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The other day, my Aunt Mary called me to ask me a question on what to wear to an upcoming wedding. She mentioned that this was an evening summer wedding and she wanted to be cool and comfortable, but still look classy and fabulous after 40!
Here were here choices:
- A light yellow linen suit
- Blue sleeveless cotton pique dress (lined) with self belt. (bought on sale!)
This dress has a "self" belt
I asked her bring over the 2 options. The yellow suit was just too boxy looking and looked a little too casual for an evening wedding. The blue dress was really pretty, but there were 2 issues.
- The thin belt that came with the dress was not flattering
- She would need to buy a sweater to wear with it.
The first advice I gave her was to try the dress on with NO belt. How many of us feel that, just because a dress comes with a belt, we HAVE to wear it! As we age, our middle thickens and tiny pieces of fabric around our waist does not look so great on many of our middle age bodies! So, we got rid of the belt and the dress looked a million times better on her.
Next, she felt she needed a top or sweater to wear over the dress to hide her arms. I took one look at her arms and said, be proud of your arms! They look fine! Sometimes we are too hard on ourselves!!!
However, she did want to get a sweater, since the evenings are starting to get cool in our area back east. The neckline on this dress is wider than normal, so not every sweater will work.
Here were her marching orders:
- Find a sweater that is not too long, best if it is shorter.
- Make sure to take the dress with you when you shop, so you can try it with the sweater.
- Make sure the sweater is a thin fabric and does not compete with the neckline
- Find a pair of nude shoes to go with the dress.
- Do not try to wear a necklace with this type of dress. Instead, just wear earnings and a cuff style bracelet.
It ended up that Aunt Mary, went out to find a sweater and and ended up with a new suit, instead for the wedding. Bottom line is, when buying a dress on sale, make sure you LOVE it!
If it comes with a self belt, throw it away and use a leather one or not one at all!
For more great tips on how to dress for a wedding, check out our e-book, Tweak Your Chic, Dressing the Mother of the Bride!
You can download this e-book now and get instant access to all your questions!
Dress with no belt...looks much better!
These over 40 models are from the UK
Dear Glam Gals,
I am really enjoying your blog and the information that you provide. I was just wondering why you continually use young models to display the clothes and styles you suggest women wear who are 40 and over? It seems counter intuitive to suggest that we embrace our age and aging bodies, yet all the styles are shown on young models, who have no bodies and are not anywhere near the age of 40! Of course we all know that clothes look better on models without curves, but doesn’t that just make it harder to embrace our age, our style, and reality? Just wondering…:-)
Thanks. I would love to hear your thoughts!
Sincerely, Wendy B
Hi Wendy,
We get this question all the time and we are frustrated too… you see to there are just no photos of “real women” out there in current clothes that you can buy! We want to be able to show you things that you can go out and buy, but all the stores insists on using ultra young and super skinny models!
A few years back, we were excited to start working with a NYC modeling agency for women over 40, but they went out of business!
That is why we try to find women on the street photos, but it can be frustrating for our readers, since most of the time the outfits the women are wearing was purchased a last season and can’t be found now.
One note, most of the styles that we suggest can be worn on most body types, it is just that they are being modeled by young, thin women!
If anyone has suggestions or ideas we would love to hear them!
Carrie and the girls from Sex and the City 2 - our inspiration
Hi Glam Gals,
I would love your advice on how to dress age-appropriate to go to the beach and for swimming too.
Thank you!
Liliana.
Hi Lilana,
Nothing beats a big hat, a pair of gorgeous sunglasses, metallic sandals and a fabulous coordinating swimsuit + cover-up to look chic lounging by the water.
This year we took our inspiration from the latest Sex and the City movie set in Abu Dhabi (and shot in Morocco). Did you see Sex and the City 2 with Sarah Jessica Parker and the girls?
We loved all the colorful, flowing, and draped outfits and when we went shopping online for beachwear that’s what we were attracted to.
Take a look at these gorgeous finds:
| Goddess on the Beach:
OOOh the drama! Here’s a great way to make a statement without having to put on a eensy teensy bikini!
This knotted scarf cover-up is simple & elegant and the vibrant colors and modern graphic pattern add a youthful zest. This has a matching strapless bathing suit. (Saks) |
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| Peasant Jewel :
Do you have a bohemian side? This pretty Diane Von Furstenberg Zenya cover-up is more on the rustic side, but still very classy and grown -up because of the deep rich burgundy color.
