Thank you all for the brilliant suggestions!
Pixie, it took me forever to learn how to create textures and apply them to prims and system clothing (jackets, skirts, etc.) At my age, I don't think I have enough years left in me to learn how to do mesh! But I suppose I should at least give it a try.
Personally, I can't stand mesh clothes. I like being able to wear clothes on any body shape, even ones that don't fit the standard models. It seems like no matter what shape I'm wearing, the mesh outfits that most closely fit my body are either too small in one area or too large in another, leaving huge gaps between the exposed skin and the clothing texture. But if that's the way the technology is moving, I'd best surrender to the inevitable. I still reserve the right to be a cranky old lady who gets dragged into the new world kicking and screaming, though!