I would argue it’s easier to be chic as you age. At least it’s been so for me, but maybe that’s because I’m just too tired to keep up with all the latest trends. Instead, I find myself gravitating toward a more classic style as I’ve gotten older. Classic is key to a chic look for women in their fourth decade and beyond. Women of a certain age have definitely had those “What was I thinking” moments when it comes to fashion. Still, it’s through those hits and misses over the years that we learn what style(s) suits us best, and how to age gracefully into a chicer version of ourselves. The key to developing a chic personal style is to anchor your wardrobe with timeless basics. Here’s a rundown of some of the top pieces for chic style over 40.

First up, straight-leg denim. Whether in a dark wash, or black denim, a straight-leg jean is versatile, flattering, and, when paired with the right shoes, very chic. Think classic pumps or boots to amp up a business casual look, which can just as easily be worn for a low-key dinner-and-drinks date. Levi’s 501 Original Fit jeans, or their 724 High Rise Straight Fit, are fairly affordable options if you’re in the market for new denim. I’d also recommend Gap’s High Rise Cheeky Straight jeans, with smoothing pockets for an all-day-long sleek look.

Next, blazers. You can never have too many blazers in my book. Whether it’s a black belted piece worn with a pencil skirt or a slouchy plaid version worn with a white t-shirt and jeans, a blazer is a non-negotiable essential for women in their 40s, 50s, and 60s. I especially love a tailored navy blazer worn over a dress. The Regent blazer from J.Crew is feminine and fitted for an instantly pulled-together look. I’m also a big fan of the Original Schoolboy blazer over at J.Crew Factory, which is just as chic, and a much more affordable option. For plus sizes, check out Eloquii’s Ali Blazer in black, burgundy, or royal blue.

Nothing says mature chic like a crisp, clean, and perfectly fitted button-down. When you find one you love, buy a few. You can’t go wrong with classic white, but button-downs in blue or pinstripes are just as chic. J.Jill has a variety of sleek shirts in linen, cotton-stretch, and Tencel, depending on the fit and drape that best suits you. For bustier ladies, check out Bravissimo’s fitted long sleeve shirt, which is specially tailored for a sleek fit, while also accommodating a larger chest to prevent gaping. Button-downs can be worn with jeans, under blazers, and of course, with workwear trousers.

Speaking of workwear, every woman over 40 should have a go-to power suit in her wardrobe. Even if you’re not office-bound from 9-to-5, having a matching trousers and blazer set is an easy, chic, all-in-one outfit for any occasion when you want to elevate your style. Whether you wear it traditionally with a button-down and pumps or mix up suiting separates with more casual pieces like sweaters and sneakers, a suit can be surprisingly versatile. You can go with basic black, or have fun with matching separates in bright colors or a bold pattern. Macy’s features suiting from Calvin Klein and Anne Klein at reasonable price points. The Suiting Collection from Ann Taylor online lets you shop by material, like tropical wool, and bi-stretch, or just browse by pattern and texture. If you’re looking to really up your suit game, consider Elizabeth & Clarke’s workwear subscription, delivering 2-3 suiting pieces every summer and winter.

From a suit to your feet, black boots are essential footwear for any woman over 40. Whether heeled, flat, ankle, or over-the-knee, a dark boot is always made for walking in style. You don’t have to sacrifice chicness for functionality. Leave those wobbly pumps to the younger set; a mature woman needs to get where she’s going. For winter and spring, I particularly like the Tinsley waterproof rain boot from Sam Edelman. With a sleek matte finish and Chelsea silhouette, this boot style will keep your feet dry while finishing off a wide range of looks, from casual to classic, to edgy. I love the idea of a go-to boot that can pair just as easily with joggers and a denim shirt as it can with black trousers, a button-down, and leather jacket.

Leather jackets are a no-brainer when it comes to building a wardrobe of chic basics. No longer just the garment of choice for Harley enthusiasts, leather and suede moto jackets serve as classic, yet on-trend pieces that feel retro and modern all at the same time—just like a chic woman over 40, right? Real leather can be quite pricey, but there are a ton of faux-leather options out there. Target has a range of jacket styles, from the classic motorcycle silhouette to bomber and boxy fits. If you already have a timeless black leather jacket, shake things up with a topper in olive or a pastel shade for the coming spring.

To round out your chic style, don’t forget to mix in some cozy sweaters. Whether you prefer a crew, V-neck, or mock turtleneck, the right sweater can make you feel and look fabulous. You really can’t go wrong with a cozy knit. It can be paired with anything from jeans and a blazer, to being layered over (or under) a dress for added warmth. Uniqlo.com features pullovers and cardigans in merino, cashmere, and cotton. This season consider adding their knitted polo sweater to your outfit rotation for the perfect mix of trendy yet chic style.

Lastly, every woman of a certain age should have a trench coat and a structured bag. Both a trench and a classic handbag are epitomes of chic. You can disregard all of the other basics listed in this piece if you have a great bag and coat to top off all of your outfits. Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany’s comes to mind when I picture how chic a trench coat can be. Channel Audrey when shopping for trenches. The Samantha Trench from London Fog doesn’t get more elegant, while also being practical with a detachable flannel liner and hood. Remember, all of these basics also need to serve your functional needs, as well as fashionable ones. For your bag, you can always go the designer route, or check out the shoulder bags from Charles & Keith. Their Structured Top Handle Bag comes in croc-effect faux leather in basic black, bold yellow, delicate pink, and standard burgundy.

The key to all of these basics is that you can wear them on their own, mix n’ match with each other, or have them be the starting point of an outfit. A great way to keep your look fresh, while still chic, is to mix in seasonal trends that speak to your personal aesthetic. Again, a woman over 40 does not need to waste time suffering the ticky tacky fads marketed to teens and 20-somethings. Try to balance the modern with the classic for a mature, yet chic style.