5 Fall basics for women in their 50s

Your 50s are a great time to refresh your personal style. At this point in the game, you've developed self-confidence and everything you wear should make you feel good deep down. Instead of being a slave to trends, go for classic, timeless pieces. They always look smart – never dated or tacky – and they'll help you glide from one season to the next. And you can always dip a toe into the latest looks by adding some hip accessories, like a fun belt, purse, or necklace.

1. The best sleepwear

Making sure you’re cozy in the fall, even when you’re sleeping or lounging around the house is important. So, grab yourself a few sleepwear essentials.

At this point in life, you deserve cotton pajamas – don't settle for a ratty T-shirt and an old pair of his boxers! Instead, relax in a polka dot nightgown made from this soft, breathable material. A long-sleeve version that reaches down to your calves is a must for chilly November nights, but don't forget a cup of hot cocoa and your favorite book. If you need another layer, grab a robe, too.

Once you’ve gotten your robe and sleepwear upgraded, get some slippers for around the house instead of tracking in mud and fall foliage from your warm fall boots. Wearing outdoor shoes around the house is, well, kind of gross. Think of all the dirt and germs you'll track inside! So, take off those boots and reach for a pair of cozy slippers when autumn arrives. They'll keep your toes snug while providing a little protection and support as you relax with your significant other over a glass of wine. Choose a pair with a rubber sole to prevent slips and skids – they're a must if you spend a lot of time in the kitchen.

2. Picking the right shirts

Fall has so many options when it comes to stylish but cozy shirts. You can pick from some of the best fabrics such as cashmere or flannel. Here are a few fall shirt ideas to get you started. Start off by grabbing a turtleneck. Nothing says fall like turtlenecks. Layer one under your favorite sweater when the temperature drops. You can also tuck a ribbed mock turtleneck into your jeans and add a belt and necklace to complete your outfit. An oversize knit turtleneck looks fantastic with leggings or a skirt that shows off your legs. You can even experiment with power dressing and wear a black turtleneck tunic top with black skinny jeans and boots.

If you don’t love turtlenecks, try a button-down shirt. Crisp and clean, a white button-down shirt is always a smart choice. Wear it with your favorite worn-in jeans when you're chilling with the gals or go for wool slacks when you need to look professional. Tuck it in, wear it loose or tie it in a knot – there are so many options. On the weekend, cuff the sleeves or push them up to your elbows and add some bracelets.

Probably the most iconic fall shirt type is a cozy flannel. Let's hear it for flannel shirts! They're so soft and warm, you'll feel like you're wearing a blanket every time you put on this autumn staple. A flannel tunic top with pleating around the placket has a certain feminine charm; wear it with skinny jeans and leather boots. You can also try tucking in your flannel shirt completely, or just slip the front inside your waistband and leave the back hanging loose.

3. Pick the Best Pants

For fall you need a few great pairs of pants. Start with a few dark-washed pairs of jeans. Living without women's jeans would be impossible. They're comfortable, go with everything, and are perfect for a world that's embraced casual dressing. If you have full hips, balance them out with flared jeans. You can also choose a straight-leg pair in a dark wash if you want to appear slimmer and taller. Boyfriend jeans, with their relaxed, slightly baggy fit are always forgiving; wear them cuffed with your favorite sneakers.

Maybe jeans aren’t your thing. That’s okay! Grab a pair of yoga pants instead. Let's just admit it: life is better with yoga pants. You can wear them to your vinyasa or aerobics class, and they're cute enough to keep on when you go for coffee or a walk in the park to see the fallen leaves. They're also nice for chilling out at home and doing housework; dusting, sweeping, and mopping is easier when you're not wearing something restrictive, after all.

4. The best coats and jackets

Fall can be many things–rainy, chilly, sometimes a little snowy. So, make sure you have the right gear to keep you warm and dry.

The days of ugly plastic raincoats are gone. Stylish wet weather gear means you can look gorgeous and stay dry when it's pouring, so don't hesitate to get a nice waterproof coat. If you wear dresses, look for one that goes down past your knees to shield you from splashes. A shorter style is handy if you're always on the move and something lined will keep you from freezing.

If it’s chilly, but maybe not wet fall weather, grab a fleece. A jacket made from fleece is wonderful in fall and spring. You can even keep one in your office or car in case things get chilly. You can also wear it on chilly summer days or use it as a layering piece in the winter. So, getting a fleece jacket can help you year-round!

5. Sweaters galore

Who doesn’t love sweaters? Everyone needs a little cashmere in their life. Made from the finest goat hair, it's like wrapping yourself up in a piece of heaven. And a cashmere cardigan has so many uses! Wear it with dark jeans and flats for a fancy dinner, or over your favorite dress. It can act as a light jacket on balmy evenings, too. Hosting a Thanksgiving celebration? Wear one in an autumnal shade like red or dark orange to get into the spirit of the season.