I'm a 56-Year-Old New Yorker—These Are the Style Tips I've Always Lived By

When we’re searching for some of those top-notch styling ideas, we often turn to 56-year-old New Yorker Elaine Davis. And while age should clearly have nothing to do with your fashion choices, it’s this influencer’s seasoned sartorial point of view that’s particularly intriguing given the fact that she’s spent years crafting that ideal comfy-meets-chic wardrobe to fit within her on-the-go NYC lifestyle. So with all that in mind, we thought it could be interesting to tap Davis to share with us some of the style tips she swears by to create said effortless ensembles.
She ended up sharing a range of prompts that steer her inner sartorial dialogue. "Since I’m usually in a pinch for time, I have my go-to pieces ready every season, and I like to keep it simple by following a few tried and true style tips that have always worked for me,” she told us.
Without further ado, keep scrolling for a range of style tips to consider, complete with visual and shopping inspiration as well.
1. Don't underestimate the power of the perfect pair of jeans
"There’s no doubt that the must-have item in every women’s wardrobe is a great pair of jeans to create always-chic looks.”
2. A white blouse is always no-fail
"A statement white top will pull together and elevate any look.”
3. Chic knee-high boots are a staple
"I always keep a good pair of knee-high boots. They can be dressed up or down, and are the perfect complement to everything from dresses to leggings.”
4. Mixing textures instantly brings dimension to a look
"Add that extra pop to your all-black outfit by incorporating various textures.”
5. A third piece, like a jacket, takes any outfit to the next level
"I always keep a lightweight jacket in a neutral tone on hand to layer over tops for warmth and to add that extra edge to any casual outfit that I’m wearing.”
6. When it doubt, go for a shirtdress
"Timeless and classic shirtdresses are one of my go-to pieces in every season.”
Next, check out the fall items a wardrobe consultant in NYC is loving.

Bobby Schuessler is a fashion editor with over a decade of editorial experience covering shopping, style, and beauty. He's spent 10 years at Who What Wear, currently leading the market team to deliver highly covetable and convertible content. He creates data-driven shopping guides featuring top retailers like Nordstrom, Shopbop, and Net-a-Porter and is at the forefront of Who What Wear's shopping tentpole strategies, including Amazon Prime Day. He also works on branded content initiatives and appears on camera in video and shopping livestream franchises.
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