Some women just have a knack at pulling great outfits together and always looking chic.
So if she can do it, why can’t most women?
How is it that women have been shopping for their entire lives still can walk into a store and feel totally overwhelmed , not knowing where to start? What to buy? What if you don’t want to look trendy, but pulled together? Bottom line, you just want to look “tasteful”.
Can taste be taught? We have found that… yes, we can all learn from a good example. Too many of us just run to the discount store when we need a fashion fix. This ends up being the “band aid” approach to spicing up our wardrobe. Really what you need is a good plan on how to up date your style.
We are going to try to explore this idea and see what you all think.
Here is our day 1 of our series, Can Taste Be Taught? Read on:
Step ONE:
Getting your taste buds back in shape.
First we have to get your creative juices going. How about starting off by just going exploring and start taking notes.
Day 1: Go window shopping! Keep your pocket book at home, you won’t need to be buying anything yet!
This is the fun part…go online and browse through your favorite high end store, Neiman-Marcus or Nordstomes come to mind. Do not look at the price tags, just have fun seeing what catches your eye and enjoy!
- Cut out photos of the looks you like (do you see a new pattern or are you still picking out the same old looks?)
- Take notes on what you see other women wearing and write down what you love
- Go to the shoe department and see what new styles catch your eye
- See what colors and styles they are showing in handbags
- Look at the mannequins to see creative new outfit ideas
Next, you need to find something to add to your wardrobe that is unexpected! It can be anything from a colorful handbag to interesting scarf or belt! Sometimes just finding a few ideas you can now go to the store with a goal in mind and try to add something new to your closet!
Stay tuned…We will have more on this soon!
Dear Glam Gals,
I know holiday time is nearing because my mail box is bulging at the rivets! I have shopped by catalog for convince, now it seems as if I receive every catalog ever printed! I would like some advice from the professionals; so I am going straight to the Glam Gals. What is the best way to approach my (growing) catalog pile? I know, I should begin by putting my VISA away and develop a plan (I have listened to you!) But what is next? What is the plan??
Sincerely,
Shops-By-Phone
Hi Shops-By-Phone!
When it comes to getting all those catalogs it can be rather overwhelming. When it comes to the question, should I or shouldn’t I buy from them we say, please by all means put that Visa away… we would much rather you get your body into the store and try things on, than buy from a catalog. However, that being said, we actually think these catalogs are a great tool to use in making your shopping plan.
So…here are 10 tips to what to do with all those catalogs:
1) Read catalogs like you would a fashion magazine. Look at what trends are coming in style, look at what colors they are showing. This will give you a good feel for how you might update your wardrobe for the coming season.
2) Be picky about which catalogs you read. Throw out the rest. Don’t be tempted to read the ones that are not worthy.
3) Catalogs we like are Nordstrom, Neiman-Marcus, Saks, any high end store. For casual, we like Banana Republic, Anthropology, and even J. Crew has got some great finds!
4) Catalogs we think will get you off track are Coldwater Creek, Chico’s, Talbots, anything too “earth cookie” will make you look matronly and uninspired.
5) Just remember, there are good and bad styles in all catalogs, because they have to sell to all types of tastes. Its not how much it costs; it is how it looks, fits and how much you love it.
6) You should not buy things from catalogs if you can help it. It is always better to go to the store when possible and try things on.
7) Use catalogs to inspire you to try to imitate a “look” if you have a budget. One of our favorite stores for a great bargain is H and M. They do a great job of selling clothes that have lots of style and a low price tag.
8 ) If you do buy from a catalog, go ahead and buy 2 different sizes so you can try them both on and return the one that does not fit. It’s very hard to buy things and have them fit the first time around. If you love it, and it needs a little alteration, get it done. Never feel guilty about getting something altered. Its so important that your clothes fit your unique body and its almost impossible for anyone to buy something that does not need a little nip or tuck here and there.
