Do You Need a Style Refresh? 7 Signs It’s Time to Update Your Look
Have you ever stared into your closet and felt like nothing really excites you or matches who you are today? You are definitely not alone! I’ve been there, done that, and had the massive wardrobe clear out to prove it. Our tastes in food, music, and books change, so it only makes sense that our personal style evolves, too. Maybe you’re still wearing things from a previous stage in your life, feeling lost in all the trends, or just disconnected from what you see in the mirror. If picking out an outfit every morning feels more like a chore than fun, it’s probably time for a style refresh!
I’ve always believed that our wardrobes should reflect who we are right now…not who we used to be. Our style needs to evolve with us because clinging to pieces that no longer feel authentic will leave us feeling less than confident. Here are seven signs that it’s time to update your look and how to refresh your style without losing the essence of you.
7 Signs You Need a Style Refresh
1. You Feel Uninspired by Your Wardrobe
We all go through seasons where getting dressed feels more like a chore than a creative expression. If you’ve ever looked into your closet, sighed, and thought, I have nothing to wear (despite having plenty of clothes), your style may need a little reset.
Style Refresh Tip:
- Start by pulling out the pieces you actually love and feel good in. Look for patterns—do they share a common color palette, silhouette, or level of polish?
- Donate, sell, or store anything that no longer excites you. Holding onto clothes that don’t serve you just clutters your space and makes it harder to find the things you actually want to wear.
Looking for easy tips for cleaning out your closet? Simple Steps to Declutter Your Wardrobe
SLIP-ON SNEAKERS / BASEBALL CAP
2. Your Go-To Outfit Feels a Little… Dated
We all have that reliable “uniform” we reach for when we don’t know what else to wear. But if that outfit is starting to feel stale or out of sync with modern styles, it might be time to update it. I’m not saying you need to chase trends—far from it. But small shifts, like swapping an old silhouette for a fresh one, can make a world of difference.
Style Refresh Tip:
- Try a modern version of your go-to outfit. If you always reach for skinny jeans, experiment with a straight or wide-leg style. If you rely on classic cardigans, try a relaxed blazer or structured knit jacket for a polished alternative.
- Accessories are the easiest way to modernize your look. A sleek handbag, updated jewelry, or a chic new pair of shoes can make your outfit feel intentional and fresh.
You might like reading 7 Pieces You Should Upgrade in Your Wardrobe After 60
3. Your Clothes Don’t Fit Your Lifestyle Anymore
Our lives evolve, and our wardrobes should evolve with them. Maybe you’re retired and no longer need all those structured blazers. Or perhaps you’ve downsized to a more relaxed lifestyle, but your wardrobe is still filled with pieces from your younger days. A move to a new location and climate will also necessitate a change in what works for you.
Style Refresh Tip:
- Take stock of what you actually wear day to day. If your life is more casual now, invest in elevated everyday basics that make you feel put-together without feeling overdressed.
- Prioritize versatile pieces that can be dressed up or down—like a great pair of tailored pants or jeans that work with sneakers and loafers.
4. You’re Stuck in an Old Fashioned Era
We all have a decade where we felt our best, and it’s easy to get stuck there. But if your wardrobe still leans heavily into styles from 10, 15, or even 20 years ago, it might be time for a refresh. This doesn’t mean you need to reinvent your style completely, but subtle updates can make a big impact. For instance, I loved my structured jackets for years, but I’ve recently been gravitating toward softer, more relaxed blazers that feel fresher and more in tune with my current style.
Style Refresh Tip:
- Pay attention to modern silhouettes. Fashion evolves, and slight tweaks—like adjusting hemlines, opting for looser fits, or embracing current shoe styles—can instantly update your look.
- Follow a few style influencers who resonate with your aesthetic. Seeing how others style pieces in a fresh, modern way can help you incorporate those updates into your own wardrobe.
- As you shop, beware of fads or overly trendy pieces. Learn how to wear trends over 60 here.
5. You Haven’t Gotten a Compliment on Your Outfit in a While
I don’t dress for compliments, but I do notice when they stop coming. If no one has commented on your outfit in years, it might mean your style has faded into the background. A fresh look doesn’t have to be loud or trendy. Often, it’s just about wearing pieces that fit well, feel intentional, and reflect your personal style with confidence.
Style Refresh Tip:
- Try incorporating a statement piece—whether it’s a bold color, an interesting texture, or a striking accessory. Brooches are back in a big way and are often conversation starters.
- A well-fitted blazer, a great pair of shoes, or a unique handbag can be the difference between looking polished and looking effortless.
6. You Don’t Feel Like Yourself in Your Clothes
One of the biggest red flags? When you put on an outfit and feel like you’re wearing a costume. Fashion should make you feel confident and like yourself. If you feel disconnected from your clothes, it’s time to reassess.
Style Refresh Tip:
- Start a Pinterest board and pin outfits that excite you. Pay attention to common themes—do you prefer polished looks? Casual elegance? A mix of both?
- Experiment! Try new silhouettes, color combinations, or styling tricks. Sometimes, a small tweak is all it takes to reignite your love for getting dressed.
Wondering how to discover your personal style? Check out The Power of Dressing To Express Yourself
7. You Don’t Feel Confident in What You Wear
At the end of the day, the biggest sign you need a style refresh is how you feel in your clothes. If you don’t feel confident, comfortable, or like the best version of yourself, your wardrobe isn’t doing its job. Your style needs to reflect who you are today, not who you were years ago.
