Dark Night

t was a cold night out on Treasure Island, but worth the picture!

Take Flight

A falcon in flight. I must say that luck can play a big role in photography.

Celebrity Gossip

Best Celebrity Gossip Blog Here

Hip Hop Celebrity

Best Celebrity Gossip Blog Here

's-Hertogenbosch

After a party while waiting for the first train to go back home I was all alone on this deserted trainstation in 's-Hertogenbosch, the Netherlands. To kill time, I decided to take a picture. Hope you like the result!

Tuesday, 31 July 2012

Post 3-Second Update, Hows it going?

Systeme-41-Essencials-Kit

This is a Sponsored post written by us on behalf of Système 41 for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% ours.

We are on week 3 of the Glam Gal’s testing the all natural skin new care program called Système 41.

A few weeks ago Deborah and I  decided to try out a new beauty product that claimed to help restore the skin’s moisture balance and we have been using it twice daily now for the past 3 weeks.

The Systeme 41 Skin Care Essentials Beauty Kit helps plump the skin and get rid of fine lines.

 

Here is an upate on our findings:

JoJami:

So far so good. I’m really loving the entire product line. We mentioned last post how lovely and fresh it smells and now I’m totally hooked on it!  Really look forward to my cleansing ritual. Best of all, I’ve seen a difference in my skin on my face and neck. The redness that I was having is gone and I’m definately seeing improvement. It feels so much smoother and not as dry.

Here is a photo I took this morning after washing my face with the Gentle Purifying Cleanser.

Photobucket

 

Deborah:  I am really happy with this system. My skin can feel a little dry in the summer and since using the Systeme 41 Skin Care Essentials Kit, I have not had any dryness at all. Plus, it is not heavy.

JoJami: You know Deborah, I’m enjoying the Rejuvenating Masque. I like to clean my face and then put on the masque and then get in the tub. When I get out, wash it off and my face is feeling radiant!

Deborah: Yes, the masque is nice. It’s different than most, because it does not harden and dry on your face . It has a bit of a chalky feel with gentle granules. I feel like I am gently polishing away the bad stuff.

This is a natural product that contains 100% natural ingredients.

Système 41 special promotion

Visit Sponsor's Site

Sunday, 29 July 2012

Meet the Fashion Flash! Over 40 Fashion, Beauty and Health Experts


Every week we share with you our Fashion Flash tips and today we wanted to introduce each of them to you.  The Fashion Flash is our select group of top over 40 Fashion and Beauty Bloggers that share their tips to inspire and keep  you up with hot products, tips and news.    We think that you’ll enjoy each of these blogs.  Have fun looking around and make sure you leave a comment!

 

 

This shocking news just in!  Several influential beauty bloggers have been at war!  The latest skirmish in the Makeup Wars is The Battle of the Summer Lippie.  Prime Beauty’s soldier in this battle is YSL’s Rouge Pur Couture Vernis A Levres Glossy Stain in #15-Rose Vinyl.  Find out how she fared and check out the other warriors entries.

 

 

Once a year Nordstrom has a sale in which you can get the best beauty bargains on department store beauty.  Fab Over 40 shares her favorites from this year’s Nordstrom Anniversary Sale.

 

 

 

 

 

It’s a good sign that plus size designers such as Ming Wang and Jill Alexander are giving clothes to Olympian weightlifter, Sarah Robles.

 

 

Processing protein requires the greatest expenditure of energy, all calories are not equal!  Eating protein can speed up your metabolism, a good thing once you hit 40.  Check out a favorite Menopause Makeover high protein salad that is easy to make and yummy!

 

 

Deb of No-Nonsense Beauty Blog  looks at anti-aging claims of moisturizers.

 

Find out why Fab Over Fifty founder Geri Brin changed her mind about having plastic surgery.

 

 

Female Fat Loss Over 40 expert, Shawna K provides some surprising tips to look younger.  Is working out less really one of them?  Check it out.

 

Tottering around on high heel shoes doesn't have to be agony. Jackie Silver from AgingBackwards introduces you to a company that scans your feet to make custom high heel shoes just for your individual fit and style.

 

 

Stay Cool In The Pool With Two Free Aqua Video-shorts from Moving Free With Mirabai Holland

 

In case you missed it, make sure to check out our post here at Fabulous After 40 on how to hide your tummy!  It’s one of our most popular questions that we get!

