One of our readers wrote us recently that she was really depressed that she had nothing to wear to an upcoming Sunday afternoon Christmas tea. Her budget was very limited and she didn’t want to have to buy an entire new outfit.
We suggested that she go out and find a new blouse to spice up what she already had in her closet!
She was thrilled and went out and found a gorgeous new blouse for $49.00 and when she got it home, she realized that it was going to be able to make up to 5 new outfits with it!
Here are a few suggestions that we think would be great additions to your winter wardrobe! The secret is finding a blouse with an interesting neckline that will add some flair!
This type of neckline is always flattering!
Under a suit jacket or on its own, this pretty blouse looks good on all body types! (from Nordstroms)
This animal print is soft and romantic! (from Spiegel)
This off the shoulder is hard to find, but easy to look good in!
We like this ivory blouse that is off the shoulder, because it can be sexy with out showing cleavage! (Nordstroms)
This over 40 model says, " I'm just running around doing errands today"..."Looking fab", we say!
We recently found a wonderful site called Atlantis Home that we wanted to share with all you more daring fashionistas out there.
The author (shown here) is over 40 and just so happens to be a former model. However, even if you are not tall and rail thin, you can still take some fun tips on how to dress a little more funky but still age appropriate!
What makes her looks so great?
The jacket is updated with 3/4 sleeves and chunky buttons and is a good length on her.
The gold necklace is bold like the jacket and softens the black top
Love the neckline of that mini dress
These jeans are slim all the way down, but not too tight, they give the legs an extra long lean look.
Even though she is tall she is still rocking platform boots. Believe it or not, these types of heels can be really comfortable.
She looks sexy with out having to wear tight clothes
The 3/4 length sleeves on winter coats seem to be popular, but what do you do with your sleeves of dress, shirt, etc? Would it be appropriate to wear long gloves?
Thanks, Ellen
Dear Ellen,
With all the rage of the 3/4 sleeve jacket, there are lots of options on how to wear this look.
I (JoJami) just bought this plaid jacket from a local resale shop, and have found it a great transition piece into fall. I have worn it with some black slim pants, with a black turtleneck with tall boots tucked into them, as well as more casual with a pair of straight legged jeans.
I even wore it with a black pencil skirt and black tights and black pumps and a thick belt to a networking event.
This big question is: Is it OK that my sleeves hang out the bottom? Yes, we have seen them with the sleeves hanging out the bottom (like this hounds tooth jacket below from Nordstrom’s), but feel it looks best if you choose a top that you can push up the sleeves or are sleeveless.
This 3/4 sleeve jacket is from Nordstroms
Moreover we agree that this jacket would look great with a pair of long leather gloves when the weather gets cooler.
It is also looks great with different shells. Here I have a sleeveless turtle neck, and a 3/4 sleeve scoop necked shell.
The options are endless, however I really like to keep it simple with all black underneath or pop it with a white blouse.
There is a bit of tan in the plaid as well, and would work nicely with a column of tan underneath as well. Since I bought it used, I would not attempt to try to put red with it, since it would be probably next to impossible to get the red right.
One more note, we both agree that we would not invest in a piece like this if it was pricey, since this is more of a trendy look. However this one was only $40.00 and so I felt like it was a good buy for how much I will be wearing it.
If you have a 3/4 jacket, please send us your photo in it with permission to use it on our blog. It is always fun to see how others put their looks together!
So, how can you pull off this falls biggest fashion trend, like these slouch leggings from Nordstroms?
Read our article over at More Magazine, and find out some of the do and don’ts of this fun and easy look!
I am so glad I found your wonderful website. I have a question that relates to what is “age-appropriate”. I am 43 and very petite. I am in love with a trend jacket that is big for the Fall, although I usually stay away from trends. The jacket I am talking about is the Alice + Olivia shrunken military jacket, a picture of which is attached.
My only concern is the age-appropriate perception of this jacket due to the adornment? My idea would be to wear it with some nice fitting jeans, a simple white top underneath and simple sleek black or metallic heels. No excessive accessories. I have tried the jacket on and it fits beautifully.
Your thoughts on the age-appropriateness of this ensemble is greatly appreciated!
Sincerely,
Gail
Hi Gail,
We have been seeing this look around and we agree it is so FUN!… but here it the thing… this is definitely a trend and what we call a “statement piece”. That means that you really will not wear it all the time and if you do, people will definitely remember that specific jacket.
