Lately, I’ve had a lot of conversations with friends and readers who feel stuck when it comes to shopping. They want to look current and put-together, but not like they raided their daughter’s closet. I get it. Somewhere along the way, shopping got harder, and finding clothes that feel modern without skewing too young or overly trendy can feel frustrating.
Since I pretty much shop for a living, I’ve narrowed in on the brands and retailers that consistently strike that balance between current and age-appropriate for those of us in our 50s and beyond. If you’re in that in-between phase, where you’re reassessing your style or just craving some fresh ideas, this list is a great place to start.
Favorite Brands & Retailers for Modern, Wearable Style
This isn’t an exhaustive list, but it’s a solid starting point. And if you have a favorite brand or retailer you love, I’d genuinely love to hear. Feel free to share it in the comments!
Nordstrom: Best all-around wardrobe destination
Nordstrom cashmere sweater // Treasure & Bond belt // CoH jeans // Sam Edelman boots
I know, you’re shocked! But seriously, Nordstrom has long been my department store of choice because they carry so many of the brands I wear regularly. I also love that I can shop for clothing, shoes, bags, and beauty all in one place. Their high level of customer service, along with free shipping and returns, makes online shopping especially convenient. It’s the first place I check when I’m shopping for something specific, but I also love browsing their new arrivals for outfit inspiration.
They have an especially strong selection of shoes, from brands like Sam Edelman, Marc Fisher, Dolce Vita, Vince, and Veronica Beard, among others. Whether I’m looking for everyday sneakers, classic pumps, or casual boots, I can usually find exactly what I need.
And if you’re on the hunt for great-fitting jeans, I put together a post a few years ago with all of my favorite denim brands at Nordstrom. Check it out HERE.
I also try to keep an eye on Nordstrom’s in-house brands like Treasure & Bond, Caslon, Halogen, Zella, and Nordstrom. These lines are a great way to try out a trend or fill a wardrobe gap without spending a lot. They tend to have really good layering pieces and everyday basics.
Shop my current Nordstrom favorites here!
EVEREVE: Modern Casual, Thoughtfully Curated
EVEREVE Bobbie Utility Jacket // EVEREVE Sarina Tank // MOTHER jeans // Sam Edelman boots
EVEREVE is hands-down my favorite place to shop right now. I love their mix of polished and casual pieces, and their in-store styling always gives me fresh ideas for wearing things a little differently. They do an especially good job curating denim, elevated basics, and trend-forward pieces that still feel realistic and wearable for everyday life.
Shop my current EVEREVE favorites here!
LOFT: Affordable Workwear & Everyday Pieces
LOFT wedge sweater // KUT from the Kloth jeans // PAIGE sandals
LOFT has been a bit hit or miss over the past few years, but lately it feels like they’re making a comeback. It’s a reliable option for affordable workwear, and I often find easy tops, sweaters, and the occasional dress that fits well and feels effortless. I’m also hearing great things about their new denim line launching soon!
Shop my current LOFT favorites here!
Gap and Gap Factory: Modern Basics & Everyday Essentials
Gap Factory Fair Isle Sweater // MOTHER jeans // Vince booties
Gap has been popping up on my radar again lately. I haven’t shopped there regularly in a while, but I’ve seen several pieces recently that make me want to give them another look. Their casual basics and denim have a clean, classic feel that fits well with my everyday style, and I’m planning to explore more of their current lineup this season.
Shop my current Gap favorites here!
Gap Factory has also become a reader favorite over the past few years. I’ve heard from many of you that you’ve found some great everyday essentials there. If you’re looking for budget-friendly options that still feel stylish and put-together, it’s a great one to keep in the mix.
Shop my current Gap Factory favorites here!
J.Crew: Classic Staples & Chic Outerwear
J.Crew scarf coat // MOTHER jeans // Dolce Vita boots
J.Crew is one of those stores I like to keep in the mix, even though it’s not one of my regular go-tos. I especially like their coats, and they consistently have really good fashion jewelry, too. I’ll occasionally find a great sweater as well—like my favorite cardigan.
And many women love their jeans. They never seem to fit me quite right, but they do carry modern styles that generally don’t skew too young. It’s a good retailer to keep on your radar—especially for outerwear and accessories.
Shop my current J.Crew favorites here!
