My husband’s childhood friend, Joyce, suggested we write a post on fashion and style for the mature woman. Although I don’t consider myself very fashionable or stylish, I do know what I like when I see it. Sandy will tell you she thinks my style leans towards Diane Keaton’s (Thank you, Sandy!) I would agree that I share the love of pockets, pearls and polka dots, but that’s pretty much where it ends. I don’t wear hats (huge head) and I wouldn’t be able to pull off this look:

I also have personal rules for what not to wear, (bared knees, abdomen or upper arms), and what to wear (bra), but I’m not going to tell anyone what they should or shouldn’t wear. If you can rock those Hello Kitty hair accessories or that Goth spiked choker, who am I to judge?

We don’t have to move to dowdy-town as we age, but doing the same things we’ve done for decades, could be a mistake. We’re at that in-between stage (tweeniors?), so we have to be wary of looking like we’re trying too hard. Or, if we feel like we’ve “earned” the right to wear whatever we want, there’s the chance of looking like we’ve given up. So:

• Re-evaluate what’s in your closet — get rid of any “Juicy Couture” clothes, fishnet hose and any T-shirts that say “WTF” or “Drink Until You Want Me” (pretty much any t-shirt with messages should be shushed immediately).

• As women age, bodies shift — hourglass figures are now orbs or rectangular. One thing I’ve learned…TRY THINGS ON! When I was in my 20’s and 30’s I could buy a bikini off the rack. No more bikinis. No more buying off the rack. I’m not that sleek, slim gazelle any more and I even, at times,  feel like that pile of walrus.

• Wear a belt, no matter how large your waistline. This restores body definition.
• Nude shoes stretch your legs, which elongates your entire body for a slimmer, sleeker look.
• Pairing tops and bottoms in the same color, including the all-denim look, is a quick, fool-proof formula for style. Monochromatic colors are slimming and sophisticated.

Until we commit to tightening our abs, here are ways to hide a belly:

• Choose clothes with draping or ruching:

• Worn with leggings, tunics or short dresses are two-fers; they hide bellies AND thighs.

• Choose tops that skim over your tummy without being tight. Baggy tops and pants will exaggerate a big tummy (believe it).

• Medium rise jeans are best to avoid the “muffin top” look.
• Layer. A tank long enough to tuck in and worn under a shirt or blouse, even a sheer one, works well. It will create the illusion that you are taller than you are. My favorite are sweetly called “girl shirts” which are very long and almost like shape-wear without that binding feeling. These (and many other unique fashion items) can be purchased at Serendipity, on Main Street (across from the Whistle Stop) in beautiful, historic Glendale, KY. Or message the owner, Rhonda, on her Facebook Page, Glendale Serendipity at https://www.facebook.com/glendaleserendipity/?fref=ts. Don’t forget to Like the page!

Here’s good news for mature women and spring trends!

• Shoes — Flats and sturdy heels in lace-ups, slides and sneakers with a new and unusual look are making a statement this spring. Yay! No need to wear high heels just to be fashionable. Here are some that I love:

• Pant lengths — Trends include skimmers, capris (3/4 length pants that hit anywhere from mid-calf to above the ankle) and boot cut. You must have at least one pair of ankle pants (hemline ends at your ankle bone or just above it) in your wardrobe. Why? They’re flattering on almost any figure; you can wear them with flats or heels; ankles are sexy at any age. And, don’t be afraid of prints — they hide “lumps and bumps”.

Luckily, almost any length works this spring, although I’d avoid cuffed and wide-legged capris as those take a certain body type and confidence.

• Jeans — Go for darker jeans that are narrower and fit well. Jeans are important in your wardrobe, so take time to get the ones that fit your shape.

Colors for spring:

Ladies! There’s no need to match shoes, bag, belt and jewelry any longer! What a relief! — Orange, blue and coral, black, white and blush and anything on Pantone’s 2016 spring choices:

Here are some great websites for us older women:

• Chico’s
• Talbot’s
• Nordstrom’s
• J. Crew
• Asos
• Ann Taylor
• J Jill
• Mark & Graham
• Lilly Pulitzer
• J McLaughlin

And you’re bound to find something you like at Macy’s, Kohl’s and even Target.

I’ve written this post using photos of professional models and celebrities. Know that there are people in everyday life that exude style, and I know at least two of them.

I’ve worked with Joy Van Patten for almost eight years. Although she may be too young for this blog post, she dresses beautifully and uniquely every day! It’s a party in the lobby every time she walks in.

Joy doesn’t necessarily follow fashion or trends, but embraces her own sense of style. She exhibits great daring and originality. She’s stunning. She’s edgy.

Joy thinks in terms of the total picture she creates. This includes her makeup, clothing, accessories and the way she carries herself. I’ve always said that the office is “Joyless” when she’s not there. Here’s a sample of Joy’s style. The photos were taken spontaneously by the also creative, Denianne Gardner. Thank you Denianne (blowing you a kiss)!

The second person who exudes style is Regina Williams. Regina is an artist and it shows in her fashion style. She dresses like the free spirit that she is. Regina’s style truly represents her personality with a graceful silhouette. She has a flair for the spectacular.

Regina’s self-expression is demonstrated by the beautiful jewelry that she creates. There is no end to the positive adjectives that can be used to describe her style.

Copying what’s on the runways isn’t for Regina. She humbly calls it “inspiration” when she sentimentally resurrects a piece she’s found thrifting.   She can select an article of clothing and instinctively knows it creates balance and harmony that makes it “right”.  Regina has a knack for mixing pieces and accessories to create interesting, exciting looks. Not only is she envied for her fashion sense, but for her humility, charity, sentimentality and artistic talent.

As you get older, there are certain things you can show off – your attitude and how you feel. Radiate an aura of calm. French women demonstrate they have all the time in the world. And…smile! Warmth is a plus when you’re a “mature” woman.