Super comfortable, yet stylish shoes for walking

October 11, 2011 | By Deborah Boland | 14 Comments

Dear Glam Gals,

I’m getting ready for a trip to Europe and I am really stumped about what type of shoe I should bring that will look good with my outfits and not make me look like a tourist. I know you both tend to wear more delicate shoes but I am a big-boned gal and need something a little more substantial. However, a tennis shoe is just not an option for me, what alternatives do you suggest?

Thanks, Cynthia S. – Boston, MA

Dear Cynthia,

You are in luck since we recently came across a new brand of walking shoe. Fly London is a European brand that is made with comfort and style in mind. Their styles are a little more funky and clunky than we usually show, but I ( JoJami) still really liked them. Here are a few that we thought stood out:

Fly london, 270 CAD
Fly london boots, 320 CAD
Fly LONDON high heel boots, 390 CAD
Fly LONDON peep toe shoes, 85
Fly LONDON black boots, 145
FLY London Women’s Yaya Peep-Toe Pump

The Casual Boyfriend jacket – making it work over 40

August 2, 2011 | By Deborah Boland | 10 Comments

Dear Glam Gals,

Is this “trendy” coat, age appropriate?

I have a question. I purchased an adorable Elizabeth and James linen blazer (called the James linen distressed blazer ~Nordstroms) It has a three-quarter length sleeve and hits right below my bottom.

It fits perfectly, and it was a great deal. My question is, the fabric has been made to look like it’s two-tone…what they are calling “distressed”. Is it too much for a 45 year old to wear if the rest of the outfit is simple?
Thanks, Robin

Hi Robin,

Distressed is a very sporty look and some of us Glam Gals don’t feel so comfy in something so crumpled. But if you like the look of casual,cool and very relaxed then we think your jacket is definitely age appropriate and a great purchase! It will be a wonderful “go to” piece in your wardrobe and one you will get much use out of, especially on weekends.Here are a few ideas on how you might wear it.

Your jacket seems popular with the younger celebrities… no surprise since your Elizabeth and James piece was designed by the Olsen Twins. However, that does not matter because the style of the jacket is more classic than trendy, it well made and is a wonderful piece to dress up or down.

Here are a few different ways to wear your jacket, and how you might “tweak” it to make it look fab for any age.

Cameron Diaz has dressed her blazer up! (but to be age appropriate we would make sure the shirt was longer)

Belted on the outsideHow sporty is this! Cameron Diaz has put a simple black dress or black top and black tight mini underneath it.

Make sure if you wear it like this that the skirt is little longer. (right above the knee)

Notice how the belt is a medium width and not too skinny.

The shoes have thick straps that add some weight to it to balance it all out!

If she had worn simple black pumps it would have looked dated.

Dakota Fanning has put a simple cream and lace dress under it.

Over a formal dress Dakota fanning has gone with a more romantic look wearing the jacket with a flowing dress with lace.

If you have youthful legs you could pull this off. If not, it would still work nicely if the dress was just a bit longer.

We love this strappy nude shoe with this. This shoe helps tone down the outfit so it’s not to cutesy.

Soft and feminine~ from Shopbop

Paired with soft pants,your outfit will be super comfortable but still dressy! (from Shopbop)You can also do some soft flowing pants that are a similar shade as your jacket with a simple top.

Make sure to keep the top untucked

The top is banded at the bottom to keep the look a little sleeker

Nude kitten heel pumps are a comfortable alternative to high strappy heels.

You could wear this to work, out to dinner or to the theater.

This Elizabeth James linen jacket is from Nordstroms

As you mentioned, you can go simple with a fitted tank top and straight legged pants or jeans.

Once again make sure to keep the top untucked.

Would like to see a pretty necklace with this look

For shoes you could go with simple black flats or black chunky heels.

Fashion Question… What Shoes and Wrap Should I Wear With This Dress?

April 18, 2011 | By Deborah Boland | 16 Comments

FAF reader, Nancy Mueler make over winner with Clinton, from What Not To Wear!

Hi Glam Gals,

We have an evening event coming up and the dress code is cocktail attire. Can you please advise me – quick! – about what I can wear that will look fashionable, sexy, and sassy when I can’t wear heels, that would be appropriate for a cocktail party at this time of year?

Thank you! Nancy M.

This question turned into another one, soon as we started chatting with Nancy…It turns out that Nancy had actually won a recent make over contest from her local department store!

Here she is before:

Here is Nancy’s “before” photo she submitted.

We think her make over turned out fabulous and it was fun hearing about her experience. So we asked her to send us some photos of the dress she wanted to wear. It turns out that we were surprised that the shoes she already had were just fine but that we felt the sweater was just a little too casual for a cocktail party and asked her if she had any Pashminas. YES, she did , so here they are:

We liked both #1 and #3… depending on how chilly the night would be, she could wear either one.

