Mature Fashion: New Blogsite

For those of you who follow Rockmyages.blogspot.com, you are already aware that I have FINALLY got a website up and running that will allow me to incorporate all the facets of "Rocking Age".  I have began posting to "RockMyAges.info " where special articles that deal specifically with styling for specific roles will be under the Lifestyle section; more general items that deal with our roles will be addressed in the regular posting to the blog.  I am still working out a few kinks but that site is now active and most of my posts will be to that site; this is the last posting to RockMyRole.  Of course, should a reader wish to view past postings, they are still available on this site.

Please visit me in the future at "RockMyAges.info"


Do What You Love;
Love what you do....

Mature Fashion: A Revisited Role

In 1994 I began a small sole proprietorship creating patterns for fashion dolls; I began that business because:

(1) I was annoyed at the shoddy quality of materials and the poor fit of the merchandise I saw on the shelves of the local toy store.  The prices were outrageous for what was being delivered.

(2) I was only a year or two away from eligibility of retirement.  I knew I wanted to keep doing some meaningful work, but not full time, nor at the pace which I was then working.  

(3) Fashion dolls are (for the most part) pleasing; they are usually lovely and offer an unlimited range for a stylist and designer to utilize his or her creativity to the fullest without all the fuss and bother of fashion design for humans.

I worked full time in an Information Systems job while I began pattern production for my company, Lord Perry Patterns.  I concentrated mostly on historical and specialized patterns such as wedding, holiday, and fantasy to create a unique brand, but I also wanted to eventually produce some couture patterns.

Unexpected life events got in the way making it necessary for me to put Lord Perry Patterns on hiatus for several years but I am once again reviving it.  Although it is a whole new world out there, both for us and the dolls, I am reviving the business, both for the additional (and helpful) potential retirement income and keeping my mind engaged in the business and fashion pursuit.  

I will be offering the patterns by mail order; each of the patterns contain at least two views of the subject pattern, and do not require any exceptional knowledge or hard to obtain materials.  Many designers of One Of A Kind fashion dolls have or are still using Lord Perry Patterns.  

I am proud to say that Lord Perry Patterns have a great reputation;  they are desired by many designers and are especially known for their superior fit, etc. (I now face a new challenge in the dolls that have entered the market recently with their new shapes and sizes, but I am eagerly awaiting tackling that challenge.).  New Lord Perry Patterns will be on the market after advent of the new year.

Hopefully, this re-visit of an old role will contribute to "Rocking My Age", as a hobby if not a profitable business...I believe in the old adage of not knowing if I don't try!!

I have a website at LordPerryPatterns.com where you can view all current Lord Perry Patterns; I also have LordPerryPattern.blogspot.com, a blog I have had for several years.  This blog primarily provides tips and up to date information on the art of designing One of a Kind dolls (OOAK).

Mature Fashion: Sending "Messages"

Heidi Klum is famous for her expression "I now know who you are" when a designer on Project Runway styles an original design on her popular fashion show.  Her meaning is instantly clear; just what a wise woman wants to do whatever her role. Whether planning a Charity event soliciting for funds, volunteering as a docent within your community, re-financing your home, dealing with family members,  applying for aid, you are instantly sending a message to your audience.  In any situation where the outcome is important, a wise woman will remember this important FACT.  Hillary Clinton in a red suit in debate with Donald Trump is NOT AN ACCIDENT. I am willing to bet that her professional advisors have her wardrobe projected to the nnth degree, and stategized based on the results on any previous encounters.  STYLE IS BOTH A TOOL AND WEAPON.  It does not matter if one wants to believe this, it has been proven repeatedly by credible scientific research.  The results are so conclusive that I believe that any man or woman is foolish who ignores the facts.  Attention to appearance and styling is NOT shallow when used appropriately.  Once again, it is a TOOL, not an indulgence.

