Deciding
whether or not to embrace your grey hair is a dilemma nearly all women over 60 eventually
face. Do you continue to dye your hair the same brown, red, or blonde shade you’ve
worn for years, or is it time for a change? Will going grey make you look old, or
can it actually look sleek and modern?

As Denise McAdam, a well-known hairdresser in the UK with over 40 years experience, recently explained to Margaret, the old canard of the grey-haired old lady has no validity in today’s world.

Denise has worked with many celebrities and members of the royal family, and she offers lots of tips and advice on her website. The Queen even awarded her the Royal Victoria Medal, showing the royal family’s appreciation for her service. Lucky for us, she’s here to explain how beautiful grey hair can be.

A Regular Trim is Just the Thing!

Denise
continually emphasizes the importance of keeping your hair in good shape, which
means having it trimmed regularly. Sometimes all you need is a “dusting,” where
your hairdresser cuts off only the damaged ends of your hair, to keep it
looking good.

The
right haircut is also essential. The style you had 30 years ago just doesn’t
work any more. Consider going shorter than you’re used to, maybe add layers so
your dark hairs blend in with the lighter ones.

Polishing Grey Hair for a Youthful Look

There
are some wonderful products out there that can help keep grey hair looking shiny
and beautiful. However, Denise cautions against using anything too heavy. Just
a little serum rubbed between your hands then lightly applied to your hair is usually
all you need.

Denise has worked with numerous beauty companies and products, and she has some favorites. She loves the Joico range, especially their shampoos for blonde hair, which can give grey hair an added sparkle. She also loves KMS dry shampoo and Wella Luxe Oil.

Transitioning to Grey Hair the Right Way

Sporting
grey hair doesn’t mean you stop coloring altogether. It also doesn’t mean you
dye your hair a particular shade of grey and just wait for it to grow in. After
all, women usually go through a “salt and pepper” stage before becoming
completely, naturally grey.

According
to Denise, finding a great colorist, one who wants to work with you while you
transition to grey hair, is essential. Find someone adept at using lowlights
and highlights to keep your natural mix of dark or blonde and grey hair looking
stylish and uniform. And remember that your skin tone is vastly different from
what it was in your 20s, so make sure you take that into consideration, too.

Healthy You, Healthy Hair

Denise
believes that your hair is a barometer for your entire body. If you keep
healthy in general, it’ll show in your hair. That means getting enough
exercise, eating a healthy diet, and drinking plenty of water.

Cardiovascular
exercise is especially beneficial as it increases the blood supply to your
scalp, which keeps your hair healthy. Water has the added benefit of being
great for both your hair and your skin.

You also
might want to consider taking certain supplements that can affect the health
and look of your hair. Denise recommends B12, B6, and biotin. Also, Imedeen makes an anti-aging beauty supplement that is
a particular favorite of hers.

Going Grey for a Modern, Stylish You

Although
it can be difficult for some of us to banish the old stereotype of what it
means for a woman to go grey, taking proper care of your hair from the inside
and out is really all you need for a more natural, yet updated look. Rather
than looking old, grey hair can be beautiful, stylish, and liberating!

Will you make the switch to grey hair?  Or is the thought of switching from your
current color just too stressful for you? How do you think going grey would
make you feel? Let’s have a chat!

I hear it all the time… “I’m 52 (67, 72, or plug in your number), and I used to be fit and active and exercise. Now I’m out of shape, want to feel healthy again, and I’m not sure where to start!”

Once you have made the decision you are ready to get back into an exercise routine, you have already conquered the hardest part! Let’s take the guesswork out of your workout and give you 5 tips to help you feel your best as you get back into fitness.

Listen to Your Body and Start Slow

If it’s been a while since you’ve exercised regularly, it is important to start slowly. I’ve seen it too many times where someone hasn’t been active in a while except for walking and they push their first couple workouts too hard. They end up achy and sometimes even injured.