Which one would you vote for?

Choice #1 Sheer Blue

Choice #2 Sheer polka dot

Pick #3 Heavy Blue Pashmina

Can I Wear Combat Boots After 40?

March 18, 2011 | By Deborah Boland | 45 Comments

Hi Ladies,

Is it acceptable for a woman over 40 to wear the combat boots which are popular again?

If so, what would be the proper way to wear them? I remember wearing them in the 90′s and how comfortable they were, but I have a feeling that these boots aren’t worn in the same manner this time around. Please advise. Thanks! Trudy

Hi Trudy,

Here’s a great example of an old trend that comes around and makes you wonder if you should try it again.We are afraid there is no short “yes” or “no” answer to this.

the signs are everywhere. by kirakay featuring enamel rings

Combat boots work for some mature women. They look hip and cool wearing them because they have ”the whole look.” In other words they have paired combat boots with something feminine like the outfit above.

If you try wear combat boots with an army fatigue look or with all black with leather, you a going to look like you are wearing a military or old rocker costume. It’s the contrast of the feminine and the masculine that you need to pull off this look.

It’s not a look I myself will be investing in. My taste leans more to a boot that looks sleek, clean and simple. There are plenty of comfortable boots that are in style other than this trendy look. I have actually tried on a few pairs (some more radical than others) and felt that they would just not fit into most of my wardrobe.

None-the-less, if it works for you, go for it. Dressing after 40, or at any age is all about personal expression and being authentic.

Would you wear this look? Comment below and let us know your feelings!!

Updating last year’s Capris…can it be done?

March 9, 2011 | By Deborah Boland | Leave a Comment

Hello Glam Gals –

I continue to enjoy your blog … and I have a question. Am leaving for Florida next week and would like to know what’s the verdict on the wider-leg capri pants we were all wearing last summer. I see that wider (long) pants are in, but I not sure about the one that hit above the ankle. I have several pairs in flattering black crepe; they were a staple last year, and so easy/comfortable to wear. I do like the straight leg, snug fitting Capris — but do I have to put my wider ones away this year?

Thank you, Cindy

These types of capris are out of style, too short and the cuff is a no no.

Great to hear from you! Your question is a good one. We recently wrote a post about the new Spring 2011 version of the Capri and it is definitely different than last year’s, however if your old Capris are still in good shape you should feel fine wearing them. Just don’t buy anymore like them on your next shopping trip!

If you still want to wear them, try updating them by wearing one of the new clunky wedges.

How Does This Look On Me?

February 7, 2011 | By Deborah Boland | 25 Comments

Hi Glam Gals,

Should I wear my hair up with this outfit? Should I wear the necklace or scarf? I found this dress for $12.99 at Ross and tried it on with my daughters leggings after reading your articles.
Thanks, LaAnja Gough (age 50)

Does this outfit look better like this or….

Hi LaAnja,

You got a great deal on this dress and it looks terrific on you. We think this outfit works either way and you should enjoy mixing it up whatever your mood.

Or with this scarf and my hair up?

BTW, you really can’t be 50, can you??? You are Age-Amazing™ (our special word for looking amazing for your age!)

Mother of the Bride needs some help…

January 10, 2011 | By Deborah Boland | 10 Comments

Dear Glam Gals,

I am on a very tight budget due and my daughter is marrying next June. In my closet I have is the pretty simple silk long A line skirt with matching jacket that has only been worn once. I am thinking of having the jacket tailored more (it is too boxy) and wearing it with something else for a bridal tea or dressy evening out. Unless you have a different idea for me, the wedding will be during the evening and the temps will be warm in Alabama.

Can you take apart this matched outfit?

Here is a little about me: I am 52, 5’3” full busted, broad shoulders, short waist, not extra heavy, but pudgy. My hair style is wispy short with salt and pepper throughout. I really like sparkly things, chunky jewelry, scarves & wraps. People seem to compliment me when I wear winter colors. I do not want the normal mother of the bride look, it dates a person I think; I want to look happy and radiant for this most special occasion. Help me think of what I could do to look good for my girl and feel comfortable for the evening. Thank you, Karen H, Montgomery, AL

Hi Karen,We understand you wanting to update this dress, however we have another idea for you.

We really like the outfit and the color works perfectly with your cool skin and hair.

Mother of the Bride Ebook The skirt looks great so we think you should still wear the matching jacket but have it tailored so that it fits you nicely. (Someone on our facebook page, suggested you might change out the buttons! )

This outfit is classy with out being fussy and as long as the jacket fits well you will look gorgeous. Also, the “v’” neckline of this jacket will probably be more flattering on you than the simple scoop necked top. ( Also since the jacket has a collar with your short hair will flatter you in photos!)

