Gathered Empire Waist Long Sleeve … curated on LTK

💜 Purple: A color you’ll be seeing a lot of this fall. Purple was seen all over the Fall 2025 runways and I couldn’t be happier - it just happens to be my favorite color. We’re seeing it in everything - from fun leather jackets to elegant work wear. Historically, purple has been linked to royalty, wisdom, and creativity. In color psychology, it’s often associated with confidence and authority, yet it carries a softer, more imaginative edge than black. The nice thing about purple is that there is a shade that works for most skin tones. From pastel lavender to deep plum, there is a flattering shade for you.

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Gathered Empire Waist Long Sleeve Dress | Nordstrom

Jessica Simpson Nettles Pump - Free Shipping | DSW | DSW

Chunky Link Lock Pearl Necklace | Anthropologie (US)

INSPIRE CHIC Women's Peplum Collarless Round Neck Button Down Cropped Ruffle Hem Denim Jackets | Target

Allegra K Women's Short Soft Zip Up Faux Suede Biker Moto Jacket | Amazon (US)

Lu's Chic Women's Motorcycle Jacket Fashion Dressy Vegan Leather Biker Coat Light Slim Fit Crop B... | Amazon (US)

INSPIRE CHIC Women's Button Down Collarless Long Sleeve Jean Jackets | Target

Genuine Leather Crest Button Jacket - Fuchsia Pink | Boston Proper | Boston Proper

Womens Genuine Lambskin Leather Jacket Motorcycle Biker Leather Purple Jacket W085 | Walmart (US)

INSPIRE CHIC Women's Faux Suede Belted Lapel Single Breasted Work Outwear Blazer | Target

Stamford Cord Blazer-Mystical Purple | Boden (US)

Allegra K Women's Casual Stand Collar Open Front Long Sleeve Button Decor Jacket | Target

Calvin Klein Short Sleeve Pleated Shirtdress | Nordstromrack | Nordstrom Rack

Petite Ribbed Long Sleeve Maxi Dress | White House Black Market

Plaid is back for fall this season - but with a modern twist. Updates cuts like these ankle pants paired with modern textures, belts and hardware. Just one pair can give you three looks.

I just can’t get enough of this rusty brown/navy color combo. I intentionally kept this look a little “matchy-matchy” because I didn’t want to distract from the elegance and simplicity of the color combination.

#LTKStyleTip #LTKOver40 #LTKSeasonal

💜Purple isn’t just for royalty, it belongs in the office too.

In color psychology, purple blends the authority of blue with the energy of red. The result? A color that signals confidence, creativity and presence - all traits that matter in the workplace. Sometimes the most impactful workwear color isn’t black or navy - it’s purple!

#LTKStyleTip #LTKOver40 #LTKWorkwear

Fringe isn’t going anywhere…just in case you were wondering.

You may immediately think of suede or leather when you think of fringe, but there are softer ways to wear fringe, like this sweater from Zara. It has more of a “cozy feel”. Can’t you picture wearing a cozy fringe sweater by the fire this winter? Just add a glass of wine!

I’ve put together a collection of fringe sweaters for you. Unfortunately, my cardigan sold out quickly but I have lots more options for you!

#LTKSeasonal #LTKOver40 #LTKStyleTip

Yesterday I had the opportunity to share my style advice on “How to Wear Jeans Over 50” on WGN-TV in Chicago. I have linked all the looks here, but you can get more information in the blog post on my website!

Looking for a Fred color combination this fall? Try burgundy and pink! It’s unexpected and sophisticated, with a romantic feel!

#LTKOver40 #LTKSeasonal #LTKStyleTip

One of the trends that I am loving this fall is the “English Countryside” look.

I kept my look pretty simple with just one pair of jeans and one pair of boots - and just swapping out my tops. Plaid, of course, is a big part of this trend, as is outerwear. If you’ve been oohing and ahhing over barn jackets, then you are loving this trend too. For my style, a cape is better suited than a barn jacket, but they give off the same aesthetic.

Being just about 5’3”, I prefer a heeled boot, but all these looks would also be perfect with a flatter pair of classic riding boots. And a barn jacket would finish the first two outfits perfectly.

I have also included riding boots and barn jacket links as well!

#LTKOver40 #LTKStyleTip #LTKSeasonal

Suede is the luxe fabric you didn’t know you needed for the office. You may think of suede as more of a “weekend-long” item, but here are three ways it “works” for you.

The key three pieces—the skirt and blazers—are all from the Tommy Hilfiger collection at Macy's. These are part of a larger collection of separates that can be mixed and matched all season long. While they are stunning for the office, they can easily go from weekday to weekend. Both blazers can easily be paired with jeans and boots for a countryside riding look.

