Do you love the classic style looks of Audrey Hepburn, Kate Winslet or Princess Diana? They all have a classic style personality.

Many of the world’s most recognizable beauties choose a classic wardrobe style and for good reason.

A classic wardrobe lasts, rarely goes out of style, and a few well-selected pieces can take you just about anywhere at any time.

How to be sure you have a classic style personality

Are you certain of your style? Do you know you have a classic style personality.

If you aren’t 100% sure, you could try this fun style personality quiz. Most women find they have one main style personality but are drawn to elements of others.

Here are some other ways to determine if you have a classic style personality…

As a classic style personality you prefer timeless looks

While you are aware of the trends, you prefer classic looks which are totally timeless. The clothes, shoes and accessories you wear look stylish year after year.

You don’t like throwaway fashion

You aren’t one to hit the shops every weekend. You would rather have fewer, quality pieces in your closet that you know will last you for seasons.

If this sounds like you, you might also like to take a look at our article on how to do more with less.

You always look elegant and well put together

You aren’t bothered about being the trendiest person in the room.

But you do always look elegant, refined and your outfits are well put together.

That’s partly because your outfit choices suit any occasion and partly because you tend to gravitate towards well-cut pieces in good quality fabric.

Cathy wears a blue shirt dress | 40plusstyle.com

Cathy @themiddlepageblog above (read her style interview here) chooses a shirtdress that offers a modern take on the classic blue shirt.

She is wearing a dress from Misook and accessorizing it with a handbag from BENE

You tend to have classic colors in your closet

If I opened your closet, I would likely find a lot of neutrals, but you do like classic shades such as red.

You also like classic patterns like polka dots, leopard print and stripes. I’m unlikely to find more unusual hues such as orange or purple.

Also, if I were to take a peak into your wardrobe, I would probably see you have many of the items from our list of 33 essentials every woman over 40 should own.

Celebrities with a classic style personality

Celebrities with classic style personality | 40plusstyle.com

Are you drawn to the style of the celebrities above? If so, you are likely to have a classic style personality yourself.

Kate Middleton (who also loves some preppy styles), Princess Diana, Kate Winslet, Audrey Hepburn, Victoria Beckham and Angelina Jolie (although she combines elements of the minimal style personality) All have a classic style personality.

Some designers you may like to take inspiration from if you have a classic style personality are Ralph Lauren, Kate Spade New York and Chanel.

Classic runway looks | 40plusstyle.com

Ralph LaurenKate Spade New YorkChanel

Here are tips on how to build your own classic capsule wardrobe

If you have a classic style and you really want to hone your closet, here’s how.

You may also like to read our ultimate guide to creating a capsule wardrobe that works best for you.

Start with a neutral palette

Black, navy, gray or tan work as an anchor color to build your classic capsule wardrobe.

Choose wardrobe staples in one of these neutrals and build your capsule wardrobe from there.

Suzie wears a beige blazer with a black skirt | 40plusstyle.com

Suzie @suzie.richetti above puts together classic pieces that would all go with plenty of other options in anyone’s closet.

Recreate her outfit with this similar blazer, maxi skirt, heels and bag.

Choose classic shapes

A classic capsule is built from tailored classics that flatter the body.

One of the best investments is a fitted blazer; a flattering style that works on just about any size or body shape.

Select a blazer style jacket in your chosen neutral shade.

Make sure the blazer buttons comfortably and doesn’t pull across the bust line, and it’s loose enough through the arms and back to allow ease of movement as well as allow you to comfortably layer a shirt or sweater underneath.

A stylish pair of cropped pants are another classic wardrobe staple. A flat front style with a side zip is flattering for most body types.

They work with flats, booties or heels, and can transition easily from daytime to evening with a simple change of jewelry or shoes.

Choose fabrics that can work year round

If you’re a classic style personality, I’m sure you agree with me when I talk about why I have a problem wearing synthetic fabrics.

A crisp cotton poplin shirt can be worn knotted with a pair of cropped pants for summer, or worn underneath a sweater and jacket for fall.

A cashmere or lightweight wool sweater can work during winter months when layered with other shirts and jackets.

A style guide and capsule wardrobe for the CLASSIC style personality | 40plusstyle.com

Nora @juststylela above (read her style interview here) chooses a poncho that could be worn over other knitwear in colder months, over your shirt in summer, and to keep you cozy on the plane if you are travelling.

