Most of us in our 60s, or even earlier, will experience lifestyle changes like full or semi-retirement, shifting from a full-time career to part-time work, or volunteering.
When I worked in an office my whole adult life, I knew exactly what clothes I needed for work, social activities, and casual wear. But after leaving the corporate world, it took some time to figure out my new wardrobe.
Talking with many women, it became clear that while we all have different needs, we all want a wardrobe that’s stylish, casual, and comfortable.
So how do we build a wardrobe that fits our new lifestyle?
1. Clean Out Your Closet
Start by cleaning out your closet and donating business clothes you won’t wear anymore. Keeping them just takes up space, and someone else might benefit from your donation. You might want to keep some items, like blazers or trousers, that can be incorporated into a more casual wardrobe.
2. Determine Your Lifestyle
List all your activities and how much time you spend on each. Are you mainly casual now, or do you still need dressier clothes for meetings and appointments? Consider whether you’ll be traveling more, moving to a different area, or spending winters in a warmer climate. If you’re taking care of grandchildren or aging parents, or have a busier social life, you might need different clothes to fit these activities.
3. What Do You Need for Each Lifestyle Activity?
Decide what kind of wardrobe each activity requires and see if some items can serve multiple purposes. Write down how you want to dress for each. You might want a dressy-casual look for lunch with friends and a more relaxed style for spending time with grandchildren. You may still attend meetings requiring more formal attire.
4. Determine Your Personality
Think about your style personality. Are you classic, romantic, bohemian, dramatic, minimalist, or sporty? Each style has different clothing choices. If you’re not sure what your style is or what looks good on you, consider taking a course in personal style.
5. Identify What You Still Like
Identify what you liked from your past wardrobe and tweak it if needed. For instance, if you liked wearing suits to work, you might add long dusters and casual blazers to your new, more relaxed wardrobe.
6. Identify New Stores
You may need to shop at different stores now, especially if your budget is tighter. Find stores that carry casual clothes suited to your style. Stay away from stores targeting older women if they offer clothes that feel too frumpy.
7. Dress Well, Even at Home
Avoid the temptation to stay in pajamas all day if you’re home. You’ll feel better if you put effort into getting dressed. Opt for comfy yet stylish outfits like leggings with tunics and long sweaters. Add simple accessories like earrings and lipstick to be ready for visitors or errands.
8. Invest in Quality Basics
Buy quality basics and add affordable trends each year to keep your style up to date. Keep basic pieces neutral and use tops and accessories to add color.
9. Be Selective
Choose pieces that coordinate well with other items in your wardrobe. Avoid impulse purchases; buy items you’ll wear often. A well-coordinated wardrobe will save you money because all the items will work together.
10. Use Accessories
Basics can be dressed up or down with the right accessories. Jeans and a top can look chic with the addition of scarves, shoes, and jewelry, extending your wardrobe options. Travel is a great opportunity to find unique accessories.
11. Focus on Fit
Pick clothes that fit well and complement your body shape. Don’t sacrifice style for comfort by wearing oversized, slouchy clothes. Comfortable stretch fabrics come in many styles and price ranges.
12. Use Color
Wear colors that suit you. As we age, it’s essential to wear flattering colors near our face.
13. Wear What Makes You Happy
Ultimately, buy what makes you happy and reflects your unique self. This is your time to shine.
Are you satisfied with your retirement wardrobe, or are you ready to make some changes?
