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Have you ever been shopping and said these fateful words: “I DON”T NEED TO TRY IT ON?” Of course some times that might be fine, but I have found that more times than not, those are words I have lived to regret!
Well,I (JoJami) forgot to take my own advice and I ended up buying this top back in January.
This shirt was a big mistake! I should have tried it on!
Here is the story…
I had gone into the store with a friend and tried on lots of things. Nothing fit or seemed right, so I was walking out the door of the store (empty handed) when I spotted this rack of colorful tops!
Oh, this one looked just great, and I mentioned to my friend, “Boy I could sure use another top, my wardrobe is low on tops right now”.
So she held it up to me and I decided that the size would be fine and there was no need to try it on. (HA!)
Here is a photo of my new shirt. YUCK, what was I thinking!
What went wrong?
- Yes, the color is nice but it ended up being a size too small!
- The way that the seams hit me on the bust area, flattens my already smallish boobies!
- The fabric looks cheap when I put it on.
- The style is not at all flattering.
- The worst part is that the store has a strict return policy, and now I am stuck with it.
So remember, ALWAYS try things on before you buy, so you won’t make the same mistake I did!
Glasses with evening wear is not easy to pull off!
We recently posted some amazing before and after photos of several “average” looking women who in 12 short hours turned into eye popping goddesses!
With that, several of you commented that some of the women wore glasses in their “before” photos and then had them off in the after!
Well, one of the reasons that none of the women were wearing eyeglasses in the “after” is that they all had on evening gowns.
Let’s face it, wearing your everyday glasses with a formal gown in not an easy look to pull off, unless you’re Sophia Lauren!
However, you can still be fabulous with glasses on a daily basis.
Here are our tips on this eye popping subject!
1) If you wear glasses on a daily basis, make sure you have a pair that is updated and looks good with your style of dressing.
2) Decide if you want your glasses to be a fashion statement or not.
You hardly notice that Sarah Palin is wearing rimless glasses!
Rimless glasses are a conservative choice and literally “disappear”. Sarah Palin is a good example of how to wear this style of eyeglasses.
3) If you are going to a formal event and have to wear your glasses, make sure to pick a dress that will be simple and not compete with your glasses.
4) If you have had your glasses for over 2 to 3 years, you should think about updating them.
Tina Fey looks chic and smart in these updated frames.
5) Glasses can be a way to express your creativity. If you are ready for a new pair, why not go out on a limb and try something that is colorful or a new style.
6) Know your face shape. Try on frames that will contrast with your face shape to balance you out. (e.g. If you have a long face, a more rounded frame will be best for you)
Just because you wear glasses does not mean that you can’t look chic or stylish. Just make sure that you have an entire look that is harmonious and that fits your lifestyle!
With updated hair, makeup and clothes, wearing glasses can be festive and fabulous!
This woman has ABD!
Who doesn’t love black? It’s chic and sexy; makes you look thin, and you can wear it anywhere. But when it comes to building a fabulous wardrobe, are you stuck in a “black” hole?
We think so! Abundant Black Disorder (ABD) is a common wardrobe dysfunction that’s rarely spoken about. It can occur anytime in a woman’s life, but usually peaks at midlife. The symptoms: a closet full of black clothing and accessories, the irresistible urge to “buy it in black”, no matter what, and the feeling of being too fat or too visible if you wear anything other than black, black, black.
What women who have ABD don’t realize is, that an abundance of Black seriously cramps your style and makes you look old. How? After 40 too much black is notorious for draining the color from your already lighter, aging skin. Black hides your fabulous 40+ personality, while constantly dressing in black signals, ” I’m old. Don’t notice me. “…Sad!
We compare having ABD to going to an ice cream store and always ordering a single scoop of low-fat vanilla ice milk. It’s basic and practical, but it will leave you feeling bored and unsatisfied, sucking the joy from your life, and your looks.
How can you cure ADB? STOP being so terribly predictable. Perk up your looks and liven up your soul with a dash of color. Promise yourself not to buy anymore black for a very long time.
