We find that many women fall into a style rut and start looking really frumpy but they can’t figure out what they’re doing wrong. It’s not always that you need a complete makeover. Sometimes, it’s the little things, like your accessories, that you just need to update. A simple change of accessories can instantly take you from Frumpy to Fabulous.
Here’s How to Tweak Your Chic with the Right Accessories:
Before All Brown
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This is the classic button down shirt dress. Our model is wearing it exactly how they sell it with the matching belt. The accessories are pretty plain, basic. We call this the lazy way to accessorize. You just match everything up, not much thought has gone in to it. It is very drab and predictable. |
After All Brown
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This outfit has attitude. It’s got a safari theme going on and the accessories are up to date and modern. They are also larger and more in proportion to this gal’s size and shape. The punch of color in the accessories gives it life. |
Before Necklace
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We all some version of a plain gold necklace like this in our jewelry boxes left over from the 80’s. They’re sentimental usually, and real gold after all, so that’s why we like to wear them. But a necklace like this looks too fine, elegant and basically lost on her neck, and on such an earthy dress. |
After Necklace
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The Safari feel of this dress calls for chunky, earthy jewelry. This necklace is much more adventurous. It has lots of color, interesting, irregular beadwork, and the gold is weathered and more rustic. The nice thing about the colored beads is that they add some brightness to her face and open the door to introduce color into this outfit in other places. |
Before Belt
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This is the belt that comes with the dress, same material as the dress, thin and floppy. Women assume that’s what they should be wearing with it, when it really just a suggestion. Don’t feel locked into this. Changing the belt will kick your dress up a few notches. |
After Belt
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This belt not only looks ten times better from a style point of view, but it gives our model and amazing figure. Look at the waistline! The belt has stretch in back and braiding in the front –almost rope like –like vines in the jungle. The color makes the dress pop as compared to a belt of the same color and the texture gives this flat shiny dress a big style boost. The touch of patent on braiding makes it very current as compared to just a braided belt with no shine. Of course, the wideness of this belt is very much now too. Lesson here-change the belt. |
Before Handbag
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This is classic quilted Chanel style, very 80’s and too elegant and ladylike for this dress. Also it’s very small for her –more of an evening purse. The black color does not enhance the brown. It just drags it down. |
After Handbag
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This bag is much more substantial and works well with the big heavier belt and more adventurous feel of this dress. This bag is current because of size, and because it has lots of hardware and is finished with sophisticated patent leather. The earthy moss color is a fantastic complement to the brown. It’s nice to have a pop of color in your purse. You don’t have to match belt to purse. That’s a very old rule. |
Before Shoes
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These brown wedges are sensible and too generic. You want something sexier to match with the bag and belt. These shoes would go better with a patterned dress than a plain dress. This plain dress needs livening up. |
After Shoes
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These are a wow shoe. They have personality. With a plain dress you need a focal point and if you have good legs play them up with a pair of head turning shoes. These are colorful, textured (suede and snakeskin-very jungle like) and very sexy. |
So in summary, take a plain dress and decide on a theme. Punch it up with current accessories that are colorful and have texture to give your outfit more personality.
Tweak Your Chic by making these simple adjustments and you’re sure to look fabulous at any age!
Looking for a simple way to go from Frumpy to Fabulous after 40? Simply add a great necklace.
Whether it’s a subtle accent or a giant statement piece, a beautiful necklace frames your face and completes your look.
But getting just the right necklace takes some thought.
Here are 5 Do’s and Donts to help you look like a knockout in a necklace.
1. Don’t Wear a Necklace that is Too Tiny
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Too plain This bold jacket and matching top is a lovely, fresh color, but overall it looks a little too plain and bare without jewelry. |
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Too tiny Add a traditional, delicate, tiny gold necklace, and it still doesn’t look right. The necklace is dated and looks lost on the neck. |
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Just Right Instead try adding a fuller necklace to fill in the open space. A fuller necklace is more modern and it is more suited to the crispness and weight of this jacket. Also, because this necklace is a mix of gold, cream and silver beads, it nicely picks up on the large cream and silver button on the jacket. |
2. Don’t Wear a Necklace that Competes with your Top
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Too overpowering Big round gold link necklaces may be in fashion, but that doesn’t mean they go with everything. This necklace is much too contemporary, geometric and bold for this soft, flowing Grecian top with its smooth, draped fabric. |
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Too distracting It might be tempting to wear this gorgeous top with a more refined classic flat gold necklace in order to match the snake pin, however if you’re honest, you’ll see that the necklace competes with the pin and takes away from the stunning sweeping neckline. |
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Simple and Elegant This unique top is a showpiece itself. Leave well enough alone and in this case, forget about a necklace. The best way to accessorize this top would be by wearing a striking pair of gold hoop earrings or long dangles, and a stunning wide gold cuff. |
3. Do wear necklaces that match your skin tone
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Warm Skin The general rule of thumb is to match your jewelry to your skin tone. Deborah (shown here) has warm skin. See how beautiful the warm reds, oranges and browns in her top complement her yellow undertones. |
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Wrong color for skin The silver necklace is very cold and icy on her and is a stark contrast to a very warm look. |
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Right color for skin A better choice is a warm gold necklace. The little charms have gold and orange in them and blend in with her look. It all flows together very naturally. |
4. Do Theme your Necklace to your Outfit
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Too uninspired This gorgeous tropical print is busy and so many may think to leave jewelry out of the mix, but the opposite is true. This fun dress is calling out for a fun necklace. |
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Too conservative See how this plain gold box chain adds nothing to the dress. It’s far too prim and proper to do this exotic theme justice. |
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Perfect for the theme Instead you need to enhance the tropical feel and a large chunkier necklace made of irregularly shaped beads and stones is more natural and earthy looking, so in keeping with this tropical theme. |
5. Don’t Settle for Just One Necklace
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Too bare Many women are confused about what kind of necklace to wear with a wrap dress and so often go bare. |
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Too ordinary A long single chain can look nice. |
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Modern and Fashionable But the layered look is really popular this season. So, instead of wearing a single chain that looks “just OK,” take it to the next level, wrap it around your neck a couple of times. Then add a second chain for a fashion forward look! |
Planning a trip down south and wondering what to pack?