Get her look with this similar top, ruana, jeans, sandals, handbag, necklace and sunglasses.

Invest in a few high quality timeless pieces

It may actually save money in the long run to invest in a few well made pieces that will work for years to come.

A leather or suede jacket in a classic shape, a wool overcoat, trench coat and merino or cashmere wool sweaters are all pieces that will stand the test of time.

A capsule wardrobe for the classic fashion personality

Now that you are thinking about your style and what will work best for your every day outfits, you will find all the tops, bottoms, shoes and accessories below that the classic style personality needs to build a capsule closet.

The classic style capsule below has been especially updated for 2023.

Tops with a classic look

Start with a classic white shirt that you can layer underneath jackets and sweaters.

Add a silk blouse that can be dressed up with slacks or worn with jeans for a more casual look.

Choose a cashmere or quality wool sweater and think about patterns which won’t date when choosing tops and blouses.

When selecting knits, select styles that are not too clingy, especially if you tend to carry weight in your stomach area.

A longer cardigan sweater can help camouflage a tummy area without clinging, and cover your arms when wearing a sleeveless top or dress.

If you carry weight around your hips, avoid sweaters that hit above your hip, which can draw attention to that area and make you appear fuller.

Sweaters that fall at or below mid hip work well on most women and flatter lots of body types.

Wrap styles and timeless prints will also work for you.

Tops with a classic look | 40plusstyle.com

ANINE BING Mika ShirtVince Band Collar Silk BlouseBoden V-back Jersey TopLoveappella Faux Wrap Top

Beth in a wrap blouse and jeans | 40plusstyle.com

Beth @styleatacertainage above (read her style interview here) wears a wrap shirt that would go with all the pants and skirts in her closet.

Recreate her outfit with this similar wrap blouse (other options here and here), jeans, pumps, bag and necklace.

Jackets and coats to add to your classic clothing capsule

Make sure the jacket fits properly, but not too snug.

Jacket and coat styles to give you a classic look include a blazer, trench and moto jacket. For cooler weather, look for a longline, belted wool coat. For warmer days, you could also wear a shorter, Chanel-inspired cardigan.

Jackets and coats to add to your classic clothing capsule | 40plusstyle.com

ANINE BING Quinn BlazerJ.Crew Emilie Patch-Pocket Sweater Lady JacketJ.Crew Collection Cropped Lady Trench CoatFARVALUE Double Breasted Trench Coat

White blazer and black pants outfit | 40plusstyle.com

ANINE BING Quinn BlazerBoden V-back Jersey TopANINE BING Carrie PantsAquatalia Hildy Block Heel Sandal – BOSS Scarlet Leather Work BagSterling Forever Sterling Silver Cubic Zirconia Stud Earrings

Pants and Jeans for classic fashion style

When selecting pants and jeans think about shapes, shades and patterns that won’t date.

While you may find that skinny jeans are “in” one season and “out” the next, a pair of bootcut jeans will stand the test of time.

You could also add black pants, white jeans and a pair of pants in a subtle pattern such as a check, polka dot or stripe.

Pants and jeans for classic fashion style | 40plusstyle.com

Wit & Wisdom Ab-Solution High Waist Itty Bitty Bootcut JeansANINE BING Sonya JeanANINE BING Carrie PantsJ.Crew Kate Gingham Straight-Leg Pants

A style guide and capsule wardrobe for the CLASSIC style personality | 40plusstyle.com

Sylvia @sylviacolella (read her style interview here) chooses timeless Chanel to go with her jeans.

Steal her look with this similar contrast jacket, jeans, pumps and shoulder bag.

Dresses and Skirts to create classic outfits

Invest in a classic dress. A sheath or wrap style are both classic shapes that will quickly become wardrobe staples.

Pair with heels for work or dressy events and tights paired with booties for more casual days. You could also wear with wedge or flat sandals, or white sneakers for weekends.

Select skirts in a length that flatters you best (an inch or two above the knee is flattering for most women). Stay away from anything too tight or too baggy.

Dresses and skirts to create classic outfits | 40plusstyle.com

Fraiche by J Wrap Front Long Sleeve DressKaren Millen Soft Tailored High Low Midi DressJ.Crew Gwyneth V-Neck Cupro-Blend Slip Dress – Boden Bias Linen Midi Skirt

Red wrap and black dress outfit | 40plusstyle.com

Shepherds Land 100% Lambswool RuanaKaren Millen Soft Tailored High Low Midi DressMarc Fisher LTD Zala Block Heel PumpNina Willow ClutchNordstrom Tube Hoop Earrings

Shoes to go with your classic style clothing

As with your clothes, you will want to make sure that your shoes are classic, timeless and versatile.

A pair of classic heels, some black booties for cooler months and some flats, including a pair of classic white sneakers, should take you through most situations. For warm months, block heeled sandals will go with all of your outfits.

Shoes to go with your classic style clothing | 40plusstyle.com

Tory Burch Claire Cap Toe Ballet Flat – Aquatalia Hildy Block Heel Sandal – Marc Fisher LTD Zala Block Heel PumpSuperga 2750 Cotu Classic Sneaker

Adaline wears a blazer and jeans | 40plusstyle.com

Adaline @sdmomstyles above opts for an outfit that will never go out of style.

Recreate her outfit with this similar tee, blazer, jeans, sneakers and tote.

Accessories to add to your classic wear

Add color to your classic capsule wardrobe with tops, jewelry and accessories. Or layer other neutrals to add texture and interest.

Pair your basics with statement necklaces, scarves, and bold accessories to add emphasis and personality. If it’s too warm for a coat, you could always add a wrap to your accessories to cover your arms.

Accessories to add to your classic wear | 40plusstyle.com

Shepherds Land 100% Lambswool RuanaKate Spade New York Stripe Oblong ScarfBOSS Scarlet Leather Work BagNina Willow ClutchSterling Forever Sterling Silver Cubic Zirconia Stud EarringsNordstrom Tube Hoop EarringsKate Spade New York Pavé Halo Pendant NecklaceBurberry Meryl 54mm Cat Eye Sunglasses

Red top and white skirt outfit | 40plusstyle.com

Loveappella Faux Wrap TopBoden Bias Linen Midi SkirtSuperga 2750 Cotu Classic SneakerBOSS Scarlet Leather Work BagSterling Forever Sterling Silver Cubic Zirconia Stud EarringsBurberry Meryl 54mm Cat Eye Sunglasses

Stores and brands for the classic style personality

Where do you like to shop if you are a classic style personality? Don’t forget to tell me in the comments below. Here are some of my own favorites.

Here are 9 looks created from these classic wardrobe choices

Below you can see many of the separates shown above put together in one capsule wardrobe. You could easily mix and match to create countless different outfits.

For example, you could wear the stripe cardigan with the white jeans or skirt, the red top with any of the bottoms, and the white blazer with the black or red dress.

A capsule wardrobe for the CLASSIC style personality | 40plusstyle.com

shop THE items above here:

More classic style inspiration for you

Below are some earlier classic capsules we created. While the items are past season, they may still provide you with inspiration as they are all so timeless.

    A capsule wardrobe for the CLASSIC style personality | 40plusstyle.com
A capsule wardrobe for the CLASSIC style personality | 40plusstyle.com
A capsule wardrobe for the CLASSIC style personality | 40plusstyle.com

While the capsule below is from previous seasons, you may also like to take inspiration from the looks here:

A capsule wardrobe for the CLASSIC style personality | 40plusstyle.com

A well designed classic capsule wardrobe will make you feel pulled together, chic and confident, and will make getting dressed easy and stress free.

Further reading:

  1. The Ultimate Guide To Creating A Capsule Wardrobe That Works For You
  2. French Fashion: 14 French Style Secrets To Steal
  3. Understanding The Different Styles

Do you have a classic style personality? What are your go-to pieces?

Like this post on the classic style personality? Share it on Pinterest!

A style guide and capsule wardrobe for the CLASSIC style personality | 40plusstyle.com

Feature image by Nora @juststylela

Want to get more articles from 40+style in your inbox, subscribe here.

You can also connect with 40+style on Facebook, Instagram or Pinterest.

Support 40+style by using the links in our articles to shop. As an associate for Amazon and many other brands, we receive a small commission (at no cost to you) on qualifying purchases which enables us to keep creating amazing free content for you. Thanks!