Where to Shop Now: Clothing Stores For Stylish Women Over 50
Every few months, I get a message that reads, “Where do you shop now?” It’s usually from a woman who’s over 50, frustrated, feeling invisible in the mall, and I totally get it. The fashion landscape shifts quickly, and not always in our favor.
So I’ve pulled together a fresh list of places I personally shop (and a few I browse for styling ideas), with real opinions on who they work for, why they’re worth considering, and what to know before you spend your time or your money.
Some of these brands are long-time staples in my wardrobe. Others come highly recommended by readers who value quality, comfort, and a polished, modern aesthetic. Whether you’re refreshing your wardrobe, rebuilding it entirely, or just curious where to look, I hope this guide helps you shop with more confidence and less frustration.
Best Clothing Stores for Ladies Over 50
Nordstrom

Nordstrom remains one of the most reliable and my favorite department stores to shop for well-made clothing that works for real life. They carry a wide range of brands and price points, with styles that lean classic and modern rather than overly trendy. Many pieces are available in petite, plus, and tall sizing, which makes finding a good fit a little easier.
Their website is straightforward to use and allows you to filter by fabric, inseam, brand, and other details that matter. They offer free shipping and returns, and their customer service can’t be beaten. Their in-store service is wonderful, but as with all retailers these days, their selection is much larger online. Here’s my latest Nordstrom try-on.
- Good for: wardrobe staples, denim, shoes, outerwear
- You can find their plus sizes here, and petites here.
- Tip: Brands like Caslon, Halogen, Wit & Wisdom, Nic+Zoe, and NYDJ often have versatile pieces that are easy to build into an everyday wardrobe.
More Department Stores:
- Bloomingdale’s: In Store/Online
- Dillards: In-Store/Online – mainly found in the south, but has a great selection for weddings and events, and carries many brands that Nordstrom does.
Investment and Timeless
Eileen Fisher

One of my favorite brands to shop is Eileen Fisher. I love their brand ethics, designs, and their size-inclusivity. Women come in all shapes and sizes, and EF recognizes that. It’s also one of the best-selling brands here on the blog because their styles are timeless, and they create sustainable fashion that stands the test of time. I won’t shop at fast-fashion stores and want to do all I can to ensure workers are paid a living wage. Building a sustainable wardrobe is more important to me as I age because I’m concerned about the impact of discarded clothing that is clogging our landfills.
Frank & Eileen

In a world of fast fashion, finding a brand that aligns with my values as a consumer can be difficult. Frank & Eileen is a woman-owned company with a 100% female leadership team and believes in sustainable, ethical fashion. On top of all of that, their pieces are timeless, versatile, and stylish.
J. McLaughlin
J.McLaughlin’s style is known for its bright colors, bold patterns, and playful prints, making it a favorite among those who appreciate preppy and chic fashion. While higher in price point than many of the things I tend to feature, they do have quality, classic pieces that can be in your wardrobe for years to come.
Jenni Kayne

Jenni Kayne’s clothing is known for its clean lines, neutral colors, and classic silhouettes, making it a great choice for those who prefer timeless pieces. They are very high-quality, classic pieces that will last you for years to come. With that amazing quality comes a higher price tag, so when I saw their best-selling Fishermen sweater marked way down during a Black Friday sale, it jumped into my cart. When the box arrived, I fully expected to send it back…until I touched it. It’s the softest cashmere I have ever felt in my life. I tried it on, and that was it. I could not send it back. I’ve since added 2 more to my wardrobe and adore them.
More Investment Brands to Shop
- La Ligne
- M.M. Lafleur…I have their 90s jeans and love them.
- Alex Mill
- AYR is known for its denim and button-down shirts.
- Rails
Everyday Wardrobe Builders
Chico’s

Chico’s is unique among major women’s clothing retailers because it carries styles to suit all women’s tastes and style preferences. Chico’s sizes are named a little differently than most brands, but here is a quick guide to make it easier for you: 000(0/XS), 00 (0/2– XS), 0 (4/6 S), 1 (8/10-M), 2 (12/14-L), 3 (16/18-XL), 4 (20/22-XXL). The brand also carries many garments in petite and some in tall. Their “No-Iron” shirts are amazing!
Talbots

Talbots is another go-to shopping destination for me! This size-inclusive brand has been providing women with timeless, modern, classic styles for 75 years, and their high-quality pieces last me for years and years. Talbots is also one of the most popular brands with AWSL readers.
Athleta

I’ve talked about my love of Athleta many times. You can read more about my Athleta favorites here. I find their pieces super comfy and perfect for everyday or travel.
Quince

I began adding Quince to my wardrobe a few years ago and have never looked back. I started with their classic $50 cashmere pullover and went on from there. We now have their amazing down pillows on our bed, French cutlery in our kitchen, and a cashmere throw on our couch. The quality is lovely, and the price can’t be beat. You may also enjoy reading my guide to Quince’s bestsellers.
More Mid-Level Stores and Brands to Shop:
- J. Jill – I love sharing J. Jill! It’s one of my readers’ favorite stores.
- Soft Surroundings – I’ve been seeing Soft Surroundings making a comeback! While I don’t think they have stores anymore, they do seem to be selling online.
- Boden – British brand expanding to the states that is classic and colorful, like Talbots.
- Tuckernuck – Classic and preppy.
- J.Crew – Classic and timeless pieces for all ages.
- Sézane – I love the quality and unique look of Sezane. They’re also a Certified B-corp, so their business practices align with my values.
Do you have any stores or brands to add to the list? Where are your favorite places to shop?
Thanks for reading, and be sure to wear what makes you feel confident.

I really like Oslen- German designed, European flair. They keep their colours pretty consistent season over season, year over year and so their pieces easily go together. Good materials. I keep their clothing for a long time. I find their clothing elevates what I already have, and they often have great patterns, textures, embellishments. Being an accessory person, I have also recently discovered Brave Leather- a Canadian leather accessory company- Canadian designed, Italian materials.
Belk is another southern fav comparable to Macy’s. I really miss Appleseeds and Tog Shop.
Well written article.I read all of it. You are right when you say there is nothing special in stores right now. I have started ordering clothes boxes from ShortStoryBox, stitch fix and Daily Look. Would love to hear your thoughts on these prescription boxes. Thank you again for your wonderful interesting articles.
I have not used them, but encourage you to stay true to what you like.