The information I shared in the previous post (here) helped me effortlessly put together these looks today. My ensembles from inspiration images are never cut-and-paste copies. Remember, it isn’t about recreating the exact outfit but rather putting together a look that flatters you and reflects your personality.
Suddenly, our temperatures are back to ninety degrees, and the hot, dry air leaves no curls. A visit to the grocery store was essential today, so this was the look. The black cotton tank and white linen skirt were cool and comfortable outside the grocery store, but I needed a cotton sweater in the blasting air conditioning.
I will soon put away the straw bag and cork shoes until next summer.
The side slits keep the straight skirt from getting on board the frumpy train.
After doing my chores, I stopped by my storage unit to retrieve a turtleneck sweater to create this example ensemble as promised.
Many women don’t like to wear black near the face or at all. You can achieve the same effect by choosing a dark color that flatters you. Brown, navy, olive, charcoal grey, or burgundy may be better options. Light, medium, and dark tones of any color can form a flexible wardrobe. Varied hues allow you to create more depth in your outfits.
If a turtleneck isn’t your best neckline, create vertical interest with a long necklace or a crossbody bag. If your turtleneck is long with slits like mine, it may look best with straight-leg jeans instead of fuller-leg jeans.
I am showing you the image below only as a reminder. You must wear a black bra under a black sweater. My beige strapless bra from earlier in the day is showing through, so I changed it to a black Shapeez Ultimate Pretty in black to remedy the problem.
Thank you for these inspirational outfits! Your new (recent) skincare regime looks fabulous on you.
Love those red pointed toe Mary Jane’s. So fresh looking.
Another new post in which I will find several of my preferences, like in the first two photos. These cork high heel mules are ultra feminine and look so pretty on you, I like them very much. They give you a very casual look. Also, you are always resplendent and your beautiful smile proves it. And just one last little thing Susan, I really love your hairstyle too…
Susan — Once again you have shared such a wonderful and practical post. I am one of those who looks washed out in black or navy. I appreciate how you include us “autumn” skin tones by suggesting alternative colors. Warm olive, brown or beige are my essential basics for most of the year. Thanks to you, I know which reds are best for me. One of my favorite posts was the one where you modeled a simple party ensemble with a burgundy turtleneck. I was able to find a warmer version of that shade and it has become a staple in my wardrobe. I am definitely not a fashionista, but I feel comfortable about my attire. I don’t feel confused when I look in my closet anymore.
I so appreciate your outfit ideas, without constantly showing 400 dollar sweats outfits (in white!) to travel in. It’s very tiresome to read a lot of fashion blogs. I know that’s how they monetize their sites, but yours is completely different and I do love it. I especially love those Sam E red shoes, and may have to have them. Are they true to size? Sometimes sling backs are hard for me to keep on, but those are calling my name..and there is a Dillards here in town if I needed to return them.
Thanks! The shoes were comfortable right out of the box. I’m very glad I bought them.
I like all these looks you put together. The red flats are so pretty! I need to go on the hunt for a handbag in the red family. I really like that pop of color. I can tell fall is on it’s way. Our early mornings are beginning to have that crisp coolness of fall. Meanwhile the days are moderate. Enjoy your week!
Beautiful as always. Love the red.
I can feel fall n the air. It was hot but today much cooler. I like the outfit ideas. The red is a nice touch. A pop of color makes the outfit a little special. As someone said in an earlier I also like how you show us what to use in our closets but also add something else we might need that is affordable. You really show us what works rather than just selling something. I thank you for that.
I love the turtleneck on you. I might give it a try too. You must be content and happy as you seem to be aging backwards. You have never looked better.
Thank you!
Thank you for showing the red shoes. My favorite color
You look awesome! Nothing like jeans and a black t neck. LOVE those red shoes too….
Would you remind us what you use for lipstick, gloss etc?
My lips are becoming thinner and thinner!
thank you
The best lip balm I’ve found recently is here. I purchased color #57. It is sheer and just the right consistency.