If that’s too drastic a change for you right off the bat, then look for outfits that combine black with a bold color. Here’s a few examples to ease you slowly out of black and into color:
| Flower Power:
Floral prints are a huge trend this spring. Sheath dresses look polished on everyone. If you are bottom heavy try a sheath with a slightly wider A bottom. (Saks) |
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| Black on Top:
Black makes you look smaller. So if you have a large bust or big shoulders and a small bottom, wear black up top and a brighter pattern/and or bright color on your bottom half to balance you out. If the black washes out your face a bit, add a touch of jewelry such as cute earrings to put some color by you cheeks. (Saks) |
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| Color Block
Wear two blocks of color ( black and a bight) for a dramatic effect. If you are short and heavy, be careful as a horizontal line can chop you up making you look shorter and wider. Go for a monochromatic ( all one color) look instead. (Saks) |
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| Trick the eye:
Patches of black at strategic spots such as the waist can create a waist where there is little. (Saks) |
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| Add personality:
A simple pattern in a bright color adds life and personality to a black wrap dress, where there was none before. (Saks) |
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| Modern way to wear color:
Even though this jacket is bold fuschia, the style is sporty and plain. Mix it with a plain black skirt the outfit would look deadly boring. Pair it with this contemporary pop art patterned skirt and the look is spirited and fresh. (Saks) |
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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 |
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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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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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How about those matching oven mitts! photo: www.washingtonion.com
In a recent story from www.washingtonian.com , they showed this age appropriate outfit as “What to wear to a Christmas cooking party”
They also suggest, “For a casual meal at home, stick to comfy flats, cozy cardigans, and cheery kitchen accessories [those cute oven mitts!]. Short sleeves will stay out of your way in the kitchen, a tweed skirt adds both texture and a touch of class to the ensemble, while a cranberry-based color palette keeps the whole thing holiday-oriented.”
What a great idea…first off, we love that is it NOT Christmas themed.. PLEASE …we women over 40 and have had enough of those darn ugly Christmas sweaters! AMEN!
Also, this printed t-shirt is a bargan at $48.00 from Torn Cristy.
The Tory Burch flats (Zappos.com) could be any brand and still look nice!
One note, we usually DONT like the tucked in look on most over 40 bodies..so beware of that!
That being said, how about tucking it out with a nice hip belt and some tight jeans!
Get inspired…what a great mix of neutrals and color!
Moreover, you can have fun looking in your closet to see if you can pull a classy, but casual outfit together!
Cheers!
The Glam Gals
P.S. Those oven mitts are from Anthropology.com!
How long can you make your pedi last?
One of our readers, Rose Girroso, wrote in and shared an easy tip to keep your pedicure fresh for an extra week!
After your first week or two of your pedicure, just apply a fresh coat of clear polish to clean and dry toes.
Your pedi will look brand new and last longer!
Do you have any other nail tips? What is your favorite toenail color?
Please comment below!
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)
This over 40 model says, " I'm just running around doing errands today"..."Looking fab", we say!
We recently found a wonderful site called Atlantis Home that we wanted to share with all you more daring fashionistas out there.
The author (shown here) is over 40 and just so happens to be a former model. However, even if you are not tall and rail thin, you can still take some fun tips on how to dress a little more funky but still age appropriate!
What makes her looks so great?
- The jacket is updated with 3/4 sleeves and chunky buttons and is a good length on her.
- The gold necklace is bold like the jacket and softens the black top
- Love the neckline of that mini dress
- These jeans are slim all the way down, but not too tight, they give the legs an extra long lean look.
- Even though she is tall she is still rocking platform boots. Believe it or not, these types of heels can be really comfortable.
- She looks sexy with out having to wear tight clothes
Enjoy!
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!
Here at Fabulous After 40, we’ve been reporting about upcoming Fall fashions for the last few weeks. What if you want little bit of something in every category, and don’t have the time to shop around? We’ve found one designed that has it all!
Tory Burch
’s new Fall collection includes pieces that are so trendy and age appropriate, you can’t go wrong. Here is a re-cap of our the Fall trends reviews in the last few weeks, and Tory’s take on them.
Great news: Tory Burch is having a huge sale! Check out the steals here!
There’s a hard edge vibe this fall and much of that is coming from all the leather we’ve been seeing out there. Leather is extremely popular this season, especially black , because it signifies a strong independent woman.
If you want to buy into this trend, but worry it’s too rock and roll for a grown-up gal like yourself, you have a point! Black leather can look tough harsh and tacky after a certain age, so you have to be mindful about how you incorporate it into your wardrobe.
