Chic at 60ish!

Whatever your politics, economic markets are in a spin; the new tariffs affect us all. Clothing, handbags, shoes, make-up, hair products & more—will rise at every price point. Every fashion business races for a new plan. Fashionistas react.

THE MEANING OF “HIGH-LOW:” Country music superstar Kacey Musgraves at the Grammys in a Hanes tank top & Ralph Lauren Collection gold beaded skirt

As spring shopping begins, fashionistas in the know buy high-low. For most of us, every piece cannot be couture—especially now. Even those who do not worry about spending too much, have fun mixing and matching, pairing a Target tee with a Chanel jacket or inexpensive flats with designer jeans.

BUY EXPENSIVE OR CHEAPO? Some of my favorites, a white knee-length cardigan & matching tank, available in cashmere or cotton knit at different price points, from ralphlauren.com; high-waisted sailor jeans at gap.com; less costly Double RL denim jacket at ralphlauren.com; previously owned Lady Dior bag at ruelala.com

How do you know which cheapo item is just the thing to set last year’s outfit ablaze? How do you make sense of the racks and racks of dresses, tops & accessories at H&M or Target? Online sites like Ruelala, Revolve & Gilt can confuse further. If something gives you the impression it’s worth more than it costs—it’s a find. Love before you leap!

DESIGNERS OFTEN KNOCK THEMSELVES OFF: Zac Posen is the new creative director of The Gap & its affiliates—maxi dress at gap.com; Zac Posen with his mom Susan & me, he is as nice, warm & down-to-earth as he is talented!

What’s more, if you know your fashion, many designers knock themselves off. Famous for his fabulous red-carpet looks, Zac Posen is now chief designer & creative director for The Gap & its associated brands. Michael Kors & Ralph Lauren have terrific second lines—made in less expensive fabrics from patterns very similar to their collections. It is not true that you must buy cheap only in black, but a good rule of thumb becomes: Pay attention to fabric. Inexpensive cotton is fine, inexpensive cashmere is not. Keep it simple and wear what works, remembering to invest in workhorse pieces, while getting away with super-fashion items at a discount—next year they will be “so-last-year,” it doesn’t matter if they fall apart at the end of the season.

BUTTON UP: If buttons look cheap on an inexpensive item, change them to “up” your look!

A good tip: Change the buttons. Cheap buttons look cheap; good buttons totally transform an inexpensive jacket. Switch the buttons from an old Chanel jacket. Buy a few sets of pretty buttons on Etsy—way less costly than a new designer outfit—then watch all your new low-end items pop.

CAN YOU TELL THE DIFFERENCE?: Pink linen shirt & white linen drawstring pants from H&M.com; still stunning, but last year’s Valentino pink sandals from ruelala.com

Get a lift from a few good pieces, filling in with cheapo finds, as you create personal style every day. Remember chic is about polish, a love of fashion, and a dash of fun. Be yourself. Mix Gucci with The Gap, Carolina Herrera with Hanes. Pair a tank with a flowy silk skirt, “statement” pants with a jean jacket, a gorgeous top with Levis and a metallic sandal.

CHIC AT 60ISH: Two new not-super-expensive lines I’ve found—mocha silk jumpsuit & off-the-shoulder sweater from jaki.com; navy polished cotton dress from mariellestokker.com

BEAUTIFUL TABLE, BEAUTIFUL FAMILY HOLIDAYS: “Chic at 60ish” also means living graciously—to me, setting my table is like getting dressed! What dishes, what crystal? For holidays, I try to use something from everyone who is no longer at the table, so they are with us in spirit! Happy Passover & Easter to all!

And lastly—especially when you’re 60ish—style is always about knowing yourself and staying true to yourself. It has nothing to do with money, and everything to do with grace, kindness, nonchalance—and above all, a sense of humor. Find your own style. Then stick to it—and have fun. Enjoy the compliments—and confidence—your creative shopping brings. No better high when you’re feeling low! Best wishes for a Happy, Sweet Passover & Easter to all who celebrate—Enjoy every chic moment~ Ellyn Golder Saft