If you only saw me on my “good outfit” days, you’d probably assume that is what my midlife style looks like — drifting around Portugal in dramatic black layers, jangling rings and enough eyeliner to summon a small storm. And to be fair… sometimes I do.
I adore whimsigoth style. I love looking like I might own at least one spell book and possibly a cat that judges people for sport. But let’s be honest. Most days? It’s jeans. A T-shirt. And slippers. And I’m completely fine with that.
The Fantasy vs The Reality of My Midlife Style
There’s the version of me that loves dressing up — long skirts, chunky boots, textured layers, silver jewellery, the whole moody aesthetic.
And then there’s the version of me editing a video at home in baggy cargo jeans, a long-sleeved tee and a bright graphic cardigan that feels like a hug.
Today, for example, I’m wearing my favourite super baggy Halara jeans (I’ve basically lived in them since Christmas), a plain top, and my brand new black-and-white chequered slippers.
Yes. Slippers. Because comfort has entered the chat. But not boring comfort. Fun comfort. There’s a difference.
My Current Chequered Era
Somewhere along the line, I developed a mild obsession with black-and-white checks and stripes. It escalated after I bought my Fiat 500 Abarth. Have you seen the roof? Chequered. Bold. Slightly chaotic.
But here’s the funny thing — before we even found the car, I’d already bought a roll of vinyl to cover the white unit in my office. Black and white chequered. It’s as if I subconsciously committed to the theme before the car even existed in my life. I’m not saying I manifested a pattern era… but the evidence is strong.
The Great Vinted Plot Twist
Recently I found some gorgeously twisted gothic T-shirts on Vinted. Dark imagery. Moody prints. Completely my vibe. Ordered my usual size. They arrived. They had clearly lived a previous life in a very hot wash. Let’s just say “medium” was feeling optimistic.
But instead of being annoyed, I’ve decided to cut out the graphics and sew them onto other pieces. Hoodies. Jackets. Whatever feels right. And honestly? That feels more creative anyway. Sometimes style isn’t about wearing something as intended. It’s about making it yours.
The Boots That Never Let Me Down
A few years ago I bought a pair of chunky cream boots from Rokynori. They were comfortable from day one. No breaking in. No drama. Just solid, reliable, stylish boots that worked with everything.
I wore them constantly. So I bought them in black. Same story. Before our recent trip to Germany, I checked to see if they existed in brown. They did. Obviously they came with me.
Taking only brand new shoes on holiday is usually reckless behaviour — but not with these. I knew they’d behave. I love how they look. Chunky, slightly dramatic, grounding. But more than that, I love how they feel.
That’s become a theme for me. The same goes for my bright, ridiculously comfortable ASICS trainers and my ultra-soft Skechers. I own plenty of shoes, but the ones that win are always the comfortable ones that still feel like me.
Witchy… But Practical
Midlife has quietly shifted something. I don’t dress to impress strangers anymore. I dress to enjoy my own day.
Some days that means chunky boots and layered drama. Other days it means baggy jeans and chequered slippers while I wander around the house talking to the cats.
I’m not trying to look like an aesthetic. I’m just trying to feel like myself. And that feels far more stylish.
P.S.
If you enjoy my ramblings about midlife style, comfort and embracing every version of yourself, my new book dives even deeper into all of this. It’s being released on International Women’s Day (which feels very fitting), and it’s available to pre-order now as both an ebook and paperback. And in the coming month or so, there’ll also be an audiobook version — narrated by me, of course. Because apparently I don’t just write the words… I now read them aloud too! Oh and there’s also going to be a Portuguese edition for my Portuguese readers!
