Aging in Style: The Art of Stylishly Aging
Aging gracefully is an art form but achievable, no doubt! As a Style Coach, I work with many ages and have met many women who have come to me after almost giving up – giving up on their appearance and the idea that they, too, can be stylish no matter their age.
I often remind my clients that being fashionable isn’t reserved for just the 20 something’s, but one must understand how to incorporate certain elements in an age appropriate way to create a polished and current look.
There’s something so beautiful about a woman who is comfortable in her own skin and the stage of life in which she is in. During my Style Strategy Sessions, my clients and I discuss how to accomplish just that!
These are the key points I cover with them; by sharing them with you, I hope that you, too, can find the confidence in becoming the best version of yourself where you are right now!
1. Assess your ‘fashion escalator’ to see where you are currently. One of my clients had the best analogy for why some women age less stylishly than others. She explained that when someone decides to keep their look as is (aka they don’t evolve their style over the years perhaps because they don’t feel like putting in the effort anymore, feel like they are too ‘old’ to put in the work it takes to look their best, they gain weight, or whatever reason it may be) it’s comparable to someone getting off an escalator at a certain decade or year. For example, if the last time you really updated your wardrobe (I’m talking basics AND trendier items) and your hair style/makeup was in the early 2000’s when you started working then that’s when you got off of the fashion escalator. Or perhaps the last time you really updated your hair or basics was in the early 90’s after you had kids, then that’s when you got off of the fashion escalator. Moral of the story fab femmes, no matter what’s going on in your life or what age you are turning you should NEVER get off of the fashion escalator. This does not mean being a slave to fashion or the trends, it simply means evolving your style and overall look with every stage of your life. By doing this you are sure to always look and feel your best, not to mention remain look like you belong in today’s world 😉
2. Determine the image you desire to be projecting for the stage of life that you are in. One of the first exercises I do with my clients is getting clear on what’s important to them and how they can then project that through their outward appearance. There are some values and traits that you will always want to project, but then there are ones that come & go depending on the stage of life that you are in. If you are starting a new job after being a stay at home mom for years, your image will need to evolve. If you are retiring after working in the corporate world for years, your image will need to evolve. This doesn’t mean you need to overhaul your wardrobe or get a drastic haircut, it simply means reassessing the look you desire to project and then figuring out what tweaks you need to make to convey that look to others. But if you’ve been looking for that extra “oomph” to your hair, dallas extensions can help you achieve that extra volume you’ve always dreamed of. Now it’s your turn–what image do YOU want to project for this stage of life?
3. Set manageable ‘baby step’ goals for yourself to begin looking more current. I always tell my clients real, tangible, long-lasting style results do not happen over night! They don’t happen simply by getting a box of clothes sent to your house or by going shopping once. Due to this fact it can feel overwhelming knowing where to even begin and how to best spend your money. I highly recommend setting big overarching goals and from there baby step it out. You can never go wrong with elegant designer pakistani clothes. What small tasks can you do, or enlist an expert, in helping you to start moving towards your goal of looking current and like the best version of yourself in this stage of life. Make a list and then work to keep yourself accountable! I promise the end result is SO worth it…and the confidence you’ll exude is priceless.
4. It takes effort to look effortless. I often hear women say to me ‘I want to look effortlessly pulled together…other women seem to look so pulled together, why can’t I have that too?’. Want to know their secret? They put in the RIGHT kind of effort. From monthly facials, to a nighttime skincare routine, to regularly cleansing their closet, to making sure they know what’s in and what’s out, these women are putting in the effort to maintain a current and effortlessly chic look. If you have excess fat under the chin and neck area, these neck lift techniques Louisville may work for you. This is often why my clients seek out my guidance as it can feel like a lot of work if you don’t know exactly what to do to get to that effortless stage. So know you don’t have to go it alone 🙂
If you are looking to get out of a style rut, then consider a Style Strategy Session with me! (Click HERE to learn more.) Not a Birmingham local? Not a problem at all! I work with clients from all over! I can come to you, or we can chat via Skype. I can’t wait to meet you!
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As a 70’ish ex-model & self-proclaimed Texas fashionista, I firmly believe a gal is never too old to learn new techniques! Thank you.
I’m not in my seventies or ever was a model, but I do agree that as a woman we can look good and be stylish at any age.
I’m turning 61 and want to have my own style
Very inspiring.
Great information- and lots to think about & consider. I’m a 67 yr old that has always said “I don’t care if I look my age as long as I look the best I can”. In the past year I decided to quit coloring my hair – partly due to the cost and partly because I’ve become enamored with SILVER hair in older women. I’m looking forward to seeing more information from you.
I would like to hear more about style, and color pallets that are good for women who have stopped coloring their hair and have let their silver hair shine.
I am not the plump old lady that is on the outside. Help!
I just turned 64 and have been wondering if it’s time to just pack it in and let it all go because it can be exhausting in our youth obsessed culture to figure it all out and feel good. This article was a good pep talk. Thank you.
Hi Joni……I’m Linda, a 73 year old active woman. For over 30 years I worked in a Gym and exercised daily, sometimes teaching 2 classes daily and training clients in between. I am quite petite at 4’11”, but have never been “skinny”.
I longed for the day I could stop caring and let it all go. That day hasn’t come and I work very hard to keep my mindset there.
It’s a long spiral down, and goes quickly.
It will also come back quickly. Keep your cute head high and go for a walk. Don’t forget to shake it!!!!!! ❤️💪
I love this blog! I am 66 years old but can get away with early 50’s. I workout, eat healthy and take good care of my skin and hair. I do a monthly edit of my clothes closet. Being honest with yourself when you have either made an unwise purchase or bought something that does not fit properly can be a challenge. But the more you edit your wardrobe collection, the easier it becomes. If an article of clothing or an accessory does not make you feel great when you put it on, get rid of it! If it is still in good condition, you can consign, donate or give to someone you know. Those items that sit in our closets for years, unworn, deserve to find a home with someone who will love them. Am I right?
Yes!!!!!!!
I find that if you’re thin you can get away with anything. Most of us older gals put on weight as we age (menopause, etc.), so it is more difficult to look chic with extra pounds.
Totally agree…thinking the same thing. These gals shown are gorgeous and thin
We need help for chubby women. 70% of women are size 14 and larger
Good information though!
Well said!
No one tells you there is a specific code for elderly ladies!!! I will be turning 72 and my friends always comment on my style and how I look so much younger. I wear glasses and I have fun with the colour and the shapes. I wear earrings, hand bands and make up. I did not like my grey hair so I changed it!!! Of course nothing outrageous but fun style! You must love yourself. It’s good for the mood, the mind and sanity. Try it!
I have been wearing either denim or ponte on my bottom half. On my top I either wear a very colorful button up shirt or a black tee shirt
My third layer is either a blazer or a boyfriend cardigan
I am a plus size woman in my 50s and this is the best I have ever looked. I finish off my look with statement earring and a bright lip. I understand that being larger can be challenging, but once you wear what makes you feel good, it does not matter. I learned that it was always about the fabric. My pants and denim or soft. My tops are usually silky and drapey. I finished it with a blazer for structure and polish if I am going out. At home I throw on a boyfriend cardigan. I always get a ton of compliments from straight size people. You have to take pleasure in getting dressed and it begins by being comfortable and fabulous. I get dressed for me everyday. Even if no one will see me , I throw on a bright lip. I will see me.
The information by and large, was sensible and could be helpful with the older women who are not only aging but undertaking a changed lifestyle, i.e, a job, moving from suburbia to city, etc. The accompanying photo shots were most disappointing as they show ultra glamorous, model types who will look fabulous at any age and wearing any old thing. Why not photos of these fashion conscious older ordinary women your article seems to target?
I agree!
I enjoy your information on aging and aging stylishly. I am 76 years old and 5 feet tall.
I’m 74 and also 5’… Unfortunately, I am about two sizes rounder than I would like, but even though I pay close attention to blogs like this one, I mostly wear what pleases me!! I think I have earned it. Carry yourself like you own the world and ta-da – the world can be yours!
Due to lockdown I’ve got really grey roots. A good colour but I can’t live with it. I see all these lovely ladies with grey/white hair but I’m so undecided. I’m 73 and love clothes that are modern classics. My daughters always put me right l advice on hair please. Just might get a good cut and see how it goes from there. 😩
Start lightening your hair with highlights as the roots grow out. If your hair is dark, maybe have them take it down a few shade and then highlight. I went gray three years ago and will never look back! No more 3 hour time losses at the hairdressers!
Great article thank you I’m 44 soon and still on fashion escalator but trying to sustainabily update my jewel coloured wardrobe as I go along Best wishes Amanda
Love this !
I am 73 yrs young and this is how I want to appear to others. Due to health reasons I have a hard time finding the good everyday look of a retired suburbanite. Living in a small town leaves me to shopping online. The models were all young, no grey hair and no extra lbs. Please make it a little easier for all of us.
Great feature. I am 74 years old and love make up and fashion. I like to wear classic with a twist. I have had such a great time sinceI retired doing things I always wanted to do
I’m 67 and in a rut since I retired. Had my own successful business in sales. I ‘m looking for an easier way to dress with classic styles . One of my icons is Carolina Herrera. I want her effortless everyday look. Clean lines and classic
Just want to have fun with fashion. It’s very casual in Northern California so always trying to find a balance with style.
I’m 73 and life-long fashionista and clothes horse. Although retired, I was still working in a boutique to stay busy with people and stay current with fashion. BUT, with Covid-19 all is different. I’ve not worked since March and live alone, have gained 10#, let my grey hair grow out from blond, don’t wear make-up now.
And my beautiful wardrobe is collecting dust. Your blog was very inspiring! Maybe there’s still hope for me 🌝
Start up zoom cocktail hour with friends. Dress up but also have something fun to talk about and have some background music. Show off creative things (yours or a friends) and inspire!
It makes us look forward to a new phase in our lives…thank you
Amen sister
I am 69. Slender. Been in medical equipment sales all my life. I had to look good every day. Especially selling against men to a predominantly woman based audience. I actually enjoy taking care of myself. Exercising, eating right, getting sleep, caring for my skin. You do gain weight after menopause. But stop eating. Eat smart. Small portions of the right food. Seems like you can breathe air and gain weight. But, believe me, do the right thing. If you are gaining pounds, you ate it!!
Hello, I I just turned 64 and I try my best to stay current on a tight budget. I gained weight over the past year but I am still small framed. I like leggins and tunics and I like maxi dresses. I also like jeans sometimes with holes, which seems like a no, no with some blogs that I read. I don’t have the best legs (those dreaded spider veins), so I guess I try covering them. I don’t dye my hair as I have never had a lot of gray. I won’t go out of the house without makeup. All of that to say, all of you are so very inspiring. I hope we can learn from each other.
I am a short lady 5 feet snd 76 but tend to try and be stylish if classic. Also I want to stop coloring my hair and go natural. It is dsrk naturally with very little Gray but I keep it colored. I want to have it my natural color.
I’m soon to be 78. I just want to be fashionable for my age.