Style Over 50: New Day, New Outfit

I admit to falling under the spell of resolutions at the start of a new year. I like the idea of setting a goal or two, encouraging myself to try something new. The idea of resolving to change things a bit supports what’s become one of my favorite over 50 notions. The notion: If you want to slow down time, you’ve got to make each day a little different from the day before.

My 2013 resolutions aren’t huge; “baby step” changes work best for me. This year, I want to start playing the piano again. I also want to be friendlier; being cynical over 50 is such a bore. And, lastly, I want to style each day’s outfit in a new way, avoiding repeat outfits for as long as possible. Gulp. To read more about my 2013 Style Resolution, click "Read More" below...


WHY THE STYLE SHAKE UP?
“Why would you want to put yourself through such an exercise?” the sensible over 50 woman might ask. My answer: For a few reasons, actually. My "New Day, New Out" challenge will...

1. Help me re-organize my wardrobe. I’ve got a walk-in closet stuffed with winter clothes in my bedroom and two portable armoires with off-season clothing in the attic. Before you scream, "Imelda!", let me explain. My wardrobe covers the last 30 or so years. I've got stuff from high school, including  two 1920s dresses I got at an estate sale. I've always liked styling the old with the new. (I especially like when the "old" still fits!) Every so often, though, I need to take stock of it all. My “new day, new outfit” challenge will help me determine what garments or accessories are “keepers,” what deserve the heave-ho, and what need replacing. 
2. Breathe a little life into what I have to wear. By mid-season—now, that is—I’m always so tired of wearing the same things. If I force myself to start putting things together in new ways, it’s bound to lift my style spirits.
3. Support my desire to go green. I love the idea of "shopping my closet," as a girlfriend calls it, to create new outfits. Maybe it’s a New York thing, but people in my neck of the woods seem addicted to what’s new—the latest in home entertainment systems, iPhones, Apps, car extras, handbags—you name it. It seems a little nutsy. I love my old toaster and my double-breasted black sweater; why would I want to replace them with something new? Also, I hate the idea of my castoffs being added to the world’s out-of-control refuse heap. 

So here’s goes nothing…

Day 1: Red Sweater and Long Corduroy Skirt

With temperatures in the teens lately, finding something warm to wear has been a priority. I had to dig deep in my closet for this Gap khaki green skirt, which I bought last time corduroy was in vogue--yes, that long ago. At the time, I think I was hoping to channel my inner cowgirl. For Day 1, I’ve paired the long skirt with a DKNY polka dot blouse (the gunslinger look?) and an Anne Klein sweater. What do you think? It reminds me of a woman dressed for an ice hockey game in 1910.