There is a new book out that peaked our interest, it called The Happiness Project. It is all about this gal who spent a year finding out what she could do to feel wonderful everyday. We thought it was interesting that one of the tips was to clean your closet!
This weeks Blogging Boomers Carnival #146 has all the scoop on this book and other topics that you might find to tickle your fancy being hosted this week over at the travel blog, Hole in the Doughnut.
Listen into this special interview with author, Robyn Okrant
First there was the Julie/Julia Project, then came Living Oprah~ My One-Year Experiment to walk the Walk of the Queen of Talk.
Yoga teacher, Robyn Okrant, aka LO (short for Living Oprah) is a self proclaimed, “average” almost 40 year old, who set out to find out what would happen if she put her life in the hands of televisions’ most influential personality.
The result was a full year of watching the Oprah Show (everyday), reading O Magazine, and going on line to the website as well. What happened is a fun ride down a slippery slope. Not wanting to be sponsored, Robyn chose to buy everything that she could afford that Oprah reccomended for a full year… even if that ment having to give back a freeKindle that the producers of Oprah sent her! OUCH!
JoJami read the book (Loved it!) and got a chance to interview Robyn this week to ask her some upclose and personal questions about how the whole thing went!
Listen here for this juicy chat with the author and find out if LO has worn out the cute ,age-appropriate, lepeord print flats she was instructed to buy!
Out at a restaurant the other day I saw this lovley women sitting by herself enjoying a cup of soup reading her Kindle. What is a Kindle? It is the new way to store books and have them ready to read via a small little screen you can take with you!
Nothing like a well dressed women who is up to date with her electronics!
We were inspired to share with you this latest tip from an article we saw on this weeks Blogging Boomers Carnival #141, hosted by none other than our 2 favorite wild and witty women over at Menopause Musing!!
Click below on the box and see a great video demonstrating the Kindle!
It’s no secret that the Glam Gals adore and are inspired by anything French. We have both traveled the country extensively and find the allure of the French woman so fascinating with the way they always seem to to be sexy, sophisticated and effortlessly put together.
What I enjoyed so much about this book was how the author, who happens to be English, delves deep into the mysterious realm of the day to day habits of the French woman and discovers some interesting wisdom and practical advice on how to achieve that ooh la la style with maximum effect with minimum effort.
Funny, honest and some shocking facts makes this book a good read.
What is your burning fashion question? We asked and you told us…
How can I look updated and chic and NOT spend a lot of money.
Deborah and I didn’t know if it could REALLY be done… so we went out and put it to the test.
Here am I (JoJami) with one of my lovely clients Linda S. Linda is over 40, a wife, mother of 4 kids, and a nurse. She told me she loves to see her teenage daughters looking hip and felt like those days were over for her. She rarely takes the time to shop for herself and when she does she never knew what to buy that was age appropriate.
So we let her read our new e-book… Chic on the Cheap~How to Update Your Wardrobe on a Budget and then sent her out shopping!
Client Linda and JoJami looking to dress chic on the cheap!
Linda realized that her first problem was that all these years she never really had the tools or plan she needed.
“One of the best part about the book was the chapter on Finding your Style Personality” says Linda. “That helped me keep my focus and opened my mind to try new things!”
Linda also confessed…
“I had a great leather skirt that I bought on sale last fall and never wore it because I didn’t have the right shoes.
After reading the book, I learned so much!! You, Glam Gals put in so many strategies that I could start using right away, and I had no idea of how many costly mistakes I have been making all these years!”
"Get Chic on the Cheap, it change my wardrobe, Yippee!"
Are you ready for Fall? Do you have a plan on what pieces to add or how to update your wardrobe?
Here is how you can start building your new dream wardrobe and save hundreds (for some thousands) of dollars, not making the same old mistakes!
We all know you are what you eat. But it’s also true …You are how you dress.