Madewell: Accessories, Shoes & Extras
Madewell cashmere cardigan // MOTHER jeans // Veronica Beard boots // Jane Win pendant
Madewell is often associated with a younger audience, but I occasionally find pieces that work well for midlife. Their accessories and shoes are well made and right on trend without feeling over the top, and I sometimes find a great sweater here, too. They’re also known for their denim, but it usually feels a bit stiff and skews younger than what I personally prefer. Still, it’s worth a look if you like their aesthetic.
Shop my current Madewell favorites here!
Jenni Kayne: Luxe Knits & Neutrals
Jenni Kayne Flynn Cashmere V-Neck // MOTHER jeans // Dolce Vita boots // Clare V. bag
Jenni Kayne is my favorite for luxurious knitwear and timeless wardrobe staples. Their pieces are definitely an investment, so I don’t shop there on the daily, but the quality, fabrics, and understated designs are worth keeping in rotation. I love the neutral color palette and clean, minimal lines.
Shop my current Jenni Kayne favorites here!
Aritzia: Polished Basics with a Modern Edge
Aritzia The Only Coat // Gap Factory fair isle sweater // MOTHER jeans // La Canadienne boots
Aritzia is another retailer worth mentioning, especially for elevated basics like knits, trousers, and outerwear. I personally love their coats, and their tailored pants are also a strong category if you’re looking for clean lines and modern proportions. I shop here selectively, but it’s a good option for streamlined pieces that feel current without being overly trendy.
Quince: Elevated Basics at a Great Value
Quince Bella Relaxed Straight Leg Jeans // Icewear sweater // rag & bone boots
Quince is a newer discovery for me, and it’s quickly become a go-to for elevated basics. Their pieces feel modern and streamlined, and the price point makes it easy to invest in quality staples. If you’re rebuilding your wardrobe or filling in gaps with pieces you’ll wear again and again, Quince is a great option.
Shop my current Quince favorites here!
Frank & Eileen: Elevated Basics & Travel Sets
Eileen linen button-up c/o (S) // Galway wide-leg jeans c/o (29) // Sam Edelman sandals (8)
Frank & Eileen is another splurge brand, and not one I shop weekly, but when it comes to elevated basics and easy travel sets, they’re hard to beat. Their pieces are thoughtfully designed, well made, and great for building a polished, low-effort wardrobe.
Shop my current Frank & Eileen favorites here!
White House Black Market: Bold Details & Modern Workwear
WHBM v-neck sweater vest (M) // MOTHER jeans (29) // Dolce Vita sandals (7.5)
White House Black Market hasn’t been on my radar as much in recent years, but I still keep them in the mix because every once in a while I find a gem—like the red vest I’m wearing above. Their pieces tend to be a little different from what you see everywhere else, often with fun details or bolder prints. They’re designed for grown women without skewing frumpy and offer a good selection of workwear and occasion dresses, along with polished weekend wear.
Shop my current WHBM favorites here!
Athleta: Travel, Lounge & Everyday Activewear
Athleta cargo pants // Z Supply tank // EVEREVE jacket // On Cloud sneakers // AWAY The Medium // AWAY The Everywhere Bag
Athleta has been a long-time favorite of mine for activewear and comfortable everyday basics. I appreciate that they offer inclusive sizing and design with real bodies and movement in mind. Athleta is one of those places I turn to when I want workout gear, but also when I’m building a travel outfit or just looking for easy casual pieces that hold up well.
Shop my favorites from Athleta!
Vuori: Stylish, Performance-Driven Activewear
Vuori Elevation Leggings // Vuori Energy Top Long // On Cloud sneakers
Vuori is my go-to for athleisure that feels soft, flattering, and put together. Their elevation leggings are my favorites for Pilates and gym workouts, and their jackets and tops layer well for running errands, travel days, or just staying comfortable at home. I like that the pieces are performance-driven but still look polished enough to wear outside the gym. The fit is usually relaxed but not sloppy, and the fabrics are super soft and breathable.
Bloomingdale’s: Great Denim, Elevated Brands
PAIGE jeans // EVEREVE sweater // Dolce Vita boots
Bloomingdale’s is one of my favorite places to shop for denim, especially when I’m looking for premium brands and newer styles. They often carry a strong assortment from brands like MOTHER, AGOLDE, and PAIGE, and I like that I can compare fits and washes all in one place. It’s a great complement to Nordstrom if you’re serious about finding jeans that really work for you. I also occasionally shop there for shoes, outerwear, and other elevated pieces.
Shop my current favorites from Bloomingdale’s!
