A 56-Year-Old Former Nordstrom Buyer Knows These 7 Basics Work for Everyone

We routinely look to women over 50 for expert sartorial advice. After all, this set is often particularly experienced in curating well-rounded wardrobes after years of style trial and error. One, in particular, we follow for such fashion inspiration is 56-year-old influencer Susie Wright.

Wright worked as a buyer at Nordstrom for a decade and became a Portland-based personal stylist 12 years ago. She's also been working on her blog, So Susie, for the last few years. So it’s safe to say that Wright just gets it. Given her retail knowledge and expertise in helping people look and feel their best, we thought we'd tap her for insight on the specific items she routinely recommends (and wears herself). And because many of us rely on basics to build our signature wardrobes, Wright provided her edit of staple items she thinks work for everyone. 

So without further ado, keep scrolling to check out the seven basics that this former Nordstrom buyer swears by for a chic wardrobe. You can also shop the staples below.

1. White Shirt

"Here's the trick to a white shirt: It needs to have a little interest to it. For example, this J.Crew popover style is a bit oversize, which makes it more appealing than your simple white shirt. No matter the twist, this classic will always be a good investment."

2. Straight-Leg Jeans

"If you want to get your denim up to date, a slim, straight-leg jean is the style to buy. High-rise with a slimmer leg, these just look great. I've sold hundreds of pairs of the Mother Dazzler to all ages."

3. Denim Jacket

"I put one of these in every dressing room, and it almost always leaves with the client! This specific Madewell version has a slightly relaxed silhouette and is a touch longer than in previous years, making it perfect to layer over your favorite blouse or sweater."

4. Joggers

"Joggers are comfy, stylish, and great for working from home—the perfect 'everything' piece. This might be the item I've gotten the most DMs about. The number one comment is 'OMG, why did I wait so long to buy these?' These joggers I'm wearing are made from performance fabric, but I only wear mine as streetwear and loungewear."

5. Blazer

"A good blazer is the defining piece of every outfit. Blazers are stylish, easy, elevated, and worth every penny because they can be worn year-round. Whether you hop on the leather trend or try an oversize style, this is a key piece for everyone's wardrobe."

6. Cardigan

"A cardi looks good over everything. The Juliette by J.Crew is a favorite. It's actually a cross between a cardigan and a jacket."

7. Silk Cami

"I'm officially declaring the cami to be the one and only layering piece you need for every outfit you own! If you have a jacket, a cardigan, or a blazer sitting in your closet, the cami is the perfect basic to go under it. This simple little number has staying power because it works all year round, thereby making it the ultimate wardrobe staple."

This post was published at an earlier date and has since been updated. Next, check out more chic trends.