Start With the Basics - Susan, Susan After 60

Start With the Basics - Susan, Susan After 60

Note from Pauline Durban, Founder and President of Covered Perfectly - Susan has been reviewing Covered Perfectly almost since the beginning, back when she had the Fifty, not Frumpy blog. She now blogs under Susan after 60. Susan loves our tops and you will too!

Over to Susan...

Creating fall outfits centered around a white shirt and a pair of jeans is a frequent topic among bloggers of all ages. A button-up the front shirt isn’t right for everyone.

They can add bulk, and when you layer them, the collar always wants to go its way, and let’s not forget to mention those pesky buttons that gap open at all the wrong places. My solution is to wear a scoop neck, sleek, slim-fitting top, and a pair of dark wash jeans with a smooth pull-on waistband instead of a zipper.


Today I share my tips for getting the most mileage out of these basic pieces. The top should have a neckline that flatters your face. The fabric should skim your body and be thin enough not to add bulk as you layer over it. The jeans should fit well, have straight legs that stop at the ankle bone and there should be no trendy fades or rips.

If you go for unadorned pieces in solid colors that fit within your color palette, the sky’s the limit. The Simple Comfort long-sleeved tops are by Covered Perfectly. (Buy two tops, get a third for free!)


Add a pair of espadrilles, a navy lightweight hoodie jacket and an orange crossbody bag to run errands. The shoes are by Keds, the crossbody bag is by Dooney & Bourke, and the casual jacket is from J.Jill.


My very casual looks always include a watch, a ring and a small pair of simple earrings. Sunglasses and lipstick are a necessity. In these photos, I am wearing a new lip color called Poppy – Shimmering Pink Red from Beautycounter.


If I have a doctor’s appointment, or I’m having lunch with friends, I will add a cashmere sweater, a pair of nude loafers and carry a top handle bag. This sweater is at least three years old from J.Jill. My gray bag is several years old by Calvin Klein. My nude loafers are from last year.


Again, my jewelry is minimal, but it makes a statement and finishes the look with intention. The necklace is from Stein Mart. The large face watch is old from Michael Kors. I added a simple silver bangle.


If we have a fun date night, I can add a leather trim black blazer, slightly tuck in the tunic and wear heels to create a more polished going out look. (Jeans are not always appropriate in restaurants. Check for a dress code when you make your reservations.) The Helmut Lang jacket is a few years old.


Oversized blazers and block-heeled loafers are classics.


I hope that showing you how I mix and match the same classic pieces worn over and over again, inspires you to shop your closet and wear your basics in fresh ways. Have a beautiful day! Susan After 60 readers can save 20% off 1 or 2 items by using code FNF20 when you check out at Covered Perfectly. Or you can take advantage of the Buy 2, get the 3rd FREE Special, no code necessary. Only one discount will work per order.

Happy Shopping!

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