The empire waist nicely hides any flabby tummy.(Saks) |
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| Sassy Caftan:
If you’re legs still look pretty hot, then show them off in this eye catching kimono sleeved caftan from Trina Turk.
We like this cover-up because it’s ” cute”, (sometimes you want something cute), and yet it’s still rather sophisticated and grown up. (Nordstrom) |
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Elegant Seduction:
Helloooo Mrs. Robinson! Don’t go near the sweet young pool boy in this number, or you may get more than your pool cleaned! (Saks) |
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| Animal Appetite:
Grrr. It’s a jungle out there and you’re the Tigress in this lush and electrifying jungle cover-up by Diane Von Furstenberg.
All that yellow and warm green tends to look great on gals with warm coloring -peach or golden skin, or on anyone with a great tan.(Saks) |
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| Fun and Flirty Moroccan:
A little glitz always looks fab at the beach, or by the pool. That’s why we like this Lily Pulitzer, pearly, beaded tunic with it’s asymetrical hemline. Nice and easy, loose and breezy, and 100% pure cotton, so very comfortable!!
The neutral gold sandal is the perfect choice (white sandal would be a little too matchy matchy with the white beading, so not as modern.(Saks) |
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Here’s a question from one of our readers…
I would love to see a post about cute and age appropriate sun dresses. Usually I am not a dress person, but I would like to throw something on which is not too short , but really comfortable at these temperatures right now.
Thank you so much. Nicole
Hi Nicole,
It’s only July but sundresses are being snapped quickly. Our advice to to get out there and take advantage of those sale racks. We shopped online and found a strong tropical punch theme was everywhere, so here are a few of our favorites to make you look fabulous after 40.
| Cute and Flirty:Love the modern combination of brown, red and blue which adds sophistication and maturity to this pretty summer dress. It’s nice to find a dress with a hemline with a grown-up length, and the flirty edge gives it that soft touch of summer romance. (Nordstrom)
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Tropical Temptation :
Pink with Orange is a juicy combination for this cotton sundress. Look very closely at the neckline and you’ll see the tiny white tassels along the v neckline that give it it’s magic.(Nordstrom)
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| Tropical goes Graphic :A modern twist on the tried and true tropical print. Love the vertical off centre drawstring and cool bordered hem on this artsy summer shift. If you want to look slimmer, then this is the dress because the flower pattern running from shoulder to waist creates the optical illusion making your waist look narrower and more nipped in. (Nordstrom)
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Palm Perfect:
A great dress that is easy for anyone to wear, especially pear shapes. The scoop neck draws the eye upwards to highlight the face. Wear it with a cute pair of flats. Boy, that looks cool and comfy! (Nordstrom)
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| Looking fresh and cool!
Here is a photo of one of our readers, Donna from N.J. (looking fabulous after 45) in her version of the tropical sundress, that she bought at Cache! Wow, she looks terrific! Just goes to show, that if you have great legs that you can and should show them off! |
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Here’s a great style question from one of our readers:
“It now seems to be the style to not have your shoes and purse match.What and how do you determine what to match them with?The old way was to have back,brown,navy,or red if you where feeling wild and they always matched your purse..Some pointers on what is in now.”
~Barbara P.
Your purse and shoes do not have to match but they should blend in style and weight.
Deciding what purse to go with your shoes can be tricky. Some women buy only one purse and wear it with everything. Others collect purses and change them around all the time. It all depends on your needs and lifestyle, but in general your purse needs to be of high quality and the size should fit your style and personality.
This is a photo of fellow blogger Susan Tabak who always has great fashion sense! See how the colors all blend and her purse does not stand out, but pulls her simple outfit together!
Here are a few basic rules to remember:
| Play with mixing colors, but keep one color neutral :
If you have gray shoes, you can have fun with a colorful bag. This look is more for work because of the stiffer, dressier bag. The slouchy bag in front with the gladiator sandals are better for a casual look because they are both less formal. |
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| An outfit made up of solid colors will get a lift from a purse with some color or texture :
This simple outfit is perked up with these purple flats and a snakeskin clutch.
