Recently I read an article by Tim Gunn from Project Runway fame. Although I do not catch this show as much as I’d like, I have enjoyed reading things he’s written.
The title Six Mistakes Made by Women over40 caught my eye on the internet home page and I clicked over to check it out. Tim Gunn has listed 6 items to avoid if you’re over 40:
1. Double Breasted jackets
2. Horizontal Stripes (I know you’re all going to your closets to check this right now)
3. Pleated Pants
4. Jackets that hit mid-thigh
SO FAR, SO GOOD…
5. Capri pants (ouch!)
6. Low-rise jeans (double ouch!)
My Take:
Double breasted styles are not a wise choice if you have broad shoulders, a larger chest and thick torso (no matter what age) However the extra detail on top can balance your body nicely if you carry most of your weight on your bottom half. If the jacket has a flattering cut (bias cut) with some shape, it can look great.
I’m Ok with his opinion on jackets, horizontal stripes and pleated pants. In fact, if you have the latter, and carry weight around your middle, please weed them out right now!
CAPRIS: This is a tough one. Capris have become a wardrobe staple and many of us have a closet full of them. Generally speaking, the longer the capri the better. Think just a few inches above the ankle. Capris that come mid-calf can cause you to look shorter and “cut” the leg instead of elongating it. Then recently I read somewhere else that ankle length pants do the same thing. I believe you will be fine with longer capris coming close to the ankle and shoes in the same color
LOW RISE JEANS: My first reaction was, “Ok are we supposed to wear ‘Mom’ Jeans once we hit 40?” This reminded me of a hilarious Saturday Night Live commercial. I found a short clip on MOM JEANS which I highly recommend for a good laugh. Jeans=Frustration for many women. I’m in the middle of my research, and have more to share with you.
Coming Next Week: How to Find the RIGHT Jeans