Here’s a few tips on how to do it without looking like an worn out old biker chick:
| Avoid Head to Toe Leather:
Head to toe leather looks tough and flat. Instead pick one leather piece to be your focal point and mix it up with a dress or skirt in a different material. An all black look always comes across as chicer when you combine varying textures. (Saks) |
 A single leather piece is more elegant than head to toe leather |
| Ruffles
If wearing leather makes you feel too tough, then try adding a feminine detail like ruffles like this great coat is from (Nordstrom) |
 Ruffles take leather to new feminine heights |
| Pair with a Flowy Blouse:
a soft flowing blouse adds softness to hard edged leather.(White House Black Market) |
 A silk blouse brings a ladylike touch to hard edged leather |
| Use Leather as an accent:
If you just can’t get your head around leather, but want to look fashionable, why not use it to accent a part of your body such as your waist. (Saks) |
 A touch of leather is all you need to be in style |
| Don’t choose leather cliches: Do we have to say it? No black leather mini skirts |
 no... |
| No fringe….. |
 no! |
Nothing plain weird!!!! |
 no!!!! |
| Choose Modern Shapes and Styles:
Think elegant, not rock and roll and you’ll get it right. This beautiful quilted, rolled collar jacket is classy, but still very cool.(Saks) |
 This quilted jacket with rolled collar is all class |
Gwen Stefani, now 40 and tattoo free
We can’t believe that Gwen Steffani is all grown up and now is getting ready to join the 40 club. It seems like just yesterday she was the young up and coming rock princess and too youthful to be counted in the ranks of us Fab after 40 gals… and what do you think, does she have a tattoo?
Whether you like them or not, the tattoo has been one of those fashion statements that has gotten popular in the last few years as an artistic statement and a way to show off your wild side!
Personally we, know that many of our over 40 friends have been “inked” for years and some that are contemplating it now, just for fun.
So you might be interested to read more about what the allure of this popular trend is, in this weeks Blogging Boomers Carnival #133 being hosted this week over at the wonderful Midlife Crisis Queen!
Do you have a tattoo? Tell us more below!
Do you Dare to bare your shoulders this fall? Asymmetrical necklines, particularly one shoulder dresses and tops, continue to be strong. Is this a silly or sexy look after 40? It all depends on several things things:
| Your body: There’s no fashion rule that says you can or can’t wear a one shoulder after a certain age. If you have great shoulders and toned arms, then a one shoulder dress is a wonderful way to show that off, no matter what your age. Go for it. (Saks) |
 If you have beautiful shoulders and toned arms, show them off |
| The Occasion: Baring a shoulder is a dramatic look and not appropriate for the workplace. Save it for after work fun. (Saks) |
 Save this look for after work |
| Your Personality: You have to be confident to successfully pull off the one shoulder look. If you think you are going to feel self-conscious…take a pass. (Saks) |
 One shoulder is not for the timid |
| Here are a few good options if you want to try a one shoulder:
The faux one shoulder:Looks like a one shoulder but gives you better coverage! (Saks) |
 One shoulder? - Look again |
| With Dramatic sleeve: A great way to get the one shoulder look without baring it all. (Saks) |
 Just a hint of shoulder |
Always Elegant:
You can’t go wrong floating into a room in this elegant Grecian inspired dress. It’s a classic. (White House Black Market) |
 Our pick - Elegant, grown-up and universally flattering |
Things are lighting up as sparkle, shine and glitz shimmer onto the fashion scene.
How does a grown up gal over 40 handle the new razzle dazzle without looking like a tacky Christmas tree?
By treading gently…. Here are 7 subtle ways to get the sparkle and shine look and look fabulous after 40.
Brooch:
If you are not big on sparkle, but want to look in style, then try a little bit of jewelry detail on your outfit. This strategically placed brooch adds an elegant touch of sparkle and accents your waist beautifully.(Saks) |
 Just a touch of sparkle will update your look |
| Sequins update Traditional:
Another way to add sparkle in a classy way is to to look for pieces that say traditional, but sparkle modern with sequins. This classic camel cardigan is fun, but not over the top. (Nordstrom) |
 A classy way to update a traditional look |
| Shiny Fabrics:
The easiest way to shine this fall is to buy a satin blouse. Choose one in a gorgeous color to add life to aging skin and hair. (Saks) |
 Shine with Satin |
| Beading:
Beading is always fun, but too much all over is dated and aging. This chic cocktail dress keeps the beading at the collar, drawing the eye upward and putting the focus on your face. (Saks) |
 this beaded collar brings focus to your face |
| Metallics:
Metallic shoes, handbags or a metallic leather jacket is another subtle way to get the shiny look without overdoing it. This sporty copper leather jacket is understated and chic. (Saks) |
 metallic shine is soft, not loud |
| All out Sequins:
A caution- Sequins , done wrong, can easily look cheap and tacky. If you want to do all out sequences, such as a sequined jacket we suggest you look for a well constructed, good quality jacket ,like this one. (A loose fitting sequined jacket on a soft round 40+ body can make you look like you are wearing a big glittery blanket). Black, dark or neutral colored sequins are always classier than bright ones like red or electric blue, which tend to look more costume-like. (Saks) |
 Be careful with all over sequins |
For other great on How to sparkle and shine this fall, check out our article called Bling it On at MORE magazine
After laughing about those big shouldered outfits we wore in the 80’s, they are suddenly back in style.