Also, we know that this piece is rather expensive and is in the price range that we would call an “investment piece”. We suggest that you keep looking and find one that is similar with the military look, but perhaps not so dramatic as this one.
Moreover, if you buy it, because it is so trendy you might get tired of it soon and wish you had put your money in a high quality coat that is still fun, but one that you feel good in and can enjoy for a long time. An example of this would be this one we’re showing by Tory Burch.
To answer your question if it is age appropriate, we say that yes, someone over 40 can pull this off, but it is almost “costume-like”… so you would really have to be in a funky, fun job or live in a very cosmopolitan city or environment to wear it enough to get your moneys worth.
BTW… we think it would great left open with a red plaid flannel shirt under it with blue jeans.
Have you ever looked at something in the store and thought, “Nah,I’m not going to try it on. It’s probably not for me..I don’t think?”…. and then you walked away?
Well, this summer I (Deborah) nearly walked away from two winners.
Looked kind of baggy on the hanger
Deborah in her new favorite comfy dress!
The first was a simple navy blue Diane Von Furstenberg dress with a nautical feel. It had a cute scoop neckline, billowy sleeves and a darling rope belt. I liked it, but I was sure it would be too loose and billowy, and would make me like I was wearing a big old bag.
But then I thought…. what the heck, I’ll try it.
To my surprise, it was actually very fitted through the waist and hips and looked really cute on me. It’s so comfortable too, and looks great with my red canvas Ralph Lauren wedges.
I wasn't sure about this one
Deborah says, "You can still feel glam even going casual!"
The second near miss was another Diane Von Furstenberg dress…..this one had a simple cut and the material had a wild colorful pattern. Now, normally I don’t wear many patterns, but I was really attracted to the colors in this dress. I also like things that nip in at the waist and this looked more just a straight up and down style. It didn’t have the greatest rack appeal but, but I just had a feeling.
It’s now become my new favorite dress. It’s cute and comfy and I can dress it up and down. I have had a million compliments, and most important of all I feel fantastic in it. Here’s me on my way to my girlfriend’s new country house for a casual summer dinner.
So what’s the lesson here? If you’re not sure, try it on anyway. It sure worked for me! Oh, and do check out Diane Von Furstenberg. She’s on of my favorites. Saks carries a lot of her clothes.
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 likeNaturalizersthat 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
JoJami and Deborah will be talking about fall trends!
If you are dying to hear what the new fashion trends will be for fall + How not to look Frumpy after 40, then you won’t want to miss The Glam Gals radio interview with the Three Tomatoes on their radio show called, Tomatoes in the Trenches.
What a relief to see that those old misconceptions about how a mother of the bride – or mature woman attending a special event – should look, are finally changing. America’s biggest bridal retailer, David’s Bridal, is forging the way for moms and wedding-goers to look hipper, younger and cooler!
Here are some trends we have seen in the bridal industry in the past few seasons that give us hope!
1) Color
It used to be that Mother of the Bride dresses only came in four colors: blah, boring, beige, and blech. Pastels and navy blue are only part of the selection nowadays! Finally, the industry is starting to show a spectrum of different colors, from spring greens to rich purples.
Whether you love bold jewel tones or rich earth tones, there should be something out there for you. Since more saturated colors are better for aging skin tones, liven up your look, and go for something with pizazz!
2) Bolero Jackets
We’re sick of those boring, frumpy jacket dresses too, but with the rising popularity of bolero jackets, there’s finally a fresh new take on them! Designers finally addressed the need for a removable, arm-covering piece that is also fashionable.
It’s a perfect combination of style (with different sleeve lengths, they can be very sharp), practicality (take it off when you’re hot, and you will still have a great dress underneath), and modesty (wear it to cover up during the ceremony – no one will guess you’re trying to cover those wobbly chicken wings under your arms!).
3) Variety of lengths
Say goodbye to floor length! We’re seeing plenty of different hemlines popping up, maybe due to the variety of different wedding styles and venues. We’re seeing plenty of cocktail-length, knee-length, handkerchief hems and hi-lo (high in the front, long in the back).
Just stay away from anything above the knee – that’s way too short. All these new hemlines give you one more reason to wear some killer shoes!
We love that David’s has come up with stylish, more age-appropriate ways to appeal to the new generation of boomers! To get more tips about how to dress for your son or daughter’s wedding, check out our eBook Tweak Your Chic: Mother of the Bride!
Spring Styles are starting to pop up in stores and there’s plenty of choice out there. What are this season’s latest trends, and how can you wear them without looking too old, too young, but just right?
