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Stylish women over-50 and the cool clothes they wear

— by Alyson Walsh

Photos: Claire Pepper

Oh what a lovely start to the year. A surprise mention in Who What Wear’s list of stylish women over-50 has made my January. Not dry, in case you were wondering. The theme of the feature is great everyday style and I’m delighted to be included as, for me, this is the most important category of clothing. And I’m alongside some of the best tastemakers around, including: Linda Fargo, Michelle Obama, Caryn Franklin, Lyn Slater and Lucinda Chambers. I like the accompanying caption, too:

‘ If you’re looking for polished style with a trend-led twist, Alyson Walsh is your woman. The fashion journalist-turned-influencer packs plenty of Scandi cool with clever minimalist pairings and the odd flash of print’.

 

The outfit in this photo has been a go-to look over the holiday period. Adding an extra layer, either a Lurex or cashmere jumper gives a sprinkling of everyday Casual Glamour. Reliable essentials that work in real-life comprise my Wardrobe Glue and when I find a successful outfit, I keep wearing it. The coat is a vintage 1950s faux fur number  – I call it The Bear – picked up several years ago at Brixton Market. The jacket is an old one from Acne and the stripy t-shirt is organic cotton by Gudrun Sjoden – so yes, there is an accidental element of Scandi cool. At this time of year, I’m Forever in Black Jeans (and ankle boots). I like to draft-proof my legs. The straight-leg, high waist jeans are MiH’s Daily style (available HERE and HERE). I always buy MiH in the sale because they are quite expensive but the denim is such good quality. The leather Chelsea boots are another sale bargain from Tod’s, bought a couple of years ago. The silk neckerchief is from a Margaret Howell sample sale. As we know, style does not equal buying loads of new stuff. All the clothes are old favourites, carefully and cannily selected over the years. One of the many good things about being over-50.

Though, after decluttering, I am in definite need of a couple of new stripy long-sleeved t-shirts and should you require a few Not-So-Basic Basics…

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Oh what a lovely start to the year. A surprise mention in Who What Wear’s list of stylish women over-50 has made my January.