Healthy Lifestyle = Healthy Self-Esteem

November 8, 2012 | By Deborah Boland | 2 Comments

Ladies, there is nothing worse than feeling uninspired about keeping fit…do you agree?

I (JoJami) have even been known to go on a bike ride in a skirt!

So today we ask the question: Are you finding some fun ways to get your body moving?Nothing compares to the feeling you have after a great day of eating right and exercising… but actually being “good” can be a challenge!

Both Deborah and I (JoJami) are firm believers in trying to find a way to exercise at least 3 times a week and walk at least 30 minutes every day.  Okay we all know, daily exercise is important but did you know it can help your self-esteem too?  In fact, trying something new, such as Zumba, arial yoga or just going out dancing can burn calories and you won’t even feel like you’re working out!

It can be super challenging for me (JoJami) to stick with a routine because I am currently traveling around the country in a motor coach.  This week I’m in Scottsdale, Arizona and have found hiking and biking are two activities I can squeeze in almost every day.  It makes me feel invigorated and it’s good for my health and my body.

Grab a friend or family member if you don’t want to exercise alone.

I enjoy the company of my husband when I hike.  Not only is a hike a chance for us to connect after a busy day but it is also a chance for us to release the stresses of our day through exercise.  For more tips on how to find more self-esteem, take a look at The Let’s Talk Toolkit.

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What to Wear Over 40 – Cruise

October 12, 2012 | By Deborah Boland | 3 Comments
Cruise

 

 

Are you planning a tropical vacation on a cruise or to the beach? 

Ahh, you lucky thing… just the thought of it makes us feel tingly and giddy!  This will be your chance to get away from it all and rejuvenate.  But then comes the age old dilemma: What to pack?

Deborah and I both love to travel and make it a habit to call each other when we are planning for a trip.  We enjoy batting around ideas of what are the must haves to take or purchase.   When it comes to traveling to a warm climate of course you want to only take things you will wear and feel comfortable in, but don’t just throw in your same old “uniform” of shorts and t-shirts.

Here is a great example of what to bring and what to leave at home:

  • A maxi dress:  This is one trend that we just adore!  How wonderful that you can pack a long dress and wear it from the pool and then out to dinner and feel feminine and fabulous!  They can be very reasonable and so you can splurge on several for variety. Depending on how dressy you want to be you can wear a simple flat sandal or dress it up with some chunky jewelry and pretty wedges.  Make sure you balance out the look with a large straw hat and not a skimpy baseball cap!
  • Oversized sunglasses:  Here is one item that you don’t have to spend a lot of money on. Leave your expensive glasses at home and just take along an inexpensive pair of updated large shades.  That way if they get scratched or lost it won’t ruin your good mood!
  • Colorful but simple tote:  This fuchsia tote is just the pop of color you need to take your outfit to the next level.  Don’t be tempted to buy one with cute starfish or flowers… you want your look to say “classy.”  This large bag will hold everything you need and is lightweight.
  • Costume Jewelry:  Let your sandals set the tone for what type of jewelry you wear.  In this photo the bright gold sandals with the gold baubles are chic and sleek.  This long necklace could be described the same way and therefore works well!
  • Pretty metallic sandals:  Sure rubber flip flops are a must for traipsing to the beach but if you are going out shopping or to dinner you can dress up your look with a fancy flat.  We’ve seen super sparkly to simple straps.  Either way, they will up your star power and have you looking fabulous!
 

 

What to Wear For A Girl’s Night Out

October 11, 2012 | By Deborah Boland | 5 Comments
Girl's Night Out

 

 
 
 
Do you take the time to go out with your girlfriends?  If so, you know how much fun it can be and of course you want to make sure you wear something “cute!”
 
What is your favorite place to go with your girlfriends?  Out to dinner, to the movies or have everyone bring an appetizer and hang out at your house?
 
Most of the time it’s going to be a casual event so you want to look pulled together but not overdone.
 
Here are some tips, for all you fabulous after 40 gals, to get that perfect look so next time you go out with the “girls” you will look perfectly polished!
 
