Love Thy Self and Embrace the #VBO

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I get it. It can be challenging to love every inch of our bodies. Why? Because from the time we received our first Barbie doll or fell in love with our first Disney princess we began to compare ourselves and pick ourselves apart. It continued on through pre-school and kindergarten and as we aged into adulthood, we continued the comparison game narrowing in on those parts of our body that we were told were not tone enough, tan enough, flat enough, round enough or just all around undesirable. At some point we simply declared our hair or our body to be our mortal enemy. Indeed, we continue to be our worst critics.

It’s no wonder it’s a struggle since we’re constantly confronted with images that, consciously or unconsciously, make us perpetually chase after some illusive mystical (and honestly mythical) perfect version of ourselves. The truth is our idea of beauty should not be based upon what we see on television or in magazines, but positive, loving, and supportive views and opinions of what we see reflected in the mirror on a daily basis.

Yes, there are things within our control to change and if you feel so inclined to make changes in order to be healthy, feel great, or have more energy, then I say go for it. But first exam your motives and be sure they’re coming from a place of self-love and not self-loathing. Did you know over 60% of women (and over 75% of teenage girls) wake up every morning with a negative self-impression of themselves and start the day criticizing multiple aspects of their body? With regard to men, only the worry of finances out ranks their concern with their appearance. In fact over 50% of men are concerned with their appearance. Daily negative self-talk has a deleterious effect on not only an individuals self-esteem but also their health. At best you’ll start the day off in a bad mood, at worse you’ll have increased levels of stress and anxiety.

Weight and age continue to be the number one and two general concerns, but can you guess the specific body part that causes the most angst? You guessed it….the belly! Without fail every client I’ve worked with, regardless of gender or size, have complained about their belly, stomach, or waist. The #VBO (visible belly outline) is the first place the eye lands when I’m taking measurements, when we’re talking about their style, and when they’re trying on clothes.You know what I have to say to that? Love thy self and embrace the #VBO!

There are a lot of reasons you may have a few more wobbly bits around the middle than you want, but there’s no reason to (a) focus on it or (b) wear only loose fitting tent-like muumuus. I can assure you that all you’re doing is drawing more attention to that area. Instead, you need to embrace your #VBO and dress in a style that compliments your overall body shape and coloring. Focus on your fabulous legs, your gorgeous smile, your incredible hair, or you sensual curves. Celebrate that you’re alive to enjoy another day with a body that takes you from point A to point B and back to A again. And hey, if you’d like to diminish your #VBO try some planks, take the stairs more often, watch what you eat, and don’t stress about it. Stress effects your digestive system which actually increases belly fat; so you’re not doing yourself any favors by making that your daily focus.

Life’s too short my friends to worry about whether or not there’s a #VBO in the clothes you wear. Instead, why not show yourself a little love? Do me a favor, next time you pass your mirror give your reflection a wink and smile and say something positive.

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Skipped the Spanx this Post 😉

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Skirt: Forever 21 – old (similar here)| Tank: Lane Bryant | Jacket: Target | Shoes: Sole Society | Silpada Jewelry (shown in this post

Live, laugh, love!

Carol 😉

Sharing is Caring! ❤ 

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5 Step Guide to Looking Fabulous During Menopause

Happy Friday!

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Remember when Samantha Jones, from Sex and the City, announced she was going through menopause while in the midst of a devastating hot flash? Sex and the City had fun with this storyline, even though Kim Cattrall, the lady herself, hadn’t start going through menopause until two years later. Regardless of her plight, Samantha made menopause look fabulous…hot and sweaty…but fabulous.

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Recently, Angelina Jolie announced that she too was in the throes of menopause. Having recently had a hysterectomy, Angelina went into premature menopause and for the first time the face of menopause was this gorgeous 39 year old.

I myself officially started menopause at 46 and have to admit, despite all of the unpleasant side-effects, I was happy to welcome this new chapter. For me it was a rite of passage and a reminder that I’ve made it to another “level” in my life. My husband, however, has not been amused by my need to keep our bedroom at a balmy 45-50 degrees at night. Sorry babe.

Regardless at what age you join this wonderful club, there will be a few adjustments you’ll have to make in your life, particularly as it relates to fashion. Gone are the days where you become a fashion casualty to menopause, donning anything tent-like or with lycra (did I mention you’re prone to weight gain around the belly…yes it’s a bummer). In addition to taking care of yourself, including eating right and getting some sort of exercise, now is the perfect time to take another look at your wardrobe and those items that may not be “menopause friendly.” Consider these five steps to looking fabulous during your menopausal years.

