t go wrong with a slim, straight leg as these will always look neat. Teamed with a blazer, they're office appropriate, and by adding a simple t-shirt and your best white trainers you have a stylish weekend look.
Jacqui's go-to is a pair of wide-legged pants. She says, "They are so elegant and flattering for most body shapes." When it comes to tops, just make sure to keep your top half fitted to balance out the silhouette. "Elasticated drawstring waistbands are popular at the moment and allow you to combine style with comfort."
An over-50 capsule wardrobe wouldn't be complete without a pair of the best jeans for women over 50. Darker denim washes will always look more polished and I recommend having a white pair too - not just for the summer.
These slim, tapered-leg trousers are available in both black and navy and come in regular and petite fittings. Team with a white shirt and loafers for a luxe look or chuck on with your favourite trainers and a simple tee for weekend lazing.
The epitome of timeless design, I predict these trousers will become your most worn item and the higher price point will be justified in cost-per-wear. Made from 100% Italian wool, they are half lined to the knee and come in regular and short fittings.
These jeans are made from 99% organic cotton, with 1% elastane for stretch, ensuring a comfortable and flattering fit. The dark denim wash gives these jeans an elevated look and they look great with the hems turned up for a casual vibe.
For days when you want to dress down, but still look polished and on-trend, these wide wide-leg trousers are the perfect blend of chic and comfy. With their elasticated waist and soft jersey fabric, they're as stylish as they are easy to wear. In a creamy hue, they bring a touch of luxury to any outfit, and are just as versatile as black.
Clean and simple (with endless possibilities when it comes to outfit building) these chinos are perfect for creating a preppy look. Wear with the basic white T-shirt and tie a colourful sweatshirt around your waist for an effortless everyday ensemble.
If you are wondering how to style white jeans you will be amazed at how many ways you can wear them. I like to wear mine in the winter too, with chunky trainers and an over-sized jumper. If you are worried about the practicality of white you could opt for a creamier shade or light grey wash instead.
Dresses and jumpsuits
Along with classic separates it's a wise idea to include at least one dress and a jumpsuit in your over-50 capsule wardrobe. "Whether it's a block colour or print, mini, midi or ankle length, have the dress style in your wardrobe that you love and want to wear," advises Lisa. Find a versatile style that you can dress up or down. Go for something loose and unstructured for when you want to look laid-back and a more form-fitting style for smarter occasions. A flattering jumpsuit is equally as versatile. If you are wondering how to style a jumpsuit, try adding a fitted blazer and loafers.
Having a favourite dress or jumpsuit that you can reach for when you are in a hurry to get out the door will save you time and effort.
With it's classic collar, short sleeves and drawstring waistband, this navy utility midi dress is both flattering and easy-to-wear. It's the perfect throw-on solution for busy days, whether you're dashing to the office or wondering what to wear to the pub.
There are so many jumpsuit options to choose from, it's the modern alternative to a dress and just as versatile. It's worth jumping on the denim jumpsuit trend because it's become a perennial favourite. Go for a wide-leg style with puffed sleeves for a feminine twist.
Combining style with sustainability, Albaray are a brand that you need to have on your radar for great quality pieces. This dress is one of their best-selling styles and customer's love how versatile it is. There are many ways to style leopard print, add neutral accessories for simplicity or wear with brighter shades for a fun twist.
Skirts
The key to a successful over 50 capsule wardrobe is having a variety of separates as this allows you to create different looks by mixing and matching the different elements. Having a few skirts that you can wear in the same way as your trousers will add more sartorial strings to your bow. Much like the trousers it's good to have a smart skirt that you can team with the white shirt or cashmere knit for a simple but chic look. Also consider a softer style in a floaty fabric - I was surprised at how many ways you can style a satin slip skirt. Finally a denim skirt will always earn it's keep - giving you another way to wear your basic tops.
Ok, it's not very exciting - but I promise you this skirt will be a useful item in your outfit-building toolbox. Dress it up with the cashmere cardigan and neutral heels, or down with the crisp white shirt – the options are endless.
The enduring appeal of a satin slip skirt makes it a must-have for your over-50s capsule wardrobe. While it's a natural choice for party season (just add a fitted blazer and heels), it can also be dressed down with ease. Try pairing it with a chunky knit and knee-high boots for a look that's stylish and effortlessly cool.