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| Don’t do a stiff purse with a casual outfit:
If you like to wear casual or soft flowing clothes your handbag should match the look. This purse is too boxy and stiff for this sporty outfit. |
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This softer,relaxed hobo style purse is much better with this outfit~ |
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Even a formal purse can work with casual shoes.
This formal channel style bag works with these flats, since the flats are shiny and have a dressy look to them. |
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| Coordinate your hardware:
It will be easier to make choices and you will feel more pulled together if you keep your shoes, jewelry and handbag hardware all the same finish. (e.g. silver jewelry, silver, buckles on shoes, silver zipper on purse) |
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We girls all talk fashion all the time, but when it comes to what we are wearing in the privacy of our own bedrooms, well it is certainly not something we usually compare notes on!
With record heat and if you are prone to a hot flash or two, what to wear to bed this summer, is a big question!
Last week I went outlet shopping with a friend and of course there are always rows and rows of nightgowns, p.j’s and of course the sexy nighties…
Aaah, these are much better!!
I feel like a Granny in these stiff cotton print P.J's~
Just for fun I tried on a really dreadful pair of pajamas.
Tips for finding a new sleeping outfit:
1) Touch the fabric first, if it is soft and comfortable that is good!
2) Try finding styles with a low v-neckline, these are usually most flattering!
3)Stay away from crazy patterns, they will be too stimulating! At night you want to put on something that is soothing~
4)Make sure to try them on. I usually go a size larger, so that they are comfortable!
One of favorite brands are Cosabella, however they can be on the pricey side.
Here is a pair that are fun:
Cosabella is a wonderful brand, very comfortable and a better choice than ugly flannels!
If you are feeling dumpy in your night time jammies… run out and try to find a pair that you will be comfy and feel a little sexy in too! (JoJami at the Neiman Marcus Last Call outlet, in Limerick, PA)
What are you wearing at night? Let us know by commenting below!
Pictures don’t lie! It is amazing how many of us imagine ourselves one way and in reality look another! Nothing like a reality check!
Take for example one of our readers Janet O. who thought she might have to give up this dress…
Hello Glam Gals,
When is short too short? I have several dresses that hit me above the knees. I am not a fan of my knees (I call them “thnees” – thighs that merge into my knees with no definition) but these dresses are so comfy I continue to wear them.
What do you think? Time to hang them up?
~Janet O
HI Janet…LOL..love your new term! However, you don’t have “thnees”, you have nice knees and you look great in your dress!!!
Keep on keeping on! Your wedge shoes, long necklace and bangles, really look updated too!(so does your hair, the little that we can see of it!)
Your dress is much better than a boring pair of khakis and a polo shirt yet you look totally comfortable and chic.
Thanks for sending us your photos!
The Glam Gals
Can Janet pull this dress off? She thinks she has ugly knees!
Yes, she can! Her legs are beautiful!
This Glam Gal has an updated look and great style!
We recently did a post about leggings and we are still getting more questions! Leggings are so tricky because they come in so many types of fabrics and colors.
Here is a photo that one of our readers gave us permission to comment on and share with you. She asks,” Is this outfit o.k.?”
White leggings are hard to pull off...
- While this gal certainly has a perfect figure and terrific toned legs, these white leggings do look skimpy with that top.
- These white leggings are really almost an opaque footless tight, so the fabric is too thin to wear as “pants”.
- We like the top, but think it would look much classier with long shorts or flat front pants or capris.
- This top is too short to wear with leggings, it will need an actual pant, shorts or skirt to go with it.
- The sandals are very cute, but they would look better with a sundress than with these leggings.
- Another option for shoes is, if you were to put a longer top or dress with these leggings would be a ballet flat.
- One more idea is that you can certainly pull of leggings that are 3/4 length too. That way you can be cool and yet covered.
- Leggings need to be used in layering outfits, not on their own. That is why using leggings in the summer is not as easy as using them in the fall/winter.
It is tough to get all these “rules” and tips straight, so we are happy that you sent in your photo to help clear things up! The biggest challenge for women after 40 who have great figures, is how to show it off and still be sexy! This gal can wear shorter shorts and probably mini’s too, but will need to make sure she is pairing it with nice fabrics and classy styles.
Please comment below with your thoughts! Or if you have a summer outfit you are wearing please send us a photo with permission to use it and we will share it with our group!
