shop sunday style | 10 wardrobe essentials

a question frequently asked here on the blog is this: can you help build a mix and match wardrobe? or, what are my favorite items, core essentials, wardrobe staples that i reach for more than others? as much as i wish i could answer each of your lovely emails with specific items tailored just for you, it’s impossible due to the volume i receive. but, what i can do is dedicate a blog post that features key wardrobe essentials i can’t live without.

here’s what made my top ten list:

denim jacket – this has to be one of the hardest working items in my closet. what doesn’t look good with a jean jacket? shorts, skirts, dresses, chinos, and of course jeans all look fab with it. plus, it’s the perfect layering piece that transitions each season with ease.

denim jacket (here, here, and here)

black pants – what more can be said about black pants? when in doubt, reach for black. because it works. look for different textures e.g. faux suede or faux leather. and different shapes – flares are on-trend at the moment.

black pants (here, here, and here)

dark denim – for a dressy casual look dark denim does the trick. they especially look good with a pair of classic pumps. but, hey, sneakers work just as well as do booties.

denim (here, here, and here)

white shirt – i don’t know about you, but i’m always on the hunt for the perfect white shirt. keep at least 1 oversized shirt on hand, as well as 1 silk and 1 cotton. look for details that will set your shirt apart from the pack – french cuffs or a tuxedo bib.

white shirt (here, here, and here)

shirtdress – plain or patterned this silhouette compliments every body type under the sun. pop one over a pair of pants for a modern twist with a classic.

shirtdress (here, here, and here)

blazer – ha! if you have been following the blog for any length of time you know i reach for blazers time-and-again. a blazer is perfect for nine-to-five chic as well as a laid-back weekend look. or how about that special occasion?

blazer (here, here, and here)

striped tee – a sailor tee can fly solo with a pair of jeans. or try stripes tucked under a blazer or outerwear for a casual chic look.

striped tee (here, here, and here)

ballet flats – if i’m hoofing it around town i always reach for a pair of ballet flats or loafers. these are the shoes that help me clock in extra mileage in style.

ballet flats (here, here, and here)

vibrant scarf – a silk scarf spiffs up any outfit. but cotton does nicely, especially when it has a fun print. pair a wool scarf with your jacket when winter rolls around. don’t forget scarves can also double as belts or wraps.

scarf (here, here, and here)

classic pumps – a pair of pumps will take you anywhere you want to go in style. and they look great with jeans as well as dresses. black and nude are the most versatile colors but don’t be afraid to add color!

pumps (here, here, and here)

thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule to stop by Style at a Certain Age! if you don’t want to miss a post, you can sign up to receive a daily email, and you will never miss a thing. i’m also on Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram

Beth Djalali

is the Founder and CEO of Style at a Certain Age. She writes Sundays-Fridays on all topics ranging from fashion, health, wellness, home design and more.

She’s 65, 5’8, and size 8.

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