When you want to perk up basics solid pieces, all you need to add is a pretty necklace.
Check out our jewelry line from Stella and Dot to find the perfect piece that will work for you!
We recently had a question from a reader:
Dear Glam Gals,
I love those little half booties that were so popular last fall. I see that they are coming out again this year and would love want to buy a pair, but just do not know what or how to wear them? HELP!
Karen G.~ Minnesota.
Hi Karen,
Your timing is perfect! We just saw this add for the DKNY and here they are showing the same shoe with lots of different looks!
This ad from DKNY is an excellent example of how to look updated!
Here is why we like them:
Beach in reece by Empress229 featuring J Crew top
We recently posted some lovely coverups to go to the beach, but here are is a great “look” to use as inspiration for something more casual. Here are some more ideas that might help:
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 :
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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 know that we love to preach how NOT to buy black, but we could not help but share this Age-mazing Grandmother, who we saw shopping the other day with her over 40 daughter and grandson! The daughter was from NYC and so they had been shopping recently and bought the same shirt. Here is how they both took this simple black piece and made it age appropriate for themselves. Not only that, we have gotten many letters from you all that are asking the question, “Can I still have a more creative or funky look and not look silly?” We say,” but, of course” !!!
All black is easy to wear, when you off for a day of shopping
Here how theses gals got their hip and “funky” but casual looks:
Here is a step by step look:
If you have not updated your jewelry “wardrobe” in a while, now is the time to try out a few of this years hottest, bold and colorful pieces from Stella and Dot!
Some of our favorites necklaces and bracelets are on sale with selected pieces up to 50% off~
Stripes are a hot trend this summer and can still be age appropriate! photo credit:The Satorialist
With an upcoming trip to Paris on the books, I (JoJami) am beyond excited to be able to report to you all, first hand, how women over 40 are dressing in one of my favorite places on earth! (Check back in May for pictures and updates!)
From what we’ve been reading in all the fashion magazines, it looks like the classic blue and white stiped t-shirt is going to be a hot trend this summer! So I’m planning on making sure to pack one in my suitcase!
One of my guilty pleasures is reading a blog called Habitually Chic, that is written by an interior designer who loves to travel. Here she has put together some great pictures that might help inspire you to re-invent this classic look into your wardrobe!
I LOVE the way the woman on the left has layered her stripes with a mustard jacket and baby blue scarf. (Don’t miss the wonderful orange watch she has thrown on for another pop of color and the hip aviator sunglasses!) I’m imagining that this woman has on nice flats or loafers with her kakis and she’s totally comfortable and feeling FAB! However, beware of this high waisted tucked in look for those who have wide hips. See how the jacket is hitting her right at her waist. You could do the same look, but keep the top untucked and then make sure the sweater is longer.
The women on the right are doing the easy, edgier version of stripes… they threw on their skinny black jeans, boots or heels and headed out the door!!!
If you want to try this look, but don’t want to spend a fortune, head on over to Target or J. Crew and try one on. Both stores have a few styles at great prices.
Last week, I (JoJami) was off to St. Michaels, Maryland with a girlfriend to do a little shopping.
While we were there, we decided to pop over to The Inn at Perry Cabin and check out their new Spa facilities, called the Linden Spa.
While it was obvious that they were still getting the pool all spuced up for summer, their “Botanicl Art of Wellness” center was crisp, clean and ready for business!
It was so pretty and smelled oh, so good, that we were tempted to ditch our shopping trip and book an appointment on the spot!
Head to toe Talbots and looking polished and professional!
While checking out the facility, I spotted a woman looking so proffesional and polished that I had to stop her and ask her about her outfit. It turns out she is the Inn’s, Event Planner.
“You won’t believe it, but I’m head to toe, Talbots!” Even my purse and shoes are from there!”
I was certainly impressed that her look was so stylish and effortless from all one store! Moreover, the Inn should be happy to have such a well dressed, Event planner, that looks the part and would make anyone at ease with her polished appearance!
Talbots has been trying to update their image and reach out to a younger crowd and from the looks of things, they are doing a great job of it!
If you are going to be in NYC to see the shows and shop, you might be tempted to hang out up in mid-town Manhatten, but if you really want a unique adventure, you should definitely head on down to SoHo for some of the best shopping ever, no matter what your age.
