Whitney Rose’s Black Sequin Confessional Dress on RHOSLC

Real Housewives of Salt Lake City Season 2 Fashion

With so.many.confessional.looks for RHOSLC Season 2 released it’s been quite hard for us to choose a fave, however Whitney Rose is definitely up there with her glittering black sequin off the shoulder dress. And with holiday parties right the corner (hey, it’s after Labor Day!), you should definitely consider scooping up a Style Stealer for it that has that same Salt Lake sparkle.

Fashionably,

Faryn

Click Here to See Her Lavish Alice Dress

Styling: @StyleByTeeJayRazzy

Originally posted at: Whitney Rose’s Black Sequin Confessional Dress

Almost every woman owns some version of the classic little black dress. The trend was introduced by Coco Chanel decades ago and made iconic by Audrey Hepburn in the movie Breakfast at Tiffany’s in 1961. Before this, black was only worn for mourning and not a color typically found in women’s wardrobes.

The little black dress has come a long way but is still a classic piece that is not going away any time soon.

I have my favorite little black dress that I have had for several years now. I have brought it to my dressmaker a few times to alter the look a little, but to this day it’s still my favorite little black dress.

The little black dress, or LBD, is something that many women turn to when they want to look elegant and also want to be comfortable. The little black dress can go from office to evening wear with ease, which is why this one basic piece of clothing has withstood the test of time.

Accessorizing Your LBD for Every Season

It’s astonishing how many looks we can get out of a simple black dress! This foundational piece can be dressed up or dressed down for any occasion. It’s important to find a dress that is comfortable and meets your individual needs whether it’s long or short, straight or flowy, sexy or conservative.

A sleeveless black dress can be worn in any season by adding jackets, shawls, or wraps during cooler weather. It’s also important to note that a black shirt/skirt combo or a black pant suit can achieve the same stunning look and versatility that a dress can. What matters is that you feel comfortable and confident in your ensemble.

Think LBD Outside the Box

Black is a flattering color for many women. However, today’s modern woman is sometimes tired of wearing this same color after so many decades.

Fashion blogger Patti Gibbons says, “I can’t tell anyone else what to wear, but I can help you find that authenticity within you that you want to share.”

This means that if black isn’t flattering to your hair and skin tone, by all means, choose an alternative color! If you worry that your favorite color is very bold and that it will be too memorable to wear often, consider buying the same outfit in different colors.

Little Black Dresses

Let’s take a look at a few places where you can find great little black dresses for older women.

Macy’s

This sheath dress with metallic trim is a great LBD if you have great legs but want to cover up your arms.

Nordstrom

This LBD from Nordstrom’s is cut a little longer if you prefer to cover your legs more. The side slit and the ruched side waist detail give it a feminine and sexy shape. Pair it with a jacket or a shawl if you want to cover up your arms.

Everlane

This classic look LBD from Everlane can be dressed up or dressed down depending on the occasion.

Bloomingdale’s

This elegant and classic looking little black dress from Bloomingdale’s has all the Audrey Hepburn inspiration we need. Add some pearls and you’ve got the perfect Breakfast at Tiffany’s look.

Draper’s & Damon’s

This flowy georgette LBD/jacket combo from Draper’s & Damon’s is perfect for all those special occasions.

Do you own a little black dress? Where did you purchase it? Do you wear it often? Do you think that you will purchase a little black dress if you don’t already have one in your wardrobe? Leave your thoughts and comments below.

I’m not trying to brag too much here, but I’m pretty certain that I have one of the coolest, most enviable jobs around. Reason being? I scour the internet for the best shopping deals and coolest trends every day, and get to test out so many amazing new clothing pieces, beauty products, and home goods. I’ve been a shopping writer and editor for a few years now, and have developed a knack for determining which products are worth every penny, and which ones are better left in the virtual cart. 

This month is all about stepping into the fall comfortably. Stores like Target are beginning to roll out their fall home lines and sites are seeing increased search interest in moisturizing and clarifying products (makes sense, given that temps are sadly going to plummet and the air is about to dry). Amazon’s Movers & Shakers page—a section that shows what items are rising in popularity—is filled to the brim with soothing lotions and oils. Google is being inundated with “fall fashion” inquiries and people on Pinterest are starting to search for pumpkin recipes and candles once more. 

