100 Tips and Tricks for Women over Forty, (or Fifty, or Sixty, or Seventy, or Beyond) to Feel and Look Absolutely Fabulous

This post is in honor of all the wonderful women who have given me a great example of how to move into middle age with respect, dignity, and grace.

While our culture may send the message that life for women, stops at twenty five, we all know that life gets better as we get older. I mean who would want to go back?

This post is not about being what others want you to be or trying to fight off the aging process, nor is it about succumbing to ill health and giving up.

It is about being your best self, feeling good about who you are, and going through our life transitions with grace!

So for all those women over forty, fifty, sixty, seventy or more, here you go....

100 tips and tricks to help you feel wonderful, look beautiful, and live vibrantly at any age:

1. Smile! Smile a lot! Nothing is more attractive than a genuine heartfelt smile!

2. Get a lot of anti-oxidants into your body. The more you get these amazing nutrients into your body, the more they can get rid of any unwanted poisons!

3. Don't wear short skirts – just above or just below the knee is about right. This length is the most flattering for most women.

4. Earrings can add a nice touch to your look. A simple classy pair of earrings can jazz up the most casual outfit.

5. The darker the lipstick, the deeper the wrinkles appear. Too shiny is going to run off your lips; too matt is going to look like chalk. Go for a softer natural glossy look.

6. Keep your hair shiny. A wash in glaze, a conditioning serum, or a spray gloss makes your hair reflect the light and adds a little spark to your look!

7. Dark pants are more flattering for nearly everyone. Yes, this is true. Just look around! Unless you want to really show off your lower half, stay away from large, bold, and bright prints and designs.

8. Unless you are twenty pounds UNDER weight, straight legs are a no. They may be in style but this doesn’t mean they look good.

9. Move your body. We can’t all run a marathon, spend three hours a day in the gym, or have a personal trainer. But we can all move. Do whatever you can do. Step it up. Go outside your comfort zone and push yourself a bit. You will feel better!

10. Get enough sleep! There is no better beauty tip. We all know how we look when we have to function on less than adequate sleep. Eight hours is about right!

11. Eat some nuts every day. They are full of all sorts of great nutrients! Yes, they have fat but the good kind! Try a handful of walnuts or almonds when you need a snack!

12. Eat fresh and whole foods. Organic and local produce is the best when possible! Try natural farm eggs, or range fed meats. Move from canned or frozen to fresh. Skip all the processed, additives, fake garbage, and fast food and eat actual foods that have energy from the sun!

13. Drink at least eight glasses of water a day. I know we all know this, still it is one of the most important keys for feeling well and lively.

14. Take some really seriously deep breaths every day. Conscious breathing, filling your lungs and exhaling slowly is a renewing habit to get into! Each morning before you brush your teeth, or on your way home from work, schedule in a few deep breaths.

15. Exfoliating your skin is a must! Get that old tired dead skin off your form and allow the fresh vibrant skin to shine! There are great products on the market and expensive doesn’t always mean better. Some over the counter products you find in the drugstore are just as effective as the high end and pricey alternatives.

16. Stretch your form. Yoga, Pilate's, or the stretches you learned in high school gym class are good options. Your body needs to keep those ligaments flexible and in good condition.

17. Teeth whiteners are quick and easy! A five day over the counter treatment is an easy way to remove decades of tea and coffee stains!

18. Dark or vibrant nail polish makes finger and hands look aged. Stick with a nice neutral or have a French manicure.

19. Perfumes and body sprays are a nice way to add a touch of care and pleasantness to our day. What is your favorite scent? While some perfumes are glamorous and expensive, you can find nice alternatives or natural scents for much less.

20. Exercise your eyes. At least once a day, take a minute to look in every direction, roll your eyes around; during the day look close then into the distance several times. Keep those eyes in good shape.

21. Elastic waistbands are seriously out! They may be comfortable or easy to wear but they can't help but make you feel and look really, really, frumpy. Today you can find nice comfortable clothing without the need for stretchy waists.

22. Suntan pantyhose, popular in the eighties (or was that the seventies) are out of style. If you feel a need to wear hose with dresses, try dark tights, fish nets, or a fashionable opaque.

23. The length of a sweater, jacket or blouse should not be the same length of the sleeve. If they are you look like a box.

24. If you are a large woman, don't wear little tiny prints, if you are very petite, stay away from huge prints.

25. Lighter colors are seen first. In other words, wherever you wear the lightest color will appear the largest and stand out the most. A general rule: wear the lightest colors on the areas you want to draw attention to, the darkest colors on the areas you want least attention.

26. Wear clothes that fit you well. If something doesn't quite fit, don't buy it or have it tailored. You may be surprised how inexpensive it is to have a skirt hemmed or a blouse taken in.