You look amazing….. well, happy and glamorous
Love all your looks here Susan. Your hair looks amazing and you look really beautiful.
Can you recommend a supportive bra that DOESN’T have an underwire? I’m approximately the same age and size as you, but haven’t found anything that works. I find bra shopping to be TORTURE! I’ve checked these online stores that sell bras in S, M or L. That simply won’t do. I’m probably a 38, DDD. 131 pounds. HELP, please.
The best wireless bra I’ve found is here. They are available in your size and lots of colors!
I have learned so much from you over the years. I still have the navy crepe pants and scoop neck top, as well as some of the beautiful scarves you sold a few years ago. They all still look great and those scarves are my most favorites.
I’m so glad you are still enjoying those pieces you purchased from my site. Thank you!
I love looking at the fashion magazines, especially around fall, but never really have been able to apply what they show to my own wardrobe. I learned so much from your last two posts about how to bring new trending fashions into my own look. Thank you so much for your insights! I’m exciited now to incorporate a few new looks from the fashion magazines that will be appropriate for my age. And…you look amazing in that black turtleneck, jeans and red accents as seen in the fall styles you highlighted!!! So fun!
You always look lovely and very pulled together. I try to emulate you but I have trouble letting go many tops but I will continue to let you inspire me.
I’m so glad I found your blog. I have been learning from you since your “50’s” blog. I was out of commission for a couple of years with breast cancer treatments and you were my best friend during thise times. I kept my situation to my family and two out of town friends and so all your tips, trips, pictures and of course Mr. Micky gave me something to look forward to every day or two. Thank you so much!
I am so glad you have recovered and that you are back to enjoying some of the things you love. It has been a little more than one year since I was also treated for breast cancer.
Honestly, you always look great. Such an inspiration to those of us in our 60’s! Thanks for sharing your outfits and your advice.
Another reader, Donna Nance, mentioned your new, recent skin care routine. Could you refresh me on that please.
That post is here. I shared the skincare products I’m using now.
Susan, you have had so many cool shoes over the years that I’ve been following you. Your killer heels were so sharp but were not something I can wear. Alas, pointy-toe shoes are not for me either – my feet are just not shaped for pointy toes. Almond toes work best for me and, thankfully, there are a lot out there that are beautiful and comfy. The dry air may not be good for your curls but your hair looks great! The longer style is very flattering. Thanks for years of good reading and advice and I hope you have a healthy fall & winter.
Love the black and white and your hair looks fantastic
Love the red shoes! They really make your outfit pop. Red shoes can go with so many colors and outfits. When I wear red shoes I immediately feel like dancing
You’re a class act! Love seeing red and black! Have a great week!
Interesting way to put together current trends. Definitely something I’ll look forward to doing. Your hair looks wonderful and as always you look so put together
Everyday I open my email and find your latest blog is a Red Letter Day for me! I enjoy each of your posts and learn so much from them! Can’t wait til it’s turtleneck time again! Yes, it’s back into the 90s (sigh!) in Asheville and Memphis, too! Wish black was my color, love it so much, but it is very draining to my coloring. Browns and dark blues are better for me!
I love your red purse and shoes as a pop of color. Thank you for these examples.
I typically avoid skirts and especially those with slits at the front, but recently I found skirts with slits at the side which I find much more flattering, current and easy to walk in. So I bought 2! LOL.
Susan I have said it before and I’ll say it again – I love seeing the skirts and dresses you wear. I know it’s not your go to usually but they look so nice on you. Years ago you had a soft wash denim dress that was long and I loved it. It was full at the bottom and maybe it was chambray? It had no sleeves and was for summer. Love the white skirt with the slits. Looks so cool and comfy to wear.
Enjoy what’s left of the summer and hi to Mr. Mickey.
Patty V
I love the pops of red! I do the same thing. As always, thank you for sharing!
