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Style and beauty

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As an older mum...

32 replies

Tia4 · 28/02/2016 10:17

I'm just looking for pointers as I intend giving myself an image overhaul now that I have a bit more time for it. I think I know what I like (and yes I know that's what matters most) and feel I don't do so badly but I am conscious of perhaps sometimes verging on the mumsy side whereas I'd like to give a nod to trends. Probably more of a classic dresser though. What makes you think a 50+ woman seems to have it together and looks great? I need to lose a couple of stone but am well on the way with that and my hair and skin are pretty good...interested to hear opinions if you have any!

OP posts:
SoyYo · 29/02/2016 17:47

citychick Good tip on the trainers, will investigate as I am not a "natural" trainer wearer...

Georgina 100% with you on healthy weight (though I have to be watchful now and take action every now and then when I pile on the pounds). I only do pilates once a week, and try and walk more. I admire those who have a proper fitness regime!

On the eyeliner...I suit eyeliner, I wear it often (bobbi brown gel liners mostly) and in the C.T. makeover the stylist went really over the top with it with lots of eyeliner and putting kohl in my bottom waterline (which I never do) and it looked a-ma-zing...but it was an evening look. (DH was taking me to the Opera for my birthday).

On the hair, I am early fifties and have masses of (just below shoulder length) naturally curly hair so I gave up trying to look "groomed" on that front a long time ago but I do give it TLC with the right products and to keep it as frizz free as possible...plus regular hairdresser trims.

On patterns vs plain, colours vs monochrome/beige, I find sticking to one particular style too boring/limiting and prefer variety. But that's just me.
IMHO as long as it suits the wearer's personality, lifestyle, age, body shape, and it makes you feel good then it's OK. For me I just have a thing about the quality, cut and "feel" of the fabrics and prefer natural to man-made.

I think what makes us in our late 40's/50's attractive/not dowdy/ is down to attitude, presence, and radiating a positive attitude, but also not trying "too hard" (I can't quite describe it but it is what I meant by "mutton" comment in my post above).

After all we've been there, done that...the confidence that comes from knowing this is priceless and better than any style tip any of us can offer.

Good Luck OP, will keep an eye for other interesting suggestions.

SoyYo · 29/02/2016 17:47

citychick Good tip on the trainers, will investigate as I am not a "natural" trainer wearer...

Georgina 100% with you on healthy weight (though I have to be watchful now and take action every now and then when I pile on the pounds). I only do pilates once a week, and try and walk more. I admire those who have a proper fitness regime!

On the eyeliner...I suit eyeliner, I wear it often (bobbi brown gel liners mostly) and in the C.T. makeover the stylist went really over the top with it with lots of eyeliner and putting kohl in my bottom waterline (which I never do) and it looked a-ma-zing...but it was an evening look. (DH was taking me to the Opera for my birthday).

On the hair, I am early fifties and have masses of (just below shoulder length) naturally curly hair so I gave up trying to look "groomed" on that front a long time ago but I do give it TLC with the right products and to keep it as frizz free as possible...plus regular hairdresser trims.

On patterns vs plain, colours vs monochrome/beige, I find sticking to one particular style too boring/limiting and prefer variety. But that's just me.
IMHO as long as it suits the wearer's personality, lifestyle, age, body shape, and it makes you feel good then it's OK. For me I just have a thing about the quality, cut and "feel" of the fabrics and prefer natural to man-made.

I think what makes us in our late 40's/50's attractive/not dowdy/ is down to attitude, presence, and radiating a positive attitude, but also not trying "too hard" (I can't quite describe it but it is what I meant by "mutton" comment in my post above).

After all we've been there, done that...the confidence that comes from knowing this is priceless and better than any style tip any of us can offer.

Good Luck OP, will keep an eye for other interesting suggestions.

SoyYo · 29/02/2016 17:51

sorry for the double post! haven't been in MN threads for a while...Blush

Floisme · 29/02/2016 18:59

SoyYo I realise I jumped on you and then didn't have time to stay and explain. I just really hate that phrase but I don't want to derail the thread so let's move on Smile

I'm not sure I have a defined style either, partly because I always get bored with any look after a while but also because my shape has changed since hitting my fifties so I've reviewed my wardrobe a couple of times.

I'm definitely not a neutral palette kind of dresser. I don't wear brights but I do like colour and think I look better in it. And while I agree with the poster who talked about structured clothes and good fabrics, I still like to mix in the odd bit of fast fashion. If I don't always pull it off well hey, they're only clothes.

Tia4 · 29/02/2016 20:28

Thank you all for these great ideas! I do agree regarding quality fabrics and well cut pieces. The things I have are generally good quality and I have good diamond studs as well as good watches and leather bags but I suppose I need courage to experiment more. I'm great with evening wear - love wearing quirky sometimes flamboyant stuff but with a classic twist. It's more a day time look I'd like to work on. I'm desperate to buy new shoes (several pairs) but really do need them to be wide and comfortable - something other than my Hotter flats Confused I love my Vans but only wear them when I'm "out for a walk". I know I'm definitely in the minority but I never wear jeans (am only 5'2" and have never found a style that suits or looks dressy enough for me) so it's usually quality leggings/jeggings with knee high leather boots or ankle boots Will check out the metallic shoe recommendation though I'm not a fan of brogues - too masculine a look for me alas! I love ballet flats but am under no illusions regarding their distinct lack of trendiness Smile Actually I adore the way Diane in TGW dresses and also Claire in HOC - both very classic dressers but they have a certain something that makes them stand out. Mmmmm lots to consider so thanks for that...

OP posts:
SoyYo · 29/02/2016 21:02

Thanks Flo agree with you!

Final suggestion for Tia I have wide feet too such a nuisance! Try Gabor shoes some good styles,good quality and reasonable prices! I find their standard D fit is fine whereas in UK I'm definitely an E fit in Clarks shoes

Tia4 · 01/03/2016 09:24

Oh thank you so much for that SoyYo - that's a starting point for me. I love Gabor but it's years since I tried them for size!

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