27. Eliminate those foods you know do not agree with you. Your body is trying to tell you it does not want that particular food. If pizza always gives you heartburn, don't eat it.

28. A great haircut can do wonders for your mood and for your sense of style. It may be a good idea to have fewer haircuts but pay a little more for a really fabulous look.

29. Wear sunscreen! The basic rule should be, keep your skin covered with sunscreen if you are leaving the house. We all know how the sun creates wrinkles and brown spots on our skin. No need to encourage this.

30. Engage in those activities that brighten your life. We can get busy, or we can get lazy... either way we may forget to do what we love. Think of all those activities throughout your life that you enjoyed and re-engage!

31. Focus on your assets. Many women don't exactly love their bodies but we can usually find one or two or even three things we like right? Maybe it is your full lips, or soft hands, or long neck. Whatever you can find put all your attention there. Highlight it. Think about it. Remember it. Draw attention to it. The more you are focusing on the great things about yourself the less you will worry about the less than wonderful!

32. Get rid of all the make-up, hair supplies, and extra stuff you have around that take up space and create clutter in your dressing area. Go through your lip stick and throw out all those outdated colors that you never wear. Dump old bottles of whatever that you don't use. Do a major overhaul and only keep what you love and need!

33. Gray hair can look fabulous! If you don't color your hair, make sure to keep it healthy with a stylish cut. If you do color your hair, most women look good with a color similar to their natural color. Too dark or too light can look odd, fake, and even draining.

34. Sparkles, designs, and other attention grabbing designs on your butt do not help you look young. Truly they don't! They make you look, well, never mind. Stick with sleek and chic not trendy and cheap.

35. Capris are really unflattering. They are about the worst fashion design anyone has come up with. Long walking shorts are a good alternative.

36. Fresh fruits and vegetables are important for anyone who wants to be healthy and vibrant. A nice large salad or a minimum of five servings a day will help you feel great!

37. See your health care professional. Make sure you get a nice check up every year. I know it is not the most enjoyable way to spend your time but it is important, possibly life saving!

38. Meditate every day. We hear this all the time and it is true. Taking time each day to slow down, reconnect with yourself, and spend some time in silence is a must for anyone wanting to live a full life.

39. Dressing like a hooker doesn't look youthful, it looks silly and tawdry (even on younger women). Of course older women can look fabulous, sexy, and downright hot but it doesn't happen by showing off everything. It happens by creating a sense of allure and interest.

40. Get your mammogram. I know, I know. It isn't fun. Do it anyway!

41. Yes, less is more… definitely. The more you cake on the foundation the more it settles into wrinkles. The ten coats of mascara don't make your eyelashes look long it makes them look heavy and plastic. The ultra bright red hair color doesn't look wild and sexy, it looks like paint. Bright orange or red streaks on your cheeks look more clown-like than glamorous. Less is more... make it a mantra!

42. A little highlighter under the arch of the eyebrow and at the inner corners of the eye is a great tip for brightening and opening the eye.

43. Take your vitamins. Go for the best, most natural and healthful you can afford or find.

44. Unless you are playing volley-ball or a running track, short shorts are a seriously bad idea for pretty much everyone over twelve. If you are over forty, even in great shape they just make you look desperate. You want to look appropriate and chic not like a teenager.

45. Long straight hair parted down the middle went out with Marsha Brady! If you love long hair, make sure it is cut and styled well and in nice condition! Short hair if cut well can look very hip and youthful, but if it is cut in an old and matronly style it will create a very tired and old fashioned look!

46. Only purchase clothes you love. If you have to convince yourself that it is a good purchase leave it on the rack. Too often we have closets full of clothes with nothing to wear. If you want to feel great, wear clothes that help you feel and look your best.

47. Eat a few slices of avocado every day. They are so packed with essential nutrients that they should have their own food group!

48. Enjoy your loved ones. There is nothing like being around those who love to brighten your life and make you feel alive! Demonstrate your love to your partner and family, play with grandchildren or pets, reach out to your friends. It is what life is all about!

49. Have great posture. Stand up with your shoulders back, tummy in, bottom tight. Sit up straight. Practice what it feels like to keep your body in alignment. This alone can help you feel and look better almost instantly!

50. Take care of your medical needs. Have you been putting of a procedure you know you need? Do you have symptoms that need addressing? Don't put off taking care of what might get worse and become more problematic in the future.

51. Wear colors that you know look great on you. You will feel better just by wearing them. If you have blue eyes why not find a great vibrant blue? Or if you know you look good in dark red, why not purchase your next sweater in cranberry? Older women are not stuck with black. In fact in some instances black can be a little harsh. Notice what tones you love, what colors help you feel fabulous!

52. Create a mission statement! Remind yourself why you are on the earth, what you are here to do, and what you want to accomplish while upon the earth!