Trade secret:  when I was nearing my 40's and employed in technical silicon Valley, CA, interviewing for a programming job (almost always considered a young person's venue). I wore the outfit in the upper left hand corner just before I had this picture taken with my family (studio portrait before the days of Selfies!!).  It was a planned outfit that I wore on many planned occasions-youthFUL (not young), strong, relaxed , and expensively casual. 

Certainly this "look" was strictly against the advice of ANY styling book that I saw, had, or read at the time.  I believe the cashmere sweater, the well cut matching red pleated wool skirt accomplished the put together look of the time, and worn with an expensive watch and gold casual coin contributed to my "fitting in" with the culture. Obviously, the red was for powerful credibility.  BTW, I got the job, and two years later another in the same field.  I believe that although my qualification were very good, the impression I made was in part responsible for the result.  This is also the time I discovered that every woman needed to make her own "rules" for what was best for her situation in life.

Yes, we need guidelines, but it is not hard and fast "rules".  It takes time to discover what works for each individual's roles in life.  The point here is I PLANNED a certain look to send a certain subliminal message.  The entire message of "Rock My Role" is that it is important to send the message you want for the task you want to accomplish, whether relaxation, professional employment within a certain audience, and most importantly, the confidence necessary within oneself to accomplish a goal.  Appropriate styling also makes most women feel they have life under control.  I find it makes all of my life much easier and helps me "RockMyAge".

Mature Fashion: Roles for 2016-17

My Personal role Identification (s) for F/W 2016-2017 are simply those of a retired senior citizen living in a retirement community.  My social activities are limited to weekly exercise classes, craft making such as sewing, jewelry making, limited extended family visits, occasional social engagements such as shopping, casual dining, and limited volunteer work in the community center library.  The remainder of my time is spent performing household chores and maintenance or relaxation activities such as reading, pet grooming, etc.  My wardrobe "costume" needs are literally the same for almost every activity I perform.  My personal challenge is to keep my day to day outfits interesting and flattering, and to avoid falling into the boring styling rut that I find in so many of my contemporaries (you know the one I mean).

Although the vast majority of my clothing needs fall into the utilitarian catagory, I want to feel like I am "rocking my role".  My goal is to create the perfect "fashion forward" wardrobe with just the right amount of clothing and accessories to accomplish this goal. I feel challenged to add interest to my outfits because the same clothing can be appropriate for almost anything that I regularly do.  I also work on my "quick change" elements to rapidly go from mopping a floor to a quick trip to run an errand  or keep an appointment, etc.

This blog has virtually become a journal of the little things that I find consistently work to accomplish this goal.

Many women plan the activities for their day in advance and actually prepare a loose "schedule". i.e., a daily calendar to keep track of the day.  I also make a mental schedule of the items I will need to wear to efficiently and effectively feel confident in the way I look no matter what situation occurs.  Obviously, these items are considered based on the weather and the activity.  In all cases I want to make a selection that is practical and effortless. (I always want to be able to leave the house at a moment's notice).

In the above picture, simply matching the shoes and top at the beginning of the day already give an "easy but ordered" look to the outfit.  I determine if my handbag works for the ensemble, (I do this while dressing; if not, I change it at this time; I do not wait) and determine if I need any accessories.  If my in household chores make it inconvenient to wear them at that time, I set them aside until needed.
(I find the necklaces, bracelets, or rings often get in the way of household chores).  I do the same with shoes.  I do try and choose shoes that are always comfortable (kitten heels are as comfortable to me as most flats and give me a touch of needed height).

I always keep an appropriate hat available, both for sun protection and polish. Although I try to maintain a suitable haircut, my hair is often a challenge and a hat covers a multitude of grooming deficiencies, especially when conditioning my hair.  These simple five minute tasks make instant changes that improve my day to day styling.

You may note the slip on collar necklace with its dangling bow are an instant additon, The dame holds true to the hat and knotted ribbon in the lower picture.  I find these little planning operations make my dressing really "effortless", yet give my everyday "at home" clothing a more stylish and polished look.