In SoHo you will find more boutique type shopping mixed in with some amazing bargainsThere’s also many a cute tiny restaurants every few blocks that are perfect to pop into for a quick bite or drink~
Recently I (JoJami) got a tip that I should visit the new Crosby Street Hotel for tea in The Crosby Bar. So, after the uptown museum, I headed downtown to enjoy a wonderful treat for the eyes and tummy!
This low key boutique hotel (there is no name out front…just the bellman and a flag) is done up in what I would describe as funky-contemporary-cozy.
Here are a few photos of the decor.
Here you can come in, relax (the staff was super friendly)…and no need to feel like you have to hold out your pinky finger while sipping your tea!
The Crosby Bar
Yes, this was as yummy as it looks!
JoJami says," Loved the entire experience, would definitely come back again!"
Danna Davis had a problem. She was tired of having of having sore feet after wearing her fashionable high heels.
That spurred the idea to start designing her own line of shoes that were so chic they are being worn by celebrities walking down the red carpet!
These shoes are not just pretty, they are as comfortable as anything you could buy from Naturalizers.
Although these shoes are pricey, we are so glad to see designers are finally hearing our cries! Please design shoes that we can look good in and still be comfortable!
(selected shoes can be found at Nordstroms)
When packing for a trip, it is smart to "try out" the outfits first!
When you are off to a trip, it can be mind wracking trying to plan what to wear!
So when packing for a trip it is great to make your outfits up first and then see how many different “looks” you can create.
We found that interior designer, Heather Clawson from Habitually Chic® has done just that with impeccable taste as she prepares for an upcoming trip to LA.
To see more wonderful outfit choices, you can visit her site, here!
Thisis dramatic and stunning! Don't forget the black scarf that tops it off!
Notes:
Layering is always a good idea when heading out west, since you can never be sure it it will be hot or cold!
Could this be you, enjoying life like this?
This week’s Blogging Boomers Carnival has real “doozy” of a story that you will want to check out, especially if you have a sense of adventure and want an out of the box, exotic retirement idea!
Read on to find out how, after 5 years of research, one amazing couple, discovered the secret to retiring and seeing the world on a shoestring!
Enjoy this story alog with other interesting blog posts at this week’s Blogging Boomers Carnival . Nancy Mehegan at VaBoomer.com is this week’s carnival host.
Final Days of Warehouse Closeout!
The Ultimate Twinset was featured last year and everyone who bought them gave them rave reviews!
Now they are now …
75% OFF
Quantities are extremely limited
To get the discount rate go to : www.susanbigsby.com
Click on: The Ultimate Twinset
Shell Cardigan
Was $79 Now $19.75 Was $109 Now $27.25
Style: Extremely flattering to most. Excellent fit on those with broad shoulders
Fabric: Silk Stretch - it molds to your shape and gives room where needed
Care: Dry Clean only
Best Loved Features: Full coverage around the arm hole so nothing hangs out! Youthful and attractive cut
Hibiscus Red Mediterranean Blue
Great on brunettes and olive skin The perfect choice for business casual
- and those with blue eyes!
Ivory: No photos available
Best on those with lots of color in their skin
What’s left??
XS: All colors/ Both styles
S: Shells: Blue only (very few)
Cardigans: All colors
M: Cardigans only in Red, Blue & Ivory
L: Shells: All colors (very few)
Cardigans: Red & Blue
XL: Shells: Red, Blue & Black
Cardigans: Red, Blue & Black
XXL: Shells: Black only
Please Note: For multiple orders, or questions on size, contact Susan directly at susan@susanbigsby.com or call her at 561-969-9071.
The online order form accepts only one color at a time.
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!!
I (JoJami) am off again traveling and this time, the weather is cold and dreary. Last time I was at the airport, I found a stylish gal, that ended up being from my home town in Wilmington, Delaware of all things! We have since had lunch together and I have been to see her daughter perform the lead in a local production of Carmen!
Since that was such a great experience, I wasn’t shy about stopping this gorgeous women and her husband. The only thing was that she could not speak a word of English!!! However, with a little bit of sign language and giving her my business card, I convinced her to let me snap away! The bonus this time, was as the end of our mini “photo shoot,” she was all smiles and grabbed me and gave me a nice, European double kiss on both cheeks! How sweet was that!!!
Here is our latest “on the street” inspiration from Northern Spain, looking Age-mazing™!