When you think about it, you can pretty much read someone’s inner emotional state from the moment you meet them, just by doing a quick assessment of how they put themselves together. A woman who dresses neatly and conservatively is usually that way in her work, home and play. A woman who dresses sexy and wild is usually single or looking for more excitement in her life.
Dressing relates to how a women feels about herself emotionally, and that self-expression starts from a very young age.
This week’s Blogging Boomers Carnival has a review of a new book about how young girls are feeling and expressing themselves these days. It’s called The Curse of the Good Girl: Raising Authentic Girls with Courage and Confidence “by Rachel Simmons.
For those of you with daughters or granddaughters, this book is a must read because it will help you give our girls the confidence and tools they need to succeed in a world that is sending out crazy mixed messages.
To read more about this and a mixture of other current Boomer topics, hop on over to the Blogging Boomers Carnival hosted this week by, Life Two.
Here at Fabulous After Forty, we are all about stretching our outlooks and embracing change when it comes to dressing. But, no matter how much we love trying new things, there are some things in life that might not need to change.
This week’s Blogging Boomer Carnival host is Dina at This Marriage Thing, where you can find more great ideas to mull over and maybe even change your mind about!
Have any of you out there read this book? Please write in and let us know what you think!
“I [have a question] about the old lady hair problem…maybe you could follow up with some more hair thoughts? Techniques? Products? Pretty please?” M.N.
I am currently tackling this problem myself. (I am irritated that my grays are not as smooth as my regular brown).
But what I’m doing is taking medium hair and going back to the curling iron - Eva Longoriaish.
Also…the blonde on Desperate Housewives is sometimes straight sometimes curled…and that is a very relate-able current look for women over 40.
Long hair: Iffy. Even though that is not the popular sound byte, nor what women want to hear, so you don’t tell them because you want them to buy your product, it’s just true. Once hair is past the clavicles if your face isn’t young looking and your hair isn’t luxurious it is often just not flattering.
But extensions do help, and can make over 40 hair look a little less over 40.
The problem is the texture. Texture changes (as does face/weight/body proportions) and just blow and go hair isn’t as easy as it once was. So you kind of have to create the illusion of ‘blow and go’ with products that have protein in them (to strengthen the hair). I like Nigelle’s Blow Make Smooth Essence. This gives a little more strength and polish so you can style it easier.
Also, a reason why shorter hair tends to work better is because it not only looks like you didn’t have to work so hard, but it still looks good later in the day.
But if it is longer, making sure it’s shiny (using the curling iron, flat iron etc) helps. Can look sort of Farrah if you don’t’ start curling at the base first and click the hair through rather than pulling the curling iron to the ends and wrapping it up.”
Thanks Christopher, for your expert advice!!!
P.S. If you haven’t bought it yet, check out his book,Staging Your Comeback... it is one we keep on recommending, it’s that good!
Over the years, has your daughter ever “borrowed” your clothes or shoes? Well now the tables have been turned with our friend Sherrie Mathieson’s new book, Steal This Style ~Mom’s and Daughter’s Swap Wardrobe Secrets. We like this book because it is the perfect guide on how to borrow from younger generations (pieces that are hip yet appropriate) as well as past generations (classic items that are forever cool) – and attain great style in the process. Inside are lots of wonderful photos that make the tips easy to imitate!
Listen below for 3 quick tips from Sherrie’s new new book!
We’ve been getting a ton of comments about our post about cosmetic surgery, so we thought we’d throw this into the mix for you to have your say.
There’s a great post at The Mommy Files about a woman who spent $10,000 on cosmetic surgery to look like her daughter!
Sure, it’s fun to borrow a few fashion ideas from your daughter as our friend Sherrie Mathieson points out in her new book, Steal This Style: Moms and Daughters Swap Wardrobe Secrets, but to undergo the knife to look like her? You have to be crazy. Don’t you think?
With today being TAX day for us in the States… we thought we could help lighten things up by suggesting you read a hilarious new book out by Jill Connor Browne aka The Sweet Potato Queen.