Dressing the Mother of the Bride-Tips for Deciding what Color to Wear
The most frequently asked question by a Mother of the Bride is “What color should I wear?” Choosing the right color is stressful and scary. There are many things that need to be taken into consideration such as the time of year, the formality of the event, how the color photographs, the color of the bridesmaids dresses and the color of the wedding flowers, not to mention what looks good on you. How can you be certain that you are choosing the right color?
Here are 5 tips for deciding what color to wear when you are Mother of the Bride:
Monotone
One option is to wear a mother of the bride dress in the same general color family as the bridesmaids. This is a classy way to coordinate, but still be a little different. For example, if the bridesmaids are in lavender, the Mother of the Bride is in eggplant.
Contrast
Another idea is to choose a Mother of the Bride dress in a color that is directly opposite on the color wheel to the bridesmaids’ dresses. You’ll definitely stand out, but the bridesmaids will still look great next to you in pictures. For example, the bridesmaids might be in orange and the Mother of the Bride in blue.
Our Ebook will help you celberate the big day in Style!
Tonal
You could also wear a color in the same color palette as the bridesmaids’ dresses. For a seasonally themed wedding, this can nicely pick up different aspects of the season, and look very classy. Bridesmaids may be in pastel blue and mom can be in soft, butter yellow.
Pattern
Wear a patterned Mother of the Bride dress with a color in it that echoes the bridal colors. This adds some personality to the bridal party and pictures. For instance, if the bridesmaids wear pink, the mother of the bride can be in pink and green watercolor wash.
Neutral
When in doubt, neutrals go with everything! Just be careful to get a more saturated color so it doesn’t wash you out. For example, if the bridesmaids are in chartreuse with magenta sashes and fuchsia bouquets, the Mother of the Bride can still wear a dark, silvery gray.
Of course, you can always take the bride with you for a second opinion! She will certainly have a vision in mind as to how she wants her day to look, and will probably be the best person to go to for advice. With this in mind, picking out a color to go with the bridal party will be a cinch. Now what about the style? We have many more tips to make sure you look fabulous and appropriate at your daughter or son’s wedding.
If you have more questions and want to make sure you are making the right choice, Check out our new eBook, Tweak Your Chic: Mother of the Bride .
Want someone to weigh in on your latest outfit?
Does it make you look, too old, too young, or just right?
Then email a picture of yourself in the clothing in question and we’ll let our readers be the judge. We’ve got a whole community here waiting to give you their opinion on How to Look Fabulous after 40….., and of course we’re happy to share our GLAM GAL opinion too!
We’d love to hear from you because it is our pleasure to help guide you, and have some fun with fashion.
Just mail us at info@fabulousafter40.com
(We’ll never let anyone post a nasty comment, and we certainly don’t bite!)
Cheers!
Here is one of the latest fashion question from one of our readers:
My one question is how to look fabulous and well groomed in under half an hour, to get ready to go to work for a smart/casual look?
~Ivana
Being well groomed takes some time, but is worth it!
Getting well groomed can take some time but if you are organized you can do it fast!
- Pick out your outfit the night before. (Make sure you try it on, so that you feel confident that it fits and looks good.)
- Don’t hang your clothes in “outfits”, it is much easier to find things if you keep them in sections, like pants, skirts, tops, ect…
- Are you shoes in shoe boxes? Take them out and put them on shelves or in some type of display. You will find them easier. Also, put away those that you are not wearing like your boots. You want to make sure you can see your shoes or they might be hard to find!
- Make sure your makeup routine is simple. Use a make up brush for foundation. Is your mascara fresh? It will go on faster if you don’t have to keep applying it over and over!
- How long does it take to do your hair? Blow drying with round brush can make your style smooth without having to use a straight iron.
- Are your hose in good order? Use ziplock bags and label them with color and type so you can grab them and go! (Or you can trim the picture from the original packaging and put them in the bag with the hose!)
If you have a great tip to get ready faster, please comment below!
Hi Girls!
I just LOVE your website! I was wondering if you can give some ideas for wardrobe for an upcoming trip to NYC. I will be traveling with my husband, mother and teenage daughters next Memorial Day weekend. We will be visiting museums, a broadway show, and LOT of walking around and window shopping…Please could you give me some advice? Thanks a lot!
~C. Capetta
Having just been to NYC recently, we can say that the first and foremost important item is your shoes! You will need to find a great pair of flats or cute tennis shoes and work your outfits around them.