Love these looks. The red shoes and purse add quite the panache to almost anything ❤️❤️❤️❤️
I love the new longer hairstyle. Makes you look 10 years younger! Unfortunately, my hair is way too thin to wear long. ☹️
I never post but I do enjoy your suggestions and pictures.
Love this series. Great teaching moment. I appreciate all the time, research, advise to inspire me to look my best.
You look especially cute these days! I’m liking the flats and casual outfits because that is what most people are wearing unless it’s a special occasion. Even on the airplane or in most restaurants these clothes would be appropriate and fit in nicely. Glad to get rid of the heels!
Oh I haven’t rid myself of heels yet. I still enjoy wearing them.
Beautiful combinations
You always look so “put together” Thank you for sharing!
Jeans have been the uniform of my life . I really appreciate you showing how they can be dressed up.
Susan, just one more thing about this post. These red shoes are made to be seen and the more I look at them, the more stunning I think they are. What a great idea to have shown them. Perfectly combined with your handbag, the contrast is really powerful with your outfit. Now, I even think I’m hypnotized by this wonderful color…
I look forward to your post, I don’t want to look frumpy at 70, so your tips help me choose better styles.
Thank you!
Thank you for your Shapeez recommendation years ago. It is now the only bra I buy.
Thank you! I love your interpretation of what was in the high fashion magazine.
I’m a new follower and your looks have inspired me to really do a deep dive into my looks, and minimize the amount of clothes I have. Using accessories to create the individualism I crave makes packing for travel lighter, too. I look forward to your posts! Beautiful outfits and lovely blog. Thank you.
Welcome! I’m so glad you’ve found my site.
Thank you so much for your posts. You have impeccable taste and style, even though I usually need to find more affordable dupes of some of your clothing. I am wondering if you could make suggestions for women like me, who are tall but have short legs and large thighs. If I wear short shirts or jackets, it unfortunately puts my ample thighs on full display!
Also, I have become a customer of Beauty in Stone. I love her beautiful jewelry pieces.
If you wear a long top to cover your hips and thighs, you may draw more attention to them. The best option is to wear dark-colored pants and skirts that fit your shape with light-colored tops that show your waistline or, at the least, stop just below it.
Looks amazing!
I so admire your lifestyle and fashion! Your posts make me smile.
Susan, you are a style inspiration to women of any age. Your elegance and devotion to classic yet relevant fashion is something that is sorely missing from most fashion bloggers/influencers today. Thank you for your uplifting & encouraging messages!
I appreciate your kind words, Kelly.
Thank you for all your tips!! You inspire me to continue to be fashionable in my “ senior” years…,
You always look so elegant! How tall are you, Susan? Your choice of dresses and their length, jeans/trousers, and shoes/heels really work for your body type. Your silhouette is always long and lean.
Thank you for avoiding cropped pants. I don’t think they’re flattering to anyone. Unless I’m doing yoga (which I don’t), I never wear cropped pants as I think they shorten the look of my legs and me overall. If it’s warm out and I think I’ll be cooler in cropped pants…I wear a dress.
I am 5’5″ tall.
I so admire your style. Although I am 84 years old, I still like to look nice. I am a widow and don’t go out much but I love to emulate your style. Of course, when you are as beautiful as you are everything looks lovely.
Thank you for your kindness, Janice.
Love the red shoes! Are they comfortable for wearing all day?
Depending what I am doing, I change clothes several times per day, so I didn’t wear them for the whole day, but they are very comfortable.
Susan,
I love every post and read it from start to finish. Your ideas are inspirational and I love your pics from your area and of Mr. Mickey.
Melissa
You would probably be surprised how much confidence you give me!
I love your uncomplicated outfits. The success of them is your posture and smile.
Your beauty is also your generosity to us.
Carolyn
Your comments made my day. Thank you, Carolyn!
Great outfits! You always look so lovely. I enjoyed your explanation of the cross body used to break up the turtleneck. Really liked the tip(reminder) to wear a black bra under a black sweater! It is those little tiny details that add up to a perfect pulled together look!