Banish your winter blues and update your vacation wardrobe with some gorgeous new styles from the 2008 cruise wear collections. This year we’re seeing florals of every imaginable kind, vibrant hues, as well as geometric and exaggerated prints that pop. Look out for paint splatter patterns, transparent fabrics, and ethnic everywhere, plus crisp khakis.
The magazines are full of inspiration, but there’s always that problem – how do you know if what looks great on a twenty something, will look as good on a woman like you, who may be twice that age?
Here are 3 cruise wear trends you CAN wear after 40, guaranteed to make you look hip on your holidays.
1. Gladiator Sandals
Stylish, not sensible...
Don’t let these over the top, sky high sandals that you’ve been seeing on wild child celebs and long legged super models scare you away from this hot new trend. Grecian inspired sandals are the “it” resort footwear this year and if you are over 40 you can easily wear one of the many more refined offerings out there.
Pella Moda Vixen
High White – Low White
Leave this tall,funky white pair to jr. fashionistas and instead try this classy, wearable version from Pelle Moda Vixen at $112.
Frye Lola Gladiator Thong
Gold Gladiator Sandals
Metallics continue to be the hot new neutral. A chic pair by Manolo Blahnik made for the jet set is a great choice to go with most anything from pants to shorts and dresses. You can also never go wrong this less expensive version from Frye. They’re a classic and a great price at $55.00!
2. Mini Sundresses
Thigh high sundresses are everywhere you look, and how cute they are! But try one on after 40 and you’ll look and feel you are missing your pants! Unless you have great slim, toned legs (and you pair your mini with flats) this too short style will make you look little girlish instead of chic.
Color Block Dress
Not Too Short Mini
The key is to take a close look at the hemline that suits your particular legs. We’re talking vacation wear here so you can definitely go a little shorter than normal if your legs are o.k., but absolutely not more than 4 inches above the knee or you’ll look desperate. Also keep in mind that spaghetti straps can be harder to wear after a certain age because the arms are much softer and fleshier, so if that is the case look for dresses with wider straps or have a little shrug on hand to cover up a touch.
In some instances if the dress is very short, loose and flowy like this Vince Sundress for $195, you can pair it with leggings. It takes confidence to wear this look without having that deja vu feeling that you are wearing maternity clothes.
VonFurstenburg Sundress
Two Good Longer Options
The best idea is to just keep looking because there are other options out there besides the baby doll mini. Here’s one in pink by Lily Pulitzer for $268.00 and another by Diane von Furstenberg at $365.
3. Very Sexy Bathing Suits
You’ll have no problem finding racks of brightly colored, and metallic sparkly bikinis, microkinis and racy monokinis out there (one piece swimsuits with revealing cutouts), because most manufacturers cater to the college crowd. Even if you still have a pretty great body, you’re best to go for something that signals sexy instead of screams it all the way down the beach.
Glamorous Red Bathing Suit
Old school Hollywood glamour is a big trend. It’s a sexy sophisticated option for women over 40.
Color Blocked Swimwear
Color blocked swimwear is also hot this year. It’s a godsend when you want to play down a not so favorite part of the body but emphasize your best assets. Wear the dark half wherever you want to camouflage and the light half whatever you want to highlight. This suit would be perfect for someone who is heavier on the bottom but wants to play up her bust. ($212)
Juicy Halter Swimdress
Cute Brown Bathing Suit
Here’s a similar look by Juicy Couture. The rusching on this suit is a great way to hide a tummy.
Art Deco Print Swimsuit
Swimwear with Patterns
Solids are always slimming but don’t think they are the only way to go. Patterns like this art deco themed swim suit are big ($172), as well as exotic ethnic prints. This fun Africa motif bathing suit from Great Lengths does a great job of drawing the eye away from the thick part of your waist and tummy and up towards your face.($94)
Plunging necklines also abound but think twice if you are too big busted, you’ll look saggy if the v is too deep. Better to opt for more support on top and go for a slightly higher V.
1. A Sexy Bra
Granted, after 40 your breasts are typically heading south, but that doesn’t mean you should cover them up with a boring, stretched out beige bra up and forget about them. The quickest way to feel good about your changing boomer body is to Perk up your girls with a gorgeous, sexy new bra. Splurge on something a little more feminine and pretty. We are seeing some gorgeous options out there like two toned bras in ice cream colors of lime sorbet and lemon ice, rich chocolates and strawberry pinks! Or for the holidays go bold with jewel tones of ruby, amethyst or emerald. How fun to run around all day knowing that underneath it all is a sexy woman!
2. A Cape
The trick to looking fabulous after 40 is not to try and look young, but to look modern. A cape is a great way to do that. Fashionable and fresh, a cape is a sophisticated way to show you’ve still got flair! Not only that, but they are really comfortable, since they are not as restrictive as a coat and warmer than a pashmina. It’s the newest look in stepping out in style! Go for a grey or deep chocolate color for a versatile look that can go day into evening. If you go off to a black tie affair, of course a black velvet one can be quiet gorgeous and very formal.