We saw LOTS of leggings or tight fitting pants with nice flats, long tops and lots of scarves and a big, oversized purse. Black is the locals favorite color.
We recently featured some great new shoes that are both stylish and comfortable. Also, you can go to our archives for more ideas.
Here is a typical outfit (from DKNY and Nordstom):
- Shoe alternative would be a colorful flat or very casual thin soled black tennis shoe with this.
- If your feet are not comfortable, you will be miserable!
- Make sure to wear shoes that are tried and true. Never pack brand new shoes that you have never worn… make sure to break them in before you go.
- Try adding a Cozy (long flowing sweater) to take it from day into evening.
This outfit from DKNY is a perfect NYC casual outfit!
Sweater from Nordstom
This basic clog should be updated with a boot
Hi Glam Gals,
Are clogs a fashion do or don’t for women 40 +? Thanks …..Nicole
Hi Nicole,
Deborah and I had an interesting chat about clogs today. I (JoJami) was commenting on how many women in the states (especially back east) seem to really like to wear clogs. Deborah, who is from Toronto was shocked! “Nobody ever wears them here!”
So then, of course, came the big question…. Are clogs fabulous after 40?
We know this is going to be a controversial topic, but we are standing by our opinion…
This is just too clunky to look fabulous
NO! Clogs are not fabulous, unless you wear them for teaching, nursing, gardening, or inside as slippers. You might get away with them when you’re off to Yoga, but even then it’s “iffy”. (PLEASE NOTE: THOSE WITH FOOT PROBLEMS ARE AN EXCEPTION!)
Why? It was hard for us to pin down exactly what we don’t like about them. … they are comfortable, easy to slide on and off, but yet neither one of us would be caught dead in them.
Looks like clogs will be coming into fashion this Spring, and we want to warn you that they have the potential to make those who are over 40 look frumpy.
You can wear these under jeans, but why not wear an entire boot that will have you looking more up to date!
So, in case you have a pair or two, we would like to share with you the Glam Gals top 5 reasons why you should put away your clogs:
- If you are wearing clogs, then you will need the appropriate outfit. That means you are wearing bootcut jeans or pants and are very casual. Never wear them with a skirt or dress!
- If you hate to part with them, have a good look in the mirror when you put them on with an outfit. Does it make you feel updated?
- They might be comfortable and easy to wear, but there are other options out there that will make you look much younger!
- The clunkier and chunkier the clog, the more matronly the look
- Clogs with the wrong outfit, can tend to make you look older than you are!
Now we can’t give clogs a bad rap and not show you some examples what to replace them with. Here’s a fresh take on the clog:
| Suede Boot:
This boot is the perfect alternative to a clog.
It is much more stylish because it is finer and more streamlined, yet still gives you a little height like a clog.
The suede makes it super comfortable and warm and goes with jeans and casual pants. |
 www.shoe-store.net (style:blondecorina) |
| The Bootie:
These high style booties are all the rage, you will be totally updated in them! Great with a straight legged pant or jean and can even be worn with dresses and opaque hose. |
 These boots are from Nordstrom |
| Side Zip casual boot with low heel:
You can wear these like you would a clog. They are casual but still comfy. With the side zipper they are still easy to get on and off. |
 Found at Nordstrom |
| Pull on low boot:
This pull on boot can be casual or great for work. The leather makes it a little dressier, but the elastic makes it easy to get out the door in a flash. |
 These bots are at Zappos |
| To see one other boot we blogged about way back when check out this clog blog post |
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Hi Glam Gals,
Is plaid is an option over 40 and how it is best to wear it? I am a 41 Stay at home mom with a 8 year old and 3 ½ year old. I am trying to build a wardrobe to last, but also want to add some fun pieces. What do you think? ……………..Thank you. Nicole
Hi Nicole,
We’ve got to admit, we’re not mad about plaid, (a little too sporty for our taste), however that doesn’t mean that you can’t love it, and that it won’t look great on you if you are more the traditional type.
Here are a few plaids to consider, and a few plaids to definitely avoid!
| AVOID!
…”But plaid is so cute”
Please, please – don’t any of you tell us that top is cute or we will have to make you an honorary member of the frump society.(LOL)
This is not Fabulous after 40 or any age, especially when your are carrying a few extra pounds. Plaids are busy. They make you look big, and the boxy fit, high neckline, drawstring waist, and tunic length of this top only add to the walking blanket look. |
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| “But, what if I’m thin?”