I recommend you start your first workout at 50% intensity and listen to your body. If you feel any twinges or pain (different from feeling your muscles working out), try to adjust your form or change up your resistance. If you still feel pain or a twinge, stop that exercise and move on.

It can be tempting to push yourself in the first workout because you really want to make up for lost time. But muscle soreness from resuming workouts can creep up one or two days later and can be intense if you take it too far, too fast. Start slow and listen to your body!

Always Warm Up and Cool Down

As we age, it is very important for our cardiovascular system, our muscles, and joints to warm up at the beginning of your workout and cool down when you finish.

My programs are built to include about 3 to 7 minutes of dynamic movements to slowly bring the heart rate up and warm up all the muscles and joints of the body. Some examples of dynamic warm-up exercises include arm circles, high-knee marches, side steps, and head turns.

At the end of each workout, deep breathing and static stretches allow your muscles to recover and your heart rate to safely return to resting. If you performed a full-body workout, some examples of stretches that will help you to gain flexibility and ease any workout soreness are the hamstring stretch, calf stretch, and upper body stretches.

You Need More Than Walking

Many of the women who reach out to me are regular walkers. Maybe you track your steps daily, maybe you walk your dog, enjoy walking alone, or with a friend. That’s awesome! But your body needs more than just walking, especially after 50.

As we age, starting in our 30s, our body loses muscle fibers if we aren’t actively strength training. Strength training can help to build up muscle fibers and protect our joints from aches and pains typically associated with aging.

Most times people think there is nothing they can do; that these aches are a part of aging. But it’s not true! You can build your muscles and protect your joints through strength training. Start by performing your strength exercises 8–12 reps for 2–3 sets using a weight that feels challenging by the last rep of each set.

Strength training is advised 2–3 times a week. Some examples of beginner strength training exercises include bridge, dead bug, and rows.

Use Dynamic Full Body Compound Movements

You will get much more out of your workouts if you are performing dynamic movements standing, lying down, and moving versus using stationary weight machines.

You can use resistance bands, free weights, and body weight to get a full-body workout that challenges your core and your balance each time! An example of a complex exercise is a wood chop, which works your core, your balance, your upper and lower body.

Of course, be safe. Start at your level. If you need to sit for an exercise or change your stance position, that is ok! Better to be safe, start slow, and build up from there! 

Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help

It is much easier to reach your goals when you don’t have to map or trek the course yourself. Why re-create the wheel when it has already been made? Working with a personal trainer is a great way to reach your goals safely and quickly.

I have worked with hundreds of women and men over 50 to help them to reclaim their health, stop spinning their wheels, and finally reach their goals so they can feel confident, look good, and feel healthy. If you need more support and guidance, you can learn more about my programs and strength training options.

What is your current exercise routine? Do you consider yourself active? Do you walk regularly? What else do you do? If you’re not very active, are you ready to begin a program? Please share your thoughts with the community!

Sonja Morgan’s Zebra Print Wrap Dress at Her Fashion Line Meeting

Real Housewives of New York Season 12 Episode 6 Fashion

On last night’s episode of RHONY Sonja Morgan took a trip out to New Jersey to visit “the books,” and was totally channeling the state’s energy with her fierce zebra print wrap dress. And we’re just hoping for her sake that this trip didn’t inspire her to host her next fashion show on the other side of the Hudson at the Brownstone, because we have a feeling that would really piss off Melissa Gorga and Kim D.

Fashionably,

Faryn

Click Here to Shop Her Sonja By Sonja Morgan Dress

Originally posted at: Sonja Morgan’s Zebra Print Wrap Dress

Regardless of where you live, chances are your hair salon is still closed or operating on a limited schedule. In this case, the Ulta Gorgeous Hair Event for spring is right on time. The one-of-a-kind sale comes twice a year and the first one for 2020 feels like the best birthday present ever. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a Gorgeous Hair newbie, here’s what you should know before adding to cart.

