zest/zest/
| Noun: |
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| Synonyms: |
relish - gusto - savour - savor
"Zest is the secret of all beauty. There is no beauty attractive without zest."
-Christian Dior
No doubt these thoughts have gone through your mind when you've stood in front of the mirror:
Am I dressing like my mother? Do I look like I'm wearing my daughter's clothes? Am I dressing age appropriately? Am I making the most of my looks? Perhaps your frock is in an eye-popping color or print, skims the body, plunges low in front or back, or shows too much skin. Maybe it doesn't show enough skin and adds years. And with all the boundary breaking in fashion today, it is not always clear who should wear what.
What to consider when dressing your age:
20s
There are no boundaries for twentysomethings when it comes to fashion. It's about personal style and adding whimsical touches you can get away with only when you're young, whether that means playing with color, mixing and matching, or wearing high heels and high hemlines.
Ah, youth! Being under 30 allows you to get away with a lot when it comes to dressing.
*Pick a fun frock. Ultrafeminine, lighthearted, colorful, and flirty are the qualities to look for in a dress, whether it's for night or day. Don't be afraid to show a little skin here and there, but remember to maintain a level of polish. If your dress is too revealing on top, make sure the hemline is a little longer. If it's short, the silhouette should be more restrained.
*Try a top with personality. It could have loads of ruffles, highlight your decolletage in a strapless cut, or even be a washed-out rocker tee- as long as it's interesting. We all know the youthful set loves jeans, which go with every sort of shirt and blouse, so let your top set the tone.
*When it comes to skirts, think sweet or sexy. Twentysomethings can pull off charming pouf, pleated, and bubble-hemmed (my personal least favorite; but some can pull it off) skirts. If you have the body for it, go for minis, tight or full. Either way, Your top should be toned down when your skirt is special.
*Experiment with jackets and coats. Wear a tailored blazer over a floaty frock, a sleek leather bomber with a breezy, floral blouse, or a girly, princess-cut coat atop skinny jeans and a tank.
"A girl in her 20s can rev up everyday basics with something outlandish." -Michael Kors
30s
More pulled together, serious looks are what your 30s are about, but you don't have to be a total square. The trick is to experiment with fashion-forward styles while maintaining a level of polish.
A honed sense of style lead to sophistication, but don't put your risk-taking days behind.
*Go for a dress in a new silhouette. Whether it's below the knee or well above, revealing, roomy, or in between, pick a shape that's interesting and unique. Try contrasting shades, metallics, and pops of brights. The idea is to look cool and confident. Move beyond the superslinky and girly stuff.
*Your shirt should have an edge. It can be a crisp button-up, a silk blouse, or a simple tee, but it should be a fresh twist. Neat ruffles, a prim scarf tie, or a bit of ruching can turn a basic into something bold.
*Seek out skirts with style. Though it's a feminine signature, a skirt doesn't have to be mumsy. Look for pieces that are either sharp and severe or soft and subtle. A sculpted pencil shape with a high waist is seriously sophisticated but not stuffy, while a swingy, short skirt adds attitude.
*Top off your look with something striking. Your coat or jacket is an integral part of your wardrobe, so pick a piece that makes a statement. A trim, architectural jacket can be just as dramatic as a bold animal-print coat.
"I don't know if I really understand the idea of dressing one's age. All you need is confidence, comfort, and the pleasure of dressing."
-Marc Jacobs
40s
Classic silhouettes and colors may start to dominate your wardrobe, but each piece should be full of personality. Think interesting embellishment, feminine volume, and bursts of rich color and pattern.
It's important to look smart and conservative, but that doesn't have to mean buttoned up.
*Find a refined frock. You want to look mature but not matronly. More covered up cuts that fall at the knee or just below are appropriate, but there are plenty of pieces out there that still have sex appeal.
*Opt for a subdued yet modern top. A stark shirt is uberversatile and universally flattering-it's really a no-brainer. Choose wisely when you're going for something with detail; pick a solid, sophisticated shade.
*Stick to fine and feminine skirts. Demonstrate more restrain 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.
*Consider a well-constructed jacket cut. Whether it's to be worn with jeans or a dress, your blazer or coat should have strict structure.
"I am going to wear the shortest skirts possible, as long as they look good on me." -Sharon Stone
50s
Refined, tasteful choices are the foundations of age-appropriate dressing. Tailoring and structure are key, as are clean lines and fuss-free frocks in a simple palette.
Now is the time to embrace traditional elegance with uptown appeal. Leave the latest trends by the wayside.
*Dress up in classic colors.
*Look for ladylike tops.
*Keep your skirt simple or luxe it up.
*Start with a clean cut jacket.
"I think it's better to tell the truth about your age and surprise people with how good you look." -Iman
60s
Elegance is the idea, and so timeless, traditional pieces are the mainstays. Tweed suits, trousers, and coatdresses dominate the closet. Contrasting hues-black, white, and red-are the most chic.
Know your style and be true to your instincts. Fads come and go, but enduring standards will serve you well.
*Opt for classic-cut dresses.
*Try a top that's eye-catching.
*Select a soft swingy A-line skirt.
*Pick a top-notch topper.
"It makes much more sent not to be encumbered by trends and not to be too caught up in fashion, no matter your age." -Narciso Rodriguez
70+
Looking dignified and distinguished is of the utmost importance- and that means splurging on a little luxury. Fabrics should be of the highest quality, and tailoring should be precise.
Stay true to timeless, tailored shapes, but add lushness to your look with embellished pieces. Classic hues will ensure the elegance you aim for.
*Turn up the volume on top.
*A structured suit is standard.
*Go to great lengths for the perfect skirt.
*Jackets and coats should be standouts.
"I think an older woman can be more fascinating than a younger one. Dress elegantly and you will possess timeless and ageless style." -Giorgio Armani
"Age is but a number! Wear what you like and LOVE what you wear!" -Kate Hudson
And Happy Friday to you! May you have a great (well dressed to impress) weekend!!!
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