My sweater is from Anthropologie, and its gold hardware detail also adds to the trending countryside look. The collection at Macy’s also includes the matching suede pants and topper coat, in addition to other pieces. I’ve included them all!

#LTKStyleTip #LTKWorkwear #LTKOver40

The unsung hero of the season: the short-sleeve jacket!

The short-sleeve jacket is another great transitional piece for this time of year. It’s a great way to add a touch of fall to your wardrobe while it’s still warm outside. Adding texture in leather, bouclé, or tweed adds to the autumn vibe.

Swipe to see the collection I put together of the best short-sleeve jackets that you can wear right now. (My jacket is the first one listed from Revolve)

#LTKSeasonal #LTKStyleTip #LTKOver40

I recently became certified in color analysis! Follow me for tips on how to add the RIGHT colors to your wardrobe!

#LTKOver40 #LTKStyleTip

Can you wear the same dress now through November? You sure can.
A dress in a transitional color, even if it’s short-sleeved, will easily carry you from September through Thanksgiving. You just have to change up your layering pieces and accessories.

September: I added turquoise accessories to give it an end-of-summer sunset vibe. Sandals will still work with this look and the weather.

October: I swapped the sandals for booties and added two light layers – a scarf and a light jacket. You can have wide temperature swings in October, but this outfit prepares you for anything.

November: It’s getting a little cooler and heading into the holidays, so faux fur will be both warm and festive.

If you’re wondering about wearing short sleeves in November, think about your holiday parties. I know that when I am hosting, I am always warm, so a fall-colored dress with short sleeves is perfect.

#LTKSeasonal #LTKStyleTip #LTKOver40

Here is another transitional outfit idea, starting again with a sleeveless dress in a rich fall color. But this time, I’m adding a scarf to the look. Silk scarves are going to be one of fall’s biggest trends, but there’s no need to wait – you can start wearing them today.

I love the scarf belt look this season; it’s a perfect transitional look. We usually think of scarves as more of a fall look, so adding one to a dark green dress now is the best of summer and fall in one outfit.

#LTKSeasonal #LTKStyleTip #LTKOver40

Let’s talk about transitional dressing!

One of my favorite ways to transition my wardrobe from Summer to Fall is by picking up pieces in summer fabrics, but in fall colors. This burgundy linen dress from Ann Taylor is the picture perfect example of that. It gives off a fall vibe but it’s still cool enough for the warm weather.

This time of year, I especially like to pair burgundy with pastel pink. It’s a “best of both worlds” scenario, combining both fall and summer colors together. In the first photo, I’ve added pink in my handbag, but when you swipe, you’ll see I go a little bit further with my pink suede pumps and burgundy and pink scarf, also from Ann Taylor.

I have put together an entire blog post about my favorite 7 transitional pieces and how to wear them both now and later. You can read it at www.dianneinstyle.com

#LTKStyleTip #LTKSeasonal #LTKOver40

With all the cool weather happening in parts of the country, it’s a perfect time to talk about transitional dressing - or as I like to call it, the “now” and “later”.

I’ve picked up a few pieces in the last few weeks that I can wear now but with a few tweaks, they will get me through fall. I especially love sleeveless dresses in fall colors for this type of look. They give you a fall vibe when the weather is still hot, but throw on a jean jacket and scarf and you have the perfect fall outfit.

I wrote an entire blog post about this topic - you can check it out on my website, www.dianneinstyle.com

#LTKSeasonal #LTKOver40 #LTKStyleTip

Sometimes it’s all about the handbag. 👜

If you’re looking to add something extra to an outfit or want a statement piece, consider a print handbag. I love having a unique bag, especially with a monochrome or simple outfit.
While I like the white and yellow together, I thought it needed a little more color, which is why I reached for my coral and yellow Coach bag. I already had it in my closet, and I cannot tell a lie—my husband actually picked it out and gave it to me as a gift! As I mentioned earlier this week, I like to hold on to things until I have the perfect place to wear them! I never “give up” on a piece.

#LTKStyleTip #LTKOver40 #LTKItBag

Do you always have to know where you’re going to wear something before you buy it? While it’s fun to know where you going to wear, it can also be fun to buy the dress and figure it out later! Which is what I am doing with this dress!

I found it (on sale) and fell in love with it. Since it’s a classic, yet unique style, I know I will find a place to wear it - and when that time comes, I will be so happy I have this dress!

#LTKOver40 #LTKSeasonal #LTKStyleTip

Pink and brown are one of my favorite color combinations. So when I found this dress at, you guessed it, Banana Republic Factory, it was an immediate “add to cart”.