1. Plan What You’re Wearing in Advance – Remember when your mom used to lay your clothes out for you when you were little? Well, now is the perfect time to revisit that habit. Check the weather first to see if it’s going to be rainy, sunny, or cooler than usual and then plan accordingly. This is actually a great tip for anyone, but if you’re menopausal it’s a requirement.

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2. Dress in Layers – That’s worth saying again…dress in layers! When a hot flash hits you will not be able to take off enough clothes (and you’ll want to) so be sure to dress in a manner that allows maximum comfort. I usually start with a cami or tank and then add a shirt/blouse, and then jacket or light sweater. If you’re concerned about showing your arms (and let me just say don’t), then look for 3/4″ length sleeves on your shirts, jackets, and sweaters or invest in a few sleevey wonders (they’re fabulous).

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3. Choose Lightweight Fabrics – Now is the time you may want to rethink those turtlenecks (unless thin or short sleeve), bulky sweaters, wool items, and pretty much anything with long sleeves. Breathable (and absorbable) cotton, gauze-like linen, and silk in short or no-sleeve items will be your best friends when a hot flash comes on.

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4. Invest in a Beautiful Fan – And speaking of hot flashes why not endure them in style. I often see women holding little portable electric fans, which are great when you’re out and about. However, why not invest in a beautiful old fashion fan? When I travel I’ll pick up a new fan so that my hot flashes are prettier and more interesting. I picked up these two beauties while in the Dominican Republic and the Republic of Panama. 

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5. Keep a Positive Attitude – A lot’s going on with the body during perimenopause and menopause and it’s important to acknowledge and be aware of those changes. Now is not the time to be in denial. However, it is the time to keep a positive attitude, be creative, and have fun. Embarking upon this new chapter can be overwhelming but it’s not the end, it’s a new beginning. Try a new look with your make-up or do something different with your hair like a new cut or color. Rethink your wardrobe by taking a good honest look at what you have in your closet and making some hard decisions about what to keep and what to toss. Re-discover who you are and your authentic style and fill your closet with clothes you love and feel incredible in. Overall, the key is to be positive and take the time to look fabulous!

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Lane Bryant: Duster (sold out-similar here), Tank, Shorts

Silpada Designs Jewelry: Indigenous Impressions Necklace | Aztec Earrings | Perfect Composition Bracelet | Rain or Shine Ring

Photographer: Lydene Robertson | Make-up: Beauty by Meghan

Live, laugh, shine!

Carol 😉

Sharing is caring! ❤ 

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Casual Day in Costa Mesa

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This picture was taken in the lobby of the beautiful Ayres Hotel.

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The Ayres Hotel is a beautiful boutique hotel, elegantly furnished, with a European feel.

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I loved this couch and those nautical pictures so I had to get a picture in front of them.

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Then it was off to Newport Beach.

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The weather was perfect and the beach was beautiful. 

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And warm enough to take my jacket off.

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Thought about going in the sand but did NOT want to take my shoes off! 😉

Tank & Jeans: Lane Bryant  | Sandals: Franco Sarto | Sunnies: Express | Jacket: Dress Barn-old (similar here) | Jewelry: Silpada – Adventure Seeker Necklace, Get Growing Earrings, Peruvian Ring, Queen for a Day Ring, Time to Celebrate Watch, In Good Faith Bracelet (I wear it everyday), 21 Bangle Salute, Fushion Stretch Bracelet

I just finished working with a client for two days last week, and before I headed home I wanted to enjoy the sunshine and beauty of southern California. Costa Mesa is a beautiful town tucked in the heart of Orange County. There’s fabulous shopping, which I did with my client (South Coast Plaza is amazing), the food is crazy good (you must visit Karl Strauss), and of course you are just minutes from Disneyland and Newport Beach. If you ever get a chance to visit this part of California, do yourself a favor and spend time in Costa Mesa and be sure to stay at the Ayres Hotel and Suites.

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Live, laugh, shine,

Carol 😉

Sharing is Caring! ❤

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Dressing Across Generations: Why We See Fashion Differently, Part 1

Happy Monday!

For some time now we have had five distinct generational groups living and working together side-by-side. Each of the generations has their distinct way of interacting, working and communicating with each other, including their thoughts and ideas on what’s fashionable. Strauss & Howe are the leading experts on generational theory and have developed four archetypes to identify the generations within each “generational cycle.” The generations that are currently with us include:

  • Silents/The Conformists 1929-1945
  • Baby Boomers/The Indulged Ones 1946-1964
  • Generation X/The Forgotten Ones 1965-1980
  • Millennials/The Loved Ones 1981-2000
  • iGeneration/Homeland Generation/The Digital Natives 2000-present

In their book (which I would highly recommend and is a fascinating read), The Fourth Turning (1997), Strauss & Howe have found that four archetypes reemerge about every 80-100 years because as a society we tend to create a setting and need for each of the these personas. The archetypes are:

  • Prophet (Idealistic) – They are born after a “crisis” when society is on a high like Baby Boomers born after WWII
  • Nomad (Reactive) – Born in the midst of a conscious revolution or “awakening” like Gen X born in the civil right movement, birth control, Vietnam War, and Watergate
  • Hero (Civic) – Born in a time of “unraveling” of institutional values and an increase in individualism like Millennials born in a time of self-reliance and working from home
  • Artist (Adaptive) – Born in a “crisis” and explosive social changes like the iGeneration born in a recession, post 9/11, technological advances, and the “war on terror”

As each generation ages (from birth to advanced years) into the next phase of life (and a new social role) society’s mood and behavior fundamentally changes, giving rise to a new “turning.” What’s so fascinating about this for me is that it provides an explanation for why “fashion repeats itself.” Strauss & Howe have concluded, from researching the characteristics of the generations dating back to the 1500s, that the generational archetypes repeat themselves every 80-100 years.  As a result, ideals around fashion will not only shift along generational lines, but ultimately repeat themselves in some way, shape or form.

Over the next five Mondays, in this series, I’m going to explore fashion through the ages and the reemergence of various styles. Part one will start with the Silent Generation.

Silents/The Conformist – Artists 1929-1945 (born in the “crisis” of WWII)

This generation grew up in the midst of war and depression, strong patriotism, belief and reliance upon big government, adherence to rules and authority, and valued sacrifice, hard work, dedication, and duty. As a result their fashion attire was practical, basic, traditional, and utilitarian. Men wore suits, women wore dresses and were starting to wear pants, and everyone wore hats. Despite the hardships of WWII, fashion in the 1940s still ruled as women everywhere embraced a classic, chic, sophisticated look. This generation are the current leaders of the advanced style movement. We are again in the age of the “Artist” and are seeing fashion of this age repeat itself.

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The Midi Skirt

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Gingham and the Shoe Bootie

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Stripes and Wide Leg Pants

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High Waist Swimsuit

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Peplum and Shoulder Pads

These photos are from Marie Clare UK. See more of these amazing images from the 1940s on Marie Clare UKs website.

The 1940s were one of my favorite fashion periods in the 20th century. It was both sophisticated and sexy as well as comfortable and stylish. I’ve seen this a lot on the runways this past Fall and Spring, throughout the stores, and on fashion blogs. What do you think? Are you happy to see the trend of the “Artist” return or are you looking forward to what’s coming next (and we’re already seeing it emerge) from the Boomer generation? Stay tuned for Part 2 next Monday.

Live, laugh, shine,

Carol 😉

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Flawless: The Return of the Invisible Woman

I recently attended a blogging conference and during our lunch break several of us were seated at a table sharing the subject matter of our respective blogs. When I shared my blog focused on fashion, specifically for the 50ish curvy fashionista, several women commented that they love watching fashion bloggers for style inspiration, which of course I was happy to hear. But as I went on to explain the purpose and rationale behind my blog, I was simultaneously surprised and encourage by what I heard.

I explained that I blog to give voice and provide an image for the invisible women in fashion (you can read more on why I blog in my 50, Curvy and Fabulous post). I went on to share that it seemed women of a certain age, somewhere between 46 and 58, are not seen as the target audience for fashion designers and retailers. That the 30+ market was well represented and with the advent of advanced style there’s been a re-emergence of interest in the 70-80 year old fashionista. What surprised me was that many woman at the table were practically saying the same words as they were leaving my mouth. What was encouraging was that they were in agreement that the plight of the invisible woman in fashion was a real one. Validation is always a pleasant feeling.

While we were talking, I immediately tried to think of fabulously fashionable fashionistas (say that three times fast) relatively close in age to me and who looked like me. Where were the images of stylish 50ish year old women or particularly women of color, that I, and others, could look to for inspiration?