Here is a sample bite from Jill’s side splitting book…
“…From the time we first felt the urge to put mascara on an eyelash, and then bat it at somebody, to the most recent time we looked in the mirror and tugged back on our neck and face skin to see what it would look like if we had a little ‘work’ done. From that too-brief time in our youth that we actually looked ‘hot’ and could pull of ‘flashy’ without seeming pathetic – to the seemingly endless time in our later years when we only FEEL hot and that comes only in flashes with buckets of sweat.”
Thanks Jill for inspiring us to all go out there today and SPARKLE !
If you are like us and enjoyed the book, Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert…. read on!
With midlife being a great time to discover new directions and interests, we were excited to actually get to see Ms. Gilbert speak on such topics, thanks from a tip from one of this weeks Blogging Boomer Carnival contributors, This Marriage Thing.
To see this inspirational video and read about other Boomer issues and topics, like how to inspire your creativity or how to find true love when your over 40,… just head on over to this weeks Blogging Boomers Carnival issue#106, which is being hosted by our buddy Wesley at Life Two.
We encourage you to join in on the conversation and feel free to leave a comment!
With all the advice we dole out about how to dress, let’s not forget that on Valentine’s Day it’s OK, to forget the clothes and suprise your sweetie by going naked.
If the thought of this makes you feel terribly self conscious about your body, then check outThe Best Kept Secret.
Our buddy Karen has a great Valentine’s post highlighting two new books written to help you find your sexy!
Discover how to still be sexy when you are 40 plus, and let us know of any fun plans you have for Valentine’s Day!
If someone were to ask you “Which 2 words describe you best“, would you know?
Imagine being able to take a special test where you would answer a series of sometimes deep, sometimes light-hearted questions, and voila!…. your own unique, highly personalized, 2 word statement would appear.
The masterminds behind this simple but profound idea are Carrie & Danielle; Carrie, a former interior designer (refinded, treasure)and Danielle, a writer (Sacred, Dramatic). This fascinating pair have joined forces and to set the world a titter about what they say can is a life changing as well as life simplifying experience.
To find out more and meet Carrie and Danielle, and check out there their latest video.
We never get tired of seeing new and exciting make overs and a new book we’ve discovered has some of the best we’ve ever seen.
The book is called Staging Your Comeback (love the title!) – a complete Beauty Revival for Women over 45! It’s by Christopher Hopkins who we’ve blogged about before- a beauty and fashion guru and regular guest on Oprah.
Can you believe this is the same woman? That’s what happens when Christopher works his magic.
We’re excited to announce that we will be doing a teleseminar with Christopher on Wednesday April 16th. You’ll be able to call in, speak to Christopher personally and ask your most pressing beauty or fashion question. Sign up here for that.
Christopher’s book comes out May 1st, but you’ll want to order your copy of Staging Your Comeback now, as we know this is going to be a smash hit.
For a taste of what to expect check out these fantastic make-up tips that Christopher has recorded exclusively for our Fabulous after 40 subscribers!
Feeling more than a little self conscious about your heading south boomer body?
Worried that your honey might come home on Valentine’s Day with something like this? Then start pointing him in the direction of these luxurious lingerie choices that tastefully cover, while still looking sexy.
Luxurious Lingerie
Sizzle this Feb 14th in this fiery red 2 piece peignoir set guaranteed to look hot on any boomer babe. Passionate pink lace peeks out from underneath. Sizes start at size at M and go all the way up to 5x.
If you read past posts, you know we advise grown-up gals to be careful of spaghetti straps, plunging necklines, miniskirts and clothes that show too much skin!
However, in the bedroom, it’s a whole different story! With the lights turned low, you can dare to bare and peel to reveal.
Like cupid’s arrow, this pretty 2 piece Jezebel camisole and boy short hit’s the mark when it comes to sexy. If you want something different try this cheeky, lacy Hollywood sex kitten look.
For more playful, casual look, try this pretty in polka dots, 2 piece cami p.j. set. Lace cuffs and bra add feminine softness. Coverage where you want it without looking matronly!