3. Sleek High Heeled Boots
A simple formula to look boomer chic is to stick to simple classic looks, (a crisp shirt, flat front pants and fitted cropped jacket, for example) and put the emphasis on the accessories. One of the most important details this season is boots. Finding a wow pair to personalize your look is key. Nothing can date you faster than an out of style, worn our pair.
Opt for a boot that is finer in style to ooze sophistication. Not too round or square toe and keep the heel thinner or go for a wedge. Too clunky is funky and better left to the younger crowd! If you’re looking for comfort and style, try some of Cole Haans new boots that have Nike air cushions in the toe. As we age, our feet get drier and the pad on the bottom of the foot can become tender after walking all day. This pair allows you to have fun in heels and still feel comfortable.
4. Smart Handbag
Enough of teensy weensy bags that barely hold your lipstick and ridiculously oversized purses that let you lug around everything you own and make you look like a bag lady. For Grown-Up gals it’s time for something stylish but smart. There’s a whole new line of luxury bags out there that look gorgeous but also keep you organized. We think the Butler Bag is a great choice because it is fashionable on the outside, but the inside stays absolutely organized!! The new exotic fall colors in spicy ginger and olive martini are just the thing to add some zing into your wardrobe!
5. Gorgeous Gloves
If your coat is neutral and you want to jazz things up, try a new pair of fresh gloves. Snakeskin and extra long leather is all the rage this season. Bold colors and exotic skins are easy to pull off, especially if you’re only wearing them until you step inside. Look for soft supple leathers that aren’t too bulky. Sure you have the ones you walk the dog with but for going out change them out. Don’t go for the practical black or brown ones; find something that sings your personality. Dare to be wild. You will have fun soaking in all the compliments!
The little black dress… It’s a girl’s best friend! Loyal and true it comes to the rescue when you’re not sure what to wear. Always right, this classic wardrobe staple, makes you look instantly chic and never goes out of style.
If you don’t own one or feel fabulous in the one you’ve been wearing, then it’s time to buy a new one. Here are:
7 Top Tips for How to Buy and Wear the Perfect Little Black Dress
1. Look for a Dress with a Touch of Sizzle
The beauty of the ‘Little Black Dress’ lies in its simplicity; so make sure the one you choose has clean lines, not a lot of fussiness and frou frou. Do, be sure however, that your dress has a touch of sexiness, like elegant slit up the side, a deep V back, a lacy hemline or some sheer netting across the bust or arms for example. Details like buttons, sashes, cuffs, etc done in touches of velvets, silk tulle and other sumptuous fabrics will create a very rich look.
For example, this Anne Klein black silk dress is flattering to most women. Reminiscent of bygone Hollywood, it has a wonderful deep V-neck halter top and a tied waist with a long silk sash. The skirt is softly pleated and falls just below the knee. This dress can hide a woman’s flaws while subtly enhancing the female form.
2. Make Sure it Fits you Like a Glove
Fit is key to looking like a million in your little black dress. Don’t try to squeeze into a tight dress thinking it will make you look thinner. It will only make you look bigger. Throw away size tags and buy a dress that skims the body without pulling. A lined dress will smooth your figure and Spanx helps give you that sleek look too!
We think this dress hits the mark to show off a woman’s curves without being too sexy. It has a v neck which flatters the neckline and chest area with a cinched waist and softly pleated skirt. It flatters the pear shape body very nicely and with its longer length–hitting just slightly below the knee, most women can wear this dress beautifully!
3. Be Sure the Dress Plays up Your Best Features
For many of us 40+ teensy spaghetti straps and strapless dresses are not flattering. They highlight that midlife flabby flesh we often carry on our arms and underarms. Take a look at your best features and decide what else might work for you. V-necks flatter most body types, but if you have a really long neck, a rounded neckline will look good too. If it’s your legs that still look great, you can go a tad shorter on the skirt. If it’s your waist that‘s still looking wonderful, show that up with a great accent there like a ribbon tie or belt. Wherever you want the eye to go is where you want the detail to be!
For example, this simple, classic, black dress is a good one if your best features are well defined arms or a tiny waist. We love the capped sleeves and cinched waist. Moreover, the length hits just below the knee, which is a flattering stopping point for most figures.
4. Don’t Over-accessorize
Since a little black dress is like a blank canvas you can change the feel this way or by the way you accessorize. But be very careful to not over do it or you’ll detract from the look. The days of matching earrings and necklaces are over. It is much better to just wear a pair of great earrings with a smashing up-do, or a single item like a beautiful pin. Satin gloves with pearls will give you that timeless Audrey Hepburn look.
If you choose a lace dress like this, you won’t need to add much jewelry. There is a lot going on with this dress, so you would want to keep it simple with just earrings and perhaps a single bracelet.
5. Update your dress with Shoes
Shoes are the easiest way to update your dress and a great way to show off your personality. If you want to stray from the classically elegant black pump, try bright red heels, or leopard or metallic beauties.
TIP: Ankle straps on a shoe are not for everyone. Depending on your size, they can cut off your leg and make you look shorter. This woman is able to pull off the ankle strap, since she is tall with slim legs and ankles. (By the way, we like this dress too, since it is flattering on most body types and the fabric drapes nicely to make it comfortable to wear.)
6. Wear the Right Hose
Choose either a nude or black hose- ultrasheer to be sure! Fishnet stockings are a great way to add some glamour. You can go hoseless in the summertime if your legs still look good, and if you wear a self tanner. And, if you choose to wear sandals definitely go for the bare look! P.S. The right shade of “nude,” is one shade darker than your natural color. Avoid buying your hose that are dramatically too light or too dark. It should look as though you don’t have any hose on.
