Is this "Age-Appropriate?"

by Kristin Golden on 06/25/12

Often, I have women (and men) come into my office and tell me that they want to update their look but they want to make sure that their look is "age appropriate." I understand that concern - while celebrities with 4 children are walking around in dresses with slits as high as their upper thigh - it might be a little unnerving to consult a stylist while trying to update your wardrobe.

Still, age appropriate does NOT mean frumpy. Many women who come into my office think that they have to look somewhat frumpy in order to avoid looking like they are trying to be 21 again.

Here are some great ways to keep your look "age appropriate" while still looking great and stylish:

- Invest in a pair of denim trousers. These pants can go with just about anything and they will instantly increase your sophistication factor.
- Choose shorter suit jackets. So often I see women in jackets that look like it could be their husband's - back in the 90's, it was good to wear a long jacket. Today, it looks so much fresher to stick with a jacket that hits just below your hip bone.
- Ballet flats. These shoes are the perfect compromise between sometimes-impractical heels and flip-flops or sneakers. Ballet Flats come in so many different style and colors that you can find a pair for almost any outfit and not sacrifice style by choosing to wear a comfortable shoe.
- Stay away from the bright neon trend. it just doesn't look right on anyone over 30.
- Rather than wearing your matching Juicy Couture sweatsuit while out and about, invest in some great yoga wear from Lucy or Lululemon. You will find "run-around" clothes that really fit and flatter your body.
- Don't be afraid to wear jewelry, but don't pile on beads and pieces that look like your daughter made them in art class. Have fun with the long necklaces - gold and silver, wear a large-face watch, add some colorful bangles to your outfit.
- Try out the maxi-skirt trend. It really does look good on, especially on with some body to it so it's not so tight on your skin.
- You can pull off less-expensive pieces (like jewelry, hang-bags, etc.) because you look like you would only wear something that's real. Try adding a string of faux pearls with a pretty dress. No one will question whether or not they're real.
- Maintain a good skin care routine. With so many anti-aging products on the market, it feels like everyone is telling you that you can't age naturally. You can age beautifully - but you have to take care of your skin! There is a wonderful product called Prolastil E-50 and it is made for women over 30 to give them a youthful glow.
- Know your colors. Have your colors done by a professional (I do color analysis during my style assessment consultations). This will help you make sure that you are dressing in the clothes that best accentuate your features.
- Try the jean jacket and dress trend. Throw on a wedge heel (of any height) to complete the look.

"Age-appropriate" is something that is important, but not something that should hold you back from trying the latest styles and having fun with the trends. You will know if something is a little TOO young - so give yourself reign to have some fun!

Happy shopping!

Xo, Kristin @Kristin Golden Image Consulting