Having a simple capsule wardrobe can make it so much easier for you to choose what to wear. The premise is that by carefully curating outfits when you purchase them, you don’t have to get your head in a tangle about it later. Sometimes, having just a few high-quality, versatile pieces is all you need.

Maybe you’ve accumulated lots of clothes over the years and you want to start from fresh. Here are a few items you could consider to form the basis of your new capsule wardrobe.

Simple t-shirts

T-shirts are the staple of casual wear for many a capsule wardrobe. You’ll probably want a combination of long and short-sleeved t-shirts, just to keep all your bases covered. Pick a few neutral shades, and perhaps a colour or two as well. 

Think about the fabric you’re picking. Cotton t-shirts are a nice, soft breathable material. For something more sustainable, look out for organic cotton. 

However, cotton is often easier to shrink in the wash, and the colours may fade. If you’d rather avoid this possibility altogether, look for polyester or a polyester-cotton blend. 

Stylish trousers

Two or three pairs of thoughtfully chosen trousers could also form an important part of your selection. Choose black, grey, camel, or cream if you want to maximise the number of tops you can pair them with. 

Remember that wide-leg trousers generally look best with fitted tops, while skinny or slim-fit trousers can work with either fitted or loose-fitting tops. 

Loose-fitting clothing such as linen trousers are comfy and still perfect for warm summer days. With these, you can easily dress your outfit up or down for the day’s activity.

Many women find high-waisted trousers create a flattering impression. For a woman who is on the shorter side, they give the illusion of longer legs and, thus additional height.

Comfortable dresses

Depending on your style, you may want to stock your capsule closet with a few comfy dresses. The best kind are the ones you can dress up or dress down and adapt to all weather.

A relaxed midi dress can fare well in both summer and autumn. Choose something with loose sleeves to give you that comfort and freedom of movement. 

A smart shirt dress with a belt can often function as office wear or weekend wear.

When dress shopping for a capsule wardrobe ask yourself the following questions:

1. Will smart shoes and casual shoes alike look good with this?
2. Will it work well either on its own or with a jacket?

If the answer to both questions is yes, you’ve got yourself an all-season, multi-purpose dress that’s worth sticking in your basket. 

Outdoor clothes

This is the UK, let’s face it. Not having to reach for layers when stepping out is a luxury reserved for a select part of summer. So, you’ll want one very solid winter coat in your capsule wardrobe, as well as another light jacket for milder weather.

The trench coat never goes out of style and it looks great with a pair of heeled boots.

A pair of classic white shoes (maybe some simple trainers) can also go with most outfits, from summer dresses to trousers and shorts.

Consider shoe purchases carefully and aim to try them on first, if possible. Good foot support and bunion prevention are non-negotiable. 

Finally, complete your edit with a pair of quality slippers and garden shoes. 

Finding out what flatters your body type and then streamlining your wardrobe accordingly can be a fun way to get organised. Ultimately though, don’t lose sight of what you’re comfortable and happy wearing.

Need more wardrobe help? Read Autumn fashion wardrobe staples

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The post Capsule wardrobe pieces for women over 50 appeared first on Silver Magazine.

With a few key fashion pieces you can create a classy capsule wardrobe for the changing seasons. As the cooler weather sets in, it’s time to think about autumn fashion. The air grows crisp, and nature’s colour palette transforms into a rich tapestry of warm hues.

It’s a season that calls for easy style; some wardrobe essentials for autumn that embody both timeless elegance and cozy comfort. From classic tweeds to luxurious knits, here are some must-have pieces for both men and women that effortlessly blend style and practicality.

Preparing your body and mind for autumn, the season of change

For Her:

The Tailored Coat

A well-fitted, tailored coat is a quintessential autumn fashion investment. Choose neutral shades like camel, deep navy, or charcoal to effortlessly elevate your ensemble. A coat that cinches at the waist exudes sophistication, while quality materials such as wool or cashmere provide both warmth and style.

A Polo-Neck Jumper

Elegantly versatile, a polo-neck sweater in a neutral tone or classic stripe is a perfect layering piece. Pair it with tailored trousers, a pencil skirt, or even denim for an ensemble that exudes timeless refinement.

The Leather Accessories

Leather accessories add a touch of luxury to any outfit. A well-crafted leather handbag or a pair of leather gloves are not only stylish but also functional additions to your autumn ensemble.

The Midi Skirt

Embrace the autumn breeze in a midi skirt. Opt for fabrics like wool or corduroy in classic colours such as deep green, navy, or rich burgundy. Pair with ankle boots for a polished look that transitions seamlessly from day to night.

The Riding Boots

Riding boots epitomise British elegance and countryside charm. They’re perfect for pairing with skinny jeans, dresses, or even tweed skirts. Choose a versatile shade like chocolate brown or black for a timeless addition to your shoe collection.

For Him:

The Tailored Blazer

A well-fitted tailored blazer is a versatile piece that adds polish to any outfit. Wear it with slacks for a smart-casual look. Or layer it over a fine knit sweater for added warmth during cooler days.