7. Top it Off with the Right Handbag
Yes, there is a right one! It’s this season’s favourite ~ a slim little clutch to tuck under your arm while you are sipping on your favourite cocktail. Your bag should not match your shoes exactly, but should have the same feel. Black always works and patent leather is in right now, but what’s even better, especially this season is a dazzling jewel toned clutch… a great way to give your little black dress a little oomph!.
How many times have you wandered around a store, finally found something you kind of liked, but ended up frustrated asking yourself, Is this to old? Is this too young? What’s just right????
Is there such a thing as age appropriate and how the heck do you know when you find it? The truth is that while dressing after 40 depends partly on your body and partly on your attitude, there are some basic style guidelines you can rely on to make you look modern and fresh. Take a look at these 3 examples.
JEANS
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Too Old
The reason jeans have remained a staple in womens’ wardrobes for so many years is that the right pair can make your body look goddess-like.
But not this pair! They’re stiff, boring and unfeminine. The high waist sits up past the belly button. Instead of complimenting your curves, high waisted jeans will emphasize your tummy and behind, making you look very big and round. To boot, these jean narrow at the leg making the hips look larger. Also the length of the jean is all wrong, exposing your shoes and making you look shorter and heavier. Donate these to some farm hand. |
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Too Young
Skinny, tight, low cut and flashy. Let’s be honest. These jeans are designed for a tight Little twenty-something body. Sure if you have long thin legs and you wear a big belted top that covers your bum over top of these jeans you might be able to get away with this. But for the majority of women over 40 who Carry a Little extra weight, these jeans will make you look like a stuffed sausage on heels.
Also, don’t know if you can see that this particular pair features faded kitty cat whisker lines across the crotch area. Meow!… another good reason to stay away from these if you are over 40. The whisker lines will only draw attention to your lower stomach and by trying too hard to be trendy you’ll end up looking tarty. |
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Just Right
The right choice of jeans is something sophisticated and modern. We like these classy jeans with a medium rise that lands just a tad below the belly button because they are really flattering to so many body types. These jeans are clean and simple without fussy distracting details (like cat whiskers! or glitter or embroidery, which by the way ladies, is now out of style) A dark blue wash like this always looks rich and also makes you look skinnier-bonus!
See how the wider flare at the bottom balances out the hips beautifully and the pants length comes right to the shoe. Also, make sure your jeans have some stretch to them, like these do. A little Lycra goes a long way to help get the perfect fit. |
TURTLENECK SWEATER
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Too Old
Oh come on let’s all admit it. You’ve probably owned one of these at some point and maybe even still have one hanging around in your closet somewhere. It’s the classic turtleneck we all grew up with. Beware, because this very conservative style just shouts “Old lady”. The color could work if it were another sweater but the cable knit pattern, stiff high neck, looseness at the waist and shorter sweater length all add up to a much needed trip to the Salvation Army. |
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Too Young
Yes it’s new, yes it’s modern but it’s also a great way to add twenty pounds. The problem with this top, is that first of all the short sleeves are hard to pull off after 40. There’s all that jiggly stuff going on when you lift your arm up, right? Don’t want to play that up, do you? Plus, cute cute baby doll sleeves do not make an older woman look cute. They make her look like an older woman who is dressing babyish.
Thick, chunky knits like this add bulk for sure, and make you look heavier. Finally the bell shape of the sweater, might make you feel like your hiding that tummy, but in reality it will draw everyone’s eye to this detail, and therefore your pooch. Need any more reasons to stay clear of sweaters like this one? |
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Just Right
This beautiful black turtleneck has a very relaxed classy feel. The cotton modal fabric is lightweight, comfortable and smooth. The neck is still high but softer and the whole top is fitted just enough to skim the body and give a womanly shape.
The length is great because it hits the hipbone,covering up any gap between pant and stomach and it camouflages the tummy. You will never go wrong with a high quality black turtleneck like this. |
BOOTS
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Too Old
If you really are serious about looking chic and updated, you will not want to be seen in a boot like this. Sure it’s practical, but really ladies: Life is too short to be Frumpy. We’re sure you can find so meting with just a little more personality. Stop settling and buy something you really love. |
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Too Young
The magazines may be saying that these rusched boots are current fashion rage, but after 40 it’s your job to take a Style stance and just say no to fussy trends like this. These boots are too busy and funky for gals our age. Think of it this way- they’re scrunchy and wrinkly so they are going to emphasize the other parts of you that are scrunchy and wrinkly. Do you want to look like an old Boot? |
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Just Right
This snakeskin boot has just what it takes to look classy with a bit of fun. The heel is just high enough to make you feel sexy but not so high where you feel that you might topple over minutes after you put them on. They’re elegant and modern, but subtle. Subtle is the key. |
One final tip about Boots: Invest in a quality pair of boots. It shows! If you take proper care of them, they should last 3 or more seasons. Make sure to spray them with a good leather or suede sealer when you first get them, and reapply often. Don’t forget to touch up the toes! Nothing worse than great boots where the color has worn out at the toe.
How many times have hit the stores in search of something new and wonderful and ended up trudging home with the same old thing…..another basic white shirt, another black pair of pants, another plain tank top or another simple 2 piece suit with zero personality? Talk about BORING and disappointing!
If you’re stuck in a style rut and can’t see your way out, here are 5 easy ways to go from Boring to Boomer-licious! Check out our examples, and click on the images to enlarge them!
If you are looking for a new fall suit jacket to spice up your wardrobe, then you probably know by now that grey is new “it” new color. But grey can be lifeless if you don’t do it right.