53. Have a massage. This is a fabulous way to give yourself care. While a massage may seem pricey, most of us can save five dollars or so a month to have a massage once a year. In fact give up a latte, energy drink, or candy bar once a week and see how quickly you could save up for a real treat!

54. Eat your fiber. Most people get only about eight grams of fiber a day when we should be eating about 25 grams or more! You will be surprised at how wonderful you feel when your body is getting the right amount of this vital substance. (Make sure you are drinking your eight glasses of water)!

55. Three quarter length sleeves are attractive on most every woman. It is a most flattering look for nearly all older women. A slight A-line skirt is a nice flattering style for most women.

56. Visit the dentist. If you can't make it the recommended every six months, at least go in once a year to make sure your teeth, gums, and mouth are in good shape.

57. Don't buy clothes just because they are on sale. They may be inexpensive but if they are going to hang in your closet, take up space, or look terrible on you, don't waste your money!

58. Share your wisdom. The longer we live the more experience we have to help others. I’m think the world can use all the help and wisdom we can get from our elders.

59. The length of hair is less important than the style. While many women feel they look better with an updated style, it is important that you find a style that you love and that works for your lifestyle. Bangs add a youthful and flattering look for most women regardless of age.

60. If you are bottom heavy, look for styles that emphasis the shoulder. Boat neck tops, a puffy shoulder or even a small shoulder pad in the garment can help create the illusion of better proportions.

61. If you are top heavy, look for styles that emphasis the hip. Again, working toward creating balance, extra pockets, gathers and material in the lower area help.

61. Improve your food choices. Have you considered going vegetarian? Have you tired eating more raw foods? Eliminating dairy? Giving up fast food? Maybe go organic? We can all improve our eating habits and there is no time like the present to start! You don't need to eat perfectly every day for the rest of your life but you can pick one way to improve right this very minute!

62. Go for quality not quantity. Better to have two really fabulous sweaters than a closet full of not so nice, frumpy, and matronly ones. And great quality doesn't always mean super expensive. But cheap is cheap and you don't want your clothes falling apart after one wash!

63. Wear the right bra! You won't believe how important this is. Don't go for the frilly, flimsy, faddish, or fancy. Go for the FIT! Find a bra that truly fits you, keeps you in good form, and supports your body properly! You won't be sorry for this investment! I promise!

64. Turtlenecks and hip scarves are a great option for women who feel they need a little camouflage for their necks. V necks look good on most everyone. They elongate the neck line and help to bring attention to the face. Stay away from the plunging revealing necklines (in public) unless you add a little cami underneath.

65. Show your confidence. One of the best things about older women is their sense of self confidence. Ask anyone... confidence is sexy!

66. Pointy shoes are flattering but too pointy can look ridiculous. If you can't wear them and walk normally, they are not the right shoes for you. A small one inch kitten heal is a nice option for women who want the look of a high heel but the comfort of a walking shoe.

67. Eliminate a bad habit. We all have them, but some may impact us more than others. Why not quit smoking? Stop using alcohol? Eliminate a TV addiction? Might it be good to reduce the online purchases? Reduce the ice cream consumption? Get help with a gambling problem?

68. Keep your mind engaged. Every day make sure you are learning something new. Play board games, do Sudoku or crossword puzzles. Play computer games. Just don't let your brain muscle atrophy!

69. Lightweight fabrics show every little bulge, roll, ripple, and dimple. Heavier weighted material can help hide a million little flaws. When in doubt, check it out before leaving the house.

70. Think classic not faddish. Purchase clothes that will last a while rather than those items of clothing that will be out of style next season!

71. Start your day on a positive note. Listen to great music as you get ready for the day. Play a motivational CD on your way to work. Do the sunrise salutation upon awakening. We know that how we start the morning often creates a tone for the day, so do whatever works for you!

72. Do what you can. As we get older we have a tendency to not do what takes effort. But keeping up with what we can will keep us healthy. Lift, stretch, and reach.

73. Most women look best in sweaters, blouses, and jackets when the length is between the waist and the crotch.

74. Guess what, wearing clothing that is too small does not make you look smaller. It does the opposite. Guess what else? Holding onto clothing a few sizes too small and wearing ridiculous stuff until you lose those extra pounds, is not helping you lose weight. It is only compounding the problem. Better to pack away the clothes that do not fit, purchase a few items that help you feel fantastic, and if you lose the weight you can open the box of smaller clothes. If you don't loose weight, you can donate the clothes to those who could really use them.

75. Wide leg, trouser style pants look best on most women. Long pants look best and give you the longest line when they cover the shoe but don't hit the floor.

76. Read up on Menopause. Whether you are in peri-menopause, going through the change or are post menopausal, you probably noticed some new physical and emotional challenges. While many women struggle through these years, there are a lot of options to help with all the various symptoms of the change of life. Don’t underestimate how this change may affect you!

