Dressing for casual events once caused me a great deal of stress. My working wardrobe reflected that most of the events in my life involved getting dressed up. When I sold my business and retired to a more relaxed lifestyle, a wardrobe shift had to occur.
Other than the individual clothing choices, there are style personalities to consider. I feel most authentic in classic conservative, traditionally tailored, neutral colors and high-quality fabrics. Minimal details and structured accessories with natural-looking makeup and unfussy hairstyles all feel right for me. As always, I am sharing this thought process to help you focus on what makes style feel authentic for you—for example, flowing fabrics, statement jewelry, and bright colors may reflect your style better.
Applying these principles to a more relaxed retirement wardrobe helped me feel more authentic and comfortable. Getting dressed for casual events is easy now.
The Friday weather was beautiful, so we drove to Banner Elk to enjoy the changing leaves and a cocktail at Bodegas.
Bodegas’ classic margarita, made with freshly squeezed lime juice, is always delicious.
Their guacamole with warm chips is colorful and so yummy!
Bodegas’ crabcakes are Mr. Mickey’s all-time favorite.
The dahlias were still blooming in the parking lot.
We are not usually in the mountains as evening approaches. The golden light added to the beauty of the changing leaves.
I love a classic outfit. You know your style so well. My question to you is about jeans. I am 72 and question if I should rethink wearing them. Of course, no rips or mid- rise. But do you have a hint for keeping them sharp and appropriate. I do hate to give them up altogether.
I don’t think I will ever give up my dark wash straight-leg jeans. However, when I wear slightly faded jeans, I add a tailored element such as a navy blazer or V-neck cashmere sweater in a dark color since another faded item would wash me out.
Love your glasses! Glad you got out for a beautiful day. Looking so cute in your casual jeans.
Thank you, sweet friend!
Hi Susan, absolutely love your new glasses!
Having worn prescription glasses for over 50 years, I am always interested in the new style frames. Over the year’s I have made good frame choices and some a distaster.
Your choice is perfect, and compliments what you are wearing.
Glad to see you getting out with Mr. Mickey.
Susan, Is it possible for you to let me have the youtube link for Mr Mickey Disney museum?
Here is the link to his website and YouTube video.
I always love the information that you share in your blog!
I’m 5’5″ and find the Talbots strait leg jeans often are too long for me. I wear a size 10. Do you get them in petite or regular?
I am wearing the size 6 regular with a 31″ inseam. I didn’t have to get them altered.
Love crab cakes!
Can you tell us more about your new glasses and how you chose them? I like the new ones and they are very flattering, even more so than the glasses in the alternate photo.
I wanted a pair of eyeglasses with bold frames in a brighter color, and they are more modern looking than the last pair.
I actually like the look with the blouse tucked in. Makes your legs way longer. Love the new glasses
Susan, lovely as always. Could you please provide any information you have about a source for tights? I really like tights for the winter with my more casual skirts and dresses. Thank you.
I have the tights here and I’ve been very happy with them.
Love the glasses! You always look great and so put together. I love the new casual look!
Such a great casual look- you can never go wrong with a white shirt. I’ve think it really brightens us up (us being the over 60 crowd). And I always appreciate the food photos- enjoying the meal vicariously!
Love seeing your excursions! The color of the leaves are so pretty!
Love the new glasses and the hairstyle. I think your classic look is so…. classic. Your look makes you look so much younger
Beautiful as always.
Thanks for the ideas Susan. I love the new eyeglasses. Totally worth the wait.
I would love to see how you style casual day wear and then add a few items to make it appropriate for a dinner out without going home to change.
Thanks
Patty
One example of day-to-dinner styling is here.
Susan, what is that sculpture/artwork thingy on top of the pole in the 7th photo? Squirrels on a nest? Light show at night? Nightmare to scare children with? Do tell! Thank you.
It appears to be a sculpture of a hawk and its nest.
Hello Susan, I follow several bloggers/vloggers and your post is the one I look forward to the most! I love your no-nonsense, classic style. It took me a long time to realize this was my favorite style as well. I get bits and pieces of good inspiration from other content creators, and will continue to follow them, but your blog is consistently the most worthwhile. Thank you so much for continuing your blog post!
Thank you for the lovely comment.
You always look so put together. I think you would look terrific in a gunny sack. Thanks for all your help. Barb
I can’t thank you enough for your recent posts. I retired a few years ago from a job in the medical profession. My entire wardrobe was scrubs and going out clothes. It’s been such a struggle trying to figure out what to wear everyday . You have been such help as I find my way . Thank you
I’m happy to share what I’ve learned in hopes that it helps others look their best and save money.
Kris says she doesn’t want to give up her jeans.. Me either and I am 77. I prefer dark or black for a better look on me. They can work for almost every occasion. Blazers can dress up anything. I use my med.wash and lighter for gardening, Your new glasses are just perfect.
I’m happy to hear that you will keep your jeans. They are so versatile. But I agree that black or dark wash are best. And I love Susan’s suggestion about wearing a blazer or cashmere sweater with them. If we elevate our style, we won’t be guilty of being “mutton dressed as lamb” as my British friends say.
Always enjoy reading your posts. Fall is here and it’s beautiful! You look charming and so pretty!
Thank you, Donna!
Kris…Never heard that expression before about the mutton…Love it, and it is so true.
thank you dear Susan for this beautiful article and the nice photos, have a beautiful day☀️☺️
Thank you Susan for this beautiful article and the nice photos, have a great day ☀️☺️
Looking terrific as always! Casual or dressy, always a lady!
Thank you, BJ.
Hello Susan
I’m Carol from the Barossa Valley in South Australia.
It’s wine country and very beautiful all year round.
I’m a dedicated follower and enjoy reading your site regularly. I’m 75, have short pearl grey hair style similar to yours. I love to dress smart so your style suits me perfectly. But I admit since following you, I have changed the way I put things together. I hope you continue to share your thoughts and advice.
Regards Carol.
What color are your new glasses?
The color fades from teal to almost purple, but they are darker than they appear on the website here.
Thank you for taking the time to assist me.