Grey doesn’t look good on everyone, and for women over 40 grey can really wash you out. So if you finding yourself reaching for this dull grey jacket think again. This jacket is as plain as you can get. It takes the term “classic” to a boring low.
Compare this to the look. You can still wear grey on the bottom, but perk things up with a colored jacket up top to light up your face. The grey skirt (with flecks of brown) warms her up and the striking slate pendant ties everything together. Funny thing too, these gals are wearing the same tank top but look how much richer the one on the right suddenly looks against the green. Also the suede vrs. wool jacket is a hipper, more relaxed option. (This model could use a little nip in at the bust to make the jacket even more fitted. It looks a tad loose) Suede, Jones of New York jacket ($280.00)
If you’re looking for a pretty dress to wear to a cocktail party or night out, why buy a boring knit that has no shape and just hangs on you like a bag?
Although this dress is a great color, that does not make up for its dowdy style.
The dress is too long, even if you are tall (and would make a shorter woman look like a dwarf.) These uninspiring flats make it look, oh so frumpy.
Now check out this hip, fun bold print dress by Melessa Masey on the right. O.K. so it reminds you of something you wore in the 70′s. Don’t get set in your ways. Give it another try and see how it works now.
Geometric prints are very current and the lower neckline and 3/4 length sleeves reveal just enough skin to make a 40+ gal look sexy but not silly.
It’s body skimming but not tight, and the hemline is a flirty, flattering length for evening. Even a solid color in this dress would look smashing. Heels finish off this modern look that will accentuate your figure in all the right places and will make you look like a boomer babe!
Do you keep buying the same white shirt over and over again? Even important staples like this need updating now and again.
Compare the shirt which is loose, and unshapely to the below shirt with it’s fashion forward with ruching at the waist and no cuffs.
This chic stretch cotton shirt with button cuffs looks much more current, doesn’t it?
These little details make the difference between looking tired and stale and looking with it. (Theory Luxe Kiki Shirt-$195-Nordstroms)
What are you wearing sweater -wise these days? We see a lot of women with this look. A white shirt paired with a plain cardigan may feel safe but makes you look very predictable.
Instead push yourself to kick it up a notch. This fall chunky knits are in. This is one trend that can be adapted to suit the 40+ crowd. Look how beautiful this sweater and shirt below looks. So easy to wear. (Ann Taylor)
They’ve taken a white shirt and paired it with a toned down bulky knit (leave the ultra bulky knits for the twentysomethings),then topped it off with a great belt. Instant cool.
We always say the key to looking young is not to try to look young -just keep yourself updated in current styles that suit your body and you’ll automatically take ten years off.
Finally, the little black dress -simple is always best, but don’t be too plain. This round neck long sleeve dress is typical of what many women at woman 40+ might choose. While you can dress it up to make it look sharper why not just move away from something so predictable for a change.
A split v neckline and pretty sleeve instantly kicks it up a notch, so that you go from looking nice to very very N-I-I-I-C-E!!!!!!!(Premise-$325 Saks)
Are you a potential Glam Gal?? Kind of a half baked cookie that looks pretty good for her age, but with a few more minutes in the oven, you could be, oh SO much more YUMMMY!!!
Think it’s too much work to go that extra mile. Then think again.
Here are 7 simple things you can do to take 10 years off in 10 minutes, and make you look Fabulous!
1. Lower your Neckline
An easy way to turn back the clock a few years is to open up your neckline. Steer clear of tops and t-shirts that sit at the collarbone and opt for lower rounded necklines and v-necks. Another great option is to try a wrap top which will create the illusion of sexy. If you find that too low, just add a camisole to peek out at the V neck. A chunky necklace also helps to fill in the bareness.
2. Layer Your Hair
Want to keep your hair long, but don’t to look like you are desperate to hang onto your youth. Then try this simple tricky. Layer your hair. Too many older women with long hair wear it dead straight like they are still in high school. Follow the lead of celebs like Terri Hatcher, Cindy Crawford, Goldie Hawn, Jaclyn Smith and Renee Russo and add a little bounce with a good cut and a few layers to frame the face and create volume.
3. Get Rid of the Glitter
What is it about some women that makes them want to light themselves up like a Christmas tree- even during the daytime? We’re talking about those 40+ gals that go overboard with glitter and sparkles thinking shiny will make them look young. Maybe this really is a problem that comes with declining eyesight after 40??? Whatever the reason, we encourage you to look a little closer. Too much flash can really age a gal. If you want to sparkle, do it with your jewelry, and keep the glitz on your garments to a minimum.
4. Forgo the Frosted Make up
Some gals who would never wear glittery clothes think nothing of frosted make-up. But you know it’s really the same thing. And it’s no help that the makeup companies, just love to put frost in everything from eye shadow to blush to lipstick to bronzer. Although it can be tempting to wear frost, be forewarned… Frosted eye shadow, really shows up all the little fine lines and creases. If you must, just dab it on right below the brow, for a nice evening shimmer, but other than that, you’d be smart to steer clear.
5. Pass on Small Prints
Conjure up an image of a little dowdy little old lady and you probably visualize a granny in a tiny flower print dress. Small prints (especially ones with little flowers) can look really matronly. And, if you have some meat on your bones, small prints will make you look really fat too. Got the picture??!!
6. Pass on Pearl and Gold Buttons
We know a lot of you are attached to your favorite old cardigans with the pearl buttons and shiny gold buttons, but these look old fashioned and too conservative for a true Glam Gal. Instead opt for sweaters with modern plain flat buttons. And don’t forget you can always replace buttons too. A beautiful button on a plain sweater can create a knock-out look.