The Cable-Knit Sweater

A cable-knit sweater is a classic piece that never goes out of style. Choose earthy tones like olive green, deep burgundy, or navy blue. This textured layer can be paired with everything from jeans to tailored trousers for a refined yet relaxed look.

The Cashmere Scarf

A soft cashmere scarf adds both warmth and luxury to your ensemble. Opt for neutral colours like charcoal or camel to effortlessly complement your autumn wardrobe.

The Oxford Shoe

Oxford shoes are the epitome of sophisticated footwear. They pair impeccably with suits, chinos, and even dark denim. Choose a timeless shade like black or brown to ensure their versatility.

The Classic Trench Coat

A classic trench coat is a quintessential autumn staple. Its timeless design and lightweight warmth make it the perfect outerwear piece for transitional weather. Go for neutral colours like beige or khaki for maximum versatility.

Unisex Essentials:

The Timeless Watch

A high-quality, timeless watch is an accessory that transcends gender. Look for a classic design with a leather or metal strap that complements both formal and casual ensembles.

The Cashmere Sweater

Cashmere sweaters are the epitome of luxury and comfort. Choose a crewneck or V-neck style in a neutral tone that can be layered over shirts or worn on its own.

The Trench Scarf

A trench scarf, often made from lightweight wool, is the perfect accessory to drape over your shoulders for added warmth and a touch of elegance.

The Leather Belt

A classic leather belt is a versatile accessory that adds a touch of refinement to any outfit. Choose a belt with a simple and timeless buckle design.

The British autumn calls for a wardrobe that marries style and comfort, while retaining a sense of timeless elegance. With these essentials in your arsenal, you can effortlessly navigate the season with a sense of sophistication. Add other statement pieces, accessorise how you prefer – you’ve got great foundations here.

From tailored coats to luxurious cashmere, the key is to invest in upmarket pieces that transcend trends. Capture the essence of British refinement and you can revisit these items year after year. Embrace the cozy charm of autumn while exuding an air of understated elegance.

Read more: Four best European capitals for a September city break

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The post Autumn fashion: timeless classics and wardrobe staples appeared first on Silver Magazine.

For any fashion-conscious individual, there are certain statement pieces that you’ll want to invest in. These are the kind of items that you can wear for life and, in many cases, will increase in value over time.

Investing in these pieces is how you build a sophisticated, elegant and eye-catching wardrobe. So, let’s look at a few of the best pieces, and why they’re worth splurging for.

Leather jackets

A leather jacket is something that should be in every person’s wardrobe. They’re timeless and can add plenty of style to your wardrobe, but they’re also items that look better with age.

Often, leather jackets are passed down in a family and you might find that your mum’s leather jacket is worth a fair amount now!

Leather boots

Similarly, a pair of high-quality leather boots will only get better with age and be a worthwhile investment. When it comes to footwear, it is always worth spending that little bit more. Your feet will thank you for the quality.

Leather boots are also incredibly versatile. You can dress them up or down, and will fit with most outfits, no matter what your style is.

Watches

Pre-owned Rolex watches

Out of all fashion items, it is watches that have the potential to appreciate the most and there is a big demand for luxury, rare and vintage watches.

Rolex, in particular, is a highly desirable brand and you can find a pre-owned Rolex online that makes it a lot easier to afford this investment piece. This will be an item that will elevate your personal style, impress others and boost your self-confidence, which makes it a great wardrobe upgrade.

Sunglasses

Vintage sunglasses are always in style

Cheap sunglasses can be good for certain situations, like going to a music festival, but they can’t compete in terms of style and functionality with designer sunglasses.

Designer sunglasses not only look fantastic, but they provide important UV protection. The key is to find a pair of sunglasses that suit your face shape – this is why you should always try on different pairs and get expert advice before pulling the trigger.

Why do some pieces increase in value?

Fashion items increase in value over time because of demand, rarity, craftsmanship, and uniqueness.

In order for items to hold their value or appreciate, it is vital that they are kept in good condition. So take the time to research how to look after your investment pieces, like cleaning according to instructions, safe storage and only wearing items in a safe environment.

Adding statement pieces to your wardrobe can elevate your personal style and give you greater self-confidence, but it could also be a smart financial move as well.

Lana Hall

Lana can usually be found spinning her collection of records, or writing odd poems in her phone notes. Her mixer of choice is a ginger beer, and you’ll never find her away from the sea for more than a few weeks.

The post Wardrobe investment pieces that only improve with age appeared first on Silver Magazine.

As we (thankfully) head into spring and gradually shed the multiple layers we’ve been living under for the better part of four months, many of us will find dressing at this time of year somewhat awkward. How do we make that fashion transition from winter to spring?

And as we pack away some of our bulkier items, we might also want to take care of any damage done to our trusty coats and jumpers that have been worn non-stop and braced all kinds of weather conditions. With this in mind, here are a few things to consider.

Time to layer

It’s that time of year where your bulky winter jacket is slightly too warm, but it’s not warm enough that you dare venture out without an extra layer. 

This period between winter and spring can vary massively, so still hold on tight to black stockings, cardigans, and underlayers. With these by your side, you can still wear those spring clothes you’ve been hankering after for so long. 