Finding something fashionable to wear is the number one concern I hear from my clients. Many find it exhausting looking for things to wear that fit their body, age, and sense of style, particularly when their fashion options are body conscious and revealing or matronly and non-descript. As a result, they often abandon the idea of being fashionable in lieu of their careers, businesses, or other pressing issues in their lives. This is unfortunate because there’s nothing more intimate then the clothes we place on our bodies. What we wear communicates our feelings about ourselves, what we want in life, and what we want the world to know about us. Our clothes are fundamentally a reflection and extension of who we are.

Women of a certain age are usually celebrated for being highly functional, intelligent, thought leaders, and world changers; and yes we are, but we can be style icons too. We CAN be both successful and fashionable. We CAN be interested in both ending sex trafficking and Christian Louboutin’s. We CAN send our kids to college or play with our grandchildren and rock Chanel. Michelle Obama is the perfect example of how a 50ish woman can be fashionable in her career and life, and be applauded for both. We need to see more of this; which leads me back to why I’m a fashion blogger…to celebrate and give voice to the invisible woman

I’m an image consultant who practiced labor and employment law for 10 years, was a professor of public health and leadership for another 10 years, developed academic programs, set diversity agendas, published and presented around the world, and won community awards who believes in the power and importance of our clothing selections. Through both my practice and this blog, I’ll continue to share my style and hopefully inspire others to discover and claim their own. So stand up and be counted my menopausal, memory losing, stretched marked, tummy bulging, graying, fabulous sisters! I see you, you are invisible no more, and you’re FLAWLESS!

Live, laugh, shine,

Carol 😉

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Skirt: ASOS | Vest: cc McKenzie & Co. | Top: Lane Bryant | Shoes: Michael Kors

Silpada Designs Jewelry – K&R Collection

Earrings | Necklace | Necklace | Watch | Bracelet | Ring | Ring

 Photographer: Lydene Robertson | Make-up: Beauty by Meghan

Have you felt like an invisible woman? Then share you style with me and others on Instagram | Facebook | Twitter!

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Wardrobe Must Have – The Printed Dress

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Dress: Lane Bryant | Shoes: Nordstrom | Silpada Jewelry: Bracelet, Bracelet, Bracelet, Watch, Ring, Ring, Earrings

Happy Friday!

I’m heading out to a women’s tea/luncheon today and was excited to pull out this fabulous printed shirtdress dress. I usually go for a solid color dress (and you know how I love black) but it was great to be able to change things up a bit with a dress that has a beautiful pattern. This particular dress has a little swing to it, which also makes me feel girly. Patterns look great on sheaths but that silhouette doesn’t complement my pear body shape, so I opted for an A-line dress. I love soft florals, abstract designs, and something like this leopard print on light fabrics like chiffon. The point is to find a printed dress that you love and looks good on you. Why should everyone woman have a printed dress you may ask? Here are my top three reasons:

1. When you wear prints the eye is drawn to the pattern, so if you’re trying to hide or camo any troubled areas or wobbly bits, mission accomplished.

2. They’re a wonderful way to showcase your personality. Pick a print you love in the colors and variations that compliment you. A rule of thumb about pattern is portion and balance. YOU want to wear the dress, you don’t want the dress wearing you!

3. They’re versatile, a change a pace from your usual solid dress, and adds variety to your wardrobe. You can pair a printed dress with a solid cardigan or blazer and wear it to work, or a pair of strappy sandals for a night out.

If you don’t have a printed dress you love, take your time and try on plenty until you find the perfect dress for you. Believe me, you’ll be glad you did!

Have a GREAT weekend!

Live, laugh shine,

Carol 😉

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Fashion Feng Shui: What to Wear in the Year of the Sheep

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Happy New Year! February 19th officially marked the beginning of the Chinese New Year and 2015 is the Year of the Wood Sheep. In Feng Shui the Wood element energy is all about growth, abundance, vitality, prosperity, and healing. In Fashion Feng Shui, in order to align ourselves with this energy, we seek out the colors, shapes, and patterns associated with the wood element and find ways to add them into our wardrobes. The key color associated with wood is green with brown as a supporting color this year, the fabrication is all about natural fibers and materials, simple and minimalistic jewelry and accessories, stripe and floral patterns, and easy to wear outfits are all marks of the wood element.