9) Only keep things that you absolutely LOVE and adore…most people get things from a catalog, and keep it, even if it is less than wonderful.
10) Finally, start noticing what colors they put the models in. Usually they put the right color on the right model. If you are unsure of what colors look good on you, find the models with your coloring and go for that . The jacket or top in colors that look good on you are key to looking great!
Good Luck!
The Blogging Boomer’s Carnival is here once again for your reading enjoyment.
If you are interested in a cornucopia of Boomer issues other than fashion, this is the place to go to read posts that run the gamut from a gene that helps you live longer, to the inside scoop on on- line dating!
Check out this week’s list of fascinating articles, hosted by Midlife Crisis Queen.
Over 40, feeling frumpy? Wondering what to buy this season to zip up your wardrobe and get you back on the style track?
Here are 7 Fall Accessories to help make you look Fabulous after 40
1. Wide Belts
Wide belts are a great way to bring definition to your waist, hide figure flaws and help accentuate a curvy body (Just look at Oprah ~ she wears them all the time!) One great look is to tuck a sweater set or blouse into your pants or skirt and add a wide belt. Any one of these colorful croco patent leather belts would be a modern choice.
You can also use a belt to create a layered look. Slip on a pair of pants, a shirt and a long sweater coat, and then add a 2″ belt on the outside of it all. This Suzie Roher lambskin quilted belt would look great wrapped snugly around your middle, or if you prefer, you could let it hang a little looser, just to one side, to camouflage a jelly belly. If you are extremely round in the middle (apple shaped, rather than hour glass), you need to skip a belt altogether. It will only bring attention to the wrong area.
2. Oversized Clutches
This is an easy look for most shapes and sizes, and adds instant glamour to a suit, dress or even a pair of jeans. This Michael Kors clutch hits the mark this season because of its regal purple shade and patent leather finish.
Exotic animal skins are also a hot trend and that’s why we love this ladylike python headturner by Jalda. Like many of today’s clutches, it has a magnetic latch which makes it easy to get in and out of. Ladies, keep in mind that your clutch does not have to match your shoes. You may have on a brown outfit with brown shoes, but a bright gold or purple clutch spices things up a bit and makes you look good with it. Make a gorgeous clutch your focal point!
3. Gloves Galore
Gorgeous leather gloves in warm autumn shades are a must have item this Fall if you want to look Fabulous after 40. Treat yourself to a pair of short Italian cashmere lined gloves or, better yet, to a pair of glamorous long ones. These brown suede beauties by Robert Rodriguez go perfectly with a sleeveless dress or 3/4 sleeve length sleeve jacket. Not only are they super chic, but they make your jacket more wearable in the winter. Many of our readers ask how to dress to be cool in the Fall, (they’re dealing with hot flashes)…The 3/4 length jacket fits the bill perfectly, but going from the cold to the warm inside will be tricky if you don’t have the right gloves.
4. Winter Wraps
What are they? They are sort of a combination of a poncho, a shawl, and long sweater all rolled into one. We just love this cozy feminine look as an alternative to coats or jackets. This season the wool wrap is at the top of our must have list and are a very versatile piece that works well for the bodies and lifestyles of women over 40. They are easy to wear because they’re loose (1 size fits most) and they can take you anywhere from dropping the kids off at school, to an evening out with your husband.
Our favorites are this DKNY merino wool “Cozy,” and for a more elegant look we love this Badgley Mischka paisley wrap. Not only is grey this season’s hottest neutral, but the metallic threads running through this wrap give it a very hip feel.
5. Ankle Booties
A great alternative to knee high boots, ankle booties can be worn in a variety of ways depending how you feel most comfortable. For more conservative types, ankle boots are great under pants because they’re cooler and more comfortable than wearing a tall boot. Booties styles include ones with clunky rounded toes, wedges, or pointy toes and thin heels. Be clear on your purpose for the boot. We prefer the more refined rather than clunky ankle booties because a too clunky look can look too funky, and you can start looking like a big old horse.