This fall we’re seeing lots of volume and width at shoulder, reminiscent of the 80’s ( and 1940’s) silhouette. But don’t go thinking you can hunt down one of your old Dynasty jackets and it will look new again. Things have changed a little, and shoulder pads are only one way designers have created shoulder focus. Check out what we mean:
| Padding: True enough, shoulder pads are still quickest way to give the power message. Bold shoulders are great for us gals over 40 with softer bodies who need some structure. Great piping on this jacket adds extra emphasis. How do you wear a padded jacket like this so you look modern and hip?..with the new slim pants or a slim skirt. (Saks) |
 strong shoulders send a powerful message |
| Draping: Strategically draped fabric is soft and feminine, but strong too. (Saks) |
 Draping creates shoulder emphasis |
| Cinched Waist: The smaller your waist the bigger your shoulders will look. The main difference between the Dynasty 80’s shoulder and the new 90’s strong shoulder is that the styles nip in at the waist instead of being overall boxy. (Nordstrom) |
 a cinched waist balances things out |
| Necklines: The sweeping neckline on this cowl neck sweater adds volume to the shoulders. (Nordstrom) |
 necklines like this create the illusion of wide shoulders |
| Miltary Styles: naturally lend themselves to squared off shoulders which signal authority. (Saks) |
 military jackets make shoulders stand at attention |
Gathered Fabric: Another way to get shoulder definition is to have folds or gathering at the shoulder. If you already have strong shoulders, this look will only make them look wider, as if you have wings and are about to fly away! Also cap sleeves like this look best with toned arms. (Nordstrom)
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 gathered fabric can bulk up shoulders |
Gray, which was big last winter, has become a fashion staple this fall. Worried it may comes across as too boring and the color may drag you down now you are over 40? When done right this new neutral is very modern and elegant. Here’s how to wear it.
| Asymmetrical Neckline:
This interesting new neckline moves gray out of the serious category and into the chic category. This dark gray shade is perfect for this gal because she has cool hair and cool skin. If your hair and skin are warm and sunny you will look better in warmer grays such as pearl gray and dove gray. (Saks) |
 an asymmetrical neckline makes gray modern |
| Animal Prints and Skins:
Gray tones down a wild animal print and makes it look sophisticated. Gray also looks fabulous when it the color of an exotic animal skin. For example, a pair of gray python shoes or belt would be right on target this fall. (Saks) |
 gray come alive with exotic animal prints |
With Feminine Details:
Soft ruffles, a huge trend this season, take the boring masculine uniform look out of gray and make it pretty and soft. Simple ruffles are most elegant. (Saks) |
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Mixed with a shot of color:
Bright jewel tones like purple, emerald green, ruby red and fushia look fabulous with gray and give life to your face after 40 when your hair and skin naturally start to fade. (Saks) |
 jewel tones perk up gray |
| With Shine or Sparkle:
Sparkles, Sequins, metallic threads, and in this case satiny materials, make gray come alive. The interesting use of color blocking here shows just how many shades of gray there really are. This dress ranges in color from charcoal gray to dove gray all the way up to silver. (Saks) |
 add some shine to serious gray |
| Paired with Chocolate Brown:
Most of us don’t think to pair gray with chocolate brown, or taupe, but try it. This subtle combination will make you look modern and chic. ( Saks). |
 chocolate and gray are a modern combination |
Fashion has cozied up to chunky knits this fall. It’s a great look, but can be tricky to pull off especially after 40 when your body is a little rounder and softer than it used to be. Chunky knits, if worn wrong, can make you look like a frumpy old lady. Here’s some tips for how to wear them.
| Sweater coat: You don’t want to end up looking like you are wearing a sloppy bathrobe. Be sure your sweater coat fits properly at the shoulders and isn’t too bulky at the thighs. Also, look in the mirror and make sure the belt loops are really at your waist and not your hips. ( Nordstrom) |
 Unless you are skinny, stay away from loose robes or you'll look dowdy |
| Cowl neck and Boat Necks: are great for pear shaped women because they add substance and width up top to balance out your silhouette. Beware of horizontal lines like this that can add width. A solid colored cowl neck is more flattering if you are trying to hide a few extra pounds. (Saks) |
 cowl and boat necks balance out pear shapes |
| Patchwork can be aging after 40 making you look like a granny wearing a quilt. Choose modern color combinations like gray and yellow for an updated look. Also, reserve patchwork for weekends. It’s a very casual look. (Saks) |
 patchwork can be aging |
| Vertical lines: like a row of buttons, a long zipper or trim down the front elongate your body, making you appear slimmer and taller. (Saks) |
 vertical lines are slimming |
| Sweaters that cascade: are soft, and more romantic. Wear a very simple top underneath, so as not to compete with the sweater, and make sure it doesn’t cascade below your knees. These sweaters look great with leggings or slim pants. (Saks) |
 Cacading sweaters are softening |
| Petites: have to be especially careful they don’t drown themselves in oversize knits. Choose knits small-medium in size, and shorter more fitted styles. (Saks) |
 shorter fitted knits don't overwhelm petites |
The ruffle trend that started this Spring looks like it has some strong legs and will be walking into our closets this fall!
But beware, this is not a trend for everyone and should be analyzed carefully before running out and getting one.
Being over 40, the idea of trying to wearing ruffles can be tricky for several reasons.
| 1. Ruffles add bulk to your front. If you have a large bust, you will have to be careful how much and where your ruffles are. |
- Too many ruffles for an ample bust!
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| 2. You will look sweet because ruffles are romantic and feminine. If you have a power job or are trying to project authority, you will want to stick to sharper lines, or stay away from ruffles altogether. |
- Tuxedo-style ruffles are a better choice under a power suit.
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| 3. Be careful not to over do them. Too much ruffle can be aging. |
- Minimal ruffles work better for us over-40 gals.
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That being said, you can still wear this trend, but you have to be picky.
This fall we are seeing a lot of leather and extreme shoulders. A little it of ruffle at the neck can soften this look and make it feel more feminine and updated.
Here is a sweet white blouse with just a touch of softness at the neckline. This will work perfectly to replace my old blouse that has started to look tired. I (JoJami) found it at one of my favorite local boutiques in Wilmington, Delaware called Ellie.
- white blouse, by Paper White availabe at Ellie Boutique
Recently, we read this article about wearing one of this season’s hot item – a leather biker jacket – without looking literally like, well, a biker. We love the ideas, but what happens if you want to get into the leather jacket trend, but just can’t make the biker-style jacket “you”? Even if you still feel too tough wearing a leather jacket (even if it’s with a pink dress underneath), there are tons of options for purchasing leather this season. It’s absolutely everywhere this fall! Below are some leather jacket ideas that you can embrace this season that will really make a statement – without that statement being “Where’s my Harley?”
Try…
| Blazer:
This suede jacket from Forzieri is a great alternative to a regular blazer. Wear it as you would to the office, and modernize your suits and skirts! |
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| Ruffles:
If wearing leather makes you feel too tough, then try adding a feminine detail like ruffles like this great coat is from Saks. |
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| Trench:
Look instantly glamorous and sophisticated in a trench coat. like this fantastic, movie-star inspired trench from Forzieri. |
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| Touch of leather:
You can even work leather touches into your everyday wardrobe. This leather jacket from Saks is trimmed in soft tan leather, giving it an edgy look.(of course the skirt should be a longer…but you get the idea!) |
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| Color:
Black, tan and brown are very versatile, but color is always so much more fun! Even with motorcycle-ish styling, this leather coat from Forzieri is a great statement piece, and softer than a harsh black jacket. |
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| Add fur:
A touch of fur around the collar or sleeves is another way to add personality to a leather jacket. Also, it’s sure to keep you warmer in the upcoming winter! Check out this one from Forzieri. |
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And for those vegan dressers, there is sure to be a lot of “pleather” or imitation leather and fur jackets. Not only will they be less expensive, but also animal friendly!
