Looking And Feeling Great At 40+
Just because you are in your 40’s or older doesn’t mean you have to look frumpy or dress like a teenager either! You CAN look fashionable and yet maintain your dignity at the same time.
1) You don’t have to cut your hair super short just because you’re in your 40’s now. Look at Demi Moore for example. She has long, shiny, hair that is always well-groomed and she’s in her mid 40’s. Take care of your hair by getting regular trims and condition it as needed. Find a hairstyle to that works with your lifestyle and complements your face shape. Making sure its well-groomed and styled is the key.
2) You can dress fashionably without looking silly. This doesn’t mean wearing a micro mini that barely covers your butt. Instead, choose a skirt that ends above the knee and fits you according to your body shape. Heavier on the hips and stomach? Then choose a swingy, flirty A-line shape that ends just above the knee. If you like a certain trend, yet don’t want to spend a lot of money on it, then look for it in accessories, be it earrings, necklaces, scarves or bracelets. Try Claire’s, Afaze, eBay or other accessory stores in your area. It’s a less costly way of indulging in something without spending a fortune and if you get tired of it you can easily pass it on to a friend or relative.
3) Maintain your regularly scheduled annual checkups (this goes for ANY age!). Why worry what that bothersome mole is when you can just go straight to the dermatologist, have it checked out and stop worrying about it. Take care of yourself. Indulge in manicures, pedicures, facials or any treatments at your local spa if and when you can afford it. It’s good for your soul, relieves stress and makes you look and feel pretty. There’s nothing wrong with taking care of yourself if it’s going to make you a happier person in life. If money is an issue, then invest in some inexpensive home spa products and set aside a day to yourself with NO interruptions. For example, you can find parrafin hand treatment products on sale at a department stores from time to time. Buy a couple candles on sale. Head to the drugstore and pick up a manicure set. Use olive oil to moisturize your cuticles. Improvise!!
4) Unload your worries and stresses to someone. It’s good to talk about things you are concerned or worried about. I personally believe that keeping stress and worries all bottled up in inside “ages” you mentally & physically. Talk to a close friend, spouse, relative or therapist if you can. Also, exercise improves the mood! Invest in a home treadmill if you can’t get to a gym. Take a yoga class to de-stress or a kickboxing DVD. I’ve tried it – it works! Pretend that punching bag is someone who made you angry! It’s a safe and healthy way to relieve stress.
5) Alter an outfit to make it an age-appropriate version. For example, if don’t think you have the body for “skinny jeans” then try what I’ve done! Find a pair in your size that have stretch (lycra) content in them, and wear them with a nice tunic in a flattering shade and a pair of kitten heel pumps or boots. I have a pair of Gap skinny jeans that have stretch in them and I’ll wear them with a chocolate brown sweater tunic I found on eBay and I’ll tuck the the jeans into a pair of black boots or I’ll wear them with a pair of ballet flats that are “Chanel-inspired”. Again, improvise!
6) Keep the mind sharp and/or do something creative. Do crossword puzzles, take up painting or drawing or a craft. Go to your local craft store. They have beading and jewelry making kits, chocolate making kits, you name it. It’s another way to keep you occupied when you’re bored, relieve stress and get your creative juices flowing. Try coloring! Who says that coloring in coloring books is only for kids! No one has to know anyway! Try baking some cookies and bring to a a senior who is home-bound or sick. Putting a smile on someone’s face will make you feel good inside too.