The reason I’m writing about this particular topic is that I had a conversation with an interesting lady in Milan, Italy. Linda Fargo is head of Bergdorf Goodman’s in New York. Unfortunately, she didn’t want to speak to me in front of the camera, but she’s such a warm and kind person, I couldn’t hold it against her. Jet lag makes this decision perfectly understandable, because you feel as though a train hit you … And yet, her style was flawless and definitely simple, perhaps because she doesn’t wear a lot of makeup, even though her hair is perfectly styled, and she has a smile so wide you can’t help smiling yourself. And she’s over fifty, although she looks ten years younger, and not because of plastic surgery, I think she’s a natural beauty, but because of her style. And because of her lifestyle. Elegance is in the way we wear a dress and how we feel wearing it; this second part is crucial, because of we don’t feel right, we dim the glow. So let’s take a look at some advice for all of you wonderful women over fifty.
Don’t go anywhere without lipstick
Linda wears a matte red shade that stays in place. Lipstick becomes difficult to wear, when it’s a strong shade that seeps over the contour of the lips into the lines around it: that emphasizes the age, so you need to be careful. On the other hand, it doesn’t really make any sense to wear pale shades, because they don’t bring out the natural shape of the lips and so the face doesn’t attract attention. Choose your lipstick and remember it should have the same impact thata perfume does: it’s your signature.
The generation of strong women
My darlings, do you even realize, how strong you are and how far you’ve come? I hope that you do, so take bold and confident strides, when you roam the world. This attitude is also reflected through fashion: leather, translucency, midi skirts, super high heels, tastefully tight dresses. There is more than one ace up your sleeve, just don’t forget the attractive, feminine side, because it’s still very present at your age.
Simplicity
Linda often opts for very simple, basic pieces, which don’t come from H&M, of course. I’m not saying that there’s anything wrong with fast fashion, not at all,but I do believe that we have to opt for quality fabrics and originality in tailoring, instead of reaching for the itemsthat everyone around us already has. If, financially, that isn’t an option for you, at least invest in accessories, which always say a lot about you.
The LBD is far from boring
I know you are aware of itand you’ve seen it a thousand times, but the LBD is timelessly elegant, which is anything but boring. Style it with pearls for a super classic look or add some other statement piece, such as a handbag, bold stilettos, bijou belt. The little black dress requires something to brighten it up,otherwise it may seem too conservative.And you’re not so conservative, are you?
A bit of animal print
This is a must, it’s your rock’n’roll moment, in a good sense, of course. Just keep it under control, one good piece is enough or two smaller ones (a bag and stilettos are always a welcome combination). Don’t think animal print is vulgar, it’s not, but you need to wear it with grace. Be confident and let that feeling be your guide.
Sometimes, a single color is all it takes
Color blocking is an interesting option and it definitely elongates the figure. In the summer, every pastel shade is your playground, most of all white and powder, because they look clean and elegant. Opt for a single color and choose it carefully; play around with accessories, or keep them in the same shade, because it’s a timeless style.
Care for your beauty
Beauty is not only a matter of makeup and a good quality shampoo, far from it, it has everything to do with your overall wellbeing and care. So take care of your skin, rest, eat healthy and be sure to schedule regular appointments with your hairstylist. Your hairstyle has to be regularly trimmed, and the same rule applies to yourhands and manicure. Sometimes, women don’t have enough time for these rituals, but I still think we can carry onmost of them at home, by ourselves, all it takes is a bit of practice. And no, it’s not a waste of time, but rather a good investment. The best, actually: in yourself!
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4 thoughts on “Fifty plus generation: how to style”
Lovely
Now at 71 years old, Cher’s not giving up her sexy on-stage looks anytime soon. I love her!
From red carpet sirens like Jane Fonda and Susan Sarandon to on-stage icons Cher and Madonna, these are the women utilizing fashion to fight ageism. All over 60 and dressing sexier than ever…
The 50-plus generation have never been more on the fashion pulse! Nice reading Lorella!