77. Ultra frosty eye shadow, florescent lips, and sparkly cheeks are just plain unattractive on anyone older than seventeen. Best leave the sparkles for Tinkerbell and fairy princesses.

78. Vertical seeming, stripes, and details elongate the torso and are flattering on most women. The reverse is also true; horizontal stripes and patterns widen the body and are usually less flattering.

79. Dirty shoes, ripped clothes, and unwashed anything don't exactly look chic, classy, or attractive. If a garment is stained, torn, or looking shabby, clean it, mend it, or toss it.

80. Get rid of clothing that makes you feel and look old. Worn out dresses, stretched out sweaters, faded pants are just not going to help you feel vibrant and youthful. Even just seeing this tired garments hanging in the closet makes us feel old. Throw them out!

81. Release unhealthy relationships. If you have friends that are harming your mental, emotional, or physical health, now is a good time to let them go. We all want to be loyal friends but when our lives are in jeopardy, it is time to move on.

82. Show your style. Too many fashion designers want women to look like they think they should rather than let women express who they are through their clothing. If you love something and feel great in it, and know you look wonderful don't let a fashion dictator tell you otherwise!

83. Stop watching depressing shows on television. Just eliminating this one little life diversion is sure to get you moving in another direction and feeling better about our world.

84. Accessorize with flair. If you have classic clothing, you can add trends to your accessories. Or if you prefer clothing in neutrals, why not add some color with fun bracelets or necklaces? If your style is a little too romantic or funky for a total look, use your accessories to add a little extra flourish!

85. Try shape wear. Of course today we have all sorts of underwear options that can smooth and shape the body. While many brands certainly work well, they also may be rather uncomfortable and restrictive. See what works for you.

86. Travel. I'm not suggesting you must travel the world, or even spend lots of time traipsing around your country. But get out and see what is around you. Visit the sights. Take advantage of what is around you. I'm willing to bet there are places in your area that you have not visited. Remember how important it is to say moving, learning, and engaged.

87. Floss your teeth. In the hecticness of life, flossing is not usually at the top of the list of things we must do. However, our teeth don't last forever so we need to do what we can to keep our teeth and gums healthy for as long as possible! One minute a day.. that is all it takes!

88. Moisturize your body. As we age our skin changes; it gets thinner and dryer. To help your skin remain healthy, moisturize it. Use whatever works for you but get into the habit of using a wonderful moisturizer twice a day!

89. Show your collar bones. Most women, have a nice shoulder and collar bone area. Clothing that highlights this part of the body is often quite flattering and draws attention upward to the face.

90. Get involved in life. Join a neighborhood club. Visit local historical sights. Become a docent. Find a way to keep up your interests and activities!

91. No ugly shoes allowed. Today you can find great styles of shoes that are totally comfortable. I can't think of a better indicator that a woman has given up on herself than when she starts wearing seriously ugly shoes because they are "comfortable"! Comfortable does not equate to ugly! A pair or two of fabulous shoes is better than a closet full of unattractive shoes that give you blisters.

92. Love your loved ones. We know that being with loved ones helps us emotionally, mentally, and even physically. Demonstrate love to your family, play with your pets, and do what you can to keep those relationships alive and thriving!

93. Dance. Moving your body, learning new steps, and getting your blood flowing is a wonderful way to keep young and vibrant. Look for classes in your community, purchase a used CD, or just find a time when you are alone and take a few minutes to dance when no one is looking! You will feel great!

94. Most women are flattered by styles that accent the smallest part of their torso which is usually right under the breasts. Jackets that close at the midriff, shirts that have empire seeming, or dresses that flow from this area are almost universally attractive.

95. Serve others. There is no better way to feel great about yourself than giving to those who need a little extra support and care.

96. Be at a healthy weight. While we don’t need to worry about looking like a twenty year old, we do know that dozens of health problems are associated with an unhealthy weight.

97. Eat your berries! Everyday, make sure you are eating blackberries, raspberries, blueberries, pomegranate or some other dark berry. Your body and mind will not thank you enough!

98. Worrying too much about wearing the latest trend makes no sense. As women get older they tend to not want to spend enormous amounts of time shopping. So, shop carefully and purchase items for the long term.

99. Grow older gracefully. This doesn't mean you give up on yourself, ignore grooming, and fade into the dark. It means that you mature with grace. You make life transitions with dignity. You respect who you are. You live in each phase of life in the best way you can.

100. Be yourself. As the saying goes, "better to be a first class you than a second rate someone else"! VERY TRUE!


With gratitude to all the fabulous women who are beautiful examples of what it means to mature with grace,

Jennifer

p.s. I have some pretty amazing women readers so if you have something to add please feel free to share your secrets, tips, and wisdom!


Artwork by one of my favorite artists, Mary Cassatt