Style Refresh Tip:
- Invest in quality basics that fit well and make you feel polished. A well-cut pair of jeans, a flattering blazer, and a great-fitting tee can do wonders for your confidence.
- If a piece doesn’t make you feel fabulous, let it go!
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I thought that what you said about compliments was interesting. I used to get them, but I have noticed lately when I make an effort with a new silhouette of pant or interesting top, nothing. I have rethought a more modern hairstyle, but lately am feeling invisible. Could you address this? I’m feel very discouraged.
I’m sorry you’re feeling that way. Many women struggle with this. I will address this so we can all discuss options
Jennifer,
Great post. You look fantastic in hats! After I read this post I was inspired to wear my snakeskin boots like yours in the first photo.
Awesome!!
I have lost enough weight that I need new clothes. (Thank my doctor and his prescribed diet.) I have gone down two sizes, and I have taken some things in on my trusty sewing machine. Still, I got a couple new pairs of wide leg pants, and I am surprised and delighted by how much I like them. I think the lantern/barrel legs I’ve been wearing might have eased me into it. I have been taking your advice about “influencers” and bloggers for a long time now. (I think closest to my aesthetic is Cindy Hattersley.)
Cindy has fabulously creative style. Congrats on the weightloss Kay!
Great article, now I’m inspired to do a deep dive into my closet. I’ve noticed that I’m hanging onto clothes that looked great a few years ago, not so much. Now…they are still stylish, but not for me…..time to donate
Exactly!! Let someone else enjoy them.
Great article Jennifer! You are so right about not having anything to wear despite having a lot of clothes!
Great ideas that I needed!! I love the look of hats but I don’t wear them much because I don’t know what to do with them for example on an airplane. I can’t wear it as it will hit the seat behind my head but there is no where to put it to not be crushed. At a restaurant you can’t wear it while you eat. If you hang it on your chair it will get crushed… What do you do with yours?? From a frustrated hat lover!!
I do not remove my hat in restaurants, only men are required to do that. If my hat won’t fit in the overhead of a plane, and I haven’t packed it in my bag (here’s how), then I place under the seat in front of me on a plane with the brim side up.
My uniform, of sort, is a great fitting jean with a sweater. Once I changed from skinny to straight leg it felt more like me. I love footwear and that is where my outfits change up the most. I often get compliments on my shoes/booties/fashion sneakers. I think a nice purse is important. People notice your bag so I’ve upped my game.
I’ve donated all my blazers. I just never felt comfortable in them. I’d buy them because influencers wore them, because it was always on the list of must have basics. But, I’d put them on, then take them off, opting for something less structured. No more!
It’s so good to know what works and what doesn’t! No need to make that mistake again.
This post is just what I needed to make a change with my wardrobe. I think I really need a blazer to start with. I really dislike the wide leg jeans so I’ll stick with straight leg and and not skinny jeans. I really don’t like that I have just been wearing sneakers because I have foot problems. Going to look for a good pair of shoes for spring. Maybe a new handbag? I really want to do something new.Thanks for the great info 🌸
There are lots of comfy options that aren’t sneakers!
Your style is my style! I love all the outfits you show us! Enjoy your daily email!
This was full of great advice. It is only in the last few years that I really figured out who I was and dressed that person. I have spent much of my career dressing like I thought I was supposed to, as you said it in a costume. Now as my work life begins to wind down and I can see retirement within a couple of years I dress me. Yes I am a manager but I don’t have to wear the blazer, blouse, pencil skirt. I happily wear a blazer (often with stretch) , tops that stretch and pants with shoes that feel comfy all day. I wear colours that make me smile, say yes to that red or fuscia blazer! It fits my colourful relaxed classic style. Guess what, I get a tonne of compliments!
Such a timely blog, Jennifer. As we waiver between winter and spring, I find I’m just tired of the choices I have in my closet. I’ve worn the winter wear so long but can’t quite pull out the warmer weather wear just yet. But, the other day I refreshed a doldrum outfit by throwing on a colorful kimono. It boosted the outfit and i got a couple of compliments to boot. I might need to look into another kimono or ruana 😀 Thank you for your cleaning tip for the white denim jacket. Sometimes, the old standbys are just what we need.
Kimonos add so much fun to an outfit
Great ideas as usual! I love you in the first outfit with the hat & boots!
Thanks Darlene. One of my favorite hats.
What great advice. I’m not a “feely” person but when in doubt I force myself to wear the item and focus on how I feel in it. I can usually decide pretty quickly! I am also a visual person and two things that have helped me are a rolling rack (it folds for storage) and Stylebook app. They help me see what I have (and have too much of) and make it easier to plan outfits vs everything crammed in the closet.
Fabulous article!! I loved those dresses with sleeves.
These are great tips and so helpful. Thank you!
Happy Friday Gay
This such an excellent post. There is nothing like the feeling of the ‘right’ outfit and I know all too well the opposite feeling. Your list really breaks down the why. My current challenge is what to wear to neck PT because I have to wear an outfit that works for PT and for the rest of my day. It’s not the kind of PT that requires workout clothes, but my usual dressier clothes don’t work either. Those are days where I feel the worst in my clothes because I feel badly dressed for PT and life. Something to think about.
That is a challenge. Could you change your top in the ladies room before and after your PT? Or add a colorful scarf?
Great post, thanks for the update.