Hats Off To You!

I've been outdoors a lot lately and noticed that some people wear hats. Unfortunately many still do not. So today, I'm going to "top" my blog with hat concepts that work for women "of a certain age."

First off, hats are something you really have to try on because how they fit is important. And how they look on you is critical.

Some hats are for special occasions....

Some are for athletic occasions...

Some are sun protection...

And some are just cool...

   

For my head and face shape, the rolled brim boater is the best hat for me....

   

And I also can wear a cloche...

But a baseball cap looks terrible on me. I look like a giant face coming atcha! So I don't wear one very often. I see other women wearing them but it just doesn't suit me. (However, I do love to wear my pith helmet doing yard work because I think I look a tad eccentric and it protects my head from getting pierced by branches)!

The hat options are huge.  You can wear canvas sailor hats, visors, top hats or knit caps.

What you need to ensure is that it suits you and what you are doing. Oh, and the weather!  You don't want a big brim on a windy day or straw on a rainy day.

You also don't want your hat to sit on top of your head - instead you want a good fit.

The latest trend is called a "Fascinator" and no one wears them as well as the British...

  

Of course, they are worn for special occasions such as weddings, Ascot and holidays.

I love seeing pictures of African-American women proudly wearing their "crowns"...

Craig Marberry wrote a really lovely book about this very topic in his book, "Crowns":

Sadly, it is getting harder and harder to find great hats but, locally, you can still find them in Burlington Coat Factory, Stein Mart and, of course, online.

When you do decide to wear a hat, be sure to try it on, figure out what you're going to do with your hair (unless you're wearing a hat for medical reasons and don't have a full head of hair at the moment), and make sure that you're ready to be the center of attention.

Wearing hats is finally becoming more common but you still might attract attention in your head gear, like a celebrity.

  

One word of caution:  Please don't wear a tall hat to the movies, the theater or concerts. People behind you will appreciate it.

I didn't cover all the hats that are out there because there just isn't enough time (bowlers, derbys, wig hats, etc.).  I just want to encourage you to try wearing hats for various occasions and reasons.  You never know if you'll find a great "look" for yourself.

Here's a great quote about hat wearing by the master of "fascinators":

A person carries off the hat. Hats are about emotion. It is all about how it makes you feel.

Philip Treacy

Until next week, I remain,

Stylistically yours,

Sooz

Is It Really For You...Or Not?

I am writing today's fashion post upon request of a dear friend.  And to start with, let me remind you that just because it is sold in stores, doesn't mean you should wear it.

So with that in mind, let's start with short sleeved business suits.



In the business world, these are not highly regarded. They are the "pocket protector" of suits. Not really professional or respect-worthy. Yes, there are some with designer names, cute cuts, fabulous price deals but in the business world, these are not the suit that command respect. Yes, it may seem like a great idea in the summer heat, but you'd do better wearing a lightweight top underneath and removing the jacket when you get hot or too warm.



Then there are funky tights. They are fun and trendy but are made for young females. We can wear solid tights but not the printed ones. Yes, the stores sell them...but not for us.

Short shorts or cut-off jean shorts are another couple of items that we just should not try to wear. We, women of a certain age, probably all wore them when we were young but even if your body is flawless, this is a look for young women.




But the great news is that there are so many fabulous things that suit us perfectly.

A sheath dress is amazing for any shape. You can wear them in prints or solids and they suit every occasion. And you can wear a jacket, a cardigan, a shrug or a shawl to cover up, if you choose.





Or a wrap dress which looks outstanding...





And there are really great shorts that look fabulous on us (remember that the length can make or break the look on you)...


And cute capri pants.....


And lightweight slacks...


And long flowy skirts....


...Tank tops...(don't forget the bra!)...



...Linen blouses...


and, of course, the perfect shoe for whatever you plan to wear.


So today, on what would have been Audrey Hepburn's 85th birthday, I'll share one of her best quotes with you..

     

For beautiful eyes, look for the good in others; for beautiful lips, speak only words of kindness; and for poise, walk with the knowledge that you are never alone.

Audrey Hepburn

As you go through this week, remember to look kindly upon yourself, walk with your head up and your chin out, wearing a kind smile on your face. Everyone will see how lovely you are and you will feel it.

Until next week, I remain,

Stylistically yours,

Sooz