Have a great day and if you haven’t entered our July contest make sure you do!  You could win a $200.00 bathing suit shopping spree from Sequins and Sand!  They specialize in swimsuits that flatter the body and come in styles that actually are designed with shape wear in them.

Friday, 27 July 2012

How to Feel Fabulous in a Swimsuit


Really, having to even think of putting on a bathing suit when you’re over 40, 50 or beyond is just not fun.  Ladies,

You could win this plus size swimwear from Sequin and Sand!  Make sure to enter our contest!

you are not alone in feeling insecure about having to put on a small piece of fabric and present yourself in public!  However, we are excited to tell you about a company that has women of all sizes looking fabulous in a bathing suit.

Here are a few tips to think about when shopping for a suit:

Yes, Sequins and Sand is an online store that celebrates all the fun you can have in the sun!  They specialize in plus size suits that will flatter your figure.  They have suits that go up to an F cup.

So make sure to check out their beautiful website and real models!  (This is the best part, they actually use women who we can relate to, not stick thin 14 year old models.   We have been looking for a store who will embrace us as we are and now we have finally found one to share with you!)

Make sure to sign up for our Fabulous After 40 monthly contest to win a $200.00 shopping spree from Sequins and Sand online store!

Contest ends July 31 at noon, so hurry to a enter! 

Wednesday, 25 July 2012

How to Hide Your Tummy


“When did this happen?”  

You look in the mirror and your favorite pair of pants just barely zip up and you really don’t feel like your lifestyle is all that different. However, sad but true as we start to age our body just seems to re-arrange itself!  When your over 40, 50 or beyond we tend to get thicker in the middle and no matter how much exercise or dieting we do our mid section just wants to spread out.  Now that it’s summer, we can’t hide our “problem areas” as easy as we can in the cooler weather.

Here are 10 tips on how to hide your tummy!

1. Avoid all over baggy clothing. Baggy tops and pants can give the appearance of more of a tummy that is really there. Opt for a smooth fabric with stretch. If you have a loose top then you should pair it with a smooth pant. If wearing  loose fitting pant try a smooth top.

2. Avoid banded waist tops. They can hit your tummy at all the wrong places and draw you eye to your middle area.

3. Do not tuck in shirts. That will accentuate your belly and is not flattering.  (This does not apply to those who are a pear shape and have a small waist and flat tummy… you are fine to tuck in)

4. Don’t forget that ruching is your friend! Ruching is when the fabric is gathered and sewn down. It can be a great way to disguise a little extra weight in the tummy area but is slimming at the same time.

5. Try an outfit consisting of a tunic and leggings.  This is an updated look and comfortable too!

6. Medium rise jeans are the best to avoid the “muffin top” look.  Low rise jeans have been all the rage but for many of us it’s not a good look for us. If you top is tucked out, no one will know where you jeans come up too, so you can wear a higher rise and not feel like your out of style.

7. Opt for layers with thin long fabrics.  A long Tee under a longer cardigan works well. It will create the illusion that you are taller then you really are.

8. Try a fitted jacket as opposed to a boxier one.  Even if it means taking your jackets to the tailor it will be well worth it. Fit is key in looking slim in your clothing!

9. Monochromatic colors can help slim down a look.  Stick to one tone from head to toe and then add a jacket or light weight cover up with a pop of color.

10. Shape wear is the new girdle.  Shape wear comes in all styles and weights and can instantly slim your tummy down.

 

Monday, 23 July 2012

What to Wear to a Funeral


Dear Glam Gals,

I was getting ready for work this morning and thought of something (things pop into my head at the weirdest times!) but I was thinking about my boss' recent passing and NO ONE ever talks about what to wear to a funeral! When I was trying to figure out what to wear – what would be appropriate as I had to speak in front of about 400 people, I went online to search. I found nothing. Sad to say, I've been to several funerals over the years and I always hesitate – too dressy, not dressy enough, etc.  I see people wearing denim, which I think is totally inappropriate, but what are the rules to follow?

Kari Solyntjes

 

Hi Keri,
This is an important question and you are so right, one that we can feel uncomfortable talking about.  Really what you wear to a funeral is all about paying respect to the family.  We don’t like to ever use the words “rules” because dressing is a way to express ourselves but when it comes to attending a funeral we want to be respectful to others traditions.

