T-shirts and jeans are American classics that go hand-in-hand. Pairing a cotton tee with just the right amount of “lived-in” quality and a timeless pair of comfortable jeans is the sartorial equivalent of peanut butter and jelly.

However, like that school day lunchtime staple, as women age, they may no longer feel it’s appropriate to wear the t-shirt and jeans of their youth. Of course, that is not the case. Just like now — you can eat a more sophisticated sandwich with almond butter and apricot preserve — you can still rock jeans and a tee, but in a more refined style to reflect the mature and sophisticated woman you are! Here are a few ideas to get you started on styling denim and t-shirts for women 40 plus!

I’d recommend starting with a simple white tee and blue jeans. Take these basics to a polished place with a structured blazer and loafers. Structure can include a well-defined shoulder, a nipped waist, and/or a strong collar. Go for traditional prints like houndstooth, plaids, or gingham in standard fabric. As for loafers, pair a heeled version for jeans with a wider or flared leg, and flats for cropped or tapered pairs.

Adding a blazer to your jeans and t-shirt outfit can take many forms. You can play around with the polished look above by switching out your loafers with a clean white sneaker for a mix of sporty style meets businesswoman. Or, choose a blazer in a bold color like Kelly green or fuchsia. Look for a vintage blazer, maybe even from your own closet. No matter the blazer path you walk, be sure to lean into this polished take on jeans and a tee by adding higher-end accessories like diamond-studded earrings, a gold chain necklace, cocktail rings, and oversized sunglasses. Also, be sure to carry a structured bag.

If you are over the white tee/blue jean look, consider a printed tee and cream-colored jeans. An off-white pant is much easier to wear than white jeans, while still feeling fresh for summer. Levi’s has a cropped version that will go with a red-and-white striped shirt, a pastel floral shirt, or even a graphic tee. Again, look to your own closet for vintage concert tees to pair with creamy jeans.

Even though we are in the heat of summer, don’t discount black denim, especially if you find a pair on sale. A straight-fit or skinny dark jean will make a white tee pop. It’s also a great basic to pair with a brightly colored V-necks in shades like tomato red, magenta, or a citrusy yellow. A black-n-white striped tee looks very sharp with black jeans and pairs well with sneakers, flats, and heels. Again, be sure to keep your accessories are sophisticated.

If you are concerned about looking like mutton dressed as lamb, then it’s best to avoid stonewash, ripped, or bedazzled jeans. These styles are meant for the young who don’t know any better. Stick to straight-cuts or fitted cuts in non-faded shades. For t-shirts, stay clear of tops that are ripped (especially on purpose) — looking at you fringe, ill-fitting (both too tight and baggy), and anything embellished. It’s all about starting with a simple base and building from that. Let your personality show in your add-ons and accessories.

As for myself, as I edge closer and closer to 40 with each passing day, I’m turning to my heathered gray V-neck and standard blue skinnies. With leather sandals, a brown belt with a gold latch, a delicate chain bracelet, my watch, cat-eye sunnies, and a bucket bag, my summery casual look will be laidback, yet refined.