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Let’s start by saying our age should never govern what clothes we reach for. But when I turned 50, I decided not only to enjoy my wardrobe, but to be proud of my outfits, too.
I realised I don’t need to use my clothes as another way to please people. My outfit doesn’t need to pigeonhole me into a group or conform to the norms because, blimey, if there’s one thing I don’t want to be, it’s normal.
I spent decades trying to be like everyone else, only to realise that we don’t need to fit in – and we don’t have to stand out either. We can take a seat anywhere we damn well please.
Saying all that, it’s autumn and I will probably do what I’ve done for decades.
So let’s start at the very beginning. And if you aren’t singing The Sound of Music, I’m not sure this friendship is going to last. Listen, let’s not waste each other’s time. We’ve got shit to do. Because those of us over 50 are busy – and if you’re anything like me, we’re finally beginning to love our lives and, dare I say it, ourselves.
So I digress. Autumn, the beginning...
1. The failsafe: Jeans and a nice top
While my love for barrel jeans shows no signs of slowing down, may I suggest a good kick-flare jean? Worn with heeled boots and a simple jumper, shirt, blouse or T-shirt and Bob’s very much your uncle.
The shape of the jeans always makes me feel two inches taller, which, considering I am most definitely shrinking, is a gift.
2. The fixer: An oversized blazer
I’m lazy. I’m super busy but I am inherently lazy and happy to own it. So my go-to, failsafe, make-me-feel-amazing outfit is straight-leg jeans, a simple classic white T-shirt (more on that later) and an oversized blazer.
Whack on some heels, throw on a necklace, add a clutch. Boom.
3. The grafter: The white T-shirt
And you might think – a T-shirt in autumn/winter? Think layering.
I love how a white T-shirt can help balance an outfit, just peeking out at the collar or waistline.
I’m picky. I like a bit of weight to my white T-shirt. Almost a stiffy, if you know what I mean? I love a good stiffy. There, I said it.
I want it to just sit there and do its thing. Sleeve length is key. Too short and I can’t stand my arm flaps a-flapping. Too long and it loses its T-shirt status and enters long-sleeved territory, and this has its own category.
It has to be just above the elbow for me. Perfection.
4. The classic: The crisp cotton shirt
Possibly the hardest-working item in my wardrobe: the crisp cotton shirt.
Wear it on its own with jeans, loafers or heels and a pop of colour on the lips. Often with dry shampoo as the star of the show. You know those evenings when you need to look like you’ve made an effort? It works a treat.
Wear it under a jumper to add a little interest and, for me, help soften or hide the neckline. I’m too afraid of needles to do anything about the turkey neck.
5. The comfort blanket: Knitwear
Obviously.
I’m currently switching as much as possible to cotton because, as I’ve aged, I cannot cope with ANY sense of itch. I also overheat at the flick of a switch, so this autumn/winter my focus is on high-quality cotton.
I like them big and chunky. The bigger, the better. I’m really into navy at the moment. I’m not sure if that’s an age thing? It feels classic. Makes me feel a bit posh.
6. The wild card: Animal print
Animal print went off my radar for a while, but over the last couple of years I’ve gone wild for it because of the beautiful tones we can now get.
Less of the orange Kat Slater vibe, it feels a little more grown-up. I love a hint of leopard with a bag or trainers, but I’m not against a full co-ord either.
My level of leopard changes with my mood. Some days I can’t face any; others I’m head-to-toe animal. But maybe start with a really good bag.
7. The finishing touch: Jewellery stacking
Jewellery stacking helps break up any block colours for me and adds interest.
Beads are not just for summer; they’re for life. I’m currently hunting down the perfect red but have yet to find it, so in the meantime I’m wearing pinks and lilacs.
They may not seem very autumnal, but for me that’s the point. They stand out and simply make me smile.
8. The obsession: Jackets
Getting down to the nitty-gritty, what would be my Mastermind subject? Jackets.
It’s actually ridiculous the number of jackets I own, considering I am at a beautiful point in my life where I simply love to be at home.
My Barbour Elaine jacket was last year’s standout, so this year I’m considering investing in a longer-line Barbour. You can’t beat a good classic.
9. Practically perfect: Wellies
I’m moving house and have a large blank canvas of a garden to tend to, so I am fully entering my gardening era.
I actually ordered the Hunter x Ganni collaboration but, as much as I absolutely adored them, I had to return them. I felt so guilty spending that amount of money on boots when we’re moving home.
Imagine – you can’t afford curtains because I bought some wellies! But I loved them! Size 8 if anyone is thinking ahead for Christmas.
10. The cherry on top: A pop of red
As the leaves dutifully deliver the colour palette of dreams, I always seek out red. Especially that particular red that glows in the autumn sun.
So it’s no wonder I’m always inspired to add a pop of red at this time of year.
Last year I found ways to wear scarves without feeling like a royal reject. A scarf around the neck, worn as a tie, tied onto your jeans at the waist or around the handle of a bag. Can you tell I’m all about the simplest of additions?
But red bags, shoes, jewellery... although, like I mentioned, I’m still to find my perfect necklace.
But listen to me. If you’re over 50, wear what you damn well please.
We don’t need to shrivel up and hide. We are being kind of manipulated by society into thinking ageing is something to run from and that we need to chase youth down. I’m done with that.
I’m happy.
If I could go back and tell my 21-year-old self that I can honestly feel this happy, I can imagine her being so overwhelmed she would cry with joy – and maybe not even believe it.
I’m happy with who I am, and my wardrobe has a role to play in that.
So if I can help at least one of you realise that being over 50 is pretty bloody magical, I’ll be chuffed to bits.
Follow Vickie Neave on Instagram @inpolife