Now, if you feel your style leans more towards the upper end of the fashion scale and you enjoy experimenting with new looks, then try wearing ankle booties with a dress. The key to this look is to choose a bootie that is cut lower at the ankle, rather than one that covers the ankle like the chocolate brown Star Ling “chow chow” pair (Save those for under pants). Dark booties should be worn with dark opaque hose. We love these Ferragamo pleated Narni beige booties but would only suggest wearing them with a monochromatic outfit (taupe outfit and taupe opaque hose, which might be difficult to find!- best to stick to brown and black booties if you can) The dress and ankle bootie combo looks amazing on women with nice legs. It’s not complementary on gals with thick ankles or knees.
6. Statement Jewelry
The bigger and bolder, the better is what this season’s jewelry says. If you have to just buy one necklace or bracelet, make sure it’s a clunky one. This Kendra Scott cuff with fan shaped stones is the perfect way to turn a little black dress into a stunning black dress. The Ippolita Art Link necklace is also a head turner and is very versatile because of its classic simplicity. You only need a couple of really good pieces like this to mix and match with your wardrobe. We can’t stress how important jewelry is and how much it can totally change an outfit instantly.
7. Patterned Hosiery
We are seeing a lot of fun textured hose out there, but we caution you to play it safe with this trend. This is one trend that done wrong (stripes, polka dots, or too much color) can really make you look like Pipi Longstocking! Although printed and textured hose are in, you need to keep things simple and clean. Avoid anything with a big print or that is too textured. Spanx has just created a new line of textured hose that we love. We suggest these tight end fancy chevron pair or the arrow pattern tights. We also love these Donna Karan crocodile pattern tights which are a little more adventurous, but are still subtle enough to be chic.
Hey gals…. we want to talk down and dirty to you today…with a reality check.
Deborah and I were out discussing how sometimes we become “clueless” when it comes to realizing that our bodies are changing,
ESPECIALLY those of us who are still slim and in pretty darn good shape! Because we age so slowly… sometimes little things sneak up on us, that we don’t even realize!!!!
So the figure challenge question of the day is…Do you have batwings?
You know…those little hunks of skin that bulge over your bra straps near the underarms.
Next time you are in a dressing room and trying on a 
new sexy, dress, make sure to take a hard look at how your arms look. You might be surprised to see that things are hanging out where they shouldn’t be!
NOT TO WORRY….just pick another style and you can still be sexy but at least you will be sexy and smart about it!
Still Sexy, No Batwings!
Tibi is a fabulous contemporary line we discovered when we were on the lookout for a couple of dresses for a recent TV interview.
JoJami found this smart pumpkin military style dress, and I picked up a chic Kelly green shift. These dresses are super comfortable knits and look perfect with dark tights and boots, or platform pumps.
Amy Smilovic is the designer behind Tibi. Her motto is “casual chic”. Amy’s influences comes from childhood. Her father was an artist and that comes through in her clothing, as she is know for her brilliant use of colour.
Tibi is showing at New York Fashion Week. Check out what they’re showing for Spring 2009.
Your arms may be a little flabbier than they used to be, and you’re likely struggling with some middle age spread, but no one will ever notice if you slip on a great jacket. Ah, structure!! A short fitted jacket can work wonders to transform any 40 + body into a lean mean style machine. And, how fabulous a jacket makes you feel… Chic, together and ready for action!
If you have a jacket on this season’s shopping list, but you’re not sure what kind to buy, here are 5 Fall Jackets to Make you Look Fabulous after 40.
Romantic Ruffles
Though Ruffles are one of the hottest trends this season, they can be hard to pull off if you are over 40. Why? They can look too “little girly” and all of those busy ruffles can just add bulk if you are busty or have a few extra midlife pounds at the waist.
