Barbie turned fifty this week, and there’s many a woman who could learn something from the small, plastic fashion icon.

When she was created, Barbie was a high fashion babe – her outfits, ranging from the Enchanted Evening pink satin gown (with  real fur stole) through to the Roman Holiday Separates were created as copies of outfits worn by the world’s stars – Roman Holiday was based on the short-sleeved shirt, neckerchief and buckled skirt worn by Audrey Hepburn in the film of the same name. In other words, Barbie stole shamelessly from the fashion pages and adapted the couture look to her own build. Women can do the same – today’s puffy layered dresses are not suitable unless you’re a stick insect, but a puff-sleeved, layered organza or chiffon top, over slimline black or navy trousers, looks fantastic whether you’re seventeen or seventy.

Barbie didn’t just have couture knock-offs though: as many blue jeans and T-shirt outfits were created as ballgowns or smart suits. And many women give up wearing casual clothing at a certain age, when all they need to do is change their style. T-shirts still look good at any age, but you might want to pair them with a smart scarf and a skirt, rather than jeans. Casual tops that unbutton, like polo-shirts, are a good bet if you’re in the hot-flush stage of life, as they allow you to ‘adjust your clothing’ casually and naturally without anybody noticing that you are feeling a bit warm.

In 1990 the limited edition Barbie wore a gold and sequin gown designed by the famous American designer Bob Mackie – and investing in good signature garments can really change your look too. Buy a top quality jacket for walking the dogs or a good pair of smart boots for trips to the pub: the investment will make you feel, and look, like a million pounds.