Besides the color combination, I love the geometric pattern on the dress, especially the flattering asymmetrical angle. The pattern is distinct, yet not too bold. While I did have to wear the dreaded strapless bra, the fabric and style of the dress helped me not to worry about the bra slipping at all. It was very comfortable. Last but not least, the dress has pockets!!

#LTKSeasonal #LTKOver40 #LTKStyleTip

Being a classic, doesn’t have to mean boring. These three dresses from Amazon are anything but!

There are lots of different ways to wear black and white. It can be as simple as white jeans and a black top. But why not switch it up with unique styles and fun patterns?

I picked all three of these dresses because they were anything but typical. And since they are from Amazon, you already know they are all under $50.

#LTKSeasonal #LTKOver40 #LTKStyleTip

What am I shopping for this July? This is the time of year I shift my shopping strategy, especially when it comes to colors. Right now I’m looking at summer tops and dresses that I can wear now and bring into fall with just a few styling tweaks.

Like this hunter green dress. It’s perfect now with the raffia accessories and it will be perfect this fall with a denim jacket and boots!

#LTKSeasonal #LTKOver40 #LTKStyleTip

Are you confused by all the trends in sunglasses this summer? Are they oversized? Is there a ’90s trend resurgence? What about the new take on Aviators?

For me, the biggest thing to remember is to pick the pair that best suits your face shape. But you can also work in a trend at the same time. I typically go for oversized or aviators, but I decided to try something different: the 90s small oval frames. I was pleasantly surprised at how well they framed my face. They are a keeper!

I recently contributed to an article on Real Simple, “5 Sunglasses Trends Everyone’s Wearing Right Now.” It will help you discover the trending styles and determine if they are right for you. You can read it at the “As Seen On” section on my website.

As for my dress, yes, it’s yet another piece from Banana Republic Factory. I don’t wear black too often in the summer since I wear it so much in the winter, but I love the seamed bodice style with the white stitching. I thought it was unique and fun.

#LTKSeasonal #LTKOver40 #LTKStyleTip

Sometimes, you just want a dress that lets you eat all the ice cream you want! This dress has a slightly looser fit, but it's still flattering! And the color is perfect!

I did purchase this dress from Macy’s to be comfortable. In general, I prefer a form-fitting silhouette, but it’s nice to have options for those days when you just want a little extra room. What I like about his dress starts with the neckline. The V-neck elongates the neck, which works well with the style of this dress. Since there is volume on the bottom, it’s nice to have a more fitted top. The empire waist gives you a longer skirt bottom, which also lengthens your silhouette. I love this shade of blue (it comes in bright pink, white, and black also).

#LTKSeasonal #LTKOver40 #LTKStyleTip

What is the “Third Piece Rule,” and why do I love it? It’s a simple concept that makes a big impact—and it works whether you’re headed to a boardroom, brunch, or anywhere in between.

Your outfit starts with two basic pieces: your top and your bottom. The third piece is the added layer or accessory that completes your look and makes it feel intentional. I didn’t create the rule, but I swear by it!

Think:
✨ A tailored blazer
✨ A chic cardigan or vest
✨ A scarf, belt, or statement necklace

This “rule” is such a quick and easy way to elevate your outfits that I wrote an entire blog post about it. In the blog post, you’ll find even more tips and examples on how to apply the third piece rule to your wardrobe. You can read it on my website, www.dianneinstyle.com

#LTKOver40 #LTKStyleTip #LTKFindsUnder100

This is one of my favorite trends of the season: the matching shorts and vest set. I’ve been looking for the perfect one since spring, and I finally found it.

Coincidentally, it’s also from Banana Republic Factory, same as my green dress from a few days ago. (This is just another fan post, not a sponsored post. I just might have gone on a recent shopping spree and have several finds to share!).

What I love about this particular set is that it can be dressed up or down. I added the neutral wedges to elongate my legs, but I could have just as easily worn flat sandals. Same with my jewelry. I am wearing classic gold jewelry, but I would pair this with more beachy shell or cultured pearl pieces as well. A straw fedora would finish off the look.

#LTKStyleTip #LTKSeasonal #LTKOver40

Interested to know, as a stylist, my favorite places to shop? Well, here’s one place: Banana Republic Factory.

You might think I shop the “factory” because of the price, but that’s not it. I shop there because of the amazing pieces they sell, like this green dress. What I love about the store is that it offers a great blend of modern and classic pieces. I find it a little trendier than Banana Republic, but not so much that a piece would only last one season.

I love this dress's modern silhouette, with its seamed detail and fitted waist. You can’t see that it has a smocked back, which gives it some give and doesn’t feel too tight. The straps are also adjustable to allow for a perfect fit.

#LTKSeasonal #LTKStyleTip #LTKOver40

You know how excited you are to pull out those white jeans in May? Now that it’s July, do you find yourself looking for alternatives? A fresh look?

White jeans, in fact, all white bottoms, are great for summer. You can pair any color with them, and they look great. But why not make a swap? Swap your white bottoms for white tops and add your summer color below. Pants, shorts, skirts - there are so many options. And even though we’re talking about white tops, you are not limited to white. For example, you can pair the butter yellow pants with navy, coral, or make it a monochrome look. The possibilities are endless.

I decided to try the crochet trend, and I have to say that I am happy with my selection. This dress is from Target, and I chose it mainly because of the black vertical side seam.

Stylist tip: As you can see, the contrasting color in the side seam helps streamline the dress's shape (and me). I find that sweater dresses can sometimes be bulky, and I don’t always like the shape they give you. But the black side seam breaks up the dress and has a slimming effect. This is a great accent to look for when you want to show more definition in your shape, no matter what type of piece it is.

#LTKOver40 #LTKSeasonal #LTKStyleTip

I promised more in my video! I am overseas with patterned shoes for summer, so I put tougher this collection so you could be just as obsessed too!

#LTKShoeCrush #LTKStyleTip #LTKSeasonal

It’s the season of bare legs…which means the best time to show off our shoes!
We’ve been hiding our feet under long pants and coats long enough. It’s time to break out some fun and unique patterned shoes for the season. Sure, a nude shoe will give you beautiful, long legs, but sometimes it’s ok for the shoe to be the star of your outfit.

I am sharing the shoes in the video here, but I’ve also created a collage with more option! Make sure to check it out!

#LTKStyleTip #LTKShoeCrush #LTKSeasonal

Happy First Day of Summer! I am celebrating by wearing my favorite color - lavender.

Lavender is my go-to color for summer. While you can find some great lavender pieces for fall, the best selection seems to be in spring and summer. So I’ll be taking advantage of that all season long.

I’ve previously mentioned my love for gingham - so when I found these pants at Loft, you know I had to have them. Gingham in my favorite color? Yes, please! I’ll be wearing these on repeat!

#LTKSeasonal #LTKSummerEdit #LTKStyleTip

One little change can make a big difference.

Sometimes it’s the little things that matter. I love a monochromatic look, and this outfit would look just fine with the solid white belt. But adding the distressed leather belt with the lavender floral buckle adds some interest. I could have pulled out the pink instead of the lavender, but I chose it since it is my favorite color.

I bought this belt at a small local boutique, so I don’t have a link for it. But I did find some similar pieces that I have added here.

#LTKStyleTip #LTKOver40 #LTKSummerEdit

I love being over 50, especially when it comes to fashion. That’s because I have years of experience in figuring out my own style, and I am finally in a place where I feel comfortable in my own skin…and my own closet!

While I love sharing my outfits and styling tips, my real passion is helping women over 50, just like me, feel confident in what they are wearing every day. As I said, fashion should be simple, accessible, and fun! Getting dressed should be the least stressful part of your day, but I know it can sometimes be the worst part of your day.

That’s why I started “Dianne In Style” as a place where we can share fashion ideas, solutions to both unique and common style problems and so much more.
So, I’d love for you to give me a follow if you’re interested in seeing outfits, styling tips, fashion trends every week! It doesn’t matter if you’re just looking to add a few new pieces to your wardrobe or if you’re looking for a whole new look. I try to offer ideas and solutions no matter where you are in your fashion journey.

#LTKWorkwear #LTKOver40 #LTKStyleTip

Summer is dress season for me! While I love wearing shorts and skirts, there’s nothing like a dress for warm days and cool nights.
These are the three styles that you’ll see me in the most:

✨ A long-sleeved, breathable dress, perfect for those cooler nights (we definitely have those here in Michigan).

✨A lighter-weight denim dress that will hold up well in those daytime outings and be right on-theme for those country concerts. I would add some turquoise jewelry for those.

✨And who doesn’t love a midi or maxi dress for summer? I love a summer print like this gingham or polka dots!

#LTKOver40 #LTKStyleTip #LTKSummerEdit

We’re entering red, white and plus season! From Memorial Day to July 4th it seems like there are lots of occasions to add some Americana to your wardrobe.

But you can be subtle! Here are a couple of ideas to take white jeans and turn them into a fun, patriotic outfit.

#LTKStyleTip #LTKOver40 #LTKSeasonal

Are you maximizing the pieces in your closet? Take some time, have some fun, and see how many ways you can style items you think you can only wear one way!

Like this simple dress from Amazon, the light, flowing fabric makes it easy to dress it up or down. Wearing it with just simple pearls makes it perfect as a summer wedding guest dress. You can also add a belt, especially a straw belt, to give it a more beachy feel.

#LTKStyleTip #LTKSummerEdit #LTKFindsUnder50