I know very few women who can unequivocally say they identified their style in youth and have maintained that style through the decades. But iconic fahion blogger Beth Djalali admits she recognized a love of prep school uniforms and menswear at an early age, and it has informed and inspired her “American Classic” look ever since.

I recently interviewed Beth Djalali, whose website, Style at a Certain Age is one of my favorites. She has been featured on Youtube and in online publications such as Chico’s Inside Chic. Her blog was also named as one of PrimeWomen.com’s  Top 5 Fashion Blogs for Women Over 50.

58 year-old Beth grew up in Omaha Nebraska. After raising two sons and traveling the world with her corporate husband, she now resides in Athens, Georgia, which has become the backdrop for the amazing sartorial images she posts almost daily.

Beth says, “While I strive to keep my look fresh and modern year after year, by introducing trends here and there, my closet is filled with classic, essential pieces like denim jackets, blazers, turtleneck sweaters, cardigans, sheath dresses, button downs, and the quintessential pair of American blue jeans.”

On any given day, you might find Beth dressed in jeans and a third layer piece (blazer, cardigan, vest, etc.). Always chic and oh-so pulled together. Her outfits are reminiscent of something you would see in Vogue, Style, or Marie Claire magazine. Yet somehow Beth’s sophisticated ensembles remain relevant and appealing to the ‘every woman.’ That’s what makes her so relatable.

Whether she’s shopping, meeting friends, or out with her brilliant dog, Oscar, Beth has a fresh way of teaming clothes that accentuate her look and her lifestyle.

“I love the timeless and trend-proof look of American Classic Style.” …Beth Djalali

I questioned Beth about the thought process she goes through when trying to determine her ‘outfit of the day.’ This was her response:

“Sometimes when I put outfits together the process goes very smoothly. What I pictured in my head springs to life effortlessly. Then there are other times when something isn’t quite right; the proportions are off, or the shoes are the wrong heel height, or the handbag is too small or too big.  That’s when I dig through my closet to get the outfit just right and end up with a big hot mess!”

Yes, Beth, we can all relate. She also adds:

“Don’t be afraid to pencil in an afternoon here and there to go through your closet and see what outfits you can come up with at your leisure. It will save you time on those days when you’re in a rush to head out the door.” 

Here are more images of Beth, as she goes about her day:

Beth says,”When I’m planning what to wear on any given day, I always factor in where I’m going.”

“I don’t believe in age appropriate, but I do believe in occasion appropriate.”  …Beth Djalali

Don’t miss Part 2 of my interview with Beth, as she reveals her current style muse, gives advice to those of us who seem to be ‘style’ stuck,  and provides us with some positive words of wisdom.

In the meantime, you can find Beth at her website: Style at a Certain Age, on Facebook, and at Pinterest.