A denim midi skirt is a true wardrobe wonder, effortlessly transitioning from workdays to weekends with just a few simple styling tweaks. Embrace the retro 70s trend by wearing it with heeled boots or go for double-denim with a matching jacket.
Jackets and coats
When it comes to outerwear, an over-50s capsule wardrobe needs at least 3 styles. Begin with a coat and invest in the best quality your budget allows. The adage 'buy cheap, buy twice' rings particularly true here. Opt for a timeless style in versatile neutrals like camel or black – a wise investment that will serve you for years to come. You might want to opt for a smart wool style or prefer a quilted coat with a hood, depending on your lifestyle. A lighter weight raincoat is also a must - go for a classic trench or maybe a more sporty parka-style. Finally, a shorter jacket is a good idea. "I favour wearing fitted jackets over wide-leg trousers or pleated skirts to create a balanced look," says style expert Jacqui. She recommends including a blazer or denim jacket as wardrobe staples.
This belted, double-breasted coat from Reiss delivers serious quiet luxury style that will stand the test of time. It's formal and functional - put it on over any outfit to instantly upgrade your look.
No style capsule would be complete without a trench - it's one of the key basic items that underpin my entire wardrobe. I've worn this over a tailored suit to an interview and over my jeans for walking the dog. In fact, I think I've worn it over a ballgown for a party too.
Crafted from a premium wool blend fabric this blazer has the power of a sharply tailored jacket balanced by the softness of the baby blue shade. You could opt for a darker navy or black - but I think this lighter tone will 'wake up' your neutral basics and keep them fresh.
Shoes
When I think about the shoes I actually wear there are certain styles that I reach for time and time again. First up is a pair of smart flats - you may decide on a classic loafer or prefer a ballet pump, either will work with trousers, skirts or dresses, and in summer switch to a pair of comfy flat sandals. For dressier occasions, a pair of court shoes will be useful - the heel height is a personal choice. Don't forget the power of a nude-toned court shoe either – a favourite of Kate Middleton herself. "I always tend to add in neutral court shoes as they go with everything and are very elongating to the leg as well," Evey enthuses. Trainers are a must, even if you never go near a gym! They work well to tone down dressier items, such as a midi dress. Finally, a pair of boots - elegant knee-length leather will never go out of style.
Wondering can jeans be business casual? These versatile loafers are here to prove it's possible. While chunky styles are trending, these sleek shoes strike the perfect balance between fashion-forward and office-appropriate. The gold snaffle adds a luxe touch, giving them a runway-worthy feel, while their classic silhouette keeps things professional. Smart enough for work yet stylish enough for weekend wear, they're the ideal finishing touch for your capsule wardrobe.
Trinny Woodall is a big fan of Russell & Bromley's platform trainers, and she wears them with everything from tailored suits to sparkly dresses. Our experts agree that these are one of the best white trainers to invest in. Read more in the full Russell & Bromley Park Mid Flatform trainers review
These bestselling gold sandals are also available in black, tan and silver - any of these colours will be a great addition to your over-50s capsule wardrobe for summer. Wear them with the dark denim jeans, turn up the hem of your jeans to really show them off. Ideal from AM to PM, these could work for occasions too with wedding guest or mother of the bride or groom outfits.
Sleek and stylish, LK Bennett's Floret courts come in 8 shades. Made from super-soft nappa leather. A classic pair of shoes, wear them for all the events and occasions in your diary this season and beyond. They'll also work year through, so they will go from your summer into your winter capsule wardrobe to really maximise their cost-per-wear.
Not all flat shoes are created equal and it's wise to choose a pair with additional support if you want all-day comfort. This pair are biomechanically designed to hug your arches, with additional technology that helps support natural alignment from the ground up.
It's worth investing in a pair of classic black boots to see you through the winter months. Duo are one of the best boot brands because they offer a range of calf fits and even a bespoke service, meaning you can find a pair that hug your leg perfectly,
Bags
Yes, you may want to buy every bag going, but a good over 50s capsule wardrobe only needs three - a tote or shoulder bag for when you need to carry around more than usual, a 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 item for your closet. But overall, less is more when it comes to bags.
This roomy bag is spacious enough to hold everything you need for a busy day (and let's be honest, we always need more than we think) and is the perfect blend of practicality and style. There's a secure inner pocket for your valuables.