Here are 7 Spring Fashion Trends and our take on how to wear them age-appropriately!
1. Asymmetrical Dresses and Blouses
Michelle Obama led the way by wearing a white crystal one shoulder dress by Jason Wu at the Inaugural Ball. Now this trend is everywhere. One shoulder dresses are an easy way for women over 40 to look sexy without having to reveal too much skin. Just make sure your arms are toned and you’ll look great.
Too Young
Steer clear of styles like this one that are more cavewoman than classy. This dress is just too short for a gal over 40, even if you do have good legs. Unattractive extras like the wide blue strap on the opposite shoulder also detract from the elegance of the dress and the chunky sandals are too extreme for a grown-up gal. This look needs to be cranked down a few notches for anyone over 40.
Age Appropriate
This David Meister one shoulder sheath is just the right length to be elegant but sexy. The dramatic shoulder cutout draws the eye upward and towards the face (and away from any other parts of your midlife body, you don’t want people to tune into). Notice how when the dress has sculptural simplicity you really don’t need to wear much jewelry. Some earrings, perhaps a cocktail ring and you are good to go. Keep your shoes very simple too so you are not competing with the details up top. Don’t forget to wear shapewear with this dress!
In a recent blog post, we mentioned that when it gets really hot out, a sun dress is a much better option than shorts. So, now with all the Summer sales in full swing, why not pick up a fresh frock to get you through this season!
Here are five fabulous after 40 looks, that we think you’ll love, as well as some great tips on the best way to choose a sensational sun dress that is age appropriate and still chic!
Crisp wrap:
1. Fit: This is a great fitting dress and will work on most body types.
2. Color retty on dark or tanned skin, but be careful as it might wash out those with fair skin.
3. Neckline: “V” necks are flattering on almost everyone except those with long necks.
4. Length: At the knee is easy to wear.
5. Fabric: Love this silk fabric. It is classy and can be worn to work, out to lunch or even a casual dinner!
Fun and Flowing:
1. Fit: This is an easy fitting dress and will work on most body types. The empire waist will hide any tummy bulge.
2. Color: This blue will look goon on most!
3. Neckline: These straps have some substance to them and are not too thin. They keep things sexy without showing too much skin!
4. Length: Not too short! This is a good thing…
5. Fabric: This flowing matte jersey knit, will look good from day into evening, and not wrinkle! (Hint: this dress will look best with a pair of Spanx underneath!)
Easy to take on and off:
1. Fit: Just pull this dress over your head, and your ready to go!
2. Color: This pretty print, will look best on those with pink skin undertones. ( summers and winters)
3. Neckline: Very flattering if you have a small to medium chest. These “flutter” sleeves will cover any flab but still keep you cool.
4. Length: If you have good knees, go for this peek a boo shorter look!
5. Fabric: This flowing matte jersey knit, can go casual with a flat shoe, to dressy with a dainty heel or wedge.
Stylish Class:
1. Fit: If you have a pear shaped figure, this is the dress for you! Even in a larger size, this dress flatters and says, Wow!
2. Color: Black and white, is always classic and elegant.
3. Neckline: If you have narrow shoulders this will balance you out.
4. Length: Still tasteful, slightly above the knee.
5. Fabric: All cotton, so it breathes!
Sassy Safari:
1. Fit: More conservative and casual. Be careful of styles with cap sleeves, they tend to look better on those that have arms on the thin side.
2. Color: This wild print will hide figure flaws around the tummy.
3. Neckline: Because it has a collar, it looks good on those with longer necks or if you have a short haircut.
4. Length: Above the knee, but still age appropriate.
5. Fabric: Wash and wear, poly spandex is easy to care for!
There you go. As Diane Von Furstenberg says: “Feel like a woman. Wear a dress!”
Your nails “Tips” you won’t find in fashion magazines
I don’t know why, but fashion magazines don’t talk about how long or what color nails should be!
That being said, who needs an article when all you have to do is look at the celebrities being featured. For example, while your in line at the grocery store, check out Jennifer Lopez’s nails on the cover of the Feb. Bazaarmagazine.
Here are a few more…
Can you see these, nice short red nails on Nicole Ritchie? That is “IN”, so go for it!
Avril Lavigne and Mischa Barton know that rich dark colors are still “IN” and fun to try. Good news is that they are still age appropriate for us! If you don’t want to do your nails, try it on your toes!
