THIS IS 40: Sylvia of 40+ Style

THIS IS 40. Here's some time tested proof that life is not over at forty. The forties come in a variety of colors, shapes and sizes. Find the one that's right for you.  This is the third in the series presenting the incredible range of style loving women over forty.  

This one comes with a cute Dutch accent, and very practical advice about style in your forties.  Meet Sylvia, maven  of 40+ style for the +40 crowd. 

 
You've been sharing your own style journey with your readers for a few years now, as well as starting much dialogue about +40 style.  What have you discovered is the biggest concern for women over 40 in regards to their own personal style? 

I think one of the main concerns for many women over 40 is to dress for their changing body. They may have gained weight and feel that nothing looks good anymore and they may give up on dressing nicely. Once they discover that they need different clothes and that they can still look amazing, it makes a huge difference.

Has blogging affected your own personal style? 

 

Perhaps I'm making even more of an effort, although I have always had a desire to dress up nicely. I'm also thinking more of why I and how I combine things, so I can explain it better to my readers. That in itself gives me new ideas as well.

"Choose only those clothes that either flatter you or make you happy."

How are you different in terms of dress, than you were in your 20's, and 30's? 

 

I use more color now and wear heels. I think I have become even more adventurous with clothes now and know better what I like and what my style is. I also care less about what others think and dress to please myself. 

What would you say is difference in the way a woman dresses once she's in her forties?

 

I think you should stick to your own style as much as possible when you hit 40 and beyond. You don't want to lose your personality. I believe in creating a great silhouette and dressing to your body's strengths. I think that becomes even more important after 40. I also think she should use more color close to her face, as our skin tone tends to become a bit duller and paler.

 

What are 3 key pieces in a wardrobe that every woman should have? 

The perfect pair of flattering trousers

A perfect dress.

Some hip and modern shoes. 

 

What advice would you give your 30 year old self in regards to dressing? 

Have a bit more fun with it, be yourself and use more color. 

 

 

 

What advice would you give to other women +40 and beyond in regards to dressing? 

Try something new and experiment with colour and silhouette. Choose only those clothes that either flatter you or make you happy. Use the power of accessories and shoes to really add a modern vibe or color to your outfit. Most of all have fun! 

 

Share 3 Spring trends you plan to wear this coming season

Black and white graphical trend with a color added, something arty, something Asian inspired (preferably Japanese) 

 

What are 2 fashion resources you can't live without?

The many blogs I follow and street-style inspiration. 

 

Do you have any favorite blogs that you read almost daily?  

 

I read so many through my Reeder app and I like them all, but a few favorite fashion blogs include No Fear of Fashion, The Style Confessions, the Style Crone and yours of course Bella.

How do you feel about dressing in a way that is "age appropriate" ?

I think that the most important thing is that you dress 'you' appropriate. Age appropriate is different for every woman. It's important to stay true to yourself as much as possible. For myself, I now feel better when my skirts are a bit longer and my clothes are a bit dressier. But I always add a 'young and hip' element to my outfit as well, either with accessories, shoes or a special detail in my clothes. It's about creating a pleasant picture that highlights all your strengths.

What would you say the main message of 40+ Style is?

The main message of my site is to have fun with dressing and style. I believe in the saying that if you look good, you often feel good as well.

 

If you know a stylish +40 woman who should be featured, please share her (or him) with us! Send your submission to: this40@thecitizenrosebud.com