How to look younger and add 'flair' to any outfit with four wardrobe staples

Distinguished fashion stylist and Emmy award-winning costume designer Brenda Cooper explained how to put together a flattering and stylish outfit that can help you look years younger.

She said: "When it comes to ageing and how to dress in your 40s 50s and 60s - contrary to what many people may believe - you do not have to lose your mojo.

​"In fact, it may be the perfect opportunity to elevate your personal style and confidence to counter any affect or social stigma of ageing.

"There’s nothing quite as fabulous as a mature woman with a great sense of personal style and flair."

She said there are four basics for our tops, bottoms and shoes which everyone can include in their wardrobe.

Brenda said: "The four great basic tops are a turtle neck, tank top, t-shirt and square neck top. The four great basic bottoms are straight-leg trousers or jeans, wide-leg trousers, a pencil skirt and a maxi skirt."

Brenda suggested complementing these pieces with shoes such as ballet flats or heeled pumps, sandals or heeled sandals, flat Chelsea boots and heeled booties, riding boots or heeled boots and trainers or loafers.

To give "style and flair" to an outfit, the expert suggested matching these basics with a "personality piece" which can be a vibrant colour, texture or print.

Casual outfits for everyone

Pair a black turtleneck or t-shirt with black jeans, bootleg or flared trousers. Finish the look with a flat boot or black trainers and go for a 'personality piece' on top of this.

This could be "a colourful vest, athletic jacket, elegant hoodie, denim jacket or a casual leather jacket or v-neck jumper".

Work outfits for everyone

Pair a black, elegant long-sleeved t-shirt with a black pencil skirt or straight-leg trousers with ballet flats or loafers.

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"Add a 'personality piece' such as a colourful blazer, crisp white shirt, charmeuse blouse, open front drape cardigan, classic cardigan or jewellery," Brenda continued.

Dressy outfits for everyone

Brenda said the best way to dress for special occasions is with a slinky evening camisole top, a long maxi skirt or palazzo trousers, strappy sandals and a 'personality piece'.

This could include a glitzy evening jacket, a duster coat or an elegant wrap. Complete the look with chandelier earrings.