This month's color...Poppy!

I'm loving this month's color of the moment!  This full-throttle red gives major impact to everything from next-generation colorblocking to spring shifts and sportif shapes.

Extroverted poppy marries the sex appeal of crimson with the cheerfulness of orange, and let's face it ladies, after the winter we've been experiencing here in the 'burgh we are in dire need of something cheerful that will lift us out of the winter blues!

Combine it liberally with black, white, and shades of pink, but know that this red reads crisp and chic, whether it's turning your staples into statement pieces or reinventing your whole look with a pair of peep-toe pumps.  It also plays well with graphic prints in strong shapes.  For a more sophisticated clash, try a hit of blush or light gray.

Check out how to work this divine color into your wardrobe this month...


 

Sparkles everywhere but not for everyone...

You know I love me some sparkle ladies, so the current trend for hi-gloss sequined looks is making me very happy.  Nothing like some glam sparkly clothing to perk up my mood!!  I was just out at the mall a couple of days ago and everywhere I went there were sequins blinding me; whether in tanks, skirts, leggings, jackets, dresses or shorts (yes, I said shorts!), they were everywhere.

Like I said, I love this trend, but not everyone feels the same way (can you imagine that?!).  But even if you're not sure about this look you can always tone it down with a more 'dull' or 'matt' sequin look.  Or just add a sparkly pin to your outfit if it's really not something you're comfortable with, or add a sparkly shoe or purse.

But if like me you're a fan of this trend, you can really go to town and go further than the silver or gold sequins and wear some bold color!  Pink or blue sequined tanks look fabulous, and trust me, you'll get noticed when you walk in a room!

And with Valentine's Day just around the corner, what better way to vamp up your look than to add some shimmer?  Go for it!

Look Fabulous in Your 40s!

Today is all about the 40s....my decade!!  I remember when I was in my 20s thinking that people in their 40s were soooo old, but as I came closer to reaching that decade myself I realized that it's not about the number but about how you feel.  Now I'm almost at the end of my fortieth decade, and even though like most women, I do not look forward to getting older, I am trying to embrace it with a smile & some class!

For me the 40s has meant many things.  I believe I've looked the best I've ever looked during this decade, as my personal style evolved into something that reflects who I am more.  Despite the fact that physically obviously I'm not in as great shape as I was in my 20s (but then, who is?), I do feel like I've come into my own.  I am more confident than I've ever been, and I have found my own style and I know what works for me and my shape and what doesn't.  Would I like to be a few pounds lighter?  Sure I would - but I don't obsess about it anymore.  I've realized that I can look and feel great whether I'm a size 8 or a size 12, it really doesn't matter as long as I am happy and healthy.  And I've received more compliments in my 40s than any other decade - go figure!!

So here are a few of my tips for looking and feeling fabulous in your 40s...

• Find a refined frock.  You want a mature but not matronly look.  More covered-up cuts that fall at the knee or just below are appropriate, but there are plenty of pieces that still have sex appeal.  A form-fitting shape, cinched-in waist, or strategic cut-outs will do the trick.
• Opt for a more subdued yet modern top.  it's a no-brainer: a stark shirt is super-versatile and universally flattering.  Something more complex, however, like a frothy, frilled piece, can be an outfit maker.  But choose wisely; when going for something with detail, pick a solid, sophisticated shade.
• Stick to fine and feminine skirts.  Demonstrate more restraint when it comes to showing leg - but not necessarily with your skirt style.  A full, pleated cut looks sweet and womanly, while a below-the-knee pencil is a sleek standard.  Also, fancy details on a skirt give your look an interesting, high-quality air.
• Consider a well constructed jacket cut.  Whether it's to be worn with jeans or a dress, your blazer or coat should have structure.  Shapes that emphasize the hourglass look stylized and sophisticated. A roomier, boxier cut will easily go over any outfit.

My choice for someone who looks fabulous in her 40s is the amazing Cate Blanchett.  She is an extreme talent, stunningly beautiful, and has a fantastic personal style.  She manages to look both graceful and hip, and her eclectic style choices are evident in some of the images below.  She really does pull off how to look amazing in this decade.  Some women look as though they're trying too hard.  It's a big mistake that many women make during this decade, because they still want to look youthful and hip, but many times they get it wrong.  Cate gets it right and is a great example of how to look on-trend but age-appropriate in your 40s.