First of all, get comfortable because this isn’t a flash sale; it’s a whopping three weeks long. (They call it an “event” for a reason, people!) It runs from Sunday, May 10 to Saturday, May 30—that’s 21 days of markdowns. Each day features anywhere from one to three brands each featuring one product for 50 percent off. As always, this event is the perfect opportunity to replenish nearly every part of your haircare routine. Stylers, hair masks, hot tools, and cleansers are all up for grabs in the coming weeks.

TGIN.

For those with textured hair, Ulta Beauty Design Team Stylist Stacey-Ann Houston recommends three standout products. First up is the TGIN Honey Miracle Mask, which will be 50% off on May 11 (original price: $17.99). ”Sip on your honey and lemon tea while TGIN Honey Miracle Mask adds hydration to your curls and then wash out,” she suggests.

Ouidad.

May 12’s half-off deal (original price: $26) is another one of Houston’s faves.

“Use Ouidad Vitalcurl + Soft Defining Mousse and let your hair define naturally by air drying. Your results will be bouncy curls with lots of volume and softness.”

CurlSmith.

And finally, CurlSmith’s Defining Styling Souffle—half-off on May 14 (original price: $27)—is Houston’s recommendation for curl definition.

”Be sure to apply Curl Smith Defining Styling Souffle to your hair before styling to ensure each curl is evenly defined without frizz. The souffle is perfect for when you are finger coiling your hair. Your curls will have definition, hold, and bounce.”

We recommend bookmarking this page or downloading the Ulta Beauty app to ensure you don’t miss out on anything. In the meantime, preview every single deal from the Ulta Gorgeous Hair Event below.

Week 1 

May 10^th

50% off Bumble and Bumble Thickening Spray

50% off Bed Head Smooth Operator Heated Brush

May 11^th

50% off TGIN Honey Miracle Mask

May 12^th

50% off Ouidad Vitalcurl Soft Defining Mousse

May 13^th

50% off Sebastian Shaper & Shaper Plus Hairsprays (excluding travel)

May 14^th

50% off Curlsmith Defining Styling Souffle

May 15^th

50% off dpHUE Gloss+

50% off CHI For Ulta Beauty Ceramic Flat Irons in Pink or Red

May 16^th

50% off Redken One United

50% off Redken All Soft Shampoo and Conditioner

50% off T3 Featherweight Compact Dryer

Week 2

May 17^th

50% off DevaCurl SuperCream Coconut Curl Styler

50% off Hot Tools Flat Iron

50% off Olivia Garden Pink Collection

May 18^th

50% off Joico Defy Damage Shampoo & Conditioner

May 19^th

50% off Mane Choice Alpha Manetabolism Gummies

May 20^th

50% off Living Proof Triple Detox Shampoo

May 21^st

50% off Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum

50% off Paul Mitchell Lemon Sage Thickening Shampoo

50% off Fresh Looks Flat Iron

May 22^nd

50% off Color Wow Root Touch-Up

50% off Instyler Airless Blowout Revolving Styler

May 23^rd

50% off Alterna Moisture Collection

50% off Elchim Dryer

50% off Tangle Teezer Ultimate Vent Brush Pink

Week 3

May 24^th

50% off Kenra Thermal Styling Spray

50% off Hot Tools Dryer

50 % off Wet Brush EPIC Professional Deluxe Detangler

May 25^th

50% off Viviscal Tablets

May 26^th

50% off Tigi Bed Head Masterpiece Hairspray

May 27^th

50% off PATTERN Leave-In Conditioner

May 28^th

50% off Biolage Advanced Shampoos & Conditioners

50% off Frizz Defense Curling Iron

May 29^th

50% off It’s A 10 Miracle Leave in Lite

50% off Keracolor Clenditioners

50% off Croc Rose Gold Flat Iron

May 30^th

50% off IGK Speechless Dry Oil

50% off Pureology Hydrate Sheer Shampoo and Conditioner

50% off Bed Head Volumizer

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. Please note that if you purchase something by clicking on a link within this story, we may receive a small commission of the sale and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes.

