Month: March 2024

Someday in the future, our female youth may think of us who are over 60 as ‘the women before us.’ We are the women who inspire their future. We are the women who went through the fires of life, held fast and came out more whole and wholesome.

We opened paths that were blocked and busted down stereotypes that were hopeless, becoming more educated, employable and involved in world decisions.

We supported younger women to become a voice against abusive predators and stand up for their rights. We blazoned the ideals of equality and equity across the world. History was made by us, and we should be proud!

International Women’s Day

We need to acknowledge what we have accomplished as we celebrate International Women’s Day on March 8, 2024. This annual event commemorates women’s achievements and elevates our quest for equality around the world.

We celebrate national, ethnic, linguistic, cultural, economic and political diversity. We also disabuse ageism. I devoted one of the sections in my book Revivement: Having a Life After Making a Living to celebrating age.

Appreciating Forerunners

Now is also the time to appreciate the women who paved the way for us through the centuries by speaking up, contributing through their work, organizing for change and donating their services, ideas, abilities and so much more.

They brought negligent issues before the world so the collective mind could see the truth and decide to change.

Although the world has been slow to acknowledge their contributions and slower to make changes, women have come to a place in history where there is no turning back. Women are moving forward and we must ensure the survival of our history and blazon a trail for our future.

Time to Salute All Women

Women are responding in greater numbers than ever to the abuse they’ve withstood for centuries. Like Eleanor Roosevelt said, “A woman is like a tea bag – you never know how strong she is until she gets in hot water.”

Let’s salute the thousands of women who have overcome being in hot water and participated in some form in empowering others with values, truth and an equitable world. We need to acknowledge these notable women for their courage and influence.

We’re in This Together

Gloria Steinem, world-renowned feminist, journalist and activist said, “This story of women’s struggle for equality belongs to no single feminist or to any one organization, but to the collective efforts of all who care about human rights.”

Some Things You Can Do

1. Make your voice heard whenever you see inappropriate behavior toward women or bashing of women’s rights.
2. Don’t accept less than your worth in a relationship or job.
3. Model the types of behaviors you want others to demonstrate.
4. Show your intelligence, perseverance and success.
5. Encourage younger women to do the same.

We would love to hear your views about the present, past and future of women as we continue to improve our world and our lives.

Also read, CELEBRATING OUR ROLE MODELS ON INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

What are your aspirations for women in the future? What do we need to do to bring equity and equality to women? How will we close the gender gaps more quickly? What else would you like to share? Please join the conversation below.

Danielle Olivera’s Blue Paisley Print Pajamas / Summer House Season 8 Episode 3 Fashion

Though it would be great to have a wake up call from my boy West, I think it’d be even better to be waking up in a comfy and chic PJs. Which Danielle Olivera did in her blue paisley print pajamas. You know me, I love a good pajama set. I think they somehow make going to bed that much better and waking up a little easier. So don’t sleep on your chance to get a set from below!

Sincerely Stylish,

Jess

Originally posted at: Danielle Olivera’s Blue Paisley Print Pajamas

Paige DeSorbo’s Blue Graphic Sweat Shorts / Summer House Season 8 Episode 3 Fashion

We love a clothing item with a good message! Especially something that is comfy like Paige DeSorbo’s blue graphic sweat shorts from tonight’s Summer House episode. They say that burnout is real take time to heal which is SO true. But I’ll just add that while your healing also take time to shop a new pair of sweat shorts.

Sincerely Stylish,

Jess

Originally posted at: Paige DeSorbo’s Blue Graphic Sweat Shorts

Click Here for Additional Stock in Her Jacket / Here for More Stock / Here for More Stock / Here for More Stock / Here for More Stock / Here for Even More Stock / Here for Even More Stock / Here for Even MORE Stock / Here for Even More Stock / And Here for More Stock

Click Here for Additional Stock in Her Pants / Here for More Stock / Here for More Stock / Here for Even More Stock / Here for Even MORE Stock / And Here for Even More Stock

Photo + ID: @modestoo & @coulsonbingham & @madison.lecory

Originally posted at: Madison LeCroy’s Ivory Tie Jacket and Pants Set

I first became familiar with the phrase “color, texture and shine” a few years back while working with Stacy London, whose hit show “What Not To Wear” became the epitome of the before and after makeovers.

As she shared her fashion expertise with us, she always spoke in terms of color, texture and shine, almost insisting that a woman had to have the daily requirement of those three components before she walked out the door.

She encouraged us to use this rule, teach this rule and live personally by this rule. Even now, I always make sure that I have ticked all three of these boxes before leaving the house.

Let’s take a look at each of these three elements of fashion for women over 60.

Color – Improve Your Mood and Make a Great First Impression

The use of color in your daily garb not only flatters your overall appearance, but it can influence your mood as well as the mood of others around you. The first thing that people notice about you is the color you are wearing!

As all of us “black” lovers know, the power of that color can instantly erase 10 pounds! The power of a “real” color can erase about 10 years from your look by complementing your hair and skin tone.

Pick up a color wheel at any art supply or craft store as it can help you figure out which colors in your wardrobe can be mixed and matched.

First, simply look at colors that are opposite on the color wheel, for example, purple and yellow or blue and orange. These opposite colors work very well together because they contrast.

Secondly, notice how red and purple, situated next to each other on the color wheel, look great together because they complement each other. Use the two “C” words, contrast and complement, to your advantage.

The third way to use the color wheel is to dress in one color, but in different hues. Using several shades of the same color, from light to dark will give you a polished look.

Color is the most important component of your look and it’s the easiest way to freshen your wardrobe and reflect your own personal style.

Remember that color can be pulled into your look with fabrics, accessories, shoes, and even your lipstick or nail polish.

Texture – Give Your Outfit Depth and Interest

The texture could be the weave of the fabric, the density of the cloth, the “skin” of the belt or even the composition of the necklace.

When working with clients, I often use texture to either accentuate the assets or disguise the liabilities. Here’s one example for both categories.

Let’s say your body proportion is bigger on the bottom and we need to balance out your silhouette by adding a bit of volume to the top of your frame. The best way to do this is by using a textured jacket or a blouse, something tweedy, nubby and perhaps colorful.

Or, we would add color or shine with the accessories (scarves, necklaces) to bring the eye away from the (bigger on the bottom liability) up to your beautiful face and neckline (accentuating the assets).

Shine – Learn to Love Your Accessories

Shine could be your glossy lipstick, your patent leather shoe, your silky shimmery blouse and, of course, your bling! Let’s talk about bling specifically. After all, most women love their jewels!

I personally do not leave the house without my 4-point jewelry checklist – earrings, watch, multiple bracelets and a necklace.

I wish I could say that I vary my earrings, but I am lazy and love my diamonds. My watches are a choice of two, one dressy and one a bit sportier with a leather band. My necklaces and bracelets are where I really express myself.

I have been a bit of a collector, over time, and have made sure that I have the demure and chunky gold, as well as the demure and chunky silver.

I have pearls but I never wear them. Somehow, I wore them more in my 20s, when we were wearing those obligatory menswear suits and floppy bow ties. Oh my! How far we have come! Perhaps my decision to pack the pearls away was a bit more ceremonial than I realized!

These days, I opt for statement pieces. I can’t think of a better way to change up an outfit than with your necklace – there it is, front and center, begging for attention!

It’s not rocket science ladies. It’s just a creative process. Build your wardrobe and build your outfit before you walk out the door! Remember – fashion is supposed to be FUN!

Let’s Have a Conversation:

How would you describe your personal style? Which of the guidelines mentioned in this article do you already follow? Are there any that you disagree with? Please join the conversation.