My shopping carts fit the bill for these fall trends perfectly. I’m shopping for nourishing face masks, sleek platform loafers, and cozy throw blankets to start my cold weather months off the right way. Check out the eight essentials I’ll be buying this September below: 

Our mission at STYLECASTER is to bring style to the people, and we only feature products we think you’ll love as much as we do. Target is a STYLECASTER sponsor, however, all products in this article were independently selected by our editors. Please note that if you purchase something by clicking on a link within this story, we may receive a small commission of the sale.

Courtesy: Neutrogena.

Neutrogena Anti-Residue Clarifying Shampoo

I don’t know what it is about spending so much time indoors, but ever since the pandemic began, my scalp has been a mess. I’ve experienced more dandruff and dryness these past two years than I have collectively my entire life. My one saving grace? This simple clarifying shampoo. It removes icky product build-up from dry shampoos and conditioners without stripping my hair of its natural oils. For best results, I swap this product with my typical purple shampoo once or twice a week. 

Courtesy: Sam Edelman.

Sam Edelman Laurs Platform Loafer 

I’m of the belief that if you have a good pair of loafers, you can wear them across every season. I love the androgynous vibe of the shoes. They’re punk and sexy at the same time. Unfortunately, most quality pairs are a few hundred dollars. That’s why, when I found these Sam Edelman ones, I squealed out loud with glee. The Olivia Rodrigo-esque shoes platforms come in black, tan, or green and pair them with practically every dress or pair of pants you’ve got hanging in your closet. 

Courtesy: Target.

Cable Knit Chenille Throw Blanket

There is no problem that curling into a cozy throw blanket can’t solve. This is why at the beginning of every fall season, I gift myself a new one. I love the look of all things cable knit. The sophisticated design makes tops and accessories like this blanket, which is just $25, look so much more expensive than they are. 

Courtesy: Nest New York.

Nest Pumpkin Chai Candle

It’s time for society to pass the point of calling everything pumpkin scented or flavored basic. Let’s all just agree that pumpkin anything is delicious and should be celebrated, not mocked. This September, I’m going all in on candles. Nest’s Pumpkin Chai candle is everything I want to cover my space. The spice scent is decadent without being overwhelming. Plus, the candle itself is a warm orange. You can’t find a better fall candle than this. 

Courtesy: Mr. Coffee.

Mr. Coffee Mug Warmer

I’m fairly certain that this clever coffee invention was made for me. It ensures that slow sippers (moi) won’t ever have to deal with lukewarm drinks ever again. To use it, all you have to do is flip the switch on, and the base will warm your cup’s bottom and keep the liquids inside nice and hot. I’ll be keeping this accessory on my WFH desk at all times. 

Courtesy: Free People.

Free People Picnic Sweater Romper

This fall, I don’t want to wear anything that requires more than a little effort to put on. Jeans? Absolutely not. A button-up shirt? You’ve got to be kidding. Heels? Please, don’t make me laugh. But this sweater romper? Sign me tf up. It’s like wearing a stylish and socially acceptable set of onesie pajamas. I plan to keep it on at home during work and lounge time, then dress it up when I go out with tights and combat boots. It’s such a simple look, but those are the best ones to style again and again.  

Courtesy: PÜR.

PÜR 4-in-1 Sculpting Concealer 

There are very few people I trust with makeup advice. One of them is Rachel Nussbaum, InStyle’s beauty writer. She knows everything there is to know about the ingredients that comprise popular foundations, hairsprays, etc. Her vast knowledge comes with a lot of heartbreak. She often tells me (and her readers) of the harmful irritants that are too-often included in name brand products, so when there’s a brand she approves of, I take note. Rachel told me that Pur is on her list of A-Okay concealers, so I’m hopping on this 4-in-1 color corrector faster than a kid on a trampoline. It comes in 16 shades, costs under $25, and is free from the nastiness of phthalates, aluminum, and talc.