Mature Fashion: Every Day "Roles"

Hello Fashionistas and Stylinistas;

Once again, I find so many women of our 50+ age group just "give up" on caring about their appearance.  (although the blog is geared to the 40+, many woman have not yet experienced very much grey hair, wrinkles, or "middle aged spread"....it is just beginning, and fortunately, many have not yet resigned themselves to this negative opinion yet; it is just threatening, etc.

Now that I am totally retired, I have a lot more interaction with the women in this retirement community, all of them that I have met are over 55, and many of them over 65.  Many of them would be considered somewhat "frumpy", by wearing clothing, jewelry, cosmetics, and hairstyles recognized as current several decades ago.  Many of them have also settled for the "comfort" of the sweat pants, tennis shoes, baggy cardigans, etc. for their everyday wear.

I have been asked at least 20 or more times why I was "dressed up" when wearing my "at home" role "uniforms" when encountering one or another of them casually or in some of the groups I have now joined. With the tremendous variety of clothing and fashion choices I simply do not understand why a woman should settle for less than she did at a younger age. Although I understand first hand many of the trials and tribulations that can, (and usually do), occur to many of our age group, I realize how important it is too take care of, (even "pamper") ourselves in order to "Rock Age".   A fellow blogger Judith Boyd, called the Stylecrone, (Stylecrone.com) reportedly began her blog when her husband was undergoing cancer treatments.  She did this to help alleviate the stress and anxiety and re-direct it in a more positive manner...a lesson to us all.

I want to "Rock My Role" whatever I am doing, and I hope that all of my readers want to as well.  This is an area in which we have much control, and can feel good about the role, no matter what it is.

To the left I have pictured a few of my summer "at home role" costumes.  All are comfortable, practical, and appropriate for the kind of chores that I perform at home.  All of them are also clothing that is flattering to my body type, ageless, and on trend in the fashion world. Each of them are basic "costumes" that "dress up" easily with  simple accessories (necklace, bracelets, etc. that may get in the way of my chores ) that I often lay out in my bathroom for an instant costume change.  The white cotton (I have a black one exactly like it) cardigan is quickly changed to a linen blazer if going to lunch, etc.

I have mentioned in earlier posts that I always put on my basic cosmetics (eyebrows, lipstick, mascara) when I dress for the day.  I also usually put on earrings and any rings that do not catch on things. As I learned from one stylist many years ago...."imagine someone is coming to the door; if you would be embarrassed, you might want to "up it a notch".  (I would give credit to the author if I remembered who it was..)

Mature Fashion: Adapting wardrobe for changing roles

In previous posts I have mentioned that I can wear many of the same clothes for most of my roles.  Now that I no longer work at the furniture store, my wardrobe can be even more multi-purpose with just a tweak or two.

One of the lessons I have learned since I began the blog is that it is all too easy to make assumptions about how something I say will be understood or interpreted. One such example is the styling of everyday "uniforms" that apply to the "at home" roles.  I have been asked several times why I am wearing a simple top and bottom that is rather plain, yet I talk so much about the "pop" factor, etc. I apparently have not communicated adequately that these "uniforms" are often only the basic "frames" for the "look."  For example, the following pictures do not have any "wow" factor even though they are all coordinated and require only one or two additional accessories to make them stand out.  Almost always the outfits do not have the hat, scarf, footwear, jewelry, and handbag that make all the difference.  I always prepare the purse I am using, and mentally select the appropriate accessories when I get dressed for the day. Because I always am wearing my basic framework, I never plan on taking more than five minutes to ready myself for leaving the house.The chores that I am performing as I am taking the photo usually do not include these accessories.  

With the plaid outfit, I wore the navy straw fedora with the cream colored rope hatband and the navy Dooney Bourke medicine style handbag. The jewelry I chose was a navy banded watch and an orange leather strapped bracelet.  I wore my whimsical "I can't" mismatched straw soled shoes.

