Last week I took 11 jumpers/sweaters into the changing room in TK Maxx, all of the one size. They varied from a bit neat to somewhere near drowning me. Apart from that they all looked awful on. Though perhaps that says more about me than about M & S. Anyways, not one of the 11 items were worth a second look once I saw them on.
I have had great success with outer coats from M & S Outlet Shop. One I wore today is 4 years old and every time I wear it I get a nice comment. However, it was one of their top of the range items that was originally £200 plus and I got in in the Outlet for £25.
My style is mine own..... a bit boho.. and I have my own rules. No high neck sweaters, must be a scoop or a V, then a scarf if it's a bit cool. Must have inset sleeves to give a shape to the shoulders, no raglans or batwing (too booby for that). Must be at least below the hip and preferably mid thigh. Jeans, trousers can be straight or slim but not skinny.
My big preferance at the moment are Robell trousers, they are rather expensive at about £65/£70. Last summer I got my first pair in a sale for £35. I was so pleased that I looked for more..... but on eBay. Knowing the size etc that worked for me I picked up another two pairs in different colours for £15 and £20.
Big scarves and wraps smarten up almost anything. Nice shoes or boots take a bit of care because I can't wear heels.
Nice slouchy leather bags - off ebay at about £20. When I get tired of them after a couple of years I will resell them.
I don't think age comes into it. It's more what suits, or doesn't, what fits, or doesn't. At 68 I know what will work and what looks awful on me ..... most of the time.
Oh... and I always have a tape measure in my bag. I know what measurement from pit to pit will fit. How long it needs to be from shoulder seam to hem line. If an item doesn't measure up size wise there's no point in taking it into the fitting room.
Every few years, in the sales, I buy a 'go to item'. Last summer it was a 3 piece outfit. Soft draping trousers with a matching knee length top/dress which has a couple of nice stylish features. And a short asymetrical, slouchy, baggy, 3/4 sleeve top that sits half off one shoulder (the dress is underneath). All in a jersey fabric. The trousers and dress are caramel and the slouchy top in caramel and cream stripe. When I'm not sure what to wear that's what I 'go to'. A wedding, a lunch, a day in town, anything at all, it changes according to the accessories. i.e. a small bag, or a slouchy tote. And each separate part goes with other items that I've had for years. I paid £200 for the 3 pieces, it was reduced from over £500. I debated and hummed and haaad about the price and then went for it. That will be my 'go to' for probably the next 5 years.
It has taken me 68 years and many mistakes to learn that age doesn't matter, not one whit.
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