Firstly lol about the baby sick, yes a bit of an unfortunate placement!!! And yes, when it does come to smart casual for even the 50+ (depending upon how well you've aged I guess) a smart casual look can be difficult as it's so easy to look like a recycled teenager, or to achieve a look that's not quite right. I think the best anyone can do, avoid slogans and large logos, make sure clothes aren't too tight, or too baggy, go for colours that compliment your skin tone - Too pale, and too bright can equally make you looked washed out, and take into account the way you have your hair. Working in retail, I see a lot of sights eg an old dear with a shampoo and set, wearing jeans, hotter shoes, T shirt and, cardi, but there's one lady who's well into her 80's, she wears a short straight style and she wears rolled up cargo pants, sandals, and stripey t shirts and she looks fabulous! I'm sure she'd rock Ruth's sicky jacket a treat! As they saying goes, "You either have, or you haven't got style" - It's a damn shame that those who are trying to sell us style on QVC haven't got any either!
