Gray, which was big last winter, has become a fashion staple this fall. Worried it may comes across as too boring and the color may drag you down now you are over 40? When done right this new neutral is very modern and elegant. Here’s how to wear it.
| Asymmetrical Neckline:
This interesting new neckline moves gray out of the serious category and into the chic category. This dark gray shade is perfect for this gal because she has cool hair and cool skin. If your hair and skin are warm and sunny you will look better in warmer grays such as pearl gray and dove gray. (Saks) |
 an asymmetrical neckline makes gray modern |
| Animal Prints and Skins:
Gray tones down a wild animal print and makes it look sophisticated. Gray also looks fabulous when it the color of an exotic animal skin. For example, a pair of gray python shoes or belt would be right on target this fall. (Saks) |
 gray come alive with exotic animal prints |
With Feminine Details:
Soft ruffles, a huge trend this season, take the boring masculine uniform look out of gray and make it pretty and soft. Simple ruffles are most elegant. (Saks) |
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Mixed with a shot of color:
Bright jewel tones like purple, emerald green, ruby red and fushia look fabulous with gray and give life to your face after 40 when your hair and skin naturally start to fade. (Saks) |
 jewel tones perk up gray |
| With Shine or Sparkle:
Sparkles, Sequins, metallic threads, and in this case satiny materials, make gray come alive. The interesting use of color blocking here shows just how many shades of gray there really are. This dress ranges in color from charcoal gray to dove gray all the way up to silver. (Saks) |
 add some shine to serious gray |
| Paired with Chocolate Brown:
Most of us don’t think to pair gray with chocolate brown, or taupe, but try it. This subtle combination will make you look modern and chic. ( Saks). |
 chocolate and gray are a modern combination |
We were just chatting about W ‘s latest article on gray hair which proclaims:
“Once the hallmark of sweet old grannies, gray hair is now being embraced by women with a daring streak”.
Suddenly gray hair is chic. We know that growing gray is not for everyone, but it was fun to see a major fashion magazine go to bat for those women who dare to bare the gray.
But just because you’ve decided to go au naturel, doesn’t mean you are off the hook maintaining a stylish appearance. Graying gracefully can actually mean more work.
Gray hair is naturally dull, dry and coarse so you really need to use clarifying shampoos and deep conditioners to keep it looking soft and shiny. And since your hair becomes such a major focal point , you need to keep it crisp and trimmed, and neat at all times.
You also need to devote extra time and attention to your make-up. Fashion journalist, Laurn Ezersky warns, ” Gray hair can look haggy if you don’t wear makeup and look put together”
Here are a few make-up tips for those of you who have decided to join the “Silver Foxes” Club.
Start with a sheer to medium foundation and a dab of powder. As your hair grays so does your skin. It becomes pale, spotty and uneven, so you need foundation to create a smooth base.
A good undereye concealer is a must for women with gray hair.
Make sure eyebrows are well defined with a light pencil. Don’t use black. It’s too harsh.
Keep blush very soft and subtle. Just a sweep of color, otherwise you’ll look old and hard.
Lipstick is key to adding life to your face. The best shades are soft pinks, roses, and peaches. Stay away from anything that screams bright, or anything that is too dark.
Also avoid brown/neutral shades which are too dull and muddy.
Eyeshadow -We love make-up artist Bobbi Brown’s advice on this. She says: “I recommend grays, slates, and white for the eyes, which offer a sleek and sexy look without too much drama.” We’ve found that very soft pink can also work well with gray eyeshadow.
If you are still on the fence about going gray, More Magazine had a wonderful diary of one woman’s six month journey to “get back to her roots”, so to speak.
We also found a great book you should check out called Going Gray Looking Great. It covers everything to do with style and beauty for gray haired women.
It isn’t easy going gray, but the results can be stunning!