7. Exfoliate, Exfoliate, Exfoliate
So easy to do and so often overlooked, exfoliating your skin can make dull aging skin glow! Once a week will keep your skin looking fresh and flawless. We love Estee Lauder’s Idealist Micro –D Deep Thermal Refinisher. It heats up on your skin creating a warm sensation and leaves you skin dramatically radiant. It’s an at home alternative to microdermabrasion and makes you feel like you’ve shed mask.
The new Fall 2007 Fashions are already popping up in the stores. Here’s what’s in style this season and suggestion for what works best at this stage of the game.
Grey is the Next big Color
Grey is the new black, but this is one color trend that you will want to be careful with. Not everyone looks good in Grey, particularly if you have warm skin tones. Grey can be tricky since it can really wash us gals over 40 out. So, be careful of this often “blah” color, and make sure to pair it with one that will brighten a dreary day up like a beautiful shade of plum or red.
Pant Alert – The Year of Extremes
This fall it seems that the designers can’t make up their minds, so they are doing both the super wide legged pant and the skinny, skinny pant. The wide leg pant looks good on almost everyone, particularly women with bigger hips because the flare of the legs will balance you out. Just make sure the top you choose to go with wide legged pants is not bulky, or you’ll look like a big block. Also, if you are going to add a jacket, it should be short, otherwise you look overwhelmed by fabric. If you are slim and have long legs, then you can pull off the skinny pant. Try pairing it with chunky knit sweater for a hip, sexy look.
Chunky Sweaters
We just talked about pairing a bulky sweater with skinny pants. The one shown here is fine, but beware of bulky sweaters worn with anything else. Why? Over sized sweaters can read “m” as in matronly. That’s because bulky sweaters add bulk! You don’t need that especially if you are already busty or have a no so taught tummy.
We’ve noticed some magazines are even showing these sweaters belted…..HORRORS…ignore this look. They’re also showing over sized mens’ cardigans for women. It’s a fun look best left to twenty-somethings.
High-heeled Oxfords
This fresh new style is everywhere you look. High heeled Oxfords work well with the menswear look, or the Parisian look that is so popular this fall ( French tam, sweater, silky skirt). These shoes have a schoolgirl meets granny look about them and are difficult to pull off unless your style is more like Diane Keaton or Lauren Hutton. In other words they look great with pants and pant suits.
The Vest
Menswear is hot for fall. That means the vest is back and in high demand. If you were to update your wardrobe this season with something that’s on the verge of trendy, this would a fun piece to add in. Layered under a jacket, or worn over a loose blouse with either wide or narrow leg pants, or a long skirt, it is this season’s statement piece.
Patterned Opaque Hose
Dark, Opaque hose can do wonders for lengthening legs and pulling together an outfit. This year, were seeing lots of over sized big patterns, from fishnets, to prints. Opaque Hose have been popular in the past few seasons and were glad they’re still around.
Bold Jewelry
This fall it’s all about bold and tailored. Jewelry is heavier and chunky. Thick jeweled cuffs, layered necklaces, and giant rings, seem just right with the heavy fabrics and thick knits that we’re seeing on the runways.
Sexy no longer means skin baring. Fall is sexy is prim and ladylike with bursts of statement jewelry.
Even if you were born with the “style gene”, it’s tricky to figure out what shoes to match with what. This summer put your best foot forward, as we bring young 7 of the hottest shoe styles, plus ideas for how to pull an outfit together around them.
1. Ballet slippers
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Simple and chic, the ballet flat can be a great look great with walking shorts and even a nice flowing knee length skirt. Stick with neutral colored flats to help visually elongate your legs. Colored flats look great with straight leg jeans. Ballet flats are perfect for travel especially if you are going to be doing a lot of walking. Look for the elasticized fold up ones that slip easily into the corner of any suitcase. Stay away from bows and bright colors in this style, since it will come across as too youthful and silly for us gals over 40.
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2. Sandals
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The less dressed you are, the less shoe you need. That’s why airy flat sandals, sandals with tiny kitten heels (or even glitzed up flip flops) work best with full blown summer looks that says casual and relaxed. Pair sandals with breezy sundresses, shorts, or loose linen pants. Resist the temptation to wear them to the office no matter how comfortable they are as too much skin diminishes your credibility an authority. Steer away from boring brown or beige run of the mill sandals. Instead choose sandals that say “now”. Metallic colors, a little glitz or shine work with almost anything and take you beautifully from day into night. |
3. Summer Pumps
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For business, weddings or any other more conservative affair, choose pumps in keeping with the lightness and brightness of summer. That means navy, beige, cream or light colored shoes with finer vrs. chunkier, heavier heels. Shoes with delicate cutouts or sling backs also look professional,but summery too. Spectator pumps in black and white or cream and tan are a classic that will never let you down. |
4. Wedges
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The wedge is the perfect shoe to update your wardrobe with. It looks youthful and fresh and works with almost everything from shorts to skirts, capris and pants. Other combinations include patent leather paired with a cork wedge, canvas paired with a rope wedge and brightly colored leather paired with a lucite wedge. An added bonus- wedges are soooo comfortable to walk in! |
5. Platform
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Platforms are great, especially for shorter gals. They add height, yet are still relatively easy to walk in. Platforms can go from casual to dressy depending on the shoe. Stay away from platforms that are too heavy and clunky or you’ll end up looking like your teenage daughter. The thinner the platform the classier the look. (Some of the latest models come with platforms built right into the shoe so you don’t see them on the outside- a good option too). If you want to attract attention, just wear a platform with an A-line shirt, cotton shirt and fitted jacket, and enjoy the compliments. |
6. Dress shoes
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Never underestimate the power of a shoe-especially a dress shoe. Take a simple summer dress, match it with flip flops and you have one look. Then pair it with some killer summer heels and you totally change the feel of your outfit. This season you can bring out a touch of your wild side by stepping out in dressy, sexy animal print shoes. They are a great way to jazz up a monochromatic outfit or dress. Also popular are high heels in metallics and peek a boo shoes that tease you with a show of toes. Don’t forget to get a good pedicure!