So many of us are retired or semi-retired yet wish for interestingly styled "fashion forward"  ensembles that are both practical and appropriate for those roles. However, many feel it is too much trouble to coordinate all this.  The purpose of my blog is to remind my self that it takes just as much time to put on one pair of pants as another, and the same amount of time to put on a top.  Styling the wardrobe is the difference between looking well put together NO MATTER what one encounters during the day, or not.  

 With the green floral blouse (already had the hat on) and snake cigarette pants, I carried the Michael Kors snake handbag.  I am also wearing my green floral gauzy scarf as a hatband for the cream straw Panama hat. I am wearing my Pandora charm bracelet, a silver floral pendant on a silver chain, and a selection of bands on my fingers.  

My hair is a mess in this picture (all oiled up because I am bleaching it later on today).  I have a couple of "alternative" hair options for these days.  One of them is the hair cap I am wearing.  It is also chilly, so I am wearing the white cotton sweater for my "at home" chores.  I do have to run an errand before I can tend to the hair.  I will ditch the "hair hat" for the white and navy fedora, and carry my Sharif leather and straw tropical themed carryall handbag. 

Although the sweater looks 'okay', I plan on replacing it when I find another that is also made of cotton and in the same knit, but has design lines that skim the midriff and gently flare over the hip line. The knitted waist band that is slightly gathered is not as flattering to my figure type. I am trying to replace all garments that are "okay' with ones that are more flattering-my personal styling goal. 

For my nautically themed ensemble below, I chose to wear the felt Indianna Jones hat to block out more of the sun.  I usually prefer to wear the navy and white fedora pictured above.  I usually carry the navy Dooney Bourke when I wear this top. I am wearing a white jade and gold bracelet, three thin gold charm necklaces (an anchor, a starfish, and a captains steering wheel )and my ancient navy flats with the gold anchor and rope trim. I would also choose to wear cropped flares rather than the leg hugging pants, but I have not found any that I wished to purchase.

Mature Fashion: More on Role Styling

I mentioned the comfort of the boudoir fashion for my at home roles a couple of weeks ago. I am pleased to continue my satisfaction with this summers "fad".  I love the comfort while at the same time enjoy the little touch of arty glamour that comes with it. I also like the fact that I paid very little for this top; I found this never been worn pajama top  at a thrift store for $3.99.  It still had the tags on it and I have already worn in twice.  I also have serendipity because I already own black silky bottoms from another "boudoir" look.  I doubt I will wear the top after this season as outerwear, but I am almost certain to wear the outfit as pajamas this coming winter.

It is worthwhile reminding myself that trying out new ideas can be very rewarding.  This latest fad is very practical for me, and I actually like the very comfortable look.  It also helps to remind me that being comfortable does not have to mean I can only wear sweats or t-shirts. (actually,. the feel of this top is exactly the same as a comfortable sweat top).

I am still doing some container gardening which I hope to complete today.  I do have to get some more planting mix before I can finish.  Of course, I am wearing the hat to protect me from the sun while I am in it, and also to cover the "hat hair" when inside the store.  I hope to have the job completed after this last trip and planting the one remaining plant in its pot!

Mature Fashion: Too Many Roles

Sorry, Blurry picture

Yikes!!  I no longer have the "role" of salesperson at the furniture store and thought I might be able to enjoy a bit of extra traveling, etc. this summer and have time to catch up on several neglected tasks.  Somehow, I managed to pick up two more "roles" in the mean time, and have been inundated with a few unexpected maintenance issues!!

Our Homeowners association has a librarian who had rotator cuff surgery a few weeks ago.  Obviously, she is incapacitated for several more weeks. In the meantime, library books to be returned to shelves, new donations f books and media have been piling up. I have taken on her duties until she can return. Fortunately, the clothing that I wear for my day to day home maintenance are the same, and I do not have to plan purchase other garments, etc.

