This Simple Outfit Formula Works Every Time…

I had to dash off to an early doctor appointment yesterday, so opted for a comfortable, simple outfit. But I was quite pleased with how it turned out, and even received a compliment from one of the other women in the waiting room.

A column of navy with brown accents

Susan B. wears a navy sweater with medium wash barrel leg jeans, a cotton bandana, and fisherman sandals.
SCARF (SIMILAR) | SWEATER | BELT | JEANS | SANDALS
My sizes: Sweater – Medium, Jeans – Petite 8

A navy top + jeans is one of those no-brainer combos that always works for me. I knew I might be sitting for some time, so went with two very comfortable pieces. The scarf was purchased a few years ago in Paris at one of my favorite shops, Comptoir des Cotonniers. (I find medical offices are often chilly, so like to wear something to keep my neck warm.) Yes, I’m wearing socks with the fisherman sandals.

A PSA for my over-50 friends

At my (mostly routine) eye exam yesterday, the ophthalmologist informed me that I have some early warning signs for glaucoma (a degenerative eye disease that can lead to blindness if not treated). That was a bit of surprising news, as I haven’t noticed any changes in my vision.

But the eye doc told me that people often don’t notice the gradual changes until the condition is more advanced. Nothing’s definitive yet, and I’ll be going back in a couple of weeks for some further tests. And she reassured me that if I do have glaucoma, it’s treatable, especially at this early stage.

So here’s my PSA: be sure that in addition to your other regular health screenings, you’re getting regular eye exams (even if your vision is good).

What simple outfit formula do you rely on that always seems to work?

Susan B. sits on a wooden bench wearing a brown knit jacket, blue jeans and colorful bracelets.

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22 Comments

  1. Susan, you are right. Your outfit formula never fails. This spring I have really gotten into scarves. Thank you for the nspiration.

  2. That outfit is very cute! I find if I’m wearing matching and stylish shoes, belt, and bag I always feel put together. I have cognac, black, and raffia combos for different seasons (boots, Mary Janes, slides or sandals). I know it sounds old school, but as long as the shoes are on trend it seems to work for me and I often get compliments on my outfits.

  3. I love dressing tonally especially because I’m 5’2″. Saw some red pants at J Crew with a red cashmere sweater in the window and bought them. So different from my black with black or cream with cream outfits.

    Love you in the navy. As a “winter” I’ve ben opting for more navy tops as I find black very aging near the face.

  4. My last eye appointment had a bit of a surprise too. Cataract on right eye. BTW, love today’s outfit.

  5. I love how a scarf makes an outfit special.
    I’ve been noticing more women wearing them as I go about my daily errands. Just give a little boost to the t-shirt, jeans, jacket uniform I wear.

  6. I appreciate your PSA. My US eye doctor told me I have early stages of cataracts. But he also said that nearly everyone with blue eyes has that after about age 60. It’s usually not terribly noticeable at that point and doesn’t need treatment immediately, but will at some point.

  7. Susan, as usual you look so put together. I love how you dressed for your appointment. I wish I could figure out what size to order the Ruti jeans. I really love them on you. Thank you for showing your wonderful style.

  8. Susan, my husband also experienced what you did – his glaucoma was detected at an early stage during his regular eye exam. Glad you caught it early! I love your simple and chic outfit. So cleverly accessorized without being matchy-matchy.

  9. That is a great outfit formula, one I use often when traveling but less when home. Need to change that! I too got diagnosed with early stage glaucoma and go for regular follow ups. They were able do a quick laser surgery in 10 minutes to reduce pressure. It lasts 4-5 years and can be redone. Was a better option than daily drops for me. Mind you I’m in Canada, so it’s free, not sure if it’s as viable an option there.

    1. Yes, it is. My sister had it done, her insurance covered it. It makes me nervous to think of a laser near my eye, which is foolish of me, I know! I just keep thinking of earthquakes…and there are even built in safeguards for that… but still my courage fails me

  10. I am inspired; I will wear a column of blue today with a neck scarf, too. I adore wearing neck scarves. In the PNW, it’s still winter so I could use the warmth. Did you see that your favorite French store is collaborating with Uniqlo?

  11. I’m 69 and was recently diagnosed with glaucoma. Similar to what you said, it is treatable. It’s not curable and my condition will not improve, but my vision loss is minimal so far. With meds hopefully I can keep it controlled. Not going to waste time worrying about it!

  12. Susan, I am on my way to the eye doctor for cataract surgery pre- measurements . Not that surprising, since I am mid 70’s but only have worn glasses to read, and my fairly recent need for driving glasses weren’t giving me the acuity I needed. But will take my calendar for planning, one eye and then later the next. I have travels planned this year , after all!
    I was surprised to be given alternative lenses to choose from…basic
    ( covered by Canadian health) or a range from $430/per eye to an eye watering $2400. . Why choose a Cadillac when a Ford will do ? I will be getting my questions answered for sure, but likely will choose an economy model…maybe the $430 one. I like wearing scarves too , as a pop of colour is always nice near the face and a refreshing addition to the outfit.

  13. Great outfit! You inspired me to buy a similar J Crew green and navy scarf to create a navy column outfit that works for my Burnished Sultry Winter colors . I was literally looking at my navy sweater with jeans yesterday, wondering how to punch it up . Thanks so much!

  14. Great simple outfit. I can never get enough navy blue. I think it looks great on nearly everyone. And taking care of one’s eyes is definitely a good idea.

  15. My easy peasy formula: teal + neutral. Teal is the best of my best WOW colors, and paired with a neutral bottom and accessories, I can put in minimum effort and look put together.

  16. I can imagine you scored compliments with this outfit. It looks really charming. I bought a scarf there too with you. But I still hardly wear scarves.
    Good point of checking your eyes regularly. Certainly for me as my mother had wet macular degeneration.
    Greetje

  17. Best wishes with your possible glaucoma journey. There are many treatments for the various types. Early detection is definitely the key. I made it a point to tell all my ophthalmologists through the years that both my mum and grandmother had it, and how advanced it became. Thankfully, it took many years for me to progress from a glaucoma suspect, to active glaucoma. I’ve had long-term success with having laser/LPI surgery on both eyes 10 years ago to reduce pressure, and 2x/day eye drops the past five years. My US insurance has covered everything, including regular visits to my ophthalmologist every four months, and even monthly visits, when the pressure goes up due to things like hurricanes coming through our area, or a sleepless night prior to an appointment, or both happening at the same time. I didn’t know something as simple as lack of sleep could affect eye pressure. So, stay healthy and try to limit stress.

  18. Wishing you all the best. My followup tests are next week. Love your outfit! I am back to wearing scarves frequently.

  19. Happy to see you wearing a colorful scarf. I love your total look. I wear scarves often. Last week I went to San Francisco for two Dr. visits and wore layers of good wool and a colorful scarf and a warm jacket. I received many compliments on the scarves.

  20. I had laser surgery years ago for narrow angles, which could lead to glaucoma and vision loss because of pressure buildup. The eye doctor refused to dilate my eyes until that surgery was done. It’s been more than 10 years, and the surgery has held up well so far.