Baggy is baggy after 40. This boyfriend lumber jack shirt look may be hot right now but the oversize nature of it sends the message I’m a little girl playing dress-up. It’s babyish and sexy at the same time. At 40+ this trendy look is extremely hard to pull off, no matter how fit you are. |
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INSTEAD
Go for Fitted
After 40 your body starts to soften up and you need some definition, so find a plaid shirt that is more slim lined and nips in at the waist. Also, to look more modern, try a more lively color combination.Traditional plaid colors (navy, forest green, gold, black etc) are usually pretty drab and can make you look tired and old. |
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| AVOID
The Designer Trap:
Yes, It’s Burberry and it’s a status symbol, but who cares, because in this particular case the shirt is too sloppy and edgy to look anything but silly on a grown up gal. Leave it for your teenager.
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| INSTEAD
If you are truly in love with the Burberry plaid, and not just buying it for the designer label, then think about just using a plaid scarf or handbag to pump up an plain outfit. Using plaid as an accent gives you a very chic look.
If you like, and can handle more plaid, then try a modern twist like this fitted high contrast jacket which would look great with black jeans and a black top. It’s sporty, but elegant too, and just that little bit different to make it interesting. |
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| AVOID
Stay away from teenage styles:
This top with it’s cutesy gathering and puffed sleeves looks like it should be paired with a pair of Daisy Duke cutoff jean shorts, and needs to stay right where you found it..in the junior department! |
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INSTEAD TRY
Pairing plaid with a sweater
Try to get past this girl’s baby face (just cover her face with your finger-why do they use such young models??) Now, imagine this combo on you with a cute pair of jeans.
The plaid top is simple, fitted and quite hip because of the simple ruffle detail, and it is an interesting shade of reddish brown. Paired with the chartreuse cardigan it looks fresh. Almost Michelle Obama inspired, wouldn’t you say? We know how she loves this green color. The sweater gives it some oomph and takes away from plaid overload. |
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| OR, TRY THIS
Painterly Plaid
This is interesting and modern twist on plaid. It looks and feels more sophisticated. Pair it with a black cardigan. |
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| BE CAREFUL OF
Matching Plaids:
This is a beautiful suit and would look lovely on most anyone at any age. But if you want to present as a little more hip and less formal you may think about breaking up this suit. You know, pairing the jacket with a single color pair of pants, or even with jeans for the weekend with a t-shirt underneath. When you look too perfect, it can be aging. |
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INSTEAD
Break things Up:
Here’s an example of what we mean. Plaid jacket and a black skirt gives this suit a less formal feel, but it is still very elegant. The 3/4 length sleeves are very flattering and allow you to have fun with some great jewelry. Oh, and don’t forget to smile. |
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DO
Classic with a twist
Hope you don’t get sick of us saying this, but it’s true. What could be a boring beige plaid trench is now a modern, little bit funky purple plaid jacket. The best way to wear this is to let the purple take center stage and accessorize in black. |
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| EXPERIMENT
With something Dramatic
Forget the boring country girl plaid shirt and try something daring and dramatic like this chic cape. It’s classy, but not snooty |
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Hi Ladies,
This is a big challenge! I need swimsuit advice. I try to stay fit, but at 48 my abs are not as flat as I would like to be rockin’ a two piece. What are your suggestions on looking sexy but age appropriate at the pool or beach? Also, I will need to be looking good for a business trip to a beach resort which makes it extra difficult.
I checked out Victoria’s Secret and they have some great suits, but I am worried that I will see those same suits on tons of other women. Last year I found the most awesome suit and one of the other wives had the exact suit in the exact color. Bummer!
Thanks,
Ellen
Nashville, TN
Hi Ellen,
The word “swimsuit” to almost anyone over the age of 25, and definitely over 40, can send chills up the spine! However, we like your “rockin” attitude and think we can help!
Can you be sexy when you’re over 40…you bet! You just have to know the right tricks!
First off, there are no rules about how old you must be to wear a 2 piece; you just have to have to be on the thin side…
However, to be honest, most women on the back side of 40 are starting to look better in a one piece. Never fear.. you can still look sexy!!
- Show off those legs with a high cut suit
- If your legs are not looking so great either, you can always show a bit of cleavage!
