Jewelry is an important part of creativity, she says, and women should climb out of their style ruts (in other words, forgo those mincy bangles you got in college). When you’re over 40, it’s the right time to "make a big statement."

Resin-and-metal cuff, $225

Burch’s advice: Buy pieces with texture and geometric prints to make your look modern.

Cotton voile tunic, $295; tweed pants, $395

Burch cites interior designer David Hicks as a huge influence, which makes sense because he was known for his use of prints. Burch uses vintage motifs especially well on her dresses, the simple sheath being a favorite silhouette because "it’s so easy to wear." For women short on time, Burch calls the look "uncomplicated, no-brainer dressing."

Silk-cotton blend dress, $650

This shape has been around for centuries and it’s still a great idea. Burch remembers her mother and grandmother bringing tunics back from exotic locales, and the form stuck with her. She calls it "just the perfect quick way to look pulled together. It works no matter your shape and size," she says. But make sure it’s not too big, she cautions, and wear it with "skinnier pants to accentuate the proportionality."

Cotton voile tunic $275; stretch sateen pants, $265

Originally published in MORE magazine, February 2009.