Chic at 60ish!

Is it better to be over or underdressed? Like Hamlet, that is the question! For me there’s no question—I’m always overdressed. In jeans, even in workout clothes, I never leave home without make-up & jewelry, giving that “dressed up” look, no matter what I’m wearing. Full disclosure—even though I’m a widow, I still wear a pretty nightgown to bed every night—my husband used to tease that I was more dressed up when I went to bed than some people are at ball!

CASUALLY CHIC: As casual as I get, in an ivory silk shirt & cognac leather pants, all from ralphlauren.com; more casual chic, Kya beaded jacket & flared jeans from l’agence.com

In truth, there are two sides to the fashion coin here. There is the Coco Chanel school, proclaiming, “Elegance is refusal. Look in the mirror & take off one thing before you leave the house.”

ICONIC CHIC: Boucle jacket at chanel.com

The flipside is Ken Downing—one of my fashion gurus, former VP & fashion director of Neiman’s, now chief creative director of Halston—Ken always advises, “More is better.” He loves layers of jewelry, layers of prints, layers of blouses & jackets. Do you remember Iris Apfel, the fashion icon who passed away earlier this year? She lived her life according to the conviction that more is more. More prints, more bracelets, more fun!

“MORE IS BETTER CHIC!” Ken Downing & me, when he was vp & fashion director of Neiman’s, now chief creative director of Halston; Iris Apfel, another fashion & home decor icon, who built an entire business–and legendary reputation–on her “More is more fun!” attitude

Of course, there’s no right or wrong—that’s why they make 31 flavors. And your look can change with your mood. Over the top one day, paired down the next. Just be comfortable & confident in your skin.

NOSTALGIA CHIC: Beautiful actresses in beautiful gowns with beautifully beaded fabrics at the Emmys last week–not a crazy over-the-top dress in sight; Audrey Hepburn & Grace Kelly at The Oscars in the mid-50’s, you could wear both of their gowns tonight!

This season’s “lady chic” hits the perfect balance—for big evenings as well as your everyday wardrobe. Look at the Emmys best-dressed list. Gorgeous fabrics & silhouettes; no crazy gowns that set tongues wagging. (How much do you miss Joan Rivers & “Fashion Police?”)

” STEALTH WEALTH CHIC:” T-shirt & wide-leg jeans from balenciaga.com; patterned cashmere sweater from loropiana.com

Another walk down the middle is casual luxury, “stealth wealth”—items that are super high quality, super expensive & well-made, but don’t look that way at first glance. The meaning of “nonchalance!” Balenciaga t-shirts with hand-painted oil designs, Loro Piana cashmere baseball caps & hoodies, haute couture jeans, coats with great lines in in luxe fabrics. Every designer has them. Sometimes it costs a lot to look unfancy!

“NONCHALANT CHIC: “ Two of my favorite looks–Embroidered sweater & matching pants from dior.com; tank, beaded skirt & western belt from ralphlauren.com—So “Ellyn,” I’d love to wear this skirt with a creamy cashmere crewneck to every special occasion!

So? Overdressed or underdressed? Somewhere in the middle? Change your mind with your mood. Throw on lots of bangles & chains, real or faux—throw on a jeans & a t-shirt, designer or Levis. If you feel comfortable & confident, there’s nothing chicer! No blog next week–Wishing a Happy, Healthy, Sweet New Year to all who celebrate–Cherish every beautiful moment~ Ellyn Golder Saft

ps. Need a new tv binge? Try “La Maison” on apple+, in French with subtitles. It’s the story of a fashion house whose designer makes a racist comment–a la John Galliano–and the familial fighting that ensues. A little like “Succession,” but better dressed!