- Go for a suit that has a medium large pattern. This confuses the eye and can hide bulges!
- You can’t go wrong with a all dark suit like black, navy or chocolate brown!
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The print tricks the eye and will hide small bumps and bulges (www.Soma.com)
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Black is always slimming. We like the plunging neckline and wider straps (www.Soma.com)
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This cover up can hide thick legs, but still has a peek a boo slit! (www.Soma.com)
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With the dark contoured sides, this colorful suit still flatters. (www.Newport News)
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Here is a great way to feel great and not show off so too much thigh!(www.Newport News)
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This black suit is so pretty and looks good on all shapes! (www.fashionbug.com)
Here is a great fashion question from one of our readers: Dear Glam Gals, Wondering what handbags you would consider “old lady” and which would be considered more youthful…..thanks! L. C. Vandercook Hi L.C. We had fun looking for some good examples to share with you. Here are our Do’s and Don’ts
What’s worse than dressing too old and frumpy? …Dressing like you’ve shopped in your teenage daughter’s closet! There’s a fine line between looking fabulous or foolish. Here are some Christmas cocktail dresses we found to illustrate the point. (All dresses are from Nordstroms)
| Example |
Don’t |
Do |
| Red satin is a bold and dazzling choice so be sure to wear it with class.
When you are young and firm you can get away with most anything, but after 40 more coverage up top and a longer length skirt will ensure you don’t end up looking like aging cocktail waitress. |
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| Baby Doll dresses have been popular in the last few years but on a grown up gal will make you look like you are playing dress-up.
You can still enjoy the ruffle look by wearing a dress with simple clean lines and no cutesy short or puffed sleeves. |
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| The draped look can be very elegant if it’s not overdone. Less is more if you are 40, 50, or beyond. |
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| We love these big collar dresses because they can put beautiful emphasis up by your face.
But at midlife you need to keep this look understated. Not too bright, short or exaggerated. Caution: don’t even go near this look if your arms aren’t in good shape! |
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| What gal can’t resist a bit of sparkle, but this mini on the left with it’s winged shoulders will make a woman 40 or better look like an desperate fashion victim.
We prefer the shift on the right with only a hint of shimmer peaking out from behind some sheer material. You can have fun with this trend, but not in a garish way. |
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| Grrr.. need we say more? If you like animal prints you might as well be a sexy cougar, rather than a baby cub. |
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| Pretty in pink? You can be if you choose to express the color in a sophisticated way.
Keep the cut clean, lean and modest. Stay away from the prom queen look. |
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| Bows. They’re tricky but they’re in style.
Forget the strapless, mini style and go for the regal Jackie O style. The tailored bow on the model on the right gives you much more presence and power than a floppy satin one. |
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| There’s a lot of green out there and it looks fabulous this Christmas.
Thin dress straps look lovely on a gal with perfect shoulders and decolletage, but after 40 they are too harsh. Also, avoid youthful fashion statements like these heavy black hose paired with a cocktail dress.
Opt for a dress like this one on the right with its stunning portrait neckline. It flatters most figures, especially 40+ ones that have experienced a little middle age spread because it balances out hips and shoulders. |
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| If you want to go sheer, do it in a tasteful way. Just a hint will do you. Be sure the rest of you is well covered up. |
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One of our readers wrote us recently that she was really depressed that she had nothing to wear to an upcoming Sunday afternoon Christmas tea. Her budget was very limited and she didn’t want to have to buy an entire new outfit.
We suggested that she go out and find a new blouse to spice up what she already had in her closet!
She was thrilled and went out and found a gorgeous new blouse for $49.00 and when she got it home, she realized that it was going to be able to make up to 5 new outfits with it!
Here are a few suggestions that we think would be great additions to your winter wardrobe! The secret is finding a blouse with an interesting neckline that will add some flair!
This type of neckline is always flattering!
Under a suit jacket or on its own, this pretty blouse looks good on all body types! (from Nordstroms)
This animal print is soft and romantic! (from Spiegel)
This off the shoulder is hard to find, but easy to look good in!
We like this ivory blouse that is off the shoulder, because it can be sexy with out showing cleavage! (Nordstroms)
We recently posted a letter from a reader who can’t wear heels because of foot problems and wanted to know if she could wear leggings with clunky flats.