Talbots: Classic Style & Inclusive Sizes
Talbots sweater // MOTHER jeans // Quince box bag
Talbots leans a bit more conservative, but if you appreciate classic style, it’s worth keeping in the mix. My advice is to choose selectively and mix their pieces with other brands to keep outfits feeling current. Their sizing is inclusive, and the quality is typically very good and made to last.
Tuckernuck: Polished & Preppy with Personality
Tuckernuck isn’t a retailer I shop often, but I consistently hear great things from friends and readers who love their mix of classic and modern styles. Their aesthetic leans polished and preppy with a bit of personality, and they always seem to offer fun statement pieces alongside elevated basics. It’s also a great place to check when you’re shopping for resort wear or special occasion pieces.
Shopbop: Fashion-Forward Brands in One Place
Shopbop is a great destination for finding premium brands and pieces that aren’t always available at other retailers. It’s where I often discover new denim styles from MOTHER or AGOLDE, and they also have a strong footwear selection. Since Shopbop is owned by Amazon, you can use your Prime membership for free shipping and returns. They carry a wide range of designers, so I usually filter by brand or category to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
Other Modern Brands I Shop In My 50s
There are a handful of brands I keep going back to because they fit well, hold up over time, and work with my everyday style. They may not be as widely known as some of the bigger retailers, but they’ve become regulars in my wardrobe.
Rails blouse // PAIGE sandals // MOTHER jeans
Rails, Sanctuary, and Splendid are all great options for casual pieces that feel a little elevated. Rails has beautiful dresses, sweaters, and accessories, while Sanctuary is known for elevated basics like twill pants, tops, and jackets. Splendid makes some of the softest tees and loungewear around. You can find these brands at retailers like Nordstrom, Bloomingdale’s, Shopbop, EVEREVE, and other big box retailers, or you can shop directly from their websites.
rag & bone and AllSaints are known for slightly edgier styles and very high-quality pieces. Both brands offer great leather goods—think boots, jackets, and belts—along with luxe knitwear, and rag & bone also does excellent denim.
Vince and Veronica Beard are my go-tos for more minimal pieces that still feel polished. Vince sweaters and blouses have a quiet luxury feel without being overly trendy, while Veronica Beard is especially known for their jackets—though I’ve also had really good luck with their shoes. I usually shop these brands at Nordstrom, but both have extensive websites if you prefer to shop directly.
Clare V is a great go-to for accessories, as well as trendy tees and sweatshirts. Their handbags add personality to an outfit without feeling over the top. I’ve picked up a few over the years, and I always get compliments when I carry them, plus the quality is excellent.
MOTHER The Bookie Sneak // Dolce Vita boots // J.Crew topcoat
And when it comes to denim, I generally rotate between MOTHER, PAIGE, FRAME, and KUT from the Kloth. The premium brands are definitely an investment, but the fit and fabric are worth it. MOTHER jeans tend to have a bit more stretch, while FRAME and Paige have more structure and a clean silhouette. KUT from the Kloth is a great mid-range option that I often recommend because they make a variety of styles that work for different body types.
AYR and ÉTICA are newer to the denim scene, but I’ve been pleased with the quality when I’ve tried them and plan to explore them more in the coming months.
I hope this post gives you some fresh ideas and makes shopping in your 50s and beyond feel a little less overwhelming. Finding a few brands you trust can go a long way in building a wardrobe that really works for you.
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39 Responses
I love this list! If you’re tall, J.Jill has become my favorite site to shop, because so many of their items are available in tall sizes. That’s so important for those of us who are not a regular size & have a very hard time finding clothes that fit!
I agree jjill has been a great “new” option for me when it comes to tall sizes. I always feel like I hit the jackpot when I find a pair of pants that are long enough for me. I recently lost weight so I have to replace all of my pants and this has been a great place for me to do so!
They are also great for petites!
Great recommendation, thanks!
Hi Shirley…….I like J Jill because of Petite jeans and ponte pants. I had to get a tailor to take up the ponte in xsp but they fit great and usually a 2p fits good in a slim style jean. Sometimes I have to move down a size and order online but most of the time I can go to the store and find what I want. I too have a hard time finding the correct size with so many petite stores doing online only.
Great list!
Both Nordstrom and Bloomies are solids for me. I’ve stepped away from former go-to places like Banana Republic as their quality has reduced greatly….or my standard has gone up! I do l love Frame and Vince, have some luck with Rag & Bone (but not their actual denim which loses shape after one wear). My fun one lately has been Aritzia! I shop in store when traveling. When I walk in I just exhale in satisfaction because it’s nearly ALL SOLIDS…. My absolute heart! Their cashmere and slacks are fabulous quality/design and their in store service rivals Evereve.