Courtesy: Summer Fridays.

Summer Fridays Jet Lag Mask

I’m a writer living in New York. Translation: I don’t have an income that gives me the means to spend hefty amounts of cash on skincare (nor do I want to). Spending close to $50 on a face mask would physically and emotionally pain me if I didn’t already know and love this one so much. I’ve been using Summer Fridays’ Jet Lag Mask for years. It saved my skin when I was on Accutane, and continues to be my secret to non-greasy hydration. I’d say I have to stock up on it about every five months, and this September is one of them. I’ll be using it to prevent cracked winter skin, and before date nights or brunches to give me a Hailey Bieber-esque glow.

The independent living lifestyle can feel unsettling if one is new to it. On the other hand, it can be an exciting new life phase.

Whether you are new or are already swimming the deep waters, you do have freedom that is not achievable if you have dependent children or others whose comforts you must consider – sometimes before your own.

Once you decide to embark on the independent living journey, you’ll need a few clever responses for the nay-sayers, who will try to spoil your fun with tiresome clichés.

You might hear things like, “Don’t you get lonely?” to which you might respond, “Only when I forget myself.” Or some people will say, “Doesn’t it get boring?” to which you can cleverly answer, “Why, my presence is so much in demand, I haven’t had time to consider that.”

Just put all those clichés out of your mind. You are a mature, independent woman. You can come and go as you please. Nobody’s going to complain if you keep the light on all night reading. Nor do you have to ask permission before you jump at that last-minute bargain ticket to Tahiti or Bali.

Focus on the Advantages

Think positively and focus on the advantages. You now control your own time, so you can focus on that project that you could never work on before.

You can visit those out-of-the-way places you wanted to explore, but couldn’t while on a busy family vacation. Who cares if a ghost town in the desert is an hour out of your way? Go for it! You might discover something surprising.

Ever the theater enthusiast, I was charmed when finding Marta Beckertt’s Amagorosa Opera House hidden away in Death Valley, California. Although Marta passed away, the theater is still there and guest performances reopened in March 2021.

What’s Your Secret Ambition?

Have you ever said, “I’ve always wanted to…” Is there a class you are secretly longing to take? Perhaps you want to learn bridge or take up Tai Chi. How about a new skill, now that you have fewer roadblocks?

Try something unusual. What’s your secret ambition? Maybe you want to go sky diving or take a hot air balloon ride. Throw away the rule book and go for it!

Explore Your Artistic Side

Are you artistic, but never quite felt like you could call yourself an artist? Turn that spare room into a studio. It will validate your commitment to your artwork. No spare room? Set up right in your living room.

Remember, you are an independent woman, it’s your choice. Who needs a great big couch? Artist Piet Mondrian used to say he had no chairs in his studio apartment because if people sat down they might stay too long.

I was an art history major in college, but always wanted to take more studio classes. When I moved to San Francisco, I discovered the local community college offered a Museum Drawing class. We got to take our easels into the Legion of Honor Museum to work from original masterpieces. What a privilege!

Not sure what your style is? Explore one of the big art supply stores or do some online shopping. You’ll find supplies for art forms you’ve never heard of. Two of the biggest online art suppliers in the U.S. are Dick Blick and Cheap Joe’s. You could start getting inspiration just looking at all their products.

What’s Your Dream Adventure?

What is your wildest dream? Some people take up sky diving or scuba diving in their independent years. Others take up running and finish a marathon in their golden years.

I wanted to be an actress. When I arrived in Chiang Mai, I took an acting class and auditioned for a play. I’ve since had small parts in three plays and worked as assistant director at our local community theater. Your dream can come true – mine certainly did.

Don’t Feel Isolated

I know what you are thinking, “This is all well and good, but I’m going to feel isolated after a while.” Take control. Consider how much social time you want in your life, then find an activity that fits your independent lifestyle.

Join a social group. There’s a group for everybody and with today’s social media it’s easy to find any type of group you can imagine. Writer’s groups, book clubs, craft groups and exercise groups are some of the most popular ones out there.

