On today’s blog, let’s talk about dressing for the over 40’s. Age is indeed only a number; but when it comes to dressing as a 40 year old, the quote takes on a whole new meaning.

There are some items of clothing that, at a certain age, need to be archived for good. I’m not saying you can’t wear what you like, what I am saying is be mindful of how you may look to others. Ideally you don’t want to look like a try-hard 16 year old or be showing ample leg or bosom. In some cases, wearing inappropriate clothing can make you appear older than your actual age.

I focus mainly on personal style. Not everyone looks great in the latest trends. Find your style and stick to it. Avoid clothing that does not flatter your body shape. Your goal is to highlight, emphasise and create an illusion of a waist and your shape. Have you ever wondered to yourself why some women seem to carry themselves and style with such grace and ease? That, for the most part, comes down to confidence. They look great, therefore they feel great.

You must feel great in an outfit and it must fit well.

Let’s look at some staple pieces that are a must have in our wardrobe:

• A classic white shirt. It must be crisp & clean. If it’s looking old & discoloured, bin it.
• A long coat (this includes a trench)
• A well cut blazer
• A good pair of dark denim, well fitted jeans
• A pencil skirt. Not too long, knee length is ideal

Choose current, seasonal trends and add them to your key, staple pieces. Items such as scarves, hats can help you transition easily. Don’t over-do it as it looks like you’re trying too hard.

Remember ladies, it must look effortless..

Let’s talk beauty regime now.

Clean hair is the number one rule with looking fabulous at 40. I, fortunately can get away with washing my hair once a week due to its texture. A well maintained mane is a number one priority.

If time is not your own, therefore a wash and blow wave is out of the question, pull your back into a pony tail or perhaps a loose bun. For the record, dirty hair has better texture and holds either style very well. or Dry a good quality DRY SHAMPOO.

Exercise is paramount in our 40’s. The days of eating whatever and whenever we want, alas, have gone. Walking or running are the key to maintaining a healthy weight. Weights are also are great way to tone your body. Keep some weights handy, ie, by the TV. 15 minutes of reps every 2 days is easy to maintain and sustain.

Skin care is also very important. Try to exfoliate your skin every week. Make sure you have a great cleanser and moisturiser. Find a product that works well for you. Invest in a good eye cream as well.

Styling in your 40’s Follow Victoria’s Accessories Instagram Account Victoria K

Reached the milestone of 50?

I had the pleasure of styling a wonderful lady who purchased a style session as a gift to herself.

During our initial consultation over a coffee, I found it difficult to gauge my client’s   body shape due to the ill-fitting clothes she was dressed in.

A common mistake both men & women make, is to wear ill-fitting clothes.

Most people are oblivious that they are wearing clothes that are all wrong for their body shapes.  My client was a perfect size 12.

Our first stop was Sportscraft, I headed straight for an amazing Navy Blue Blazer with gold detail (which happened to be on sale), I then teamed it up with a pair of straight leg dark denim jeans. Ladies avoid lighter patches on your jeans when you are curvy, the eye picks up on contrast so keep it one colour. Avoid skinny jeans at all cost. I then belted her jeans, grabbed a loose fitted white V neck Tee and that was simply all she needed to look fabulous!

We finished with a pop of colour by introducing an up to date stylish scarf. She couldn’t believe how much younger she looked and she felt so stylish and on trend!

My motto is “Keep things simple, clean and fitted” My very satisfied customer said prior to our styling session, she felt that she could never wear straight legged jeans due to her age. I could not believe what I was hearing. Some crucial styling tips make the world of difference.

Age is irrelevant when you have style. Learning how to style your outfits and make them work for you is easier than you think.

Also, make up is a must, a bronzer, some blush, mascara and lip gloss. Also thicker brows frame your face, so stop plucking.

Stores such as Country Road, Oxford, Sportscraft, Susan’s have  stylish and affordable key pieces. Katie’s are undergoing a massive transformation in direction and brand.

With so many clothing options around these days together with  my helpful style tips, there is absolutely no excuse to feel old and drab.

Email   vic.accessories@bigpond.com.au  and book yourself a style session, get ready for Spring Summer 2016.