The 3-Piece Outfit Template That Makes Us Feel Young And Chic At The Same Time At Age 45
Don’t be scared.
Image: Eric Charbonneau | Getty Images
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by The Candidly Team
There’s a weird dance we find ourselves doing since we turned 40 wherein we don’t want to dress in a way that makes us look older, but we also don’t want to dress like we’re desperate to look young.
We try not to get too obsessive about what’s “age appropriate,” because we’re pretty sure that’s the kind of thinking that made our grandmothers look … well … older in their 40s.
We just want to look classic and cool and well, maybe a bit like this:
Image: Eric Charbonneau | Getty Images
Or this:
Image: NBC
Or this:
Image: Warner Bros.
Did we just show you the same outfit template thrice?
We did.
Because that’s why we’re here: to share a template we believe to be the perfect balance between cool/chic/sophisticated/sexy(ish).
Here’s all you need:
A flawless pair of tall, leather boots (that don’t kill our old feet),
The right sculpting tights,
And yes, a sort of short skirt
Don’t be scared. It all works symphonically when you find the exact right pieces. And we have. Because we’re very, very eager to implement this template ourselves now that there’s a nip in the air.
1. The Tall Boots
WHAT: Nisolo Vera Knee High Boot*
These are the boots that will never, ever fall out of fashion. They’re trend proof in their perfection. They have a low, block heel (heaven). The most cushioned, memory-foam footbeds (more heaven). Water-resistant leather. A roomy leg hole. Those little pully tabs so you can slip them on without struggle. They are truly the buy-once, love-and-wear-forever boots we recommend to all our friends. They’re also very much on sale right now.
Price: $257 $368 (30% off)
2. The Skirt
The right skirt skims over thicker thighs with a high waist that smooths the tum. And with the tall boots, you’re only showing mere inches of leg, but still getting that long, lithe, leggy effect.
The Suede*: Unbelievable fit and price, but if you simply won’t do short, there is THIS* longer version.
The Plaid*: There are actually a few plaid skirts in this pretty shape on J.Crew Factory right now that we really want, like THIS*, THIS*, and THIS*. And they all cost 1/3 of what they look like they should.
The Ponte*: The just-right little black skirt. We wear it to work and to recreate old Rachel Green looks. Oh, and it’s $40.
The Denim*: This skirt is so stretchy and flattering, it’s hard to convey how special it is. If you don’t own a denim skirt, we implore you to get this one.
3. The Unrippable Tights
WHAT: Noosh Play Opaque Full-Coverage Seamless Tights*
Good tights are really all about two things: 1. Comfort
2. NOT BEING SO FLIMSY WE SNAG THEM WITHIN 18 SECONDS!!!!!!!!!
These tights are weightless, seamless, and buttery soft but durable to the point they do. not. rip.
Price: $34
Bonus: The Extras
The beauty of this template is that any tee, button-down, sweater, jean jacket, or blazer will look great with it, but here are our two favorite pieces to top it all off.
The Hourglass Blazer*: The nip in the waist is like nothing you’ve experienced. And the colors and patterns are endless.
The Cardi That Works With Every Skirt*: Again, the silhouette with any of the above skirts is chef’s kiss. And again, it comes in so many colors and prints. We already own 3 and still want 3 more.
At The Candidly, we try a lot of stuff so you don’t have to. We only recommend things we truly love, and that we think you’ll love, too. All products are chosen independently by our creative team, and all details reflect the price and availability of products at the time of publication. If you buy something we link to, The Candidly may earn a commission.
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