Ruby Hammer On The Joy of Dressing Well At Any Age

My personal style is best described as classic with a twist. I gravitate towards pieces I can reach for time and again – polished staples that never feel predictable. I’m not interested in fast fashion fads, but that doesn’t mean I want to disappear into the background. Style should have personality. It should feel like you.

The essence of my style has always been there, but as time has passed and as my budget’s allowed, I’ve been able to invest in better quality. I shop more consciously now – less throwaway, more thoughtful. It’s about building a wardrobe with longevity rather than constantly chasing what’s new.

I only buy into trends that feel right for me. I do keep an eye on what’s trending – it’s part of my job, but I’m selective. There’s no point in wearing something that doesn’t feel authentic. If I wouldn’t wear it confidently on a regular day, I’m not going to wear it at all.

Getting older has definitely changed the way I approach fashion. I’ve always dressed for my shape, never just for what’s popular. These days, I’m a little softer around the middle and I’m totally fine with that. I dress to feel good, not to hide. Celebrating who I am right now is far more important.

I love colour – it lifts my mood and brings energy to an outfit. I wear it with intention, though, and embrace colour wholeheartedly. I had a dramatic all-black phase in the ’80s but, honestly, colour has always felt like home.

I’m a believer in both investment pieces and spontaneous buys. There’s something special about a classic, beautifully made piece that lasts for years. But if I fall in love with something on the spot and it makes me smile, I won’t walk away from it. Joy matters, too.

The best style advice I’ve ever received is to be comfortable. Never squash yourself into something that doesn’t fit or feel good. When you’re comfortable, you radiate confidence and that’s what people notice. You feel more like yourself and that’s powerful.

I never sacrifice comfort for fashion. I don’t believe you should have to, as comfort doesn’t mean sloppy. It means choosing better cuts, softer fabrics and making clothes work for you. Whether it’s clever shapewear or just knowing your shape, it’s all about feeling good and looking polished.

Style is about joy and it’s never too late to find it again. Some women over 50 feel a little lost with fashion but I think the key is to reconnect with your body. Figure out what flatters you, what makes you feel good. Ask a friend, play dress-up at home and rebuild your wardrobe piece by piece.

I’ve found more freedom and confidence with age. There’s such clarity in knowing who you are. I dress for me now, not for anyone else. That’s a huge shift and something that’s brought so much ease to getting dressed.

Fashion is still about self-expression but now it needs to be fuss-free. I don’t have time for complicated outfits. If it needs instructions, I’m not interested! I remember buying a Romeo Gigli piece that came with a diagram – it was gorgeous but who has the time? Life’s too short for clothes that make you feel confused!

My favourite look from the shoot was the pink COS trousers (similar style here) and the crisp white Dries Van Noten shirt. It was effortless, chic and felt exactly like something I’d wear on a great day. But I must say, I also felt gloriously elegant in the Zimmermann polka set – it was a real moment.