Here's a bag that I reach for on a regular basis, it's the perfect size for wearing cross-body, not too big but able to carry the vitals. It comes with a leather strap and a choice of two additional fabric straps, so you can switch around to create different looks.
If you are looking to invest in a designer handbag for special occasions this one from Jimmy Choo is the perfect blend of classic and modern. Don't keep it for best though! It will work with everything from the best outfits for mother of the bride to denim and a white T-shirt.
Accessories
This is where you can have fun with your wardrobe, as accessories and jewellery 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 jewellery trends for 2025 and beyond. A great belt is essential for adding a new dimension to a dress, changing the silhouette for an alternative look.
When it comes to jewellery, Evey advises keeping it simple. She says: "You can't go wrong with classic gold hoops, whatever your age." Evey loves adding interesting scarves to refresh her look. "I like to wear a scarf around the waist of my jeans, instead of a belt - it's a fun way to get more wear from the items you love. Don’t forget to check out pre-loved sites for some fabulous and unique styles."
A touch of affordable luxury, these chubby hoops are 18K gold plated. They work well on their own or can be part of an ear-stack, perfect for those embracing the multi-piercing trend. Don't be afraid to mix your metals - gold and silver are great together.
Belts are having their moment in the fashion spotlight right now, with woven ones like this proving particularly popular. A belt adds instant character to classic pieces, breathing new life into staples like the crisp white shirt. Wear it with a midi dress to accentuate your waist.
A new Gucci silk scarf will cost you over £400, buying pre-loved is a great way to obtain a classic heirloom piece for a fraction of the cost. Scarves are the icing on the cake of an over-50s capsule wardrobe and will add a final flourish to any outfit, proving that sometimes, the smallest details make the biggest impact.
FAQs
How to start an over 50s capsule wardrobe
If you haven’t already got a selection of good quality over 50s wardrobe basics - such as t-shirts or shirts - Lisa suggests going for these in neutral tones such as black, grey, beige or navy, and then you can add in print and colour as you go along.
She says: “Once you have a variety of neutral basics, adding in a coloured top, for example, then becomes really easy." Now that you've gathered your items, it's time for some fun! 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."
Don’t view your over 50 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 and declutter your clothes once more.
How to style your capsule wardrobe
Start by mixing and matching your core pieces to create diverse looks. Pair a classic white shirt with tailored trousers for a polished office ensemble, then dress it down with jeans for a casual weekend brunch. Layer a statement blazer over a simple dress to transition from day to evening effortlessly. There are some simple tricks that you can use to switch your look from just "worn" to "styled". Simply rolling-up the sleeves of your jacket to reveal the cuff of your shirt or popping your collar up will look like you have made a conscious effort to express your style personality. Don't shy away from colour – a vibrant scarf or bold piece of jewellery can instantly elevate a neutral outfit. Experiment with different textures to add depth to your looks, like pairing a silk blouse with a wool cardigan. Finally, let your accessories do the talking – a great bag, a pair of stylish shoes, or some eye-catching earrings can completely transform an outfit.
Is an over 50s capsule wardrobe a good idea?
“Having hit my 50s I want and need my clothes to work hard for me because I don’t have the time to think too much about what to put on and how to style clothes and that’s where a capsule wardrobe comes into its own,” says Jacqui.
According to her, a capsule wardrobe adapts to both our evolving bodies and shifting purchasing patterns as we age.
She says: “I’m moving towards getting more classic and all-round more versatile pieces that will remain wearable for many years.”
A capsule wardrobe is more than just stylish—it's a savvy choice. It curbs impulse buys, saving you money and reducing textile waste. By focusing on quality pieces you love, you'll maximise their use and embrace a more sustainable approach to fashion. It's a win-win for your wallet and the planet.
Our experts:
Lisa specialises in elevating successful female leaders and professional women with a wardrobe that represents their brand, personality, lifestyle and body shape.
Passionate about fashion from an early age, Evey’s career spans over 40 years within the fashion industry. Starting as a Saturday girl working in fashion retail in her hometown of Brighton, progressing through to wholesale as a successful fashion agent,her journey led her to the television shopping channel QVC, where she has presented since 2012. Eveyspreloved was born in 2021, when Evey’s love for preloved designer items began. This quickly took off after offering a personal 1-1 service to clients who wanted to consign their products with her.
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.
