For many women, it’s easy to forge a sense of style in their youth. Clothes on the racks are designed for young female bodies, and trying out the latest trend – whether it be flared jeans, platform heels or mini-skirts – is fun and expected. As we age, however, it becomes more difficult to find stylish on-trend clothes that enhance our changing figures rather than give the impression of mutton dressed as lamb. (For tips on dressing youthfully, check out our other fashion article More sizzle, less fizzle.)

When looking for style inspiration, we set our sights on 10 fashion-forward women and asked you, our readers, to vote for who you think is the best dressed of them all. We received more than 400 responses and, when all was said and done, it was clear that one woman reigns supreme: Helen Mirren. The British actress took home 67 per cent of the vote thanks to her exquisite taste, which balances daring with timeless.

The actress regularly makes best-dressed lists and became somewhat of an international sex symbol in 2008, when photos of her wearing a red bikini at the beach went viral. These days she favours chic dresses on the red carpet and often delivers a splash of sparkle with her accessories.

Jamie Lee Curtis came in second place with 12 per cent of the vote. The 62-year-old actress went viral at the Golden Globes on March 1, wearing a stunning yellow frock by Australian designer Alex Perry, with a plunging neckline and padded shoulders. After being named to multiple best-dressed lists, she joked that her own ‘golden globes’ (AKA her breasts) were the real stars of the show. In third place was Jane Fonda with 10 per cent of voters naming her their favourite pick. The home-exercise guru won favour for her elegant, fitted gowns on the red carpet and wide-legged, chic suits for more casual soirees.

In fourth place was Diane Keaton (3.7 per cent), who is famous for her quirky hats and androgynous style, while Meryl Streep, who often embraces a touch of retro on the red carpet, claimed the fifth spot with 1.5 per cent of the vote. Rounding out the top 10 were Susan Sarandon, Kerri-Anne Kennerley, Olivia Newton-John, Goldie Hawn and Oprah Winfrey.

Let’s take a peek at some of their best looks.

1. Helen Mirren

2. Jamie Lee Curtis

 

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A post shared by Jamie Lee Curtis (@curtisleejamie)

3. Jane Fonda

4. Diane Keaton

5. Meryl Streep

6. Susan Sarandon

7. Kerri-Anne Kennerley

8. Olivia Newton-John

9. Goldie Hawn

10. Oprah Winfrey