Here are some tips to think about before you go:

How to Look Better in Your Clothes When Youre Over 40


Welcome to this week’s Fashion Flash!

Every Monday we share with you are latest tips from the top over 40 fashion, health and beauty bloggers.

This week we are pleased to welcome our newest member, Mirabai Holland from Moving Free. Mirabai is a health expert that has been seen on QVC and specializes in helping mature women with living a healthy lifestyle. Today she is going to share her latest video with us on how to safely exercise to tone your bottom.  We all know that we will look better in our clothes if we are in shape and she makes it fun!

Here are some other topics we are chatting about today:

 

Sunday, 22 July 2012

Can I Wear a Black Dress as Mother of the Groom?


Hi Glam Gals!
My son is getting married in September and I found a beautiful black dress at Nordstrom.

Is wearing black acceptable as the Mother of the Groom? ($129.00, e-Bay)

The dress is simple and has a nice bolero jacket covering the strapless floor-length gown.  There’s some rhinestone embellishment at the empire waist but otherwise the dress is tailored and elegant.  My problem: when people ask what I am wearing, they are shocked when I tell them the dress is BLACK.  I thought the old rules of not wearing black to a wedding no longer apply.  I asked the bride if she minds my wearing black — and she totally approves of it.  That said, I don’t want to offend the guests or send the wrong message at the wedding.   So should I shop for another dress??
Thank you, and sign me:
Mother of the Groom

First of all, congratulations on your son’s engagement!   This is such an exciting time and your sensitivity to the bride’s opinion on the color of your dress is commending.

Really, the idea of “no black” at a wedding is just old fashioned.

Black is very much accepted these days and has actually become popular in the past few years. But the biggest point you brought up is that you asked the bride her opinion in the matter.  Since she has “totally approved” as you mention, then you should put your mind at ease.  If she is supportive of the idea and this is the dress you feel comfortable in, then you should not worry about other opinions.

However, that being said, we want to remind you that you are going to want to look your prettiest that day as well.  We are curious what colors look best on you?  Most women over a certain age can find that black can be aging and bring out lines, wrinkles and dark circles.

Women that have fair complexions with dark hair or grey or red hair can look stunning in black.  However, for many of us, it doesn’t seem to be our best color as we age.  To help you make a good decision, next time you are getting ready to go out and you have your make up and hair done, put on the gown and take a photo of yourself in it.  If you like the way you look in it, it is a keeper.  If you find that it drains you and makes you look tired, then you might want to consider returning it and finding one that is in a color that suits you.

Good luck and keep us posted on what you decide to do!

Are going to be a Mother of the Bride or Groom?  Get help and a solid plan for getting ready for the big day! Check out our popular e-book,  Tweak Your Chic~ Secrets to Looking Fab When Your are the Mother of the Bride or Groom.

Saturday, 21 July 2012

100% Natural Skin Cream First Update, Hows it going?


This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Système 41 for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% ours.

Recently we introduced you to a 100% natural skin care system we are testing called  Système 41.  We’ve been using it for 2 weeks now and we wanted to weigh in:

Deborah: The biggest thing I have noticed about using Systeme 41 is that I have become addicted to the cleanser. It is white, creamy and FAT! Yes, fat is the best way I can describe it. It is gorgeously thick and  rich. I have dehydrated skin and this really feels so moisturizing. It leaves my skin feeling plumped up. I actually look forward to that feel, and the light, peppermint -like beechwood smell which is very calming at the end of a long day. What did you think JoJami?

JoJami: I agree. This is a wonderful product.  I like to wash my face first thing in the morning and before I go to bed. I am really enjoying it and even though I tend to have sensitive skin, my skin has been feeling smooth and clear.  Now that it’s summer, my skin is usually always feeling dry, however now when I wake up in the morning my skin is so soft!

Deborah: I have been using the cleanser, day cream, night cream and eye cream everyday and they are all so luxurious. My skin looks really fresh and hydrated and I feel so good knowing it combines natural ingredients with leading edge technology. I’m looking forward to trying the masque this weekend.