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This is a great example of how to incorporate wood into your wardrobe. Denim jeans, cotton green sweater, and simple horn necklace. This ensemble is also an example of how to incorporate each of the Five Elemental Archetypes in Fashion Feng Shui. The asymmetrical collar of the sweater and unique nature of the necklace would appeal to the Water Philosopher; the color of the sweater and denim jeans would speak to the Wood Pioneer; pointy toes and the embellishment of the shoes would attract the Fire Pleasure Seeker; the brown coat would be cozy for the Earth Peacekeeper; and the high-end quality of the handbag would be attractive to the Metal Perfectionist.

Following are more examples of how each of the elemental archetypes in Fashion Feng Shui would interpret what to wear in the Year of the Wood Sheep.
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In Fashion Feng Shui the goal is to dress your true essence so you remain authentic with your style. This black, flowy, asymmetrical dress is a signature style of the Water Philosopher. Their creative essence would incorporate wood into their wardrobes with unique accents colors like this gorgeous blue/green.

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In addition to color, you can incorporate the wood element with pattern and the signature wood pattern are stripes. Stripes reflect the vertical nature of trees along with their growth and vitality. The Wood Pioneer would be attracted to the ease and comfort of this jumpsuit and the laid-back casual nature of the accessories.

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The Fire Pleasure Seeker would incorporate wood in a much more dramatic fashion. Turquoise and navy are also wood colors and a fire essence would be attracted to this interpretation of these colors with a body-con dress, pointy toe boots, and dramatic statement jewelry.

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For the Earth Peacekeeper traditional, texture, and square shapes reflect their essence. Browns, from sand to dark brown, are also key colors for the earth essence and the wood sheep this year. The warm rich brown found in marsala, Pantone’s Color of the Year, and brick are great ways to add a little more variety to a earth’s color palette while still being true to their essence.

wood accThe Metal Perfectionist thrives in neutrals and monochromatic shades of white, cream, and grey. To honor this essence, wood elements can be added in elegant, understated, expensive high-end accessories like these sterling silver earrings with green accent, green crocodile clutch, and deep brown pumps.

Which ensemble resonates with you? Comment below and don’t forget to subscribe/follow! Follow me on my other social media channels:

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Jewelry: Silpada Designs & K&R Collection

Live, laugh, shine!

Carol 😉

Red Pants + Stripes = Retro & Classic

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Red Corduroy: Dress Barn (similar here) | Stripped Shirt: Target | Jacket: Torrid | Shoes: Louise et Cie by Vince Camuto (similar here) | Sunglasses: Express

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Jewelry: Silpada Designs

Left: Silver Rush Bracelet, Reverence Ring, Nature’s Majesty Ring 

Right: Blackboard Stretch Bracelet, Guardian Angel BraceletChange of Art Ring

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Jewelry: Silpada Designs (Layered Leaf Necklace | Layered Leaf Earrings

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I’ve always loved this look. There’s something very Parisian and retro (circa 1960s) about red pants and a stripped shirt that has always resonated with me. Even my straight locs with a simply hairband, cat eye sunglasses, and leather lariat necklace all have a very 1960s vibe. It’s just a fun and very classic look.

I know red pants can seem rather intimidating to those of us who are 50+ and curvy but they work in this classic style. The trick is to find a style you love (straight, boot cut, etc.) and the right red for you! Red is a tricky color to wear so look for either a blue-based red or an orange-based red that looks good on you and that you feel comfortable wearing.

You could also wear this ensemble with a cute pair of white sneakers or flats, or even a pair of boots if it’s colder outside. If you didn’t want to wear a blazer, you could add a crewneck sweater, denim jacket, long camel or trench coat, or without outwear entirely.  The choice is yours.

Try it out and share your pictures with me here or on my other social media channels like Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter! And don’t forget to subscribe/follow!

Live, laugh, shine!

Carol 😉

Resort Wear in Punta Cana

It’s resort (or sometimes called cruise/travel) season! The lack of winter apparel in stores, despite the temperatures outside, and the endless variety of bathing suits, sandals, and maxi-dresses makes it official. From now through spring break beaches everywhere will be filled with those lucky enough to get away for a week or two of sunshine.

I just returned from my own week in the sun at the Paradisus Resort in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, all expenses-paid courtesy of Silpada Designs. My resort wear of choice was inspired by Roberto Cavalli’s 2015 resort collection. I loved the colors, patterns, and designs of his collection and thought I’d share my own simplified versions.

