Recently, we were asked for some shopping advice for a 65th birthday. Ben, who is one of 4 sons to birthday girl Toni, came to us for some gift guidance on a mature wardrobe. He and his brothers wanted to buy a special outfit for their mum who doesn’t often treat herself. Bit lovely, yes?
We’ve asked a few questions about Toni and requested some photos to come up with the below outfits. Toni is very tall, comfort is key and she suits earthy tones. We’ve put together some varied looks for different occasions and explained our choices below. Wishing you a very happy birthday, Toni! You’ve clearly raised your boys well.
1. THE DRAPE DRESS
This style of dress might be a bit of a break from Toni’s usual cuts but we guarantee it’s suitability to her long frame. We’ve added accessories for a sunny afternoon but you can also pair this number with flat ankle boots and leggings for a cooler climate. Come sunset, add heels, a clutch plus statement earrings – this dress can be so many things.
PQ Collection @ Lee Lou Anne dress in “cayenne” $69 // Target slip-on sandals $25 // Amber Rose @ Rockmans necklace $19.99
2. ON THE BOARDWALK
We put this look together with Toni’s hometown on Central Coast, NSW in mind. Where a long lunch followed by an equally long walk by the water is often had. It’s incredibly smart and yet ready to roll for whatever the day brings.
Target canvas laceless sneaker $12 // Rodney Clark top $79.95 // Trenery wide leg cotton pant $149
3. POWER PAIRS
The ever-reliable combination over a flowy long top and tights should be a fallback for Toni. She has the height, it’s flattering plus it’s practical and appropriate when showering the grandkids with love. Come summer, we advise wearing these tops with 3/4 pants. Bonus: Toni can team these with the rose gold or the natural accessories for day or night.
Kmart collared shirt $17 // Millers ponte pants $20 // PQ Collection Bamboo Hi-Low top in Cayenne $65
4. SEMI-FORMAL
Heading to a cocktail or after-five event doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort. We noticed Toni already looks great in harem pants and we thought we’d demonstrate how she can keep that easy style when she is dressing up. We recommend wearing either of these tops tucked flat into the pants. You must also ensure the waistband doesn’t sit and the widest part of your midline- instead, softly tie the band just above that area.
Kmart blue top $12 // Boho Bird @ Birdsnest drape pant $119.95 // Country Road silk and cotton blend blouse $139
5. KEEPING IT CASUAL
Tan accessories are a must-have for every Australian women. They’re a gentle addition to your summer whites and make that favourite sundress sing without being too overbearing like black footwear. They’re also much more practical because natural wear and tear actually will enhance them, giving them a weathered look. They also sit beautifully against the burnt oranges and blues we’ve selected for Toni.
Target crossbody bag $25 // Ziera sandal $249.95 // Rare Rabbit @ Birdsnest necklace $39.95
6. GLAM SQUAD
We think Toni would look fantastic in a fitted dress but like to offer a looser option for formal events also. See the way even the loose dresses taper in at the bottom? This keeps your frock a little fancy- too boxy = too casual. Strategically placed patterns like diagonal lines and gradient in tones are also a tricky slimming devices.
Lee Lou Anne PQ Collection Miracle dress in black $75 in fauna $59 // Sacha Drake dress in navy or multi $259
7. KARMA CHAMELEON
This dress is fantastic! Wear it loose, belted, v-neck at the front or high neck. Toni can dress is down with the natural accessories we’ve put together and a wide-brim sun hat. Or wear it formally with the rose gold options. Given that this is a Sacha Drake dress we just KNOW it’s going to be flattering. Same goes for all of their dresses- they simply know how to cut garments which enhance the female form.
Sacha Drake interchangeable dress $229 navy (belted or loose, v neck front or back)
10. ALL IS ROSY
Rose gold is no trend, it’s been hot for ten years now and it’s not going anywhere. The pinky tones are very sweet on most skin colours and although we think Toni could wear yellow gold too, we think these soft metals will look lovely on her olive complexion also.
Country Road earrings $39.95 // Amber Rose @ Rockmans clutch $39.95 // Bared Footwear $249
REASONS WE CHOSE THESE STYLES FOR TONI
• Drape styles for comfort and dressing up or down.
• V-necks or low rounded necklines so Toni doesn’t look swamped.
• Burnt oranges and blues suited to Toni’s olive skin.
• All pieces can work back with one another for an interchangeable capsule wardrobe.
• When we have chosen fitted items, we’ve not skimped on quality with brands like Sacha Drake. Decent fabrics that hold their form are key to looking “held together” in fitted clothes. The alternative is shapewear.
What do you think about these for a mature wardrobe? Look for some going out extras? Shop some sparkle for these outfits.