The second additional "role" is my exercise mode. I have been used to doing all my planned physical exercise routines at home and at different times during the day.  I most often wore my "bedtime uniform" which doubled for exercise at home in the morning (see April 17th post-RockMyFitness.blogspot.com).  This clothing worked very well for me when I was exercising at home. Now that I am working out at the clubhouse, I do have to be a bit more "covered up" because of the mixed company and the frequent necessity to immediately perform an errand for the library (they are in the same building).

I have taken on another activity; jewelry making!  I absolutely LOVE the idea of creating my own pieces to accessorize new combinations and ensembles.  This activity is also appropriate for the clothing I wore for my role at the furniture store, so I find I really have very few changes to accommodate.

My picture in the upper left hand corner is a bit blurry at the hemline of pants, etc.  The picture does not show the cute buttoned vents at the hem.  I took the opportunity to use this costume as an example of freshening a look by just adding one trendy item.  In this case, the chunky heeled sandals (BTW, they are extremely comfortable). I styled the same top with black pants two seasons ago using a boho look and the same pants with a Chinese inspired top and men's look buckled shoes.  The lay-downs for both looks (taken from my stylebook)  I am proud to say that every item you see in the lay-downs have paid for themselves at least twice over, and I plan on incorporating each of them in at least one more year's stylings.

I have already worn the clunky sandals three times, and the season is just beginning.  I bought them several months ago at Payless Shoe Source.  I usually cannot wear their shoes successfully, however, these did feel good on my feet and I new they were "on trend" for S/S 2016, and ON SALE; two of my favorite words when looking for items that are not expected to be worn that much.  I paid about $15.00 for them, which comes to $5.00 per wearing so far.  I do think I will wear them at least ten more times over the summer bringing them to my projected price point of $1.00 per wearing.  All of the other items have met this criterion except  the blue Makowski purse.  It has about twenty five more wearings before it earns its value, ($200.00) but I expect to have that no later than next year. Obviously, I have had it a few years already.  

All of these new activities have prevented me from getting the closet collections all posted to RockMyRunwaay.blogspot.com.  I do expect to have a new post here soon with the crafting projects I am making for F/W 2016!  You have already seen the Crafty Collars. (I have already created two of them!)

Mature Fashion: Styling for the Role

"Beyond the Boudoir"..perfect for today's at home/errands

I have posted a lot of information on the importance of planning "costumes" for the "roles" each woman plays on the stage of the play called "My Life". Each "costume" is the outside appearance of our actress in her chosen role. The costume tells her audience who she is and immediately conveys the role she chooses to play. This will happen whether she chooses to do so or NOT. I have mentioned many times that this immediate identify is established at a subliminal level and will always create an effect; hopefully, the one the wearer chooses to project.

I have mentioned that the division of my roles has changed significantly this summer.  I need mostly clothing that is practical for all types of household and landscaping chores, suitable for everyday errands like
banking, grocery shopping, dentist, informal meetings, etc.

I also want to be comfortable and fashionable in all these environments without looking "over the top". That is the message I want to send.  This selection from my "Beyond The Boudoir" collection is exactly on target for me today.  I have vacuuming, laundry, re-arranging a closet, writing the post, and paying bills at home.  I do have a trip to both the bank and grocery store also.  I also need to drop some items at the thrift store for re-cycle.  

Although the picture was taken with heels (which I will wear when I do my errands), I will be wearing my whimsical cat house flats. (I always wear flats in the house, never slippers.  

Today is the first time I actually wore this ensemble.  I have to say, it felt wonderful!  It was every bit as comfortable as the flannel pajamas and thermal top when I was at bed rest.  The belt is stretch, but it made me feel very "pulled together", while giving me the same degree of comfort .

I have a feeling that this seasonal "fad" may remain in my style arsenal (yes, it will be updated to keep the look current-or replaced if I find something better!!) 

You have probably noticed that you do not see me in much jewelry in my pictures; I am usually in my "at home" costumes.  I usually only am wearing my earrings while I do household chores. I keep other jewelry off because it usually interferes with my chores. I do put it on, change my shoes, and grab an already prepared purse when I leave the house.(I frequently change my purse every morning to accessorize; it also helps me maintain an orderly purse!)

I have designed a few more at home outfits that I will show from time to time if I find other practical "boudoir" garments for day wear. 

Mature Fashion: Home Maintenance

Well, we had rain in May! Very unusual at this time of year.  In fact, the weather has been very strange all year! One day brings us very warm weather, the next day it feels like it is still February...some days we have both conditions on the same day!! Of course, these weather conditions mean layers; thin and Springtime appropriate, but layers,

I am spending a lot of time attending to neglected "chores" that have been put off way too long.  To the left is a typical outfit for the type of chores and the accompanying errands I have to run within the day.  Note the layered top and gauzy neck scarf; simple to add or to remove, depending upon the condition.  The same holds true for the footwear.  Today I am going a lot of work that will require me to frequently change my footwear (garden boots, sport slip-ons, and low heeled pumps for the errands)  The only jewelry I wear is a watch that fits close to the wrist and does not get in my way.  Should I get my hair messed up, (almost a sure thing) I will wear my white fedora hat.

Each of the outfits I have on in these pictures represent costumes for these identical roles. I plan the night before what I most likely will need to wear, make sure it is handy, and go about my daily business.  Each of these outfits have a basic top and bottom that is sturdy enough to handle regular household maintenance, in good enough condition to face a public display, and has easy to wear accessories that can be quickly dressed up or dressed down depending upon the required errand or unplanned event.  As you can see, usually only a change of shoes (if necessary), addition of a simple accessory or two, quick flick to neaten hair (although mine is usually messy-it is hard to deal with-lucky the current trend is "messy" hair) .  If it is too messy, I just add a casual hat.  I usually change my handbag the night before; a ritual that allows me to coordinate clothes, keep my purse free of bits and pieces, and to add my coin change to my savings jar. (for those special purchases I plan each season -my white leather boots for F/W 2016)

For "at home" jewelry, I have a small jewelry box on the bathroom counter that contains my simple band ring(s), subtle gold or silver jewelry, and small neck chains, etc., items that are simple to put on and literally go with anything.  These are items I never plan in advance.  If I am doing something special, I plan my jewelry the night before with my other "dress up" outfits for other roles.
Like most of us, I know what these occasions are and the clothing I will wear.  Those outfits to the left are my "home maintenance" (at home) "uniforms.

I almost always plan the impromptu layering; our weather has been so unpredictable I am either taking something off or putting it on!!

Mature Fashiobn: Job Hunting

It finally looks like we are beginning to have some warmer weather(regularly) and I am taking the time to look at one or two part time jobs in which I may be interested.

Because RockMyRole is all about the different roles we mature women play in our play of "Lifestyle", it seems appropriate to post a well thought out strategy in dressing for the different aspects of a working role.  In both of these pictures, I am demonstrating business casual attire where I will simply be picking up an application or returning it. (I always try to do this because I believe that all opportunities to "connect" with a prospective employer are significant to reach my goal, the job I want).  The yellow ensemble is what I would wear for a formal interview on any of the jobs I would seek; I would wear the maroon only for inquiries as to whether employment is available or to pick up an application or to return the application. Because both jobs I am considering are in casual retail, I will also be "shopping the store".  This tactic allows the person's who I would be interfacing with to observe me, (often that person may have influence in the hiring procedure) and evaluating my potential role as employee.

The dress "for an interview" rules for a person of my age are very different than for my younger counterpart; they are also very different for the mature 40 to 60 age group.  I am over 70, and I know finding the job I want may be difficult.  I might consider re-coloring my hair (I just decided to bleach it out white this past year) as well as carefully considering the impact of what I wear. I have to project instantly a youthful, vibrant, and energetic woman; one who is not too frail, "dotty", etc., etc., All of these latent "old age" stereotypes have to be dispelled within the few seconds it takes for a potential employer to register my appearance.

Of course, I will use my styling to accomplish this impression before I speak the first word. The mild yellow outfit I am wearing in the picture is further accessorized with a simple "boyfriend" watch and my wedding ring.  I will use the camel and cream structured handbag to lend a more modern feel to the outfit without drawing any undo attention to any focal point. Why, you ask? Well....

Most interview experts recommend that the attire for any aspect of the employment process should not draw undo attention but should present an over all impression of solid, good judgement.  It is recommended that accessories be of good leather, (or a quality substitute) ; never athletic materials, straw, or canvas.  Jewelry or other accessories should be simple, no perfume, and sensible but fashionable shoes.  The look should be not too affluent but radiate durability and quality. Hair, grooming and cosmetics should be subtle, etc. (BTW, many, many studies and much research has been done in this psychological employment arena, and the results are consistent year after year.)

A word more about the shoes; comfort is essential . (Sore or hurting feet always reflect negatively in the facial movements, etc.) Depending upon the job one is seeking, it may be appropriate to wear heels.  Most older women who are even a little bit over their ideal weight when wearing low heels tend to look a bit frumpy when they are worn with a suit (matched or otherwise). Depending upon the job, wearing a pant suit is more effective for an interview, and usually are best when worn with a two inch heel. A dress with a blazer or sweater is usually more effective than the suit, and when worn with either flat or low heels. Unless working in a fashion or artistic professional environment, an older woman is cautioned from wearing high heels, boots, or other a la mode trendy footwear.

Extreme fashion statements of any kind are not recommended (this applies to women of any age!!) Once again, high fashion or art based businesses can be an exception, but do your research.

For the type of job I am looking for, the garments I am wearing reflect the type of outfit I would wear to pick up and return an application or make inquiry,  I would also make sure my nails were well manicured with a neutral polish and my hair style neither too severe nor too messy. (my greatest challenge).

The deep red purse (looks lighter here than in real life) is very plain, the "look" I want, particularly because I have the gold buttons on both the loafers and the sweater jacket.  The only jewelry I am wearing are gold earrings and a gold ring on each hand.  The stripes are ornament enough and add a little trend to an otherwise too classic ensemble. (The stripes also convey a touch of youthfulness without looking like I am trying too hard ).  This outfit could be improved with a pair of perfectly matched dark red plain oval toed flats, but I don't have them, nor could I find any in exactly the right shade.  (If I can find them for my optimal purchase price I would get them because I expect to wear the pants and sweater for several more seasons-the stripes will probably not)

Mature Fashion: Changing Roles

I am reviewing the amount of wear I will be getting from the ensembles I styled earlier in the year (last winter, actually).  I have mentioned earlier that I make a style book of the stylings I compile because I assemble the articles I plan on wearings the night before I go to work.  I want to remember the way  I planned to wear it without trying to pull it all together in the morning (I don't know about you, but I always seem to be short of time). I am also able to check the items for loose threads, marks, spots, or other maintenance issues that I would not have time to address in the morning.

This ensemble is typical wear for my part time job at the furniture store.  I am now more likely to wear it with on of these three pair of "comfort" shoes, depending upon my plan for the day.  I will, and do, sometimes wear heels when I am at home for the day, but only if I am not going to be doing chores that would make the heels either unsafe or too uncomfortable.  I did not wear any heel for a few years and found that my legs became too uncomfortable anytime.  When I "re-invented" myself (returned occasionally to the type clothing I wore as a working professional), I now make it a point to wear them at least once a week. Of course, I only wear comfortable shoes of any kind, but the continued use of some heel has kept me able to wear them when I want to be more "dressed up".  I also choose to wear heels frequently because they add height to my frame.

Another reason I take a picture is for my style book and to critique my own styling.  For example, I wear only a pair of pearl earrings and a ring on in this picture.  (I have styled most of my ensembles with minimalist jewelry because that is a 'youthful' trend)  When I review the picture, I believe that I will add my Pandora or my white jade/gold narrow bracelet to the outfit.  Just this touch matches my own personal aesthetic; more rings or a necklace would not provide the touch that I want to be "me" and still update a look.