TIP for those in the corporate world: This is a “fashion” look, so you might save this color for your off hours.
Here are some photos and common faux pas that we’ve been seeing out there in the real world.
Take our nail test to see if you are up to speed on the nail scene!
1. I love the convenience of tips. I go every two weeks and don’t have to think about my nails. In or Out?
Glam Gals say: OUT! Tips are NOT in style. If you must wear them, they should be short and painted a soft neutral color. If you have been wearing them for a long time, its perfect timing to give yourself a break and try having your own. You will save money and have new found freedom!
2. I have long natural nails and are proud of them. Are these, In or Out?
Glam Gals say: Out! Sorry, this is not a good look. Try shortening them up, especially if your not going to polish them.
3. I have this one favorite color that I have worn for years… I don’t care if it is In or Out, or should I?
Glam Gals say: This shiny pink says you are still back in the 80’s. Get OUT of the time warp and try something new! You just might like it!
4. I can’t help it, I think this snowflake is fun! Is this IN or OUT?
Glam Gals say: If your over 40, this might say “sassy” but it does not say, “I’m classy.” OUT!
5. How about this, short french manicure?
Glam Gals say: “IN!” ..Now this is what says, “I’m GLAM!”
Hi! JoJami here reporting LIVE from the streets of New York City! Looking for Fabulous Women over 40, what they are wearing and where they are shopping! Click on the image to enlarge them.
JJ: Hi there! Oh my gosh you look so fabulous, where are you from?
FAF(Fab After Forty): I’m from Bethesda, MD.
JJ:Where did you get that gorgeous purse?
FAF: Paris
JJ: Figures… I love your entire look.. the slim grey pants, over sized sunglasses, leather gloves and a fun red purse!
FAF: Thank you!
JJ: Hi there! You look great, can I take your picture? Where are you from?
FAF: I do? I’m from Atlanta.Why do you think I look great?
JJ: I love your grey hair, and how it’s cut so chic and your updated glasses and pretty colorful scarf that brightens up your coat!
FAF: Oh, thanks! Gotta go, the light is green!
JJ: Hi there! Amazing coat!
FAF: Got it at Neiman’s.
JJ: Thanks for the tip!
JJ; Oh your black and white coat is so different. Where did you get it?
FAF: London
JJ: What brand is it?
FAF: Jaeger of London, but they carry it at Saks too.
JJ: GREAT! I’m on my way!
JJ:Can I take your photo? You look adorable!
FAF: SURE!!! You’ve made my day!
JJ: I just love your entire ensemble, your Burberry hat, Ralph Lauren coat, Sigrid Olsen handbag and your Tory Burch Flats look so comfortable and chic!
FAF: Oh, thank you. (with a hint of southern accent)
JJ: Where are you from?
FAF: Richmond, VA.
JJ: You represent your state well! Have a great day!
Just when you think you think it’s going to be a scorcher of a summer, and you’ve bought all kinds of airy sun dresses and cute sleeveless tank tops, it happens….
You get hot days but cool nights. That little shift in temperature after 6 p.m. can drive you crazy. It’s annoying to feel like you can’t sit out on the patio into the evening without having to go inside to change.
What can you throw over top a summery outfit will keep you feeling cozy but not look heavy and overpowering?
On breezy summer nights, nothing looks or feels better than a luxurious little cashmere sweater! Cashmere is the perfect summer evening cover-up because it’s delicate, soft, and light. Also, it’s a natural fiber, so it breathes easily and is very comfortable to wear.
But it can be a challenge finding a cashmere sweater that is stylish and thin enough for this season.
The pure collection comes in a rainbow of fabulous summer shades and best of all they’re available in sizes 4-18.
These sweaters are especially handy if you are travelling. Make sure to pack one along with a pretty co-ordinating scarf. You’ll keep warm and look modern and chic too!
Ever notice that the hardest part about working out is simply getting your workout clothes on? Once you’re dressed and ready to go it’s so much easier to feel motivated. That’s why it makes sense to treat yourself to a fabulous new workout outfit every so often.
Now if you happen to live in a city with a mega gym, what you wear is can be extremely important because it’s like being at huge social event every time you go to hit the weights.
For example, On the West coast Jet Set Style at the gym has reached a new high. Here are a few “unspeakable” Do’s and Don’ts that you must be aware of before you join a club in L.A.
What does jet set style look like?
Mandatory valet your car with the cute guys dressed in white.
Hummers, Bentleys and Meybecks are welcome. Chevy Chevettes are frowned upon.
It’s O.K. to wear designer shades while working out, especially of you’re recovering from having “other work” done.
Your personal trainer must be hotter than anyone you’ve ever married or dated.
It’s cool to wear running shoes in shiny metallic leather or any article of clothing in shiny metallic for that matter. Nike Workout shoe
Low slung work out pants can be worn with a belly chain and optional lower back tattoo.
Work out skirts worn at any height, are the newest craze. Of course you need to have a figure that doesn’t need much work out to wear it.
Walk out much hotter than you walked in and that doesn’t mean hot and sweaty. It means fully decked out in something tight with very high heels. So make sure to bring a change of clothes and an arsenal of hair products in an over sized designer bag, preferably leopard.
WARNING! Going to a mega gym, might make you appear larger than you really are, compared to all the size 0’s.
With this Spring’s hot new looks being strutted down the runway by stick thin models.. many of you have been asking us which of these styles will work for the 40+ crowd?
Here are 5 tips of what to look for that we think will help you make the right choices when updating your spring wardrobe.
Cropped Trench Coats: The ever popular trench is back for another go around but this time with a modern twist. Designers are showing cropped trenches in bright colors and fun patterns, and we say “go for it”! Trenches are classic and their clean lines make you look ageless. They suit almost all body types and are a great staple in any wardrobe!
Wide Leg Pants: Thank Goodness, these are back. Those skinny leg, stove piped pants we saw in the fall were ridiculously hard to wear for most. Wide legs pants look chic and elegant and can help balance your silhouette. They complement the nautical look we’re also seeing this spring and also look great with a crisp shirt and vest for a dapper men’s suiting look. A round closed toe shoe looks great with these, as do platforms which balance out the look.
Baby doll Look: If the name alone doesn’t scare you off… it should. This season ruffles are all the rage. Be careful- ruffles, bows and other girly frou frou are juvenile and can look silly on older women. Once you over 40, you want to keep lines simple and classic. If you dare, a bit of ruffle at the neckline or wrist can be fine, but be careful not to overdo it. Frills will age you.
Wedge Shoes: We’re crazy for all the gorgeous new wedge shoes out there. If there is one thing you should buy to update your closet, it’s a new pair or two of these. We ‘ve found the ones with the cork heel especially comfortable and chic to wear. You can choose from wonderful bright colors and lots of shiny patent leather which looks great with the cork.
Metals: Silver, Gold and Bronze are the new neutrals this season, but although Shiny is youthful, you have to be careful to use it sparingly. Shiny fabrics are reflective and look great if you have a nice tight body, but if you’ve got a few bumps and curves it will definitely accent them. Might be best to accent your outfit with a metallic purse, shoe or jewelry. Make sure to pick the metal that looks best on your skin tone… silver looks best on gals with cool skin- blue undertones, while gold is better for gals with warm (yellow) undertones.
It’s shaping up to be an stylish spring for Boomer Babes!
Should a woman over 40 dress differently than a women under 40? Just read a blog post called Fashion after 40 and we were shocked at the angry comments everybody made.
It seems women are furious about being advised to dress more on the conservative side after 40. We read the bloggers advice and really didn’t think it was that bad, except that we do feel the comment about cleavage needed clarification.
Clean and simple lines are a great way to look classy and chic. As for her comments about color, classic colors are always sophisticated, but certainly current fashion colors that suit you and are still fun and fine for boomer women.
Finally her point about cleavage. Try using common sense, there is low and then there is very low! Letting it all hang out with a very low cut top at work or the grocery store looks cheap and sleazy at any age.
However, showing some cleavage is beautiful and sexy especially out to dinner or a party. Just look at Susan Sarandon.
It’s also a matter of size. If your breasts are large and you show alot of cleavage at work, you are sending the wrong message. Just remember, the more skin you show the less credibility you have.
We agree, no need to dress like a prude, but let’s remember to be tasteful!
transition piece into fall. I have worn it with some black slim pants, with a black turtleneck with tall boots tucked into them, as well as more casual with a pair of straight legged jeans.
1. Fit: This is a great fitting dress and will work on most body types.
retty on dark or tanned skin, but be careful as it might wash out those with fair skin.
1. Fit: Just pull this dress over your head, and your ready to go!
1. Fit: More conservative and casual. Be careful of styles with cap sleeves, they tend to look better on those that have arms on the thin side.
A few months ago we read that that showing your dark roots was in Vogue.
