I wanted to have fun with a then vs now challenge! We took items from our closets that we’ve worn in the past and gave them a fresh, updated twist. Because personal style is an evolution, and what felt right a few years ago can be completely transformed with new trends, accessories, or just a shift in perspective.
Quote of the day: “The test of beauty is not that it is perfect, but that it always attracts.” Alice Rollins
After putting together a video about how normal women re-wear their clothing (as opposed to influencers who get new clothes every week), I wanted the three of us to put together then vs. now outfits.
I’ve been following the underconsumption movement and while that doesn’t mean I won’t be shopping at all, I love the idea of creating new looks from older pieces.
Just because a clothing item was trendy years ago doesn’t mean it has to stay in the past! With a little creativity, you can take those beloved pieces and style them in fresh, fashion-forward ways.
The idea of creating a then vs. now article focusing on re-wearing items in totally different ways is how we breathe new life into our tried-and-true favorites.
I’ve showcased this idea many times in the past so you don’t have to go far to get more ideas.
As much as I love my site, Jodie’s Touch of Style, I really enjoy putting together my daily emails. I consider my emails an extension of my blog that is chocked full of positive inspiration that one friend calls a “Variety Show.”
Included are articles, videos, and posts that strike my fancy and since I have no siblings to share with, I share with you.
I would like to point out that I’m not trying to “improve” our “then” outfits. I’m only trying to show how we can find new and different ways to wear them instead of always pairing items with the same pieces or colors.
Then: I considered the floral pants bold by themselves so I paired a neutral sweater, matching scarf, and white booties.
Now: A more casual and edgy vibe with a graphic tee, neon puffer vest, and oxfords.
Printed pants can seem intimidating at first, but they are actually incredibly versatile. If you are unsure, take time to check out another post with ideas.
Pro tip: Print pants are great at camouflaging any lumps and bumps you don’t like showing off.
For the newer outfit, I wanted to use colors that aren’t in the print pants. That’s why I grabbed a grey t-shirt and a lime green vest (the pants have yellow flowers in them). I also thought the Oxfords added a special touch.
-Even with a graphic tee, I added a sparkle necklace.
-The silver purse is intentional with the silver jewelry but not matchy.
-Oxfords are unique and almost classic but also fun.
Pro Tip: If floral prints feel too busy, try colors that are easy for you to wear like black and white. Another option is a print where the colors aren’t contrasting much so it’s hard to tell that it’s a print.
Then: A chic and elegant ensemble with a scarf as a belt and simple nude flats.
Now: A layered, eclectic look featuring a brocade vest, and knee-high boots.
A red dress is truly a standout piece on its own, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be styled in completely different ways! It’s one of the reasons, I think you should always take a dress like this when you Travel. It can be transformed in so many ways.
I would say that Lesley’s style has evolved since being part of the crew. Right now she is on a vest kick which I just love, but she’s also a bit more open to different styles than just the classic items.
-The decor on the side of Lesley’s boots is part of the boot, but remember you can always add decor yourself.
-I love how Lesley still wears a belt even though she will tell you she has no waistline.
-Does the neckline look different? That’s because Lesley is the boss of her clothes and here wore the dress backward.
Pro Tip: Don’t be afraid to wear bright colors. You can always tone down the outfit with toppers and your footwear.
Then: A somewhat monochromatic look with my mom’s model pose.
Now: A modern and playful approach with a colorful striped sweater and gingham footwear.
Pastel colors are always in style, but they can be controversial for older women. Some will say they make for a frumpy look, but I always say it’s how you style it.
Charlotte’s style hasn’t changed much in the 10 years we’ve been blogging as she loves to create matchy matchy outfits. But even with matching, you can make the colored jeans outfit still look very different.
-Print mixing always adds a bit of sass, so the striped cardigan and gingham shoes bring that bit of whimsy.
-My mom carried a blue purse and wore turquoise earrings. Both are different shades of blue than the aqua jeans but combine perfectly.
Style Tip: If colorful jeans feel intimidating, start by pairing them with a neutral. Then graduate to a print with the same color in it.
So next time you’re staring at your closet thinking you have nothing to wear, try this ‘Then vs Now’ challenge for yourself! Pull out an old favorite and give it a fresh spin with modern pairings. You might be surprised at just how many outfit possibilities are hiding right in your own closet.
Pro tip: When you first pull out a clothing item, think about what you would normally pair with it. Then pick something that is opposite of that whether it be the shape, color, or type of style. You might just LOVE the new look.
Need some ideas on how to change up the items in your closet? I did a series on Shop Your Closet with that in mind.
Fashion is always evolving, and that’s what makes it so exciting! Just because a piece has been sitting in your closet for years doesn’t mean it’s outdated—it just needs a little reinvention. By changing up accessories, layering strategically, and pairing older pieces with modern silhouettes, you can create fresh new looks that feel completely modern.
So, before you think about purging items that haven’t been on your radar lately, think about how you can make them work now. With a little creativity, your closet can feel brand new without buying a single thing!
Do you need help with an item in your closet? Feel free to reach out and I’d love to showcase ideas around it.
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Welcome to Jodie’s Touch of Style. I’m here to prove that it’s never too late to look great. Clothing and style are meant to showcase your inner personality. So let’s have fun and try new things.
It’s not just about me on this blog, but also my mother and friend. We get to showcase not only different decades of life but also different body shapes and unique personal styles.
The post Then Vs. Now-How To Restyle Your Favorite Pieces appeared first on Jodie’s Touch of Style.
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