I’m admittedly in my feelings. Today is Mother’s Day and with stay-at-home orders going strong, I can’t be with my favorite lady. The same can’t be said for Taylor Hill, who has been social distancing with the matriarch of her family and reaping all of the benefits, including quality time and home-cooked meals. (Yes, I am extremely jealous.) Family time is everything right now and the Ralph Lauren ROMANCE Global Ambassador is making the most of it.

“My mom traveled with me everywhere when I was 14 and I just now have a newfound appreciation for how hard she works,” the model told StyleCaster. “Our relationship has grown, we are closer than ever as she’s turning into not just my mom, but my friend.” Though they have a daily routine down pat and are grateful for the ability to socially distance at all, Hill and her siblings were adamant about switching things up for Mother’s Day.

Source: Instagram

“To make it feel special and not like any other day during social distancing, we’re going to have a relaxing self-care day and get dressed up,” she said. “The little things can make a big difference right now, like pulling together a fun fashion look and adding fragrance for a touch of luxury.”

Brunch is also a must. Restaurants may be closed, but mimosas certainly aren’t canceled.

“We want to take care of everything from start to finish, so she does not have to lift a finger. Mom always does such an incredible spread with all the fixings so we need to return the favor. We are going to make eggs, bacon, fruit salad, avocado toast, and of course mimosas!”

Source: Instagram

Read on for everything else on their stay-at-home checklist. Besides lounging around in “an old t-shirt and some comfy soft sweats,” Hill and her mom are rockin’ out to the oldies, embracing the beauty classics and bonding over family dinners.

Relaxed Routines

I mainly dedicate about 30 minutes to an hour to watch the news, and then I have to tune it all out for a while, as to not get too overwhelmed with too much information. I try and stay positive and focus on taking it one day at a time. We follow a daily routine as best we can. My mom does yoga in the mornings and I usually have slower mornings; I have coffee, check emails, then work out later in the day. We have family dinners every night and do fun things like Taco Tuesday. We have been pretty good about calling and video chatting with friends and family.

The Beauty Classics

Right now, I’m all about the classics that I know will bring me joy and comfort—my tried-and-true products! Ralph Lauren ROMANCE is a staple for both me and my mom—the classic, floral scent is a mainstay that has stood the test of time and has been around for more than two decades. It evokes a sense of familiarity for me and of course, love.

I also love the Lancôme L’Absolu Mademoiselle Balm; super soothing and hydrating! And doing masks can always evoke a spa-like feeling. I love the Génifique face masks. I keep them in the fridge for that extra soothing, cooling effect.

Source: Instagram

Sights and Sounds

I’m currently re-watching DEAD TO ME as the new season is dropping and I love that show. We LOVE classic rock, my mama raised me well—good taste in music and all! We listen to Eagles, Fleetwood Mac, Aerosmith. I just started listening to podcasts and enjoy Sibling Revelry with Kate and Oliver Hudson.

Good Reads

I would say I am the biggest reader in the family; so far, I have finished Where the Crawdads Sing, Little Fires Everywhere, The Proposal, and What Alice Forgot.

Source: Instagram

Making Moves

I’ve been working out four times a week with these incredible workouts my trainer has been emailing me. I absolutely love and adore my trainer in LA, Coach Forest! She keeps me healthy and pushes me. Her workouts are tailored for my needs and she is always switching them up on me.

Food Perks

My mom makes amazing dinners and is an excellent cook unlike myself. So for me, anything she cooks makes me feel instantly at home. The last thing mom made for us was a delicious dinner: grilled chicken, roasted Brussel sprouts, and baked sweet potatoes.

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. Please note that if you purchase something by clicking on a link within this story, we may receive a small commission of the sale and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes.