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Cool classics — the key to ageless style

Whatever your age, styles that have stood the test of time are a wise investment. Judy Gordon guides you to the must-haves

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Ageless model Carmen knows that a classy classic jacket helps make her classy, too.
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Judy Gordon
The 'Today' show       Style Editor

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By Judy Gordon
"Today" Style Editor
TODAY
updated 12:45 a.m. ET April 15, 2005

Trends may come and go, but true style is timeless … and ageless.

Here we share our favorite, time-proven pieces and tips for all the women who have earned the innate wisdom that the years bring — such as, there are better ways to spend one’s time than obsessing in front of the mirror.

Hey, we might even teach younger fashionistas a thing or two!

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Check out our collection of cool classics right here in the latest edition of our weekly fashion-and-beauty update.

ToryLtd.com
The tunic is a tonic to any wardrobe.

The timeless tunic

The classic tunic or caftan has been an effortlessly elegant choice from the times of Cleopatra to today’s seriously chic Manhattan socialites. Their source: A store owned by style-setter Tory Burch, where they snap up her latest must-have creations. Structured and slimming, this easy-to-wear piece is perfect for warmer weather in linen or cotton (winter-weight fabric choices include velvet or wool). For the most fashion impact, look for “grown up” touches such as jeweled trims.

Trend Tip:
This tunic’s silhouette works wonders for most body types: the slit neckline elongates the neck without “overexposure” while the body-skimming line and hip length are flattering for almost everyone.

EileenFisher.com
Pant to take you from season to season with no fuss.

The easy pant

There's nothing quite as quietly dramatic as an easy, fuller-leg pant. No matter what the current trends may be, this figure-flattering style sails through it all with the greatest of ease. In addition, a wardrobe of neutral-colored pants will carry you effortlessly from season to season (though for casual days or summer months, you may prefer a slightly cropped length if it works for your figure type).

Trend Tip:
A variation is a tailored pant that flares slightly at the bottom. This silhouette is also flattering to different figure types and elongates a look, especially when paired with a top in the same color. To get the full benefits of a monochromatic look, remember to wear shoes in the same color as the outfit.

Polo.com
It's a jungle out there — and a safari-style jacket is a great way to tame it.

The safari sophisticate

From Katharine Hepburn to Lauren Hutton, safari style has long been a choice of sophisticated women. Why? The color, first of all — universally flattering neutrals like ivory or khaki are wardrobe building blocks that mix and match with everything you own. And the cut! The safari jacket covers up in all the right places yet is versatile — and when worn without a shirt or tee underneath, it has an edge that adds a healthy dose of sex appeal, no matter what your age.

Trend Tip:
Safari jackets come in a variety of lengths. Choose a shorter cut (right above the hips) to emphasize a long, lean bottom half, or go for the hip-length figure-flatterer to camouflage a few extra pounds.

JCrew.com
A well-tailored skirt can hide a host of figure flaws.

The tailored skirt

Classic, tailored shapes are classics for a reason — they have withstood the test of time. Choose from a few styles — A-line, straight or the tailored, softly pleated skirt. This silhouette can become a mainstay in your work and evening wardrobe, whether in cheerful printed cottons, patterned silks or solid neutral colors. The stitched down pleats over the tummy and hips helps to slim this sometimes troublesome area, while the pleated bottom swings and sways gracefully with your every move. Tuck in your top, or choose a waist- to hip-length jacket for a dynamic duo that works from day to evening.

Trend Tip:
The stiffer the fabric, the more structured and boxy your tailored skirt will appear. For the most slimming, feminine and flattering line, choose flowing silks for spring and summer; flat wools for winter.

NeimanMarcus.com
A great jacket can dress you up in an instant.

The quintessential jacket

One of the keys to ageless style is dressing the part. To achieve this, a jacket instantly adds polish and sophistication and is one of the best ways to separate the women from the girls, so to speak. The slightly fitted, single breasted jacket is always an excellent bet — it’s cut to softly hug the body without overemphasizing any one feature. While the shape is classic, the fun comes in your choice of color, fabric and trim. If you love a classic look, neutral or pastel colors are your best bet.

Trend Tip:
This jacket style can be dressed up when made of silk or satin (perfect with a matching skirt for a wedding, graduation or other special occasion). Or it can be worn more casually when it’s made of linen or cotton (with a little bit of stretch in there to prevent wrinkling).

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Style editor Judy Gordon brings you the latest news and advice about apparel and beauty.

Judy Gordon is a New York-based style consultant and the “Today” show’s style editor. She has been covering the fashion and beauty beat for the past decade. To learn more about Gordon, you can visit her Web site, TheTrendReport.com, which highlights style trends in America and across the world.

firstVIEW is the primary supplier of photos to Fashion Friday. Go to www.firstVIEW.com for the latest pictures from top fashion shows around the world, including New York, Los Angeles, London, Paris, Milan, Brazil, New Zealand, South Korea and more.

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