I love your looks and your fashion inspiration. I also love the red shoes!! Do you have a sizing recommendation for pointy toe shoes? Do you generally size up half a size, so the toes aren’t squeezed? I haven’t found a pair to work yet, but I may try on these red ones from Dillards.
My second toe is a tiny bit longer than my big toe, so pointed toe shoes are not a problem for me. I buy my regular size.
A photographer told me years ago that you should never wear a white or nude bra under dark tops. They will always photograph as white headlights in pictures or videos. Now I cannot unsee them when I look at pictures. I’m glad you caught the look and remedied it. Hopefully it will help some others to not make that mistake.
Hi Susan,
I’ve been reading your blog for years and have learned so much. This is a question from out of the blue and has nothing to do with today’s post. I read the piece about the changes you’ve made to your skincare and makeup since Beautycounter is restructuring. I don’t believe you said anything about what shampoo you went to in the meantime. I was using the Beautycounter shampoo and loved it. Do you mind sharing what you are using now? Your hair always shines and looks beautiful!
I am using a product line for my hair that was recommended by my stylist. I buy it at the salon, but it is also available here.
You always look gorgeous no matter what you wear…
I have one question about the turtleneck–do you generally tuck it in your pants or wear on the outside as shown? I never know which when wearing with a jacket.
The turtleneck I’ve shown here is a tunic style that is meant to be left out. I have thinner mohair sweaters that are shorter making them easy to tuck into slacks or skirts and wear with a jacket.
You are looking fantastic as usual Susan. Love your tips and tricks. I had to have the red shoes…red shoes are kind of my thing! Love the look. I think I bought that same red bag when you first featured it.
I love your first look too and your glasses look very attractive. Thanks for blogging! I just love your blog and always look forward to it!
Hi Susan,
Ha! I have all the same pieces in my wardrobe, too! I love your classic look and will do the same with my pieces!
I don’t wear turtlenecks, however. V-necks or crew necks look better on me.
Love your posts!
Linda
I have been a follower of your blog since you were “50 not Frumpy”, and enjoy and appreciate the simplicity of your style and advice. I am turning 81 tomorrow, and still enjoy clothes, tho am not as social as I once was. I think your clothes, jewelry, etc are so becoming to you and your style. And I love your longer style with your hair! If only I had that hair, ha!
While I enjoy more prints, and different colors that suit me, I learn so much from how you put items together, and pull out older items from your closet. I can adapt those ideas to my own style.
Thank you for your continued blogging, and great when you include Mr Micky ! I miss my other half , having become a widow three years ago. So continued best wishes to the both of you . Sincerely, Sherry Dovin
Thank you Sherry. It’s nice to hear from you.
Everything looks great! Love the red accents.
Hello Susan,
I would like to order the jeans from Banana Republic. I was wondering how does the sizing work.
There is a chart I am guessing you have to put in your measurements.
Thanks for your help,
Diana
I wear a size 6 in jeans at other stores, so I ordered these jeans in a size 28 regular inseam. I hope this helps.
You look beautiful in all of the outfits!! You personify class and elegance. You would look beautiful in a burlap sack. Have a wonderful September.
Thank you, Doris. You are very kind.
Thank you. PS. Your hair is “the bomb!”
Thanks for your quick reply. I’ll be ordering immediately.
As I’ve aged I no longer have my hourglass figure . I now have more of a stocky stomach. I know you frequently wear belts. Would it be appropriate for a shape like mine to wear the belt with slacks or should I continue to wear untucked tops? Thank you for your advice.
If only the front portion of your shape shows from an open jacket or cardigan, you may like how it looks to tuck in the top and wear a belt. Defining your waist will give you better proportions, even if it is no longer slim.
I love the shoes! Such a perfect idea to make the runway looks your own comfort for style.
You are such an inspiration! Your “looks” are easy to wear and affordable. I LOVE your blog and videos!