Evereve is great, and it’s fun to have one locally. Sometimes though I feel like I’m at a pep rally when I’m there. It’s a bit much if I’m really on a mission. lol. Other times it’s fun to just keep trying allllllll the things they shove at me😊
Have a happy day everyone!
😂A Pep Rally….exactly! I swear I could go in there to grab socks and those store associates would find a way to get me in a dressing room trying on three sweaters, a pair of jeans, and the cutest little jacket “perfect for making these socks pop”
I can not tell you how times I have walked into a dressing room with one thing, rolled my eyes at the “few things you just might want to try” and proceeded to buy three things I didn’t know I needed….and left that one thing behind” 😎
Great comprehensive list! My first go-to is Talbots, which makes sense since my style words are classic, feminine, refined. Nordstrom, second, been a customer of theirs for decades, and you are so right about their shoe selection!!! Fantastic choices for extended sizes/widths, too. My other major go-to is Ann Taylor. Other retailers with a minor presence in my wardrobe: Quince, Loft, Evereve, J Jill, Chicos, Lands End, and a couple random pieces from Macy’s and Dillards.
Thanks for all the suggestions!
I too shop from Talbots because of petite sizing and a store that carries a petite section. Their jeans fit well but usually have to order online to get their 0P. Their sweaters and blouses are beautiful and order some of them. I too shop Loft , Ann Taylor, & Chicos in reg. 000 in cropped works for me in pants and jeans since hip measurement is an inch smaller that in petite smallest size and buying regular in cropped I get the length right. I do get frustrated there are not many store to choose from nowadays for us petites. Belk has an occasional PXS in the store and the CeCe brand is my favorite.
Thank you, Jo-Lynne!
Hi Jo-Lynne!
I enjoy reading your posts and love your over 50 style!
I have been a long time shopper at Talbots as I am a petite and find the best fit. Do you know of any other well made brands that offer petites? I am familiar with Loft and Anne Taylor, however, I find their fit and style to be younger than 50’s.
Thank you!!
Karen, I would check out J. Jill. All their pieces are available in Petite as well as regular misses. Maybe you have a store nearby you can stop into and try on??
All of the Gap brands have petite and tall sizes – Gap, Gap Factory, Banana, Athleta, etc. Maybe one of those will feel more your style?
Jo Lynne….Yes……..to Gap & BR for petites and no age limit on jeans. Baby boot cut in Gap is a great fitting jean and BR has jeans & dresses that fit very well!
Great list! I particularly love Evereve. One retailer you didn’t mention that I have shopped for years is Boden, particularly their dresses, tops and sweaters. Preppy, modern, & colorful is how I would describe them. You should check them out!
Yeah, I do shop there every once in a while, but they tend to skew a little too preppy for me. The quality is excellent, though. I should have added more retailers that are worth checking out, even though they don’t align with my personal style. I might update the post…
I would add Anthropologie to the mix too. It can be hit or miss but I just scored mother jeans for $89. They do have premium denim and amazing sales.
Yeah, I considered adding them, but I just don’t find much there that works for me. Aside from some of the premium denim brands… when they run one of their secret 30% off sales, I usually grab a few pairs of jeans.
Hello, I’ve been looking for over a year for a lounge set with a longer top that isn’t so short. I have a pear shape and need the extra coverage. Any ideas?
I found some cute loungewear outfits at Old Navy that I plan to wear in the upcoming weeks as I recoup from surgery. I want to be comfy but look stylish & put together for visitors. I NEED a longer top. I ordered the tops under the “tall” button. They typically are 2” longer than “regular.” They offered many mix n match pant styles & top styles to best fit our needs in a flattering way. Ordered separately in the size needed. Honestly, these crop tops can’t go out of trend fast enough for me. Good luck.
You are like me. Your top choices are mine. I also agree that Loft struggled awhile but seems to be coming back. I loved finding Evereve but wish they had better sales. Nordstrom’s for sure a go to and I use to shop at Banana republic (one you left off your list) years ago but haven’t for years. I walk in and right back out. I’m retired at home in my 60’s and their clothes to preppy for me. A few on this list are to expensive for me when I can get the same from other stores. I also agree that J. Crew denim doesn’t seem to fit me either and Madwell denim too stiff and younger styles. Great list Jo-Lynne. Hope you get your nap today. I’m having same morning. Talked myself right out of walking. lol Maybe later.