You can add a wonderful chunky statement necklace to it, like you mentioned; if you can find one that is more in a “v” shape it will look best.

You may also want to have the skirt shorted to right below the knee and still wear the matching jacket, nude hose and some gorgeous pumps (peep toe or regular).

When you try to mix and match “matched” sets, it can be very tricky to pull off.

In the photo below, trying to pair the elegant skirt it with a casual top just doesn’t look right. (Your sweet puppies look concerned too!)

If you are stapped for cash check out this new site: Recycled Brides. They have gently used MOB dresses!

It is very hard to make a “new” updated outfit with a classic skirt like this.

Anyone else out there have other ideas? Feel free to comment below!Cheers,The Glam Gals

Need help with your upcoming event?Check out our e-book, Tweak Your Chic,

How to Dress the Mother of the Bride.

What About Casual Dressing after 40?

November 10, 2010 | By Deborah Boland | 22 Comments

How to Dress Casually but look Stylish is a big question on many women’s minds.

Dear Deborah and JoJami,

I am a 49-year-old woman who lives in the Northeast, and while I do dress up occasionally for a dinner or evening out, 95% of the time I need to be dressed for getting in and out of a car, easily; for walking to and from places on a variety of sidewalks, and for a very casual everyday kind of life… often in challenging in autumn, winter and spring weather.

I’m finding myself at a perimenopausal standstill! I have run out of creativity and I am sliding down the slippery slope of jeans, colorful t-shirts, fleece and turtlenecks. Yuck! I also have to wear comfortable shoes and boots to fit my aging feet.

How do women like myself, who live casual lifestyles full of activity and creativity, help ourselves to feel, and look, attractive, in the most casual fashions in varying weather? Thank you again, Lori

Hi Lori,

Your letter was so heartfelt we had to respond, not to mention your question is such a universal one! We too have seen our lifestyle change now that we are past 40 and casual wear is something we wear a lot! Both of us Glam Gals live back east, so we understand your pain. Here are a few tips to get you started:

Do you have a cute vest?

A faux fur vest is a key piece to add to your fall wardrobe!

Try a sweater dress and some leggings and knee high or over the knee boots! Don’t feel like you have to wear pants all time. Why not snuggle into a sweater dress and feel more feminine and a little more funky!
Put some color into your casual wardrobe. All those years of black can really drag a woman down now that our skin is not as vibrant as it once was.

This type of casual coat gives a pop of color and still is comfortable.

Start with an updated boot. We do not suggest Uggs, since they are so popular with the teenage crowd, they are just not age appropriate.

Even a simple cowboy boot in snakeskin like this will perk up your dressing “blues”!

Your overcoat can show your personality!
Add a scarf. Watch this video to get some inspiration for tying a scarf a new way that looks oh so European!
Go elegant… a long sweater is big this fall!

Confused about What Hose to Wear With Boots?

November 4, 2010 | By Deborah Boland | 3 Comments

Lisa Ling in black tights & black booties. (photo: shutterstock)

Dear Glam Gals,

Do I match my tights to the color of my boots or to the outfit?

In my mind if I’m wearing a skirt that hits above my knee I would wear a tight that matches my boot that hits mid-calf.

Also, what if I am wearing an ankle boot with a skirt or dress? Does the same rule apply?

Thanks, Jennifer

Hi Jennifer,

1) Yes, do match your tights to the color of your boots not the outfit.

2) When wearing an ankle boot with a skirt or dress, it will look best if you do keep the tights the same color as the boot. (Notice how these boots from Nordstrom fit nicely around the ankle. Good fit, will make the short boot more flattering to the leg!) The fashion magazines are showing the young gals wearing all sorts of fun colorful tights with these short boots and if you are daring you could try that.

But for most of us, it is just more sophisticated to go solid, black or brown. P.S. Stay clear of sheer pantyhose with short or tall boots, they will look too fine and will not look right unless your outfit is on the dressy side.

Obviously the skirt is too short for 40+ but take a look at sheer hose with booties- this doesn’t work at any age!

One of the most common questions we get…

July 15, 2010 | By Deborah Boland | 15 Comments

Hi Glam Gals,

If you are an over 40 site, why do you use such young models?

group of women over 40 Hi Wendy,

We get this question all the time and we are frustrated too… you see to there are just no photos of “real women” out there in current clothes that you can buy! We want to be able to show you things that you can go out and buy, but all the stores insists on using ultra young and super skinny models!

A few years back, we were excited to start working with a NYC modeling agency for women over 40, but they went out of business!

That is why we try to find women on the street photos, but it can be frustrating for our readers, since most of the time the outfits the women are wearing was purchased a last season and can’t be found now.

One note, most of the styles that we suggest can be worn on most body types, it is just that they are being modeled by young, thin women!

If anyone has suggestions or ideas we would love to hear them!