When we mentioned that instead, she should try some flat boots, she ran out and found a pair at Nordstrom’s!
Now leggings and jeans are fine, but what if she wants to wear a skirt? Since these boots are very casual they will be look best with pants…
Flat boots like these will be comfy for those with foot problems
However, here is a skirt that will work with them too. You could also try a casual dress, like a sweater dress.
Colorful skirts make fall dressing festive
Don’t forget to make sure to find opaque hose (not sheer) or tights that match the boots. This will give the leg a longer look.
We went to Boden.com and Spiegel and found lots of great casual styles to choose from! At Boden, you can even “try” the clothes on a fantasy model and see what they would look like on a person!
Here is another combination we liked:
This skirt from Spiegel, would be a good length and weight to balance this boot.
And, for extra comfort and support, don’t forget some Dr. Scholl’s inserts!
Hi, Deborah and JoJami,
I would love your advice on how not to look frumpy when I have to wear clunker shoes because of foot problems. Because of an old skiing injury, I have been unable to wear heels since I was in my 20’s, which makes it hard to look and feel sexy, or even professional, when I want to dress up. I’m limited to certain brands of shoes recommended by my foot doctor and orthopedic surgeon so it’s not just a matter of being able to wear flats.
For example, I’d love to wear leggings this Fall as shown in the photo on your website, but I can’t wear heels.
I’d appreciate any advice you can give me. Many thanks!
- Nancy
Dear Nancy,
We sure wish we could wave a magic wand with your problem, but it is not that simple. However, your problem is one that many women face. We get letters all the time from women that can not wear heels.
That being said, you can still look fabulous but just have to try styles that might not be the latest trends.
The good news for you is that with styles changing so often, almost anything goes when it comes to pant styles.
When you are stuck having to wear clunky shoes, there are several things to make sure you do not do. First off, is leggings will be out of the question for you. Since the style is really a “pencil” shape, no matter what you do, legging will just not look good with a clunky shoe. Instead, you will need to opt for any pant that has a wide leg and (or) has some flair at the bottom.
This will still be stylish, and you can wear almost any shoe. Also, there are some great brands of shoes out there that do sell some comfortable shoes that don’t look orthopedic.
Here are some styles from Zappos.com that we suggest:
 These Taryn Rose flats are comfy and stylish |
Actually if you can wear this type of flat shoe you could still wear it with a skinny jean and look great! |
 This is good with pants only! |
Once you have to start wearing more orthopedic looking shoes like these, you can easily see that style starts going out the window. |
 Another simple but elegant choice |
However once again, if you wear these with the right style of well-fitted pants, you will still look great! |
Dear Glam Gals,
The 3/4 length sleeves on winter coats seem to be popular, but what do you do with your sleeves of dress, shirt, etc? Would it be appropriate to wear long gloves?
Thanks, Ellen
Dear Ellen,
With all the rage of the 3/4 sleeve jacket, there are lots of options on how to wear this look.
I (JoJami) just bought this plaid jacket from a local resale shop, and have found it a great 
transition piece into fall. I have worn it with some black slim pants, with a black turtleneck with tall boots tucked into them, as well as more casual with a pair of straight legged jeans.
I even wore it with a black pencil skirt and black tights and black pumps and a thick belt to a networking event.
This big question is: Is it OK that my sleeves hang out the bottom? Yes, we have seen them with the sleeves hanging out the bottom (like this hounds tooth jacket below from Nordstrom’s), but feel it looks best if you choose a top that you can push up the sleeves or are sleeveless.
This 3/4 sleeve jacket is from Nordstroms
Moreover we agree that this jacket would look great with a pair of long leather gloves when the weather gets cooler.
It is also looks great with different shells. Here I have a sleeveless turtle neck, and a 3/4 sleeve scoop necked shell.
The options are endless, however I really like to keep it simple with all black underneath or pop it with a white blouse.
There is a bit of tan in the plaid as well, and would work nicely with a column of tan underneath as well. Since I bought it used, I would not attempt to try to put red with it, since it would be probably next to impossible to get the red right.
One more note, we both agree that we would not invest in a piece like this if it was pricey, since this is more of a trendy look. However this one was only $40.00 and so I felt like it was a good buy for how much I will be wearing it.
If you have a 3/4 jacket, please send us your photo in it with permission to use it on our blog. It is always fun to see how others put their looks together!