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7. Sporty casual (running shoe)
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To look youthful, you’ve got to look current. So dump those boring heavy, white workout sneakers and experiment with trendier,sporty shoes. The sneaker is a great solution to being comfortable but can be hard to pull off. Check out some designer styles for some inspirations. Look for a pair that is lightweight and in your favorite color. Then you can wear them with walking shorts, khakis, a nice sweat suit or perhaps a lightweight colorful straight leg jean. |
For more help picking out the perfect shoes try Shoes-o-matic. Shoes-o-matic is a really fun tool. Just enter in your specifications, and up will pop an applicable suggestion. Click here to check it out!
Ever since Martha Stewart made it OK to brand herself with K-Mart, many Style Gurus have jumped on board trying to become the next “it” designer for large discount retailers. Isaac Mizrahi has gone from elite fashion designer to the king of sensible style for the masses, all because of his multimillion dollar success at Target. Patrick Robinson and Proenza Schouler also now design for the retail giant. Even Stella McCartney and Carl Lagerfeld have their own special lines for the clothing chain H&M .
That’s great news for savvy shoppers who want high style at an affordable price! By mixing a few of these frugal fashion finds with some luxury basics you can get an upscale look for less!
The trick is knowing when to splurge and when to skimp. This definitely is an art. Here are 7 tips to help you do it well:
1. Splurge on a Suit
The basis for any work wardrobe is a suit. Reserve the largest part of your budget for this. The better quality the suit, the better it will make you look and the longer it will last. Choose a suit in a timeless, year round fabric like wool or wool blend. Pay a lot of attention to cut and fit in order to look polished and powerful.
2. Skimp on Accessories
One sure way to waste money is to buy expensive accessories to complete a look of the moment. You know, you buy the $300 safari sundress and then they up sell you $300 safari necklace, $300 safari belt and $ 300 scarf to match. And next season that style is out. Accessories are very important to finish a look, but you really need to be careful. It’s o.k. to pay a little more for a belt for jeans you wear all the time, but don’t throw your money out the window for an expensive belt that has a short style life.
3. Splurge on the Important Basics
Skimp on cute, colorful t-shirts, and trendy casual fun tops and sweaters from designer budget lines at places like H&M but ……… Splurge on a great classic shirt, a beautiful cashmere sweater and one great white stretch T, even it means paying a higher price. The latter are investment pieces. You know the rule, figure out how much something costs and divide it by the number of times you will wear it to get the cost per wear. This should determine how much you are willing to pay.
4. Skimp on Casual Shoes
Unless they are shoes for work (which need to be the best quality you can find) shoes do not need to be expensive. Be on the lookout for seasonal sales at stores like Sacs, Neiman’s and Nordstrom for deals on high end designer shoes like Gucci that you don’t want top pay top dollar for. Visit the outlet stores and pop into discount stores like Marshalls like TJ Max for bargains on top name brands. Go often to get the best offerings instead of waiting until you really need a pair of shoes and are forced to pay full price somewhere else. Try not to be shoe snob. Let’s face it if you are just running around on the weekends, you don’t need to be wearing a pair of expensive shoes. Target has some fabulous shoes at great prices that will work great for this sort of thing. Save your money for shoes when it is going to matter.
5. Skimp on Jeans
Many women buy pricey jeans because they want to be wearing the label of the moment. Wrong! What’s more important is to find a pair of jeans that fit you perfectly, regardless of price. Get over the label thing and keep shopping until you find the perfect pair. Remember no one will be looking at your label if they’re looking at your fabulous figure in these perfectly fitting jeans.
6. Splurge on a Purse
Like it or not purses has become a statement of who you are and what you stand for. A good quality bag says volumes… Keep your eyes peeled for sales and remember if you are going to spend a few hundred dollars on a quality purse choose one that is classic. Black, taupe, and cream are better choices than trendy colors like mustard or orange. Look for timeless simple details that will stand the test of time and give you your money’s worth. Better one good bag than several cheap ones.
7. Skimp on Lingerie.
In general, no need to spend full price, unless you are hard to fit. Better to spend less and buy more often to keep your lingerie looking and feeling fresh. Beautiful, good quality Camisoles, bras and panties are everywhere at great prices. It’s always nice however to have one decadently luxurious bra and panty tucked away for special days.
Ever gone shopping, tried something on and wondered, “Does this look awful, or is it just me?” How do you really know if a new trend looks bad on you or whether you’re just stuck in a serious style rut?
Welcome to the Tipping Point- that place of limbo where you must decide to either give a new style a try, or just plain give it up!
Here’s are a few helpful Do’s and Don’ts to help get you off this fashion fence.
1. DON’T blindly listen to sales people
We’ve all fallen into the trap of relying on a salesperson to talk us into buying something, that deep down, we’re not crazy about. While there are some good salespeople out there, most are on commission. Although they mean well, they subconsciously do want you to buy, so always keep this in mind.
Better to listen to your gut about an outfit or develop a long term relationship with a particular salesperson that you like and trust and who won’t steer you wrong.
Also, be sure to take a good look at how the sales person has put herself together. If she’s not looking so chic, how can you expect her to help you look chic?
2. DO take it home to test drive
The wonderful thing about shopping these days is that most stores have excellent return policies. If you’re not sure how you feel about something, take it home and try it out. It can look very different at home the next morning when you are more rested or you are in a different light. Maybe you’ll even notice how well it works with something else in your closet or be inspired to keep it because of all the compliments you get from family members when you slip it on. Or, perhaps, you’ll realize that your instincts were right after all, and promptly return it.
Just be sure to keep the tags attached and keep all receipts and you should have no problem. Trust us…doing this a dozen times, you’ll become more confident in your fashion choices and have to use this tactic only the odd time.
3. DON’T say no to the first garment you try on
When a new style arrives in the store it can be so foreign that even though it looks fabulous on you, it feels strange. We recently had one client who we suggested try the new walking short and she was very dubious. The first pair she tried on looked great, but was still unsure, so she tried on several more pairs in different fabrics and cuts until she got comfortable with the look. In the end she bought the first pair she tried on and 2 others. She was thrilled with the elegant look of walking shorts. So lesson here, try on many of the same style to get comfy and pick ones that suits you best.
4. DO check out what other women are pulling off
If you’ve tried on a certain new style and you are not sure if it is age appropriate, take a day and people watch what other fashionable gals are doing with the look. If you think chunky platform shoes will look too young, see if other stylish 40-somethings have them and what they are wearing with them to make them look so great. It’s all about the total look, so check out the small details. What style of clothes is she wearing with the shoes, how has she done her hair,what other accessories is she wearing? Also, notice the quality of the shoes she has on. All these details can shape how this trend will look on you.
5. DO be prepared to make mistakes
When you’ve fallen off the style track (or you feel you’ve never been on it), it’s going to take a while to get back on board. Be prepared to get it wrong sometimes and forgive yourself. So,you thought it looked great. You gave it a chance, and a month later hated it. This will happen. Don’t beat yourself up. Developing your own personal style is a process.
6. DON’T buy clothes you are not in love with
In the end, the best way to determine whether a new style is right for you is to be in love with it. A client of ours tried on a pair of gorgeous lower rise jeans in a stunning green shade that made her eyes pop. The color and style were perfect, but she just didn’t feel good in them not matter how many times she tried them on. So we suggested she pass. The reason: If you don’t feel confident in what you are wearing you will never look fabulous. Never! That’s the bottom line and the perfect way to politely tell to a pushy salesperson to get her off your back.
Just came across this scary picture of Liz Taylor, and it reminded us of a really important beauty rule you must follow if you want to be a Boomer Babe.
For heavens sakes, GO EASY ON THE MAKE-UP.
As our hair lightens and begins to go grey, (or in Liz’s case, goes blonde!) our eyebrows also lighten, our skin pales and we start to look washed out.
Many of us try to compensate by piling on the make up. We think that bright lipstick, lots of blush, tons of eye shadow, and dark eyeliner will restore our youth. Here’s proof that bright make-up after 40 will make you look like a clown or female impersonator!
So here’s what you do:
1. Avoid Heavy Foundation
Since your skin dries and dulls as it ages, it’s best to switch to a dewier look. Trade in your heavy matte foundation, which gives you that mask look, for a tinted moisturizer (We love the one by Laura Mercier).
If you want more coverage try, mixing your foundation with some moisturizer to thin it out, or mix your foundation with a tinted moisturizer. You may also want to check out ‘light reflecting foundations’ especially created for mature skin because they reflect light off those little wrinkles.
2. Put away the Powder
Too much powder can make you dry and cakey. If you must use powder because you have oily skin, use loose powder in the T-zone, only.
3. Switch Your Blush
Powder Blush is heavy looking on mature lined skin. Instead try a cream blush. It’s more natural looking and will make you look vibrant.
4. Examine your Eye Shadows
Be careful with shimmering shadows. Too much sparkle accentuates creepy eyelids. Also avoid too much bright color on your eyes. Neutral colored eye shadows- beiges, browns, creams, gays, taupes, will show off your eyes instead of your eyelids.
5. Don’t let Eyeliner Overpower
Don’t use black…too harsh. Instead, try dark brown and then blend well with a brown powder. Best way to apply it is as close to the eyelash as possible, dotting between lashes and then smoothing out the line, or even better just under your upper lashes. Your eyes will appear much bigger.
6. Baby your Brows
Your eyebrows create a beautiful frame to showcase your eyes so don’t neglect them as you age. Be sure to keep them in good shape so they don’t get scraggly. After 40 Many women tend to let the brow go pale and darken the lips at this stage, when in fact you should darken the brows so they frame your eyes (but don’t get as carried away as Liz), and lighten up the lips.
7. Lighten Your Lips
Soften lips with pinks, corals, light browns, nothing too dark or too bright or there will be too much contrast between your lips, skin and hair. Too much contrast makes you look hard.
8. Use a Light Hand with Lip Liner
Good idea to use a liner to prevent lip bleed, but keep it soft in color and application. You should not be able to tell you have it on.
9. Banish Pasty Face
The older we get the paler we get and that old lady look starts to kick in. To avoid this try using a very light bronzer to finish off your look and give your skin a youthful sun kissed glow. To apply: Hold your bronzing brush at your temple and round it down in a sweeping motion to your cheekbone (creating a backwards c motion). From your cheekbone, round it down in a sweeping motion to just below the jaw line (creating another backwards c). Repeat on the other side.
Got a few make-up tips of your own to share? We’d love to hear from you!
Have a great week!!
