Lisa Armstrong is The Telegraph’s head of fashion. She began her career in fashion at Vogue. She has written four novels, has an honorary doctorate from the University of Arts in London, and was awarded an OBE in 2022 for services to fashion.
Each week, she responds to your queries, lending her expertise to help you shop smart. Have a question for her? Submit it below.
Dear Lisa,
I just turned 70 and still wear denim jeans (Armani and Reiss), colourful jackets (Joe Brown) and twin-colour shoes. But I hate the idea of looking like “mutton dressed up as lamb”. How do I stay fashionable with elegance?
– Linda
Dear Linda,
I love this question and that you’re wearing denim jeans. They’re a classic and there’s no reason you can’t wear them at any age. If you’re happy with this combination – denim and jackets, then the elegance comes from ensuring the jeans are the best shape for you – and making sure those jackets are super-slick. You already shop at Reiss. Have you checked out their blazers? Not cheap, but good fabrics and cut, and they last for years. This double-breasted style is from their petite range (£268).
Tencel™ blazer, Reiss, £268
A cropped jacket would also look very chic. This one from Mango also comes in green (£89.99). Katie Holmes wore something very similar to the red with jeans and white court shoes – an idea?
Crop tweed jacket, Mango, £89.99
Try mixing in some soft blouses in beautiful, vibrant shades to give your skin a glow-up. Me+Em specialises in gorgeous tops - this silky spring green with a matching vest (£225) for an up-to-date take on a twinset is the definition of life-affirming. Or this very special silk one from Boden, which reminds me (a lot) of a Sezane one, currently on sale for £91.
This button-down (£78) is also great – the juxtaposition of pussy bow and denim is very modern, youthful and elegant. I think it takes a 70-year-old to do it justice.
Bow Neck Button Down, Boden, £78
Silk Cropped Shirt, Me+Em, £225
Ruffle Neck Silk Blouse, Boden, £91
As we head towards warmer weather (hopefully ) you could try something with a more relaxed feel, like this lovely, eco-friendly hemp shirt in a delicate shade of pink, from Baukjen (£79).
Or something with a jacket-like crispness, like this utility shirt from Mint Velvet (£69), would look very smart. Bare ankles and some flatforms or kitten heels and you’re set.
Do you have a style query of your own? Ask Lisa here.
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