Our need for clothing doesn’t stop after we turn 50, and our desire to look and feel good in our clothing shouldn’t end then, either. For example, I could live without ever wearing another pair of trousers. Comfort and flexibility in my day-to-day life matter a lot to me. I still have jeans and slacks in my closet, but more and more I reach for leggings, tunics and dresses that are forgiving and flattering. I still hunt for bargains on quality clothing as I did 40 years ago, and I always enjoy finding a deal as much as I did then, too.
Shopping online is easy and, for some, more convenient than driving to a local shopping center or boutique. During the pandemic, many people began to learn what I’ve known for years — the variety of styles and range of sizes available online are wide-ranging. I’ve found some excellent small shops online that offer unique and beautiful clothing that you can’t get at the big chain stores where we end up spending money when we shop at a mall. If you are on Facebook and Instagram, follow the shops with accounts to get additional updates and offers.
The secret to shopping at these smaller online stores is to get on their email lists. The shops will alert you to sales on existing inventory that they need to clear out, end-of-season discounts and customer-appreciation bargains. Most department stores bring in items specifically for sales, but boutiques are much less likely to do that.
I have purchased something (or a few things!) at all of the shops on my list, and their easy return policies and friendly customer service make them a breeze to patronize. One thing to watch out for with online stores of this size: Make sure you check to see if an item you like is “final sale.” If you’ve never worn a brand or are shopping to try something on before keeping it, stay away from final-sale items. Most shops won’t waiver on this policy. I’ve also included my two favorite shoe brand websites — they frequently have great deals, but I like them because their shoes are supercomfy!
Artful Home has beautiful fashion — plus some interesting art as well. For the most part, the clothing is expensive, but if you keep an eye out for sales, you can grab a special item or two every so often. Everything I’ve bought there has been worth the money and really well-made.
Clarks shoes are, in my opinion, the most comfortable brand of shoes. They have deeply discounted sales.
Cole Haan is a classic brand that never goes out of style, in my opinion. My favorites are the ZeroGrand and GrandPro lines. The sales are worth waiting for.