Trend Today - Gone Tomorrow!

I do love to read about new trends in fashion and there are a few that I even adopt. But not many. For one thing, many of the trends are for the young with disposable income and a need to be on top of the latest style.

We women "of a certain age" know that style isn't about the latest trend but is about wearing what is well made, looks good on us and makes others notice us for being the attractive women we are. And we don't want to buy something that only lasts a season or less.

Here are some trends to look at and alternatives for us.

Jewelry:
Statement necklaces are not in style anymore. Now it is trendier to wear pendants on chains, even several at the same time. And chokers are back.



But if you want to always look elegant, you can never go wrong wearing pearls. This is NOT a trend item and a very worthwhile investment. And you can even wear them with denim (like in the country song!).




Crop Tops:


These are still very trendy and no matter how flat your abs are and how trim your waistline, they are best suited for young females...not us.

Instead, there are cool and comfortable tops that make us look wonderful now.





So many options based on how you feel about exposing your arms, your chest, your back and more.

Gladiator Sandals:
They are still in style this year but this trend is really not very comfortable or practical. Let the youngsters wear all that leather strapping.


We want shoes of style AND comfort. I, for one, like a padded inner sole to support my posture and feet.




And lastly, skirts. Young women can wear the short, fitted skirts that are so on trend. Let them struggle, as we did, getting in and out of cars!



We've already done that and now don't want to worry about how we sit down. Pencil skirts are a wonderful look, no matter your weight (if you buy the right fit). And you will look polished and lovely.


So look at what the trends are now in style in your magazines and websites. Enjoy reading them. Then wear the classics to be your best you!

Until next time, I remain, 

Stylistically yours,

Sooz

The Short Story

I just bought my first pair of shorts in over 12 years. I know, I know....I live in Florida where it is hot a lot more than not. So you might want to ask, what the heck have I been wearing all this time in the summer time?

I've worn capri pants. I am a very pale white woman and my legs are pale enough to reflect light. I have used sunless tanning lotions and they work well but now that I'm home a lot more, I don't need that "silk stocking" look anymore.

But I was in Beall's Outlet store and found a nice pair of dark stretch denim Bermuda shorts with pockets for only $8.99. So I bought them. But I am conflicted about wearing them.

Here's why I haven't worn shorts in a while. My thighs touch. And that means that many shorts, when walking in them, ride up in the inner thigh.

Which means I keep having to pull them back down to look decent...a lot of work for a wrinkly bunchy image, when the simple solution is longer pants.

Capri pants don't ride up, bunch up and they usually look attractive even if your thighs touch.

The other dilemma when wearing shorts is the shoes. Yes, you can always wear sneakers, slip ons, ballet flat or sandals but somehow I feel exposed and vulnerable. High heels usually make me feel confident...but I can't wear them with shorts without looking a little trampy. Or feeling that way.

So I'm keeping these one pair of shorts to see how I like them. How I feel when I wear them, how I can accessorize them appropriately, and to determine if I want to buy more or not.

I do love to wear sweaters and light jackets but doesn't that defeat the purpose of staying cool in the Florida heat? I just don't know.

Do you, my friends, wear shorts in public? How many do you own? If not, why not?  I am curious.

I have seen other women "of a certain age" wearing shorts of various fabrics, cuts, lengths and colors. Some look pretty good but others look tired, aged and sloppy. This is a small but weather-related issue and I'm looking for your input.

Please share your thoughts on this short story.  Until two weeks, I remain,

Stylistically yours,

Sooz

Another Great Product To Buy!

First let me clarify, I do not get paid for endorsing products...except from you, dear reader, who find these recommendations to be helpful. Your feedback is payment enough!

So here's an amazing new product:

Garnier Ultra-Lift Miracle Sleeping Cream! (Actress Kate Walsh is the spokesmodel for this product.)

I tried a magazine insert sampler and had to go out and buy it immediately. It makes your skin glow the next morning, fights wrinkles, reducing signs of tired looking skin and plumped my face perfectly.

It has essential oils, hyaluronic acid, hydroxy acid and rare plant extracts.



You can buy it in your local drug store, Target or Wal-Mart. I looked for it in Ulta but it wasn't there yet. It sells for about $16 (but look for coupons).

There is also an eye cream that I've read is pretty great, as well. I haven't tried it yet but I will.

I am always on the lookout for products that help rejuvenate the facial skin and makes you look refreshed...this is a good, inexpensive refresher that I hope you like, too.

I am currently using Retina to refresh my skin on my face but this stuff is an every other night product I am using now!

Until two weeks, I remain,

Stylistically yours,

Sooz

The Postman Cometh!

I have been asked to write about issues with buying items online.

Do you buy clothing or shoes online?  Do you have a problem with these items not fitting properly? What do you do about that?

I wanted a high end pair of shoes and was going to order them online. But my wise husband suggested I find them in a store (where they would cost much more) and at least try them on. I'm so glad I did! I normally wear 7.5 size shoes but these shoes run small, so I had to try on a size 8.5 to find the best fit.  I never would have known that without trying them on.

Also, I went for a professional bra fitting because I really wasn't sure what size I even wore. I was wearing too small in band and cups and now I know what size to buy (after buying two Wacoals at the fitting).

I have a college age friend who is very tiny and has a lot of problems finding the right fit in pretty much everything.

One resolution for that is to find a website that is true to size. You can always send an email to Customer Service and ask about trueness of fit. Also make sure that returns don't cost you anything to ship back.

I have found a few online places that I can buy from that are reliable and true. But there are a few that I sadly discovered run smaller than I am and usually resulted in shipping back (I quit buying from them!).

If you don't get that sort of guarantee, see if there is a local store of that brand. Otherwise it is "caveat emptor" -- let the buyer beware.

There are some unique sites (Etsy) where items are homemade. That means their sizes are varied based on their measurements. Use extreme caution when you order from sites like that.

That doesn't mean not to buy online. Just be prepared to do a little research, maybe experience a little trial and error, and possibly some trips to the post office. You'll find your way eventually.  But share some experiences with us. Let us know what works for you.

Until two weeks, I remain,

Stylistically yours,

Sooz