Classic Style Muses- Do They Inspire You?
Audrey Hepburn and Jackie Kennedy have been classic style muses for many of us. Their classic fashion choices are as popular today as they were 30 years ago. Now that I’m in my 60’s I’m reevaluating their influence on my style because…
I don’t want to look dated. Don’t get me wrong, I still love the appeal of elegant, timeless fashion that looks sophisticated but it’s beginning to feel stale on me. At 20, I wanted to look sophisticated and grown up. At 60 I’m definitely grown up, hopefully, sophisticated and prefer to dress with a little more drama and creativity.
Those classic pieces are still a large part of my wardrobe and I don’t expect that to change anytime soon. What’s changed is how I put them together.
I never tire of wearing black cigarette pants or skinny jeans with a classic white shirt and ballet flats. These days I like to kick that look up a notch with bold jewelry or unique accessories to make them feel more modern. If I pair them with my classic 16″ strand of pearls I feel dowdy.
Interestingly, when I look back at images of Audrey and Jackie in their later years, their fashion choices remained consistent. They didn’t transition to statement necklaces and bold accessories. They remained classic to the end.
When I see a 25 or 30-year old dressed head to toe à la Audrey Hepburn, she looks fresh, modern, and a little bit sassy. At her age, she can pull off just about any look. I would look like I stepped out of a time machine…not a look I’m comfortable with.
Taking a snippet of one woman’s look and a dash of another’s is a great way to craft our unique style. Our clothes should reflect our inner self and give us the confidence to forget what we’re wearing. Style muses should inspire our creativity, not be a pattern we copy. Let intuition be your guide and dress to express yourself for the life you’re leading now.
My personal style is in transition to catch up to my lifestyle. With no need to dress up for work or business dinners out I’m trying out new looks to find what works for me now.
Do you have style muses? How do they inspire you?
Thanks for reading and have a great day!
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You are one of my style muses, Jennifer! I’ve learned a lot from bloggers like yourself and I’ve been inspired to try many new and different looks. I don’t copy, but I take bits and pieces and make them my own. They don’t all work for me, but I’m gradually learning what does. Since retiring, I’ve been aiming for a classy casual look.
I am beyond flattered Elaine, thanks so much. Classy and casual is one of my favorite looks too.
I have signed up several times to receive your daily emails and still don’t get them!
I like the classics too. Having retired almost 10 years ago I am finding I try to keep my style up but sometimes descend into frumpy territory. I too shop at Value Village and havw found others’ discards are treasures! I really enjoy your blog, Jennifer!
Funny story about the Hawaiian shirts and shorts….20 or more years ago I was in a friend’s wedding. My fiance declined to go because he didn’t have a suit. He was working away from home. When I arrived at the church, the groom and all his attendants were in Hawaii shirts white pants and sandals. We often laughed about it!