If you’re in the market for resort wear keep the following in mind:

a) Look for lightweight fabrics like cotton, silk, chiffon, or linen;

b) Find colorful, playful, or solid designs with lace or mesh;

c) Easy care, casual, unique, fashionable items are best.

Happy shopping!

Live, laugh, shine,

Carol 😉

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Roberto Cavalli, Resort 2015

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Robert Cavalli, Resort 2015

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Dress: City Chic – similar | Necklace: Silpada Designs | Sunglasses: Tory Burch

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Jewelry: Silpada Designs

Left: Ring, Bracelet (similar), Bracelet, Bracelet | Right: Ring, Bracelet, Watch

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Earrings: K&R Collection

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Sandals: Sam Edelman | Toe Ring: Silpada Designs

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Roberto Cavalli, Resort 2015

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Roberto Cavalli, Resort 2015

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Shirt: Eileen Fisher (similar) | Skirt: CAbi (similar, similar) | Tank: Lane Bryant | Sunglass: Express (similar) | Sandals: Havaiana

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Jewelry: Silpada Designs

Necklaces retired – similar, similar | Earrings retired – similar, similar

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Jewelry: Silpada Designs

Left: Ring (similar), Bracelet, Bracelet | Right: Ring, Bracelet, Watch

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50…Curvy…and Fabulous

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I love this shirt by Girl With Curves. I love it because it’s a bold declaration of my pride in my body and my curves. But that’s only a part of me. I’m also proud that I’m 50 years young and still here to love and enjoy life. In fact I should have a shirt that says 50…Curvy…and Fabulous, because that’s exactly the way I feel. It’s also the reason I decided to start blogging.

I’ve reached a weird place in my life where I don’t often see myself represented and/or the representations are unfavorable. Women in their 50s are in a precarious position of not being old enough to be seniors but too old to be considered youthful. We are constantly in search of other faces and role models that represent these “tweener” years in a youthful yet sophisticated manner. When you add curviness to the mix, the representation becomes even smaller and less flattering. The intersection of age and curviness is a relatively invisible segment of the fashion industry and blogging community with only a handful of representatives. The curvy community on a whole is very much present and have become social advocates and activists for #bodypositivity, #bodyconfidence, and the #vbo (visible belly outline). The gorgeous Tess Holiday started #effyourbeautystandards and made history when she signed with a mainstream modeling agency as a size 22. On the age front #advancedstyle has moved 60-70+ year old models and fashionistas back into the limelight through representation in documentaries, Ari Seth Cohen’s photography, and Iris Apfel‘s feature in Kate Spade ads. I’m inspired by the change and encouraged for the younger generation coming of age and even myself as I move into my second life, or third act as it’s sometimes called. However, it’s at the intersection of these two places that I still feel a void.

What makes this particular segment of the population unique? Perimenopause, menopause, hysterectomies, hot flashes, children entering college, aging parents considering retirement communities, pending retirement, hormones, estrogen patches, gravities perpetual tug on every inch of our bodies, unexplained weight gain, forgetfulness, and weaker eye sight just to name a few. And yes, I said just to name a few. For a lot of women at this stage in life all of the above issues take precedent over fashion and style and the clothing selection in stores don’t do much to encourage an effort. I’m loving the blogs by those 40+ and 50+ year old women who are reclaiming their sense of fashion and sharing it with the rest of us. I’m adding my images and voice to the mix by including the curvy perspective. Finding a selection of clothing that represents both my age and size in a sophisticated, edgy, fun, and on trend manner remains frustrating. I hope to remove that frustration and present images that will give my sisters some hope, ideas, and inspiration. As a social psychologist I’m aware of the importance of positive representation and it’s impact on the health and well-being of women. It actually aids in identity formation and the development of a positive self-esteem, which guards against things such as high blood pressure, hypertension, and high blood pressure. It’s my hope to continue the forward motion of positive and empowering advocacy, particularly (and proudly) at the intersection of age and curviness.

Yep, I think I need a t-shirt that says 50…Curvy…and Fabulous!

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Shirt: Girl With Curves | Jeans: Lane Bryant | Sandals: Sam Edelman |

Jewelry: Silpada Designs (necklace, earrings, bracelet, watch, ring, ring)

Makeup: Beauty by Meghan

Live, laugh, shine,

Carol 😉

Linked up with: Shopping My Closet | Takei Inspirations