This story appeared on BestOfLife.com, September 3, 2023
It’s almost impossible to know where to shop these days. Once upon a time, you would head to your local mall and peruse your favorite stores. Now, most shopping is done online, meaning you need to either know which brands to type into your search bar, or you’re at the whim of advertising recommendations. And in your 60s and beyond, you might find yourself searching for timeless, classic pieces that will last you multiple seasons. We have your updated shopping blueprint: Here, personal stylists share the best clothing brands for updating your wardrobe once you reach your 60s.
1. Quince
This direct-to-consumer brand cuts the middleman out of the shopping experience, so it’s able to provide lower prices. Elizabeth Kosich, certified image stylist and founder of Elizabeth Kosich Styling, calls it a one-stop shop for affordable luxury clothes, home, and travel items.
“Shop upscale, high-quality wardrobe essentials like cashmere, silk, and leather at surprisingly low prices,” she says. “Standout pieces include cashmere T-shirts, leather shackets, and an entire line of washable silks—tops, bottoms, dresses, loungewear, and sheets.”
The prices are also very reasonable: a Mongolian cashmere T-shirt goes for $45, and a cotton knit blazer goes for $70.
2. J. Jill
J. Jill has basics, as well as trendy, bolder pieces. “Shop by collection—Wearever, Pure Jill, Fit—and discover smart wardrobe basics ranging from streetwear to travel wear to loungewear to athleisure wear,” says Kosich. “Don’t miss the recommended ‘Ways to Style’ curated looks on each product page that help complete a head-to-toe look.”
The best thing about J. Jill is its inclusivity. The brand offers petite, plus, and tall items, so everyone can feel great about shopping here.
3. Lands’ End
Carol Davidson, NYC-based mid-life stylist and founder of Life.Style.Strategy, calls Lands’ End a stylist’s secret.
“While many tend to think of them as more ‘steak than sizzle,’ do not underestimate them for high-quality, well-cut, well-priced basics such as tanks, turtlenecks, and tees,” she says. “And let’s not forget their low-maintenance, no-iron, crisp white blouses, which, remarkably, seem to stay crisp and white!”
The retailer often holds sales that cut its already affordable prices by 40 percent. It also offers petite, tall, and plus sizes.
4. Wit & Wisdom
Consider this your new favorite destination for denim. You can find Wit & Wisdom at some department stores, such as Nordstrom, if you want to try them on in person, as well as on its own site.
The brand sells ‘Ab’Solution jeans, which are made using stretch denim that contours and holds the body. “Let’s just say they are a game-changer,” says Davidson. “While the name says it all, I give them added points for comfortable fabrics, offered in an array of cuts and colors.”
Prices for each pair are between $78 and $88.
5. Everlane
Visit Everlane to restock your quality basics. “It’s a great brand making a considered effort to produce timeless pieces that suit a wide range of body types and sizes,” says Michelle Barrett, stylist and founder of Capsule Closet Stylist. “Their apparel is stylish and fashionable without following fashion fads—perfect for a timeless capsule wardrobe.”
The styles here can take you from the office to casual weekend wear. Pros also love the shoes and handbags, which come in neutral colors and sturdy constructions that will allow you to get a ton of use out of them.
6. Juliemay Lingerie
If sensitive skin, irritation, and hot flashes are issues for you during menopause, look to the European brand Juliemay Lingerie, suggests Barrett.
“They produce soft, organic lingerie and nightwear for sensitive skin,” she says. “As we age, our skin can become more irritated easily, so this brand is actively trying to produce clothing in an ethical way to combat that issue.”
There are lots of bra options, like non-wired ones, ones made for back support, and ones made for post-surgery. There’s even a helpful guide that shows you which of the brand’s items are best for each condition, from hot flashes to allergies to eczema. Prices range from around $60 to $100 per piece.
This story appeared on BestOfLife.com, September 3, 2023