As you already know if you have read many of my posts, I do not believe a woman can have too many accessories if she has the room for storage.  The mix and match of accessories is what allows a woman to instantly update a look and "shop her closet".

I also will choose from a selection of purses; I have the nautical ones in the picture but I also have the option of using two additional red ones that might be more suitable for a specific purpose.  (I really do like looks to be "just right" for me). It is the current trend to mix the color of metals, but for the most part, I do not like that look.  I try to have different shapes in accessories like shoes and handbags, however, I also want hardware on the bags to be either, gold, silver, or both on the accessories so I can match in a way that is pleasing to me. (Remember, fashion is all about YOU, what you like, and how you feel when you wear it!!)..Enough preaching !!


I have to complete a bit of wardrobe styling for the remainder of the summer.  I am dawdling a bit because I am not sure exactly what I want to do.  I know that I do not want to work more than two days a week, and I do like having a few months off during the winter.  Unfortunately, that is one of the benefits that I had to give up in leaving my latest employment.  I am still planning my solutions (and options).  You can bet that my choice of wardrobe for these interviews will be well thought out.  I really do practice what I "preach".

Mature Fashion: Changing Seasons

Dressing for the Bay Aea,  California is a bit challenging; last week the temperature reached 91 (unusually high), and two days later the high was 62 degrees!!

Although it is not unusual to have both very warm and very chilly weather during the spring and fall seasons, this difference is a bit extreme. It also makes it very difficult to plan appropriate clothing for the week!

I have not been able to post to the blog for several days because I resumed my seasonal part time job at the furniture store. The change has taken quite a bit of my time because we are under new management as well as a significant change in personnel and policies. Some of these changes have required quite a bit of time on my part; I also resumed work two weeks earlier than I had planned.  I also had a mini vacation at Cambria to celebrate my birthday. (at my age, reaching 73 in good health and reasonably physical condition is something to celebrate!)  I had to prepare for work immediately upon my return.

I couldn't resist taking a picture of the elephant seals sunbathing on the state beach.  It was a beautiful day; we also saw the whales spouting on their seasonal migration to Alaska and beyond.

I have also posted a picture of some typical working attire for my job; this is the ninth season I have worked there.  The environment requires clothing that is both dressed up enough to represent the high end merchandise we sell, but comfortable and durable enough to withstand some abuse. The weather change has assured me I will most certainly be very busy for the next three months as this is the height of the season for recreational furniture.

If you recall, I told you that my at home roles and my work role suited almost ninety percent of my wardrobe requirements.  I usually only work at the shop two days a week; on days that I know I will be doing very physical work I wear exactly the same clothing I wear at home.  The remaining day I wear the same clothing I wear at home with only a simple addition of a change in shoes or addition of a few pre-determined accessories; very simple and very functional. 

If you have read the Rockmyages.blogspot.com posts, you are aware I am separating the styling elements from this blog and concentrating more on attire for the actual roles.  I find each of the blogs still to be a work in process (I'm not sure I will ever get the photography right!!).  Visit my new baby at Rockmystyling.blogspot.com; I do find that using them as styling journals really does help me to up my fashion game and, "Rock My Age".

By the way, (btw), I have discovered a great blog that seems to have the same point of view that I have for everyday dressing while maintaining a fashionable outlook on the mature woman with many roles. Check out Highlatitudestyle.com written by Nicole Molders up there in Alaska...(no, not a paid endorsement!) She can show you other 'closet collections' of how she is applying new fashion trends and the opportunity to see these fashion on another body type than mine. I really do wish I had some other models than myself.  You have probably also noted that "selfies" are really not my thing.  I really get tired of seeing my own face all the time, but it sure is great for my style book and helping me remember how I accessorized a specific ensemble.........

................................Geneva.............Rockmyages@aol.com..