That being said, we adore this red Armani wool jacket. It’s simple, elegant and nips in beautifully at the waist, which is what we always preach (No boxy jacket please! It won’t hide extra pounds. It will only make you look bigger, like a football player)
The key to making this feminine ruffled jacket work is to balance it out with something tailored and masculine (like these simple black pants) to give it a modern edge. The simple “I mean business black heels” are grown-up and sexy. The color red is bold and powerful. If you think you might be able to wear a jacket like this in pink, pastel blue or even with a ruffled skirt, think again. The combination of pastels and ruffles will make you look like an outdated mother of the bride.
Long Live Leather
If you like leather, but you are worried about looking like an old biker, then this is a great jacket for you. It’s a Tory Burch quilted leather jacket with super soft leather diamond quilting and military pomp detail.
Again, it’s fitted (see how it nips in at the waist) so it will give you a great shape. Also, it is a warm brown shade which is softer than black.
Jet Black leather can be too harsh for many women over 40, as in midlife our skin and hair color pales a bit and the harsh black combined with masculine leather creates quite a jarring contrast. (If you feel black leather still works for you, then try something elegant like a swing jacket in black leather.)
Last word about the brown leather jacket above…It is best suited for someone with a small to medium bust, as there is a lot of detail going on with those upper patch pockets. A big bust plus all of that detail will look too bulky.
Dusters
Very chic and very fun, dusters are hot for fall. Dusters create a nice long line that draws the eye down and makes you look slimmer and taller. (Petites: Be careful with your dusters. Don’t go past the knee.)
This hot shot of Fuchsia is all you need to keep you feeling happy during the long winter and make heads turn.
Metallic + Plaid
Giant plaids, checks and tweeds mixed with metallics are the newest arrivals on the fashion scene creating a glamorous high fashion look.
This Burberrry trench coat inspired jacket is a classic cut, always flattering to women over 40, and it has 3/4 sleeves which makes it youthful. If you want to look Age-mazing™ you have to be willing to try new things. Get rid of that stodgy two button navy blazer and try something like this.
One other tip-with any patterned jacket, make sure the patterns line up at the seams of the shoulders and lapels.
Color + Comfort
Structure is good because it makes a soft body look more angular, but we all want comfort too. That’s why this burnt orange 3/4 length sleeve-merino wool cardigan by Tory Burch is such a find. It’s simple, rich and that pop of color is just what you need to make the statement “I’m over 40 and I’m fabulous!”
Double breasted (very in at the moment) and shiny buttons give it that military feel, but the 3/4 length sleeves, which seem to be everywhere this year, make it a little more casual.
Texture Galore
One thing you’ll notice this fall is texture. There are textured fabrics and interesting textured details on jackets – at necklines, on sleeves and pockets. This Dior Swan Neck Peplum jacket has a 40’s inspired silhouette with waves of gathered fabric at the pockets that give it a cutting edge look.
With this jacket the attention will be on your curvy hips so if you don’t want the focus there, this is not for you.
This Robert Rodriguez textured jacket is tweed and has fabric rosette detailing at the collar. These nostalgic rosettes, plus the long gloves (which you will see everywhere with cropped jackets this fall) gives this outfit a high fashion feel straight out of the 50′s. Here the jacket is paired with a matching skirt, but you can also wear this it with a solid colored skirt or pants. If you want a much more casual look then take off the gloves, pair it with jeans and change your top. A long loose sleeveless satin top or an empire waist blouse that grazes your hip bones, would look great underneath.
With the hot and muggy weather, the last thing you’re probably thinking about is pulling on a cashmere sweater (like this cute Vince sweater coat).
But with the fall clothes arriving in the stores, this is the best time to start taking a look. We’ve always found that some of the best pieces come out first, so make sure to grab something great before it is gone.
Before we shop we like to get a preview of what’s out there so we pop online first. When you’ve seen something that you like online or in a magazine it’s so much easier to shop. You just hit the store and you head straight for that item like a bee to honey.
So here is a online taste of what will be trickling into the stores soon…