Great list! Like a few have mentioned I still like the odd Banana Republic outfit (I do think they have improved lately). Sadly J Crew, Banana Republic, Gap, Ann Taylor and Loft have all closed their local stores (I live close to Palm Springs), so most of my shopping is now online. My closest Evereve is 2.5 hours away, but do love making a bi annual trip to visit them and Nordstroms. All those things they add to my fitting room, that I never knew I needed often end up leaving with me.
One good thing about where I live is we have one of the largest outlet malls about 30 minutes away. It includes Aritizia, Rails, Rag and Bone, Paige and probably every brand you have mentioned in your review. So if I want a day shopping, it’s a good place to head too. Found some great bargains at Rails over the years!
If you only knew how many times I have thought of how few places there are for women over 40/50 to shop. I’ve really been enjoying shopping at Aritzia lately and was happy to find out that Quince ships to Canada🙌🏻
I used to shop quite a bit at banana republic factory but as of late, I just haven’t found anything that jumps off the racks at me when I go in the stores. I also have shopped a bit at Zara!
Love Vuori and Lululemon but have been liking ALO too!
We don’t have a J.Crew or J.Crew factory here or a loft so I rely on online shopping for those places but that can get pricey so I often just stock up if we have a trip to the states.
It’s fun to read about everyone’s favorite retailer. I also have a large, upscale Outlet Mall near me, so when I am there, I like to check out Banana Republic, J.Crew, Gap, WHBM, along with Kate Spade, Coach and Tori Burch stores for leathergoods and accessories.
As for “Mall stores”, I love Nordstroms (of course), J Crew, L.L.Bean, Tommy Bahama, J.Jill, Talbots, and Gap. I even like to poke around QVC for some favorite clothing brands that work very well for me. But, being retired now, I don’t buy near as much clothing! Thanks, Jo-Lynne for this fun reminder of great retailers! And, when are you and Paul going to Happy Valley to attend a Penn State football game? Is Becca interested in their marching band which I am sure is massive?!!!
I wish there were more affordable stores on your list
You should check out Avara, a boutique located in Texas. I find really cute sweaters and blouses that are unique and on trend every season. Great online shopping and customer service!
I’ve tried Avara, and I found the quality quite lacking, and the designs aren’t really my style. But I know a lot of ladies our age love it!
Along with Nordstrom, Nordstrom Rack is a go-to for me! Rack frequently has the some of the same items as Nordstrom for a lower price, so I always compare before pulling the trigger. I also love Everlane and Naadam. In addition to some of the brands you mentioned, others I’ve been gravitating to lately are Faherty, Marine Layer, and Free People (which doesn’t always work for me, but when it does, PURE GOLD). I almost exclusively shop online– I mean, you cannot beat shopping from the comfort of your jammies, amiright?!? But also, shops just do not have the inventory and sizes in store that they used to have, making in-store shopping super frustrating. Sometimes I miss those mid-80’s pre-interwebs Saturdays spent at Nordstrom with a break for lunch in the Nordstrom Cafe (anybody remember their Blue Plate Special??)
How I wish there were more brands/manufacturers making well tailored clothing using quality natural fabrics with linings and well sewn hems/buttonholes etc. No way am I paying $175+ for what is basically plastic clothing in stretchy blends that show every seam, bra line, lump and bump.
(Yeah, I know. I sound like a grumpy old lady!)
I agree with you. I can’t pay a lot for polyester especially recycled polyester.
Great list
First choice Nordstroms love the free shipping .. second Talbots classics …
Thank you enjoyed post
Basically in Chicago we hv it all!
This post is extremely helpful. I will refer back to it regularly.
Thank you.
Habe you tried anything from Varley for athleisure? They’ve replaced Vuori for me. I think a bit similar to Spanx, but more refined.
I have. So far, I haven’t kept anything. The quality is lovely, but I haven’t really liked the shape or design of anything I’ve tried.
Great post! I am also a big
Banana Republic Factory fan.
I didn’t realize Zella was a Nordstrom brand!
What do you think of Everlane? I’ve never shopped there but I thought you had linked to them sometimes….for sweaters maybe?
Yeah, I used to find a few good things at Everlane, but the last few times I’ve tried it, the silhouettes didn’t work at all for me. They seem to skew pretty young.
I’ve never ordered from them….just curious. Thanks for the feedback!