JoJami: Like you Deb, my favorite product is  the cleanser. It does not sting my eyes and the make up just melts off and does not leave my skin feeling greasy. It’s one of the best cleansers that I have ever used.

If you want to try it out, we have a  Système 41 special promotion!  You get free shipping plus 10% off any purchase of 2 or more items.

Also Don’t forget to enter the contest we have going on at the moment with System 41.  Just tell us your most pressing skin care concern, by commenting below, and you will be automatically entered into a contest to win a Systeme 41 anti-aging beauty kit. Enter now. We pick a winner on August 10th at noon!

We’ll check back in another two weeks to see if we are noticing any changes in our skin and we will find out why it is called Systeme 41 too. Interesting name.

Visit Sponsor's Site

How to Dress to Camouflage Your Belly


What happened to the days when our waists were slim and our mid-sections were something that seldom crossed our minds? Many of us over 40 struggle with our mid-sections. For some it's a protruding tummy, for others it's a thicker waist and let's not forget the muffin top. So, how do you dress to camouflage your belly? Guest blogger, Image Consultant Sheila Dicks has these solutions:

There are two options: The first is to exercise and change our eating habits, which as you probably know is not as easy as it sounds. There's just something about stubborn belly fat. The second option is to dress in a way that conceals – by far the easiest. Let's talk about concealing a tummy and the choices we have available.

The first choice is Undergarments: Undergarments are not called foundation garments for no reason. No matter what your age or wardrobe challenges, wearing the right undergarments is a prerequisite for looking great in your clothes.  When you wear undergarments to hide a tummy you have several choices:

High-waist panty: This foundation garment works great under pants or jeans. Make sure the top of the garment is under your bra and that you're not creating extra bumps.

High waist short: These shorts create a smooth look (no lines) and are great to wear under clingy dresses, jersey pants or any garment that is clinging and revealing.

Slimming Tank:   This tank is also a great choice to wear under pants or jeans. It will slim your waist area and not create bumps anywhere else.

 

 

Open bust camisole: Just the thing to wear with pants or jeans. If your bust is small and/or you'd like to add a little lift to it this is the perfect garment to do it.

Your second choice is choosing clothing styles that are slimming and flattering.  Choose styles that glide over your tummy and waist and/or take attention from that area.

<<Dresses from Macy's

 

 

 

 

2. Tops:  The best tops to conceal a large mid section are tops in a printed material, tops in a light fabric that doesn't cling and tops that are not tight. Top from Macy’s.>>

 

 

 

 

Guest blogger Sheila Dicks is a style coach who helps women find their best styles and colors so they look and feel fabulous and attract more of what they want. You can find her at:  www.womeninstyle.ca

 

Fabulous After 40 Style, Fashion and Beauty Tips from the Fashion Flash


This week we have some great tips for you from the top over 40 style, fashion and health bloggers, aka The Fashion Flash.

Below is a sample of this week’s topics and you can read the full story our over at Fab Over Fifty!  This is a lifestyle site that you can really dig into and find lot’s of great information.  One of their most popular regular features is called, “What do you think of this look?“  We think you will get a kick out of this weekly post and what we Glam Gals say about it!  So head on over to Fab Over Fifty and check out this week’s topics:

Fab after 40 in Watermelon Red


Deb in Watermelon red

It’s not pink. It’s not red. It’s pink red- Watermelon to be exact and it is one of this summer’s hottest colors! We love this juicy color because it is so bold, fresh and energetic.

If you find red too strong, you might try this color which can  often be a little softer than pure red, which can sometimes look a tad harsh after a certain age with aging skin and hair. Watermelon red makes you look fab after 40!

Now technically watermelon is a Summer color – meaning if you have had your seasonal color analysis done and are a summer, this pink red is your best versions of red. Still we think it looks great on all sorts of gals.

Try and see if it works for you. I (Deborah) am a Spring and I have a great Eli Tahari watermelon red dress I love to wear. It goes great with my fair complexion and hair and I always get lots of compliments!

What would you wear watermelon red with if you wanted to be in style, but didn’t want to wear it head to toe? You could wear a watermelon top with black shorts, pants or skirt.

This is a great way to color block, with the dark color down below where most women are heaviest, and the bright color up by your face to give you some life.  You could wear watermelon jeans and an ivory or white top to quiet the look and add some elegance, or you could go all out if you have the personality for it, have fun and wear green and watermelon – just like the fruit itself!

Another great way to add a dash of this trendy summer color – Wear this color only as an accessory. ie: You could wear a watermelon colored purse, jewelry, have shoes with some watermelon in them, a scarf etc. A dash of watermelon would look great against dark wash navy jeans too.

For more great tips on the colors you need to wear to Look Fab after 40 check out our Ebook: Color Me Confident: The Colors You need to wear to Look Ageamazing!

Look Fab After 40 When You Go Shopping


There are days when you just need a good shop! Right? For those days it’s like going on a hunt. You want to be comfy, you want to feel relaxed, but you also want to look decent and pulled together in case you run into someone, or just so you feel good about yourself.
What do you wear to be casual but still cool and classy?
Below is a suggestion. Let’s see how this came together.

 

Jeans
You can’t go wrong with a pair of classic dark wash jeans. They’re cool, they go with anything anything, but no fades, rips, or whiskers at the crotch please! A clean, dark wash makes you look classy and confident. It’s grown up chic not teenage trendsetter. These boot cut jeans with slight flare look great on most women.If you are have generous hips and thighs you may want to go for a jean that is looser at the thigh such as a trouser jean. If you are slim and fit, great! Go for a skinny leg.

Whatever style, make sure your jeans fit well. With a million and one jeans brands out there is something for everyone. Some of our favorites are Not Your Daughter’s Jeans, JBrand, Miracle Fit jeans. One other great benefit to wearing dark jeans when you shop. Like black or white pants they are a great base to try on colored or patterned tops. You really get a chance to see what the tops look like when what you are wearing on the bottom half doesn’t compete.

The Top
Comfort is key, so is a top you can pull on and off in an instant, and this blue stretch top fits the bill. It’s a soft jersey wrap top that nips in your waist and creates an hourglass even if you don’t really have one. The length on this is good because it will hide any tummy. Blue, paired with blue jeans will make you look long and lean (Just in case you do run into that old boyfriend). Really, any comfy top with any comfy skirt or pant is great to shop in because separates are what you need when it comes to trying stuff on. Ever shop in a dress, try on a top and then have to scramble to find a saleswoman to bring you a pair of pants? Separates make sense.

The Bag
When in doubt basic black leather always a good choice and an excellent staple in any wardrobe. This bag is just right size for shopping. It won’t get heavy and with the zipper, you won’t have t worry about your wallet falling out anywhere.

Shoes
This is where the cute factor comes in. You definitely want flats for powering around the mall in. Gold adds a touch of richness and fun to this monochromatic outfit.

Gold accessories
Keep accessories super simple when you go shopping. The gold watch and earrings are simple and chic. Gold is best for warm toned skin such (ie: If you have had your seasonal colors done and are a spring or autumn). If you are a summer or winter you can go with silver instead to match your cool skin and hair and look equally as good.

What do you wear when you go shopping? Do you have a favorite outfit? Send us a photo. We’d love to see your “shopping uniform”.

Friday, 20 July 2012

Short With a Pear Shaped body? -Heres What To Wear


A reader wrote us recently about a figure challenge…..

Hi Glam Gals,

Here is my question. I am 5’2 inches and weigh about 120. I am not heavy but have a problem knowing what to wear. I do work out so I do have a nice looking caboose but when I wear things untucked they just don’t seem to lie right. My top is smaller than my bottom. I just have a hard time picking out anything I think I look good in. Help!!!

Thanks, Debbie

Hi Debbie, It sounds like you have a short medium build and are pear shaped – hence the reason you have some problem with things untucked.

Your shirts are probably fitting fine across the bust but as they reach your curvy hips and rounded bottom, they splay out and don’t sit right. You don’t want to go with bigger top because then it will be too loose up top, so we suggest if you are going to tuck out, which is a good thing , buy tops with some stretch in them, so you can get them over the top of your hips.  You could also try empire waist tops which fall gently down around the hips. A stiff, fitted cotton shirt for example , won’t ever sit right. One note- your top should never end at the widest part of your body- your hips- better it end above or below.