Check out how she got this look:
This chic European is from Spain and is looking stylish and comfortable.
This bag had the right rugged but elegant feel to pull this outfit together!
These boots were made of the coolest animal skin print! They were sort of a green color!
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:
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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!
Are you ready for your next trip?
Holiday travel is right around the corner and besides buying what you need and packing, there are lots of other little details that if you take care of ahead of time can reduce stress in case of an unexpected emergency.
For instance, have you thought about making copies of all your documents and prescriptions?
To read a full travel tips list of what you should have in order before packing for a trip and a variety of other topics, go to this weeks Blogging Boomers, held by Contemporary Retirement.
The Godis Sweater is a great way to update your casual wardrobe!
Fall is the time for warm knits and cardigans! We fell in love with this variation of a cardigan from one of my (JoJami’s) favorite stores, Houpette Boutique in Greenville, Delaware. It’s called a “Godis Sweater,” and it’s so easy to just throw on! It’s very drapey and goes over anything.
I’m going to be dressing it up with a pair of colorful corduroys and a white button up blouse.
And for a more casual look, I paired it with some jeans, boots and a long-sleeve tee shirt.
In fact, I find that I am working this sweater into tons outfits these days! It’s totally hip and the silhouette is so in this season.
The ladies at Houpette are offering our readers a discount on this sweater. Originally $175, it’s now priced at $140 for our ladies. That’s a 20% off savings. I hope you love and wear yours as much as I do!
At Versailles in Vivienne Tam
There’s still a few weeks left of summer, so if you are traveling to Europe and wondering what to wear we have a suggestion for you.
Deb At The Louvre in Diane Von Furstenberg
Make your life easy and just pack dresses!
When I was in France this summer with my husband and three children traveling around Provence, and then up to Paris for a few days, I found dresses were the perfect travel wear.
It was far too hot to wear pants,and shorts would have felt wrong, so I opted for dresses which took up hardly any space in my suitcase, made me feel feminine and were cool and comfy.
For a twelve day trip I packed 8 dresses: 7 casual, 1 slightly dressier. (You could get away with 5-6, but I like to have a few extras to choose from depending on my mood that day.)
In Provence wearing Trina Turk
During the day I wore these cute sundresses with flat gold or black sandals and a carried a large black tote (to carry souvenirs I was buying along the way!). At night I added jewelry, scarves and small heels for a dressier look.
At Jardin du Luxembourg
Now, we were on a family sightseeing trip. We were driving through the lavender fields and visiting the the quaint French countryside towns in Provence. In Paris we were doing the typical tourist things – The Louvre, The Eiffel Tower,Versailles, Le Concierge, the Seine River Cruise etc.
Deb in Eli Tahari
It was not a romantic couple’s vacation where we were slipping off to fancy Parisian restaurants and night clubs. If so, I would have packed differently and brought some dressier date night things.
But for this kind of day tripping, my summer dress wardrobe worked beautifully. What a relief to open my suitcase, slip on my dress of the day and walk out the door.
If you’re looking for a cute summer dress, Nordstrom’s and Saks carries all of these favourite brands!
comfortable?.. perhaps, but ugly!
Here is another letter from one of our readers:
Dear Glam Gals,
Here’s the dilemma: I seem to have managed to pare my wardrobe down to good classics that fit me, an excellent assortment of accessories, jewelry and a few good purses…BUT…what to do about shoes? I find it hard to find ones that are comfortable!
Thanks for your help.
Laura
Hi Laura,
We do agree that it can be a challenge to find shoes that are both comfortable and have some style.
If you are trying to update your shoe wardrobe for fall, we have found that there are reliable brands out there like Naturalizers that have styles that can be both comfortable and stylish.
For a casual flat, try crocodile loafer under a pair of wide legged trousers:
Here is a two tone pump that would spice up your boring suit for work
Check out our contest this month for your chance to win a free pair Naturalizer shoes!! Like these cute boots!!
You could be the lucky winner of the boots!
Download our FREE special report:
10 Signs You’re Looking Frumpy After 40!
You will also receive our eZineand be entered in this month's contestfor a T.J. Maxx Gift Card!
Want to go from frumpy to fabulous? It's time to re-evaluate your style! Check out our eBook, and jump start your style today! [Learn More!]
Tried everything to lose weight? This alternative might be what you need. [Learn More!]