If there isn’t a group in your town, you may find one that meets online. The key is to interact with others who share your interests. You could even start your own group. Make some suggestions right here on Sixty and Me, then move them to a Facebook page or other social platform.

Tell us about a surprising discovery you’ve found on a side trip. Did it tell a story you expected? What dream do you have that you plan to pursue ‘one day’? Please join the conversation below.

We miss the profound depth to financial thriving when we focus solely on getting better rates of return, maximizing Social Security, mitigating risk, diversifying assets or addressing draw down rates – the traditional talk of financial advisors.

In my 24 years of working with clients to savor hope and avoid regrets in their fall season of life, I have learned that true financial flourishing incorporates both the qualitative components and quantitative analysis.

Dr. Martin Seligman is dubbed “the father of positive psychology.” He explores human potential at the University of Pennsylvania and has brought to light five elements of happiness and flourishing with his PERMA model.

While Dr. Seligman doesn’t specifically address these from a financial context, I think we can apply his research in this area as well, to do our dollars differently!

Let’s look at three ways to cultivate positive emotions about money.

Identify Your Strengths

Write about a time that you experienced a financial success. Maybe it was a job position you excelled in, an investment that worked out well for you, a productive conversation around a monetary matter, or a spending choice based on a soul need instead of an ego desire.

Once identified and journaled, revisit it every day for a week and each time ask: “What character traits did I display when I was at my best? Was I resourceful? Did I do my homework? Was I discerning? Was I a good listener? Was I intentional, careful or brave?”

Write down your responses. As Dr. Seligman shares, this exercise “puts you in touch with what you’re good at.”

The next step is to contemplate how to build on those strengths in another area of your financial life. For example: “That purchase brought me deep joy. I was disciplined and intentional and did not go into debt. I am going to start saving for a longer-term goal systematically, keeping my eye on my why.”

Find the Good

Set aside 10 minutes each evening to write down three things that went financially well for you. Next to the event, note “why it went well for me.”

Examples:

• “I connected with the financial tools I own.” Why: because I am competent and capable and want to understand my options for using my resources wisely.
• “I gave to a cause that is important to me.” Why: because it is important that I recognize I am a part of something bigger than myself.
• “I had a productive financial conversation with my spouse.” Why: because it is important for us to work together on accomplishing our goals.

So many times we focus on what is going wrong in our financial lives, which creates a downward spiral. According to Dr. Seligman, this exercise “turns your attention to the good things in life, so it changes what you attend to.” In other words, what you appreciate – appreciates!

Make a Gratitude Visit

Has someone encouraged you, challenged you or supported you on your financial journey? Write a letter describing what they did and how it impacted your life. Be as concrete and specific about how they financially encouraged you and how your life is better because of them.

If possible, arrange a meeting to read it to them. This is a powerful experience for both parties as it connects you to gratefulness and keeps the mindset of ‘entitlement’ at bay. We have all reached new heights because of someone else’s positive impact on us.

When I was a young single mom, I had a friend that took care of my child for free, so I could take some night classes. I needed to be creative and resourceful at that point in my life, and she facilitated the opportunity for me.

Years later, I sat down with her and read her my letter on how her gesture gave me the space to build my confidence, gain some education and get clear on my trajectory. I knew my child was safe and I was able to step into my “next best self.” She gave me a needed ‘hand up’.

A few tears were shed, and both of our hearts swelled.

Even if you can’t pay a personal gratitude visit, simply recognizing that others have had a positive financial impact on your life – and that we, too, can do it for someone else – empowers you to look at your money differently.

I encourage you to delve into one or all three of these exercises in addition to your traditional financial planning.

Yes, understanding all the quantitative components of your financial life and how to best utilize them is very important. By adding these elements, you will be better prepared to battle the media and the financial industry’s illusory rendition of success and flourish in your version of true wealth.

When you go to your financial advisor, or plan your finances on your own, what are the things that occupy your mind? Have you heard about positive financial thinking? When you think about it, who was the person who impacted your financial life the most? Please share your thoughts and stories below.