As a short pear you can easily look bottom heavy so your  fashion challenge is to make your shoulders look wider to match your hips and balance your figure. Balancing your figure will also make you look taller.  You can do this by wearing:

 

Thursday, 12 July 2012

How to Prepare for a Photoshoot


Dear Glam Gals,

I am planning on having new head-shots done and am very stressed out just thinking about it.  I hate to be photographed and  feel very nervous about the entire process.  Most of all, I don’t have a clue as to what I should wear.  HELP, I’m not feeling all that fabulous after 40 these days.

Thanks,

Carol H.

Deborah and I are sitting here blurry eyed and exhausted but we couldn’t feel more excited and invigorated.  We just got back from a recent photo shoot with Leslie Bohm Photography where we spent 4 hours getting prepped and shooting just to get a few new photos for our website.  We are tired because we worked so hard to make sure our outfits looked good before the shoot and elated because we loved how our photos turned out!

If you are going to get a new headshot done for business or for a special event, like a wedding or family reunion, you will want to do a little preparation for it.

Deborah and I spent most of the day before the shoot strategically planning the 3 outfits that we wanted photographed.

Here are 10 tips we want to share with you:

Here is one of our outfits that we tested and liked!  The colors are flattering on both of us and the tops are simple with clean lines.

Here is one of our outfits that we tested and liked!  The colors are flattering on both of us and the tops are simple with clean lines.

 

Tuesday, 10 July 2012

5 Secrets to Updating Your Bra Wardrobe



Monday, 9 July 2012

Enjoy a Summer Picnic of over 40 Fashion Tips


With all the flash and crash of the holiday last week,  we thought you might enjoy a little time to stop,

slow down and  have a little girly girl time with our wonderful group of over 40 fashion bloggers, affectionately known as the Fashion Flash.

Today our hostess, Une Femme de une Certain Age has invited you to come and join our virtual picnic of over 40 fashion tips and  treats to savor and enjoy!

Here is a sampling of the yummy topics you might want to try a taste of:

Saturday, 7 July 2012

What to Wear When You Are 50 and Celebrating Your Birthday!


Whoo Hoo, It’s your birthday. The big one 50! Instead of running and hiding or playing down the whole thing, you need to celebrate! It only comes once so enjoy yourself. Go all out. Surround yourself with friends and family and soak in all that love and attention. You are special Glam Gal and you are beautiful!!
Here’s an idea for what to wear when you are 50 that will make you shine like the Star you are on this Special Birthday.

 

The Dress
If you are going to go all out for a special occasion like this then do it with some drama. This gorgeous one shoulder cocktail dress is a perfect way to look glam and sexy without overdoing it.
One shoulder dresses are sophisticated but make a statement. They have impact and that’s what you are looking for. This particular one in shades of gold and orange and green would best suit a gal who is on the warm side. In other words, a gal with golden tones to her skin and hair, so a spring or an autumn. If you are not one to tan a little faux tanner in the summer will make you look like a goddess in this dress. Other places you could wear it…any formal cocktail event such as a summer wedding.

The Shoes

When you have a dress like this in a strong color and pattern you need to go with a neutral shoe. Cream would be too boring. This dress shines and your shoes need to as well. Gold works with the warm tones and is actually considered a neutral. A gold shoes will elongate your leg and make you look taller and slimmer.This t-strap shoe drapes upward, just as the dress drapes and so makes a nice complement. Remember no nylons with this type of shoe. You need a good waxing a spray tan on your gams to look vavoom in this dress.

Jewelry

This is one time you do want to be matchy-matchy. If you have a gold tones dress and shoes, silver jewelry isn’t going to cut it. Gold on gold is what you want to look regal and put together. And, look at that RING. Now that’s a fab choice and says tons about your personality.  A necklace would have been too much with this stand-out neckline so instead the ring says it all. Pretty gold drop earrings mimic the ring but do not overpower. A drop always works best with a one shoulder  Best to wear your hair up to show off your earrings and your sexy one shoulder detail.

The Bag

This is a pretty feminine look but to keep it from looking too mushy we’ve added this python envelope clutch. Adding a touch of edginess to a very feminine outfit is a current style trick to look modern and hip. It’s that ying and yang thing and it makes the outfit more interesting and slightly more sexy.

Have you decided what to wear when you are 50 and celebrating your birthday. Maybe you already had yours. What did you wear? Send us a photo and we’ll post it as inspiration!