  • Start with a fresh pair of dark wash flared jeans.  Skinny jeans are all the rage, but most of us over 40 gals need to balance our our bodies and a flair will do that!
  • Make your top the star of the show.  You want your top to be the focus so go with a shiny fabric that has a nice “v” neck.  Rounded necks tend to look more casual so go for one that will show off your neckline.
  • Don’t tuck in!  Unless you are a “pear shape” with a super flat tummy, most of us over 40 fashionistas will look best if we keep our tops out.  You can add a thin or thick belt if you think it will flatter your figure.  If not, do with out!
  • Don’t over do the accessories.  In the example above we chose a thin belt so just a bangle and earrings are all you need.  No need for a necklace too.
  • Get out a pair of sexy heels and strut your stuff.  Going out with the girls usually means that you won’t have to be walking too much so now is the time to get out those heels!  If you have foot problems then a pair of wedges might not be too painful.  Just remember, the shoes can really make or break an outfit!
  • Switch out your everyday purse for a clutch.  Let this be your excuse to take out one of those cute clutches you probably have tucked away in the back of your closet.  Leave your everyday bag at home.  You don’t need to lug all that stuff around, just grab your cell phone, a tube of lipstick and your wallet and you will be looking updated for sure!
 

Diane Keaton Talks Fashion, Romance, and Motherhood

October 5, 2012 | By Deborah Boland | 1 Comment
Image appears courtesy of Ladies' Home Journal

Image appears courtesy of Ladies’ Home Journal

Diane Keaton, 66, graces the cover of the November issue of Ladies’ Home Journal and talks candidly about her past loves including Woody Allen and her eclectic sense of style.

Diane KeatonKeaton has romanced, on and off-screen, some of Hollywood’s most famous leading men, including Warren Beatty, Al Pacino, and Jack Nicholson. When asked why the romances never flourished, Keaton cites her poor nurturing skills as a cause. “I needed as much as they needed and that’s not a good mix.” [Read more...]

What to Wear over 40 When You Travel To Europe, or Wherever

September 2, 2012 | By Deborah Boland | 7 Comments

What do you pack when you are going to Europe or any other chic vacation destination? You want to be casual, but you don’t want to look like a tourist in sloppy jeans, a boring top and tennis shoes.What should you take that’s casual and modern? Here’s one great outfit idea for you.

 

Europe

 

 

The Pants

Colored jeans are the hottest thing going at the moment and are a great way to look casual, but up to date and youthful too. Every color under the sun seems to be in style so you can’t go wrong no matter what shade you pick. Since it’s summer we chose this sunny yellow pair because they are relaxed and playful.

Now the skinny leg type of colored jeans that hug the ankles are the most “in”, but for gals who feel too self conscious to wear them so fitted, were showing a cropped slim bootcut. That little bit of flare balances out your figure more. If you don’t like cropped then go for a boot cut flared colored jean. Jeans with stretch are best as they help hold you in and make your figure look better.

The Top
Love this top. Lace is a popular trend and if have a tummy that’s fairly flat you can get away with a shorter top like this. If you have belly or weight at the hips or thighs, then we’d suggest a longer top that comes down and covers your bottom or even hits at mid-thigh.

Back to the lace. Now we were all brought up that lace is soft and pretty and we should pair it with something soft and pretty like a light flowing skirt or something “girly”, but this is how times have changed. There’s this ying and yang thing that’s been going on  in fashion where the trend call for you to pair something “hard”, or sort of sporty or masculine, with something really “soft”, more dainty, fragile or feminine. ie: There have been a lots of pretty flowery/ silky dresses shown with edgy leather jackets etc.

It’s the same idea that we’re showing here. These jeans are crisp, bold, sporty. The top is light, feminine, lacy. Marry them and you have a modern combination. A lot of us 40+ gals don’t realize is that it’s the way we combine pieces that makes us look modern. It’s not good enough to buy a lace top and wear it in an old way. It’s about styling your outfit so you look current.

colored jeans over 40

Deborah trying out the look.

Color- Let’s take a moment to talk about the color combination here – yellow pants and cream top. With today’s color blocking trend going on there are really not set rules about what color to wear with what.

Women are putting all kinds of wild colors together and pulling it off, but in the end it comes down to two things:

1) Age- Some of these wild color combos can be too harsh against aging skin and hair and will make you look like a clown

2) You have to have the personality to carry off mixing bold colors in a big way. If you do great. It can work.

However, for the average gal over 40 who wants to try colored jeans but is afraid of all that brightness, here’s what you do. Pair your  colored jeans with a neutral top or jacket- cream, black, brown, taupe, white, gray, navy etc. The neutral tones things down  and makes you look more elegant, rather than loud and wild.

The Shoes

We’ve all got aching feet, right, but we don’t want to give up a bit of  a heel. God knows we’re shrinking and who wants to look short and stumpy? These 2″ wedge espadrilles are a great option. Sure you may not wear them traipsing around rocky historic hillside sites -( wear your ballet flats then or chic runners then), but these are great for when you want to step out of your hotel for lunch, or do a little Tourist shopping at the local market etc.  Also gold is a great color because it is considered a neutral and goes with everything. plus they look super with a bit of a summer tan!

A tote is perfect for bopping around on vacation. Being big and unconstructed, it’s relaxed and the perfect bag to carry all those things like sunglasses, maps, a sweater, souvenirs and everything else you carry with you when you travel.

The Sunglasses

Sunglasses are your best summer accessory. Big is chic, but that doesn’t mean they have to be expensive. Shop around and find a pair that makes you feel like a movie star!

Wondering how this style recipe looks in real life? Here’s me ( Deborah) in a similar outfit on a trip to L.A. with JoJami.  My lace top is from Banana Republic. The orange jeans are Rag and Bone.

Have you worn a similar look? Send us a photo and we’ll post it.

What to Wear to a Funeral

July 23, 2012 | By Deborah Boland | 5 Comments

Dear Glam Gals,

I was getting ready for work this morning and thought of something (things pop into my head at the weirdest times!) but I was thinking about my boss’ recent passing and NO ONE ever talks about what to wear to a funeral! When I was trying to figure out what to wear – what would be appropriate as I had to speak in front of about 400 people, I went online to search. I found nothing. Sad to say, I’ve been to several funerals over the years and I always hesitate – too dressy, not dressy enough, etc.  I see people wearing denim, which I think is totally inappropriate, but what are the rules to follow?

Kari Solyntjes

Funeral

 

Hi Keri,
This is an important question and you are so right, one that we can feel uncomfortable talking about.  Really what you wear to a funeral is all about paying respect to the family.  We don’t like to ever use the words “rules” because dressing is a way to express ourselves but when it comes to attending a funeral we want to be respectful to others traditions.

Here are some tips to think about before you go:

  • Dress like you are going to be giving a speech to a group of bankers.  Conservative work dress is what is acceptable for a funeral.  If you think your outfit is too dressy or too sloppy it probably is.
  • If the funeral is going to be held in a church be aware that you will want to dress in a modest way.  Covering your arms is sometimes required.
  • Black is not mandatory but you can never go wrong wearing it.  However, anything in a dark color will be just fine.
  • Avoid wearing jeans. This is just not appropriate for this type of event.
  • Nothing flashy or bright.  If your style is to wear colorful clothes, try to tone it down for a funeral. This is not the time to try to bring attention to yourself.
  • Make sure your shoes are not too uncomfortable. Funerals can be a lot of standing and walking, so plan accordingly.
  • Try your outfit on the night before. If you have an outfit that you “save” as your funeral outfit you want to make sure it still fits!
  • Don’t forget to tuck some tissue in your purse and an extra one to share.
  • Turn off your cell phone before you go. How embarrassing to have your phone go off in the middle of this solemn event.

Look Fab After 40 When You Go Shopping

July 18, 2012 | By Deborah Boland | 12 Comments

shopping over 40There are days when you just need a good shop! Right? For those days it’s like going on a hunt. You want to be comfy, you want to feel relaxed, but you also want to look decent and pulled together in case you run into someone, or just so you feel good about yourself.

What do you wear to be casual but still cool and classy? Below is a suggestion. Let’s see how this came together.

Out Shopping

 

Jeans
You can’t go wrong with a pair of classic dark wash jeans. They’re cool, they go with anything anything, but no fades, rips, or whiskers at the crotch please! A clean, dark wash makes you look classy and confident. It’s grown up chic not teenage trendsetter. These boot cut jeans with slight flare look great on most women.If you are have generous hips and thighs you may want to go for a jean that is looser at the thigh such as a trouser jean. If you are slim and fit, great! Go for a skinny leg.

Whatever style, make sure your jeans fit well. With a million and one jeans brands out there is something for everyone. Some of our favorites are Not Your Daughter’s Jeans, JBrand, Miracle Fit jeans. One other great benefit to wearing dark jeans when you shop. Like black or white pants they are a great base to try on colored or patterned tops. You really get a chance to see what the tops look like when what you are wearing on the bottom half doesn’t compete.

The Top
Comfort is key, so is a top you can pull on and off in an instant, and this blue stretch top fits the bill. It’s a soft jersey wrap top that nips in your waist and creates an hourglass even if you don’t really have one. The length on this is good because it will hide any tummy. Blue, paired with blue jeans will make you look long and lean (Just in case you do run into that old boyfriend).

Really, any comfy top with any comfy skirt or pant is great to shop in because separates are what you need when it comes to trying stuff on. Ever shop in a dress, try on a top and then have to scramble to find a saleswoman to bring you a pair of pants? Separates make sense.

The Bag
When in doubt basic black leather always a good choice and an excellent staple in any wardrobe. This bag is just right size for shopping. It won’t get heavy and with the zipper, you won’t have t worry about your wallet falling out anywhere.

Shoes
This is where the cute factor comes in. You definitely want flats for powering around the mall in. Gold adds a touch of richness and fun to this monochromatic outfit.

Gold accessories
Keep accessories super simple when you go shopping. The gold watch and earrings are simple and chic. Gold is best for warm toned skin such (ie: If you have had your seasonal colors done and are a spring or autumn). If you are a summer or winter you can go with silver instead to match your cool skin and hair and look equally as good.

What do you wear when you go shopping? Do you have a favorite outfit? Send us a photo. I’d love to see your “shopping uniform”.

How to Look Fabulous After 40 Going Out to Lunch

July 3, 2012 | By Deborah Boland | 11 Comments

When is the last time you made a date to go out to lunch with a girlfriend?  There is no set rules on what you should wear but we think it makes it easier to throw on a well thought out outfit if you get some fresh ideas to spice things up.

Afternoon Lunch

 

So what are some of the trends we are seeing this summer?  You might want to check out our post we did recently on gold shoes. They have been one of our favorite “go to” items this season. Another trend has been pleated skirts and polka dots but can they can be tricky to pull off when you’re over a certain age.

Here are some tips to look on how to make an outfit  age appropriate and have you  looking fabulous after 40:

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How to Look Fabulous over 40 as a Summer Wedding Guest?

June 26, 2012 | By Deborah Boland | 4 Comments

There aren’t many occasions to dress up  these days, so if you are invited to a summer wedding seize the chance to dress up and Look Fabulous over 40! Here’s a little outfit we put together  that falls into the party dresses for women over 40 category. We think it would look great at any semi-formal event, including a summer wedding. Why? Read on…

Summer Wedding

 

 

The Dress
A wedding or semi-formal party is special.  That means you need to dress accordingly. Don’t think you can throw on a day dress that you’d wear to the office and be done with it. You need something more  luxe and glamorous, even a little sexy over 40. This Tory Burch hammered silk dress is a great choice. It’s  a little shiny, which makes it dressy. It’s soft and silky to the touch which makes it feminine and sensual.  The skirt flows making it  rather romantic and  great for dancing at the reception afterwards. The sash adds some wonderful drama!

The Color

Color blocking is hot right now so this dress is modern and on-trend, which is a good thing. You don’t want it to look like you are wearing something from the last wedding you attended 5 years ago. The cream color up top is elegant enough for a wedding or important occasion, yet the tangerine color below communicates high energy and playfulness and excitement. So you have a combination of being respectful for the occasion, but being festive and fashion forward too.

The Clutch

If you were ever going to carry a clutch, then carry it with a party dress over 40. This gold embrodiered leather bag, with it’s diamond pattern, is a showstopper. It’s almost like a piece of jewelry!

The Earrings

If you are  a regular reader you know how much we like chunky costume jewelry, by day. But for a special occasion like this, we say bring out your finest to really dazzle them. If you have the real thing wear it. It doesn’t mean you can’t wear faux stones. Just wear jewelry that  is more refined and that dazzles. These amesyth teardrop earrings are Fabulous over 40, or at any age.  Imagine how they’d swing when you dance and add a touch of sexy over 40 to your look.

The Shoes

Slingbacks are classy and look alluring with  party dresses over 40. Go for gold, or some other metallic to match the festive mood. This is one time when it’s important for metals to match. So if your purse is gold, make the shoes and jewelry gold too. It’s a high end look.

The Wrap

This is  one thing that many women forget about when it comes to buying party dresses over 40. You likely need a little something to cover up with because most party dresses over 40 are sleeveless. Also, you might want something for the church or for the air conditioned reception hall or outdoor patio if the reception is outside. Make sure your wrap is delicate and ladylike. Keep the material fine like silk, the color neutral or elegant so as not to steal from your dress and keep it lightweight.

Did you look Fabulous over 40 at a wedding recently or at a semi-formal party? Send us a photo. We would love to post it.

 

 

Clothes for Women Over 40 – What To Wear To a Romantic Dinner?

June 22, 2012 | By Deborah Boland | 5 Comments

There are times when a woman wants to look really feminine, soft an downright pretty! Dinner with your honey might just be that time. If you are looking for ideas on clothes for women over 40, here’s an outfit you could wear out to a special Anniversary Dinner, or even a fancy date if you happen to be on the market for a partner. Let’s take a closer look at this Grown-up version of Pretty in Pink.

Dinner With Sweetheart

 

Pink
Did you know that if you want to convey an open heart pink is the color to do it? That’s right. Women, (and even men) who wear pink send the message that they are approachable and capable of loving others. This makes it the perfect date color and a great way to look sexy over 40.

The Wrap Dress
If you know us you know  that when it comes to clothes for women over 40 we are crazy about wrap dresses. Diane Von Fursteneberg the designer who said, “Feel like a woman. Wear a dress,” invented the wrap dres and it has been going strong since the 70′s as a true classic that is feminine and sexy. Wrap dresses are super flattering for all shapes because they are usually made of silk or jersey and follow the curves of a woman’s body and help create a waistline even where there isn’t one. You can go wrong in a wrap dress on a date, or anywhere else for that matter. Wrap dresses make you look sexy after 40.

The Dangly Earrings

Maybe you’ve never thought much about jewelry and what jewelry is sexy or not so let’s talk about that now. Think about small button earrings. What message do they send. They’re kind of proper and tight- right- good for the office, but at night you want something much more free, bold and relaxed and that’s why big, dangly earrings work so well. They swing, the move, they dangle and they send a playful message which is exactly the kind of feeling you want to project on  a special night with your Mr. Big.

The Shoes

Same principles apply to shoes. Sensible pumps go with sensible business suits, but high, shiny, strappy shoes goes with feminine sexy looks. Paint your toes and show them on a date. It’s a little like flashing a touch of cleavage.  It’s sexy over 40 or at any age. We love the nude heel we’ve chosen because nude shoes- shoes the same color as your skin elongate your legs by creating one continuous line. Plus the nude shoe lets the pink dress grab the spotlight. Even if you don’t like heels, try to find one that is comfy for the evening. A low, chunky,frumpy shoe like we see so many women resort to out of comfort would totally destroy this ladylike look.

The Bag

Nothing says femininity and class more than this quilted Chanel style bag in classic cream. The neutral color keeps the outfit looking elegant.  The  gold chain on the bag adds a touch of glitz and glam and  mimics chain bracelet which is always a great way to make an outfit look pulled together.

Do you have your own ideas about clothes for women over 40 who may be going on a special dinner date? Email us at info@fabulousafter40.com and tell us what you wear to Look Sexy over 40. We’d love to hear from you!