I’m a stylist – these are the eight fashion rules every woman over 50 MUST follow to avoid looking frumpy and old – and the accessories that make or break any outfit

Ladies, it’s time to ditch the outdated idea that style fades after 50.

After all, with age comes wisdom, financial freedom and the confidence to know exactly what you want in life – so why let your wardrobe hold you back?

As we get older, it can be easy to fall into bad fashion habits, which leave us looking sloppy, dull and – heaven forbid – older than our years.

But the secret to looking great (and not shabby) lies in the details. The right details.

Jamie Reilly, 38, senior stylist for Westfield and former star of Australia’s Next Top Model, has shared with FEMAIL her eight steps to giving your wardrobe the upgrade it deserves.

She believes that a good fit can turn an average outfit into a showstopper, and that the right accessories can ‘make or break’ any look.

Read on to learn about her other non-negotiables, including why a woman’s best friend is a capsule wardrobe (versatile, chic, timeless) and why it’s always worth it to have a good , expensive bag to spend.

And she has a genius ‘trick’ to perfect your silhouette, which is done in just a few seconds and makes all the difference.

Jamie Reilly, a senior stylist for Westfield and former star of Australia’s Next Top Model, has shared with FEMAIL her eight rules for women over 50 looking to revamp their wardrobe

Try on your clothes – it makes a world of difference

Have you ordered clothes online that don’t fit quite right or are you in between sizes? Don’t throw them aside, adapt them!

Sure, it may be a bit of a hassle and some extra expense, but it’s almost always worth it.

“Brands don’t make clothes that fit everyone exactly,” says Jamie.

‘So take a piece of clothing to your tailor and have it adjusted so that it suits you. You won’t regret it.’

A perfectly tailored outfit not only looks better, but you actually wear it more, she adds.

Because if something fits like a glove, why wouldn’t you want to show it off?

Choosing the right underwear is crucial: it can make or break an outfit

Jamie Reilly, from Adelaide, believes that a good fit can turn an average outfit into a showstopper, and that the right accessories can ‘make or break’ an outfit.

Jamie isn’t shy about expressing her favorite hate: bad underwear.

Nothing ruins a look faster than visible panty lines or digging in straps. And let’s be honest, underwear that’s easy to notice? Totally tasteless.

‘It can ruin a whole look if you see your underwear digging in. Everything should be smooth and seamless, without lines, for a more refined look,” she says.

“Personally, I wear the Lululemon G-strings. They don’t slide down or dig in; they are perfect.’

Accentuate your waist by adding a belt

If your outfit is oversized, a belt is your secret weapon.

Tiing it at the narrowest part of your waist will instantly draw attention and help you create that long, lean silhouette that all women love.

It has the effect of making everything look proportioned, which in turn gives you a stylized, complete look, says Jamie.

This trick works with just about anything: blazers, shirts, dresses, and even sweaters. It’s a game-changer if you want to take an outfit to the next level without even thinking about it.

If your outfit is oversized, a belt is your secret weapon. Tiing it at the narrowest part of your waist will instantly draw attention and help you create that long, lean silhouette that all women love

Roll up your sleeves to draw more attention to your body

If you want to elongate your body and draw attention to your waist, Jamie suggests rolling up your sleeves to show off your wrists – the smallest part of a woman’s body.

She says this often-forgotten ‘trick’ goes a long way in creating a more polished look – with minimal effort.

‘Rolling up the sleeves takes two seconds and can change the outfit from daggy to elevated.’

Invest in a capsule wardrobe

Whether you’re starting fresh or refining your style, investing in a capsule wardrobe is a must – and it’s surprisingly budget-friendly.

While the term may sound a bit space-age, Jamie describes a capsule wardrobe simply as a collection of timeless basics that go together and never go out of style.

‘A capsule wardrobe is the basics you need. Forever pieces that don’t date, you can mix and match them for different looks,” she explains.

For example, you can combine a classic white T-shirt with denim or black straight-leg trousers, a black blazer and white sneakers, finished with a cotton striped or white shirt. This simple combination not only exudes sophistication, but also shows that you look good together without even trying.

While the term may sound a bit space-age, Jamie describes a capsule wardrobe simply as a collection of timeless basics that go together and never go out of style.

Investing in a capsule wardrobe (like the one seen here) is a must – and it’s surprisingly budget-friendly. This is the best way to create dozens of outfits with a minimum amount of clothing

If you feel basic and boring, add jewelry

A little bit of jewelry goes a long way. Even if you’re in a hurry, don’t overlook the power of a few key pieces: a bracelet and the right pair of earrings can take your look to the next level in seconds.

‘Jewelry elevates any outfit, a small necklace, some earrings, layered bracelets and a watch, you’re good to go!’ says Jamie.

Whether you prefer gold or silver, bracelets or pearls, the key is to choose what appeals to you. These thoughtful details can transform any outfit, no matter how basic or boring, into something that feels complete.

And if you want to look a little younger, try something thin and graceful to accentuate your look without overpowering it.

Make sure you have a pair of heels in your wardrobe, along with high-quality pieces – and a good bag

Make sure you have a pair of heels in your wardrobe

Whether it’s a chic pair of black kitten heels or stylish nude strappy block heels, a pair of go-to evening shoes is essential for any over-50s wardrobe.

“A nude thin strap heel that elongates your legs and goes with everything will never let you down,” says Jamie.

‘A clear perspex heel or a nude heel is sufficient.’

These versatile options will seamlessly complement all your outfits – whether you go for black, denim, white or a colorful dress. With the right pair of heels you are ready to go out in style for any occasion.

Invest in quality items and a good bag – it will elevate any look

Investing in high-quality capsule pieces and a beautifully crafted bag or two can elevate your look from dated and flat to modern and chic in no time.

Investing in high-quality capsule pieces and a beautifully crafted bag or two can elevate your look from dated and flat to modern and chic in no time. Jamie recommends the Oroton Clara Mini Bag (left, priced at $399) and The Horse Clementine Bag (right, $269.95)

Those looking to break the bank might consider the Miu Miu Leather Hobo Bag (left, priced at $5,200) or the Gucci Horsebit 1955 Leather-Finished Printed Coated Canvas Shoulder Bag (right, priced at $4,950)

‘I always recommend a black bag that you can wear crossbody, along with an earth toned bag in natural brown for summer,’ advises Jamie.

‘These are perfect if you’re wearing all-white or muted natural tones.’

If you haven’t bought a designer bag yet, it might be time to rethink your wardrobe strategy. Instead of constantly buying similar pieces, focus on key items that will make a statement.

‘Just buy that expensive bag you’ve been looking for for ages! Trust me, you will love it and wear it for years to come,” says Jamie.

If you only want to spend a few hundred dollars, Jamie recommends brands like Oroton, The Horse and Nakedvice.