You can also have fun layering long-sleeved tops under summery blouses and wearing floral maxi dresses with tights or leggings underneath. 

Add colour

Another great way to embrace the change in season is by introducing a pop of colour into your wardrobe. Typically associated with pastel shades and flowery patterns, spring is a great time to dig out the bolder pieces of your wardrobe.

Play around with pastel pinks, light blues, lilac and burnt orange, even adding a pop of fuchsia into the mix. With these colours, you’ll feel a surge in optimism about the warmer months ahead. 

Don’t be afraid to re-wear your old favourites

The beauty about these months is that you can wear that dress again, don your absolute favourite pair of shorts or pull out that shirt that has become something of a trademark. However, with social media constantly telling us to buy the latest trends, consumers are convinced that they need to buy more in order to stay on trend. 

Re-wearing your wardrobe will not only help you cut costs. It will also reduce your impact on the environment. Invest in your existing one by buying accessories to refresh certain pieces, trying out different outfit combinations and buying good quality staples that will see you through all seasons.

Store your winter wear

As your winter clothes go back into hibernation, make sure that it’s still in good shape the next time you need them. Store them correctly by folding or hanging them properly, doing any mending that needs doing and placing them in protective bags if needed.

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Calming colours, natural fabrics, ethical accessories – grab those final few days of late summer fashion, and get your float on.

Here are our top picks:

Kimono karma: Easy to wear and incredibly versatile, this cotton and rayon mix kimono dresses up jeans and a T-shirt, provides cool coverage over swimwear and looks great with a belt. By Mimi’s Edit, £42.

Ghana glass: Recycled glass is collected by Ghanaian artisans, crushed by hand into a fine powder, fired in clay moulds and smoothed with water and sand to create these rustic beads. By Lola & Mawu, £33 for a set of three.

Serene shopper: The ‘Serenity’ tote bag, perfect for the shops, the pool or the beach, is vegan-friendly and adorned with an image of one of Louise Mead’s original paintings. By Louise Mead, £25.

Clipped tones: Clip-on earrings have made a comeback in recent years – there is more choice than ever for those who have eschewed pierced lobes. These green globes are nickel-free. By Joloba, £23.

Love seventies fashion?

Tie one on: Whether there’s a nip in the evening air or you want extra sun protection, a light scarf is a summer essential. This soft, silk-viscose scarf has a gentle texture and elegant drape. By Susan Holton Knitwear, £65.

Sunny honey: Classic round sunglasses get a summer update with honey-coloured frames. For every pair sold, a donation is made to Solar Aid, which gives clean, safe light to central African families. By Ethical Market, £99.

It’s a wrap: In pure silk, a head wrap is the perfect antidote to bad hair days, it fights off frizz and is gentle on sensitive scalps. This print is created by Liberty of London artist Manning Green. By Tot Knots of Brighton, £85. 

Dry style: The humble poolside towel is taken to the next level in this fresh shade of ‘Flowerbomb’ green – it looks just as good on a sun lounger as it does as a sarong to stroll to the bar. By Hamamtuch, £25.

Chattering class: Even your phone can have a summery style update with a protective case in a delicate dandelion design. The case is dual-layered to protect from shock and has a scratch-resistant matte coating. By Clarissa Hulse, £30.

Party piece: Made from silicone, this shoulder bag can be configured in two different ways by changing the position of the handle in the eyelets. The perfect party bag, especially if you’re prone to spilling your tipple… By Dampai, £55.

Bamboo birds: In fresh summer shades, this ‘Love Birds’ fan made from ecologically friendly bamboo can be whisked out with a flourish when it gets a bit toasty. By Rex London, £6.95. 

Heroine chic: Celebrate the work of Marianne North, a Victorian artist and botanist who created 848 paintings of the natural world in her global travels, with this cropped kimono featuring one of her designs. By Curated Living, £42.

Just ducking out: A holdall for weekends away can be pretty as well as practical. This one, printed with flying ducks, has plenty of room plus handy internal pockets. By Sophie Allport, £56.

Sage advice: Because of unpredictable British summers, a light jumper is a wardrobe staple. This cashmere classic in sage green sits at mid-hip level and has side splits for added comfort. By  Cashmere & Cotton, £159.

Fair fan club: Made in Ghana from sustainable natural straw, these fairtrade fans come in a range of cheerful colour combinations. By Lola & Mawu, £33.

Local hero: A striking triangular glass pendant in bold lime green makes an instant summer statement, it is handmade by Sussex artist Barbara Hibbart. By  Fragments of Glass, £24.95.

Time of your life: Bright and durable, this waterproof unisex watch is ideal for summer fun, especially if you’re at the beach or messing about in boats – and 1% of sales are donated to environmental charities. By Wearth London, £75.

Georgia Lewis

In a career that has spanned Australia, the Middle East and the UK, Georgia has written about all sorts of things, including sex, cars, food, oil and gas, insurance, fashion, travel, workplace safety, health, religious affairs, glass and glazing… When she’s not writing words for fun and profit, she can usually be found with a glass of something French and red in her hand.

The post Late summer fashion edit – making the most of it appeared first on Silver Magazine.