 

 

 

Friday, 6 July 2012

How to Stretch Your Wardrobe With an Updated Shoe


The other day while out shopping with my mother JoBee , I (JoJami) spotted a pair of Armani two toned shoes that we both started to drool over.

I could not pass up these Armani, two tone sandals.  They spoke to my inner, sassy, girly, girl!

Of course, these were totally impractical but they spoke to my inner sassy, girly girl and also happened to be on sale.  So, even though I had to admit to myself that they were seasonal and not something I would be wearing everyday, I think it’s always fun to have at least one pair of shoes that you really can get a kick out of !  My mother who has always been my fashion mentor, chided me on, “You have to get those…they are so YOU!” (Remember how we have warned, be careful of shopping with a friend…they can be dangerous to your wallet!)

However, even with all the arm twisting, the practical side of me still had doubts.  What did I already have in my closet that I could wear with these?  Oh yes, I happened to have a little white knit dress (BCBG) from last year, that would work perfect!

 Another plus to buying a statement shoe like these is that you can pair them with 2 very simple solid pieces and it will pull them together to make a chic one!  So, since I also had a white linen blazer in my closet, I knew it would be easy to pull another outfit together.  I now had enough ammunition to convince myself that I should buy them.

This white blazer (Kennith Cole) was from last year and I had not worn it that much.

 

Not everyone would wear heels with shorts after 40. Would you?

When I got home I realized that I had a pair of dressy long shorts that I could try them with.  I must admit I was a little hesitant about this outfit, since I’m not really fond of shorts and high heels on women over a certain age.  However, because the style of these shoes cover much of the foot, it didn’t look too bad!  I think they will look lovely with white pants as well.

We posted this photo on our Fabulous After 40 Facebook page and got mixed reviews.

That’s what makes fashion so interesting, not everyone has the same style or can wear the same things.  Also, where you live can certainly dictate how you want to dress.  (Note: Currently, I’m living in Los Angeles where the women do dress up and wear their heels around town a lot more than other parts of the country.)

So far I’m happy with my purchase and I feel the shoes were worth the splurge.  When you can find a shoe that is unique and suites your personality it can act more like an “accessory” to your wardrobe and show off your personality.  Statement pieces are also good to stretch your wardrobe and your budget. By adding a unique item with a few classic pieces you can add some flair to what would normally be a ho-hum outfit!

Do you have a favorite pair of  special shoes?  Comment below and tell us your story.

These flat front shorts (Cache) come right to the knee.

If you are wanting to learn more about over 40 fashion and how to get your flair back, check out our e-book: Jumpstart Your Style and learn how easy it is to Tweak Your Chic™.

Thursday, 5 July 2012

Happy Canada Day & The 4th of July from Fabulous after 40!


Here’s something you might not have known about us, The Glam Gals.

Glam Gal Deborah is Canadian!

Deborah is a  <<<Canadian and lives in  Toronto.

 

 

Glam Gal JoJami is an American

JoJami is an American >>Recently moved to Sarasota, Florida and currently travels around the country in her motor coach.

This is the Canada Day weekend. Next week, it’s the Fourth of July holiday in the U.S.

 

Wednesday, 4 July 2012

How to Accessorize a Wrap Dress for Work


Hi Glam Gals,
I love your website and I need your help.  I just purchased this dress the other day and plan to wear it to the office.  The neckline is quite low so I will wear a camisole but I am struggling to work out how to accessorize and what colour to accessorize with.  Do I go with a long necklace or a chunkier shorter one?


Thanks so much
Taya from Australia

Hi Taya,

Good job on this purchase!  This is a perfect dress for the office because it is simple and looks professional and can be worn all year long.  So now the key to accessorizing a wrap dress is balancing the overall look.  You want to play with where you draw the eye to.  Also, consider how the feel and style of your shoe and hose choice will affect the dress as well.

Be aware of how the style and neckline of the camisole affects your choice of necklace.  Going with a simple, black, round neck camisole with no lace or trim will be your best bet.  Depending on how low the scoop of the cami hits is where you will want the necklace to fill in.

Here are some options you could choose to look updated at work:

Analizing the style of the dress:

Bare leg (or nude hose) and black pump:

Pop of color in the shoes, sweater and handbag: