Getting the wardrobe basics right is important, then, everything else simply follows. I have items in my wardrobe which are over twenty-five years old. Now, I buy carefully. The items I have purchased recently will mix and match well with pieces I already own, hence making outfit choices easier to navigate. Such as this check/plaid suit – which I have worn non-stop and is easy to style.
During my mid-years, having my children, working full-time, and caring for family members, I was juggling a lot of balls. Looking back at old photographs, I can see there were many times when I lost my identity —especially my style mojo —which happens to so many of us, doesn’t it, especially when our lives are hectic and other things take over?
One of the benefits of hitting my fifties, and now sixties, is that I am discovering through trial and error what is working best for my shape, height, and personality. It’s taking a while, but I’m slowly getting there and enjoying trying new styles. I am quite a shy introverted person, and this is reflected in what I wear. But, there is a small part of me which is extroverted, and this is the component which has helped me to be more adventurous with my current style – especially wearing items such as miniskirts, dungarees and other pieces, which I wouldn’t have touched throughout my thirties and forties.
Discovering our unique style at whatever age is so powerful – it is how we express ourselves, showing our sense of self. Most importantly, there are no rules!! Wear what makes you happy, and, as I have discovered, it is never too late to be adventurous!
This brings me to my new “snazzy” suit, which doesn’t exactly match. If you look closely, you will notice the skirt and jacket shades of colour are slightly different. This is because I bought the skirt over a year ago, and then, the jacket a few months back. Both are from H&M, so they are not only from two separate batches but two different years, too! Over a month ago, this jacket was on the sale rail for £26.00 – it is currently £45.00!! So, I was just lucky to get the reduction. The slight mismatch of the jacket and skirt does not bother me at all. Maybe it is my Northern quirkiness – or I just love a bargain!
This checked/plaid jacket and skirt are quite a statement outfit and “out there” for me. I have worn these suit items several times, together and apart, styling them with various other items from my wardrobe. They always get compliments and are worth the small outlay. Here are some ways to style the suit.
Outfit 1
With my Black Cashmere Polo Neck Jumper, Black Opaque tights and Chelsea boots
By nature, my style is quite reserved – but I haven’t felt out of my comfort zone at all wearing this jacket and skirt. Styling it here with this polo neck cashmere jumper and Chelsea boots certainly brings in the casual factor. It will look equally good with heels, Mary Janes or trainers.
Outfit 2
With a Classic White Fitted Shirt, Grey Woollen Scarf and Knee-High Brown Boots.
As well as a styling opportunity, layering up is the perfect way to keep warm. I have just bought this scarf from Accessorise – It was reduced from £25.00 to £7.00, what a bargain! Such a great way to make outfits more visually interesting.
Outfit 3
Styling my Jacket with a Cream Ribbed Top and Leather Trousers
The boxy shape of my jacket goes so well with my leather trousers bought in the Mint Velvet sale over five years ago – they were reduced from £199.00 to £99.00. They were worth the outlay as they are quality wardrobe staples, and I find they give an outfit a subtle edge.
The cream ribbed top is another versatile bargain reduced to £12.00. I have worn this a lot since purchasing it, as it goes with most things – I’ll put some links below as I’m sure it’s still available – they also do this top in black and grey, I’m tempted!
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Alison x
Great styling of plaid, I love the skirt looks with Chelsea boots and tights. I am quite quiet and introverted too so wearing bright colours took a while to get used to! And sometimes I don’t feel like it and revert to black….
Great memories with the magazine covers. I remember Jackie very well. Also loved titles like 19, Over 21, Honey (my all-time favourite) and Mireille.
Thanks for linking. xx
Author
I feel that I’m wearing clothes now that I should have experimented with a lot earlier, not brave enough I suppose – I’m so enjoying this fashion journey in older age as a lot
of us are. Yes, great memories of Jackie and Honey – they were my favourites too. x
Wonderful plaid style; I adore how the skirt appears with tights and Chelsea boots. It took me some time to get used to wearing bright colours because I’m also rather shy and introverted. And occasionally, when I’m not feeling it, I go back to black.
Author
Thank you for your comment. It’s certainly a challenge pushing yourself past your comfort zone by wearing colours or items that I’ve longed to wear but didn’t have the confidence. I’m slowly getting there and it sounds like you are too.
I honestly didn’t even notice the mismatch in color until you pointed it out. It’s so slight and the print is the same size so it’s very unnoticeable. I think they look great together and every other way you’ve worn each piece!
Author
Thank you so much Laura. The jacket was a great find and bargain. I’ll be packing it away soon, but I know I’ll enjoy wearing it next autumn/winter season.xx
I love the suit and the subtle difference in the prints. Both pieces are so versatile – you’ve created lots of super stylish outfits! Thanks for linking!
Emma xxx
http://www.style-splash.com
Author
Thank you, Emma. I know I’ll get a lot of wear from this suit in the years to come. Thank you for calling by.xx
I love the suit especially as separates! That skirt is so cute and works with lots of things.
http://www.chezmireillefashiontravelmom.com
Author
Thank you, Mireille. I’m so pleased with it, it’ll definitely get more of a run out next autumn/winter and such a bargain.xx
I love plaid but alas living in Queensland, Australia our winters are very mild so I don’t have the opportunity of wearing heavier clothing. You look great in all of the photos – very stylish! I love a shorter skirt with tights and boots. Thanks for joining us for Tell Us Abou….t Your Personal Style
Author
You’re welcome! I’m envious that you live in a warmer climate – the winters here seem to be getting longer and longer. Enjoy your weekend.
Hello! I really like your suggestions, especially the one with the woolen meringue coat. I love such comfortable and warm clothes. Cool!
Author
Thank you. I’m looking forward to wearing this suit once again when the autumn returns. The
Colder weather has its benefits as we can wear woollens, velvet and all the beautiful colours this time of year brings.
My favourite is the plaid jacket and leather trousers. I love the juxtaposition. Also the chelsea boots with the skirt.