This is just a little thing that I did. I was in the arcane university, so I can enchant. I got two rings, a robe, an amulet, light gauntlets, light boots, and robe hood. I got 7 Grand Soul Gems each with Grand souls in them. I enchanted all of the items with the soul gems with Shield. Each % shield counts as one point of defense, and using a Grand soul gem gives you 10% shield. If you enchant each one with Shield with a Grand soul gem, you will have at least 70 defense. Perfect for mages!
I say..good idea.