What to keep, what to replace: a wardrobe audit for women over 50

Collaborative Post | Stepping into the golden years doesn't mean that fashion and style should fall by the wayside. On the contrary, the age of 50 and beyond is a perfect time to reassess your wardrobe and rejig your style. Personal style evolves as we age, and what worked in our 20s and 30s might not necessarily work in our 50s. Hence, performing a wardrobe audit is essential to ensure that your closet is stocked with pieces that suit both your age and personality, making you feel confident and classy always.

Photo by Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash

What to keep

Staples like a well-fitted pair of jeans, stylish sunglasses, and a comfy backless bra are perfect examples of pieces to keep. These items provide comfort and style, taking into account the changing body dynamics, without compromising attention to fashion details. Now the question is, what should be kept and what should be retired during this wardrobe audit?

Classic Jeans: A classic pair of dark denim jeans is a wardrobe essential at any age. When tailored to fit, they create a flattering silhouette while remaining comfortable and versatile. 

Backless Bra: Let's be honest, comfort is crucial at any age. A comfy backless bra provides the necessary support without the discomfort of underwires or straps. Plus, it's perfect for wear under open or low-back garments.

Stylish Eyewear: Your glasses are more than just a functional item; they can become a significant fashion statement. Invest in a frame that complements your face and adds to your overall look.

Neutral Shades: For clothing and accessories alike, neutral tones like black, white, beige, and navy can be mixed and matched for countless chic outfits.

Structured Handbag: A handbag in a timeless, structured design will always add a touch of class. Choose a high-quality material and a size that's functional for your daily needs.

What to replace

Now that we've covered wardrobe essentials, let's delve into what needs to be replaced in this audit.

Ill-fitting Clothes: Your body shape changes as you age. As such, those tight or baggy clothes that don’t flatter you anymore must go. Replace them with tailored pieces that suit your body structure and make you feel fabulous.

Outdated Shoes: Just like your clothes, your footwear demands attention. Those platforms or high stilettos sitting in your shoe rack for years need to be replaced with comfortable yet chic options, like block heels or stylish flats.

Uncomfortable Underwear: When it comes to your daily essentials, comfort should always come first. Ditch any underwear that digs in or distracts—think thongs that ride up or fabrics that irritate—and opt for soft, breathable cotton styles instead. If you’re looking to elevate your drawer, there are plenty of stylish lingerie options that offer both comfort and appeal, so you don’t have to choose between the two.

Flashy Jewelry: Now could be the right time to retire those chunky, bright pieces of jewelry in favor of understated elegance. Think fine chains, pearls, or small stud earrings.

Outdated Trends: Lastly, purge your wardrobe of the relics from past trends. The neon, ultra-low waist jeans or shoulder pad blazers from decades ago have no place in your revived contemporary wardrobe.

This wardrobe audit will allow you to create a timeless and elegant style that suits your changing lifestyle and body. Remember, aging doesn't imply giving up on style; it merely means adjusting it to reflect your current personality and lifestyle confidently and getting rid of items that no longer serve you. After all, true style is ageless!


Disclaimer: this is a collaborative post.