You’ll look baby soft in the bedroom in this pretty, Victoria’s Secret Knit Chemise. It’s easy to wear, because it is not tight, but still sexy because it is short and plunging. Notice how the peek -a -boo eyelet whispers “come hither.” Especially fabulous if your legs are long and lean.
Romantic roses and sweet details will make you feel like the Queen of hearts on Valentine’s Day. Matching print chemise completes this timeless elegant look.
Sinful Chocolates
Tired of receiving the same old heart shaped box of drug store milk chocolates every Valentine’s Day? Then it’s time to drop your sweetheart a hint about these delicious handmade bonbons. Check out these artisan chocolate sites for a sugar high, that’s worth the splurge!
L.A. Burdicks makes beautiful chocolates that are wonderful sweet treats in more ways than one. We love these cute penguins especially packaged for Valentine’s Day, but JoJami’s favorite is their mini wooden crate full of chocolate mice.
DeBrands Chocolates ~ These decadent handcrafted chocolates are the same ones you’ll find in Donald Trumps Apprentice Suite. Nibble until your heart’s content with this fun chocolate bar for your favorite chocoholic or even yourself.
Saucy Reads
To get you in the mood we suggest Mamma Gena’s book, The Art of Womanly Ways. This over 40 dynamo’s full time job is teaching other women how to find their inner sensuality. She even has classes on womanly ways that friends tell us are not to be missed!
When it comes to love, Angelina Jolie, Camilla Parker Bowles, CoCo Chanel and even Marylin Monroe all have a great deal in common. Each woman has captured the hearts of the world’s most sought after men!
You may have found lots of new found freedom and confidence in the second phase of life but,…….How are you doing with the “sexy” part?
The book, divulges the Siren powers of a diverse group of infamous women who know how to light up a room when they enter one. White breaks down their methods into “lessons” that we can all relate to.
“Deep down, we all have the power to attract, to strut, crow, spread our feathers, and bring men shuddering to their knees,” writes White.
We say, “What the heck. How fun!” While many of us may be happily married or with committed to a dream partner, a book like this can add a little sizzle to any relationship.
And as for you single gals out there trying to “hook” a good one, this book is a must!
Here is what the New York Times said, “Dashing, fun and informative, the book is a spirit-lifting tonic for any woman with a case of the gravity blahs.” OOH YA, bring it on!
Click the play button below and hear Ellen give 3 tips on how you can try out some fun “siren” tricks this week!
There’s no doubt what is inside Charla Krupp’s new book, How Not To Look Old.
Why do we like it? It gives you the Goldilocks version to dressing….with up to date photos and examples of dressing too old (too cold), too young (too hot) and just right.
Charla was on the Today show recently, with a few examples and models from her book. Click here to view the video.
In her book, she gives great tips and examples like:
To look youthful and modern opt for golden blond rather than ashy blond highlights.
Don’t wear dark lipstick. Instead try a shimmering pink color. It will look much more youthful. Also, if you want a flattering jean, try a dark wash boot cut style.
Dressing isn’t a fairytale, it’s hard work, however, with a few tweaks from Charla, you can start looking younger today!
There is a new book out that peaked our interest, it called The Happiness Project. It is all about this gal who spent a year finding out what she could do to feel wonderful everyday. We thought it was interesting that one of the tips was to clean your closet!
We all know you are what you eat. But it’s also true …You are how you 
We’ve been getting a ton of comments about 
Sure, it’s fun to borrow a few fashion ideas from your daughter as our friend Sherrie Mathieson points out in her new book, 
, but to undergo the knife to look like her? You have to be crazy. Don’t you think?
Are you over 40 and suddenly back in the dating game after years of being
(love the title!) – a complete Beauty Revival for Women over 45! It’s by Christopher Hopkins who we’ve 
To get you in the mood we suggest 
Another new book about the art of seduction is Ellen T. Whites, 
