We’ve all seen them before… those magazine articles with “expert advice” on how to dress in your 20s, 30s, 40s and beyond. It’s rare to see them go beyond the 50s though, as if women needn’t bother past a certain age. What nonsense!

For an alternative viewpoint, just take a look at our latest video. In it, Margaret Manning speaks with Dorrie Jacobson, a model, make-up artist, style expert, and former Playboy bunny who, by the way, also happens to be 83 years old.

On her website, Senior Style Bible, she showcases her unique perspective and fashion sense and will help you view aging with style in a way you may have never thought possible.

Rules? What Rules?

Where to start? Dorrie says the first thing you need to do is banish the idea of “age-appropriateness” in fashion.

That doesn’t mean you should break out the mini-skirts, but she does want you to stop shopping in stores that cater exclusively to the mature woman. Instead, opt for more trendy retailers like Zara and H&M.

But That’s Where My Granddaughter Shops!

That’s right! However, that doesn’t mean you’ll necessarily wear the same clothes as a girl in her 20s. You will, however, want to take the time to try on a variety of styles and patterns to get an idea of what works best for you.

And remember, a few alterations can make the difference between what doesn’t quite work into something you’ll love, so go ahead and modify. A good tailor could be your new best friend!

It’s Not Just How You Look. It’s How You Feel!

Something happens to a woman, both inside and out, when she wears clothing that she loves. When you feel beautiful, sexy, and confident you ARE beautiful, sexy, and confident!

So think of yourself as ageless, wear what makes you feel good and don’t be afraid to go out of your comfort zone. Try on something with a dramatic print instead of a solid color sheath dress and see how you feel.

There Are Trends – and Then There Are Trends

Will all those trendy styles you see in the magazines and online work for you? Probably not, but many will so don’t be afraid to try. Some you may embrace, while you’ll shy away from others.

The hot trend of wearing clunky sneakers with dresses may not be for you (or anyone, for that matter!), but those animal prints currently seen on the runways might be.

It’s Time to Clean Out the Closet!

Dorrie believes you should feel great in every article of clothing you own. So go through your closet and dresser drawers.

Get rid of those clothes you’ve been holding on to that you don’t particularly like anymore. Anything that doesn’t make you feel good, or powerful, or sexy, or confident needs to go.

You Project What You Feel

We all know how important first impressions can be. When you walk into a room or meet someone new, what you’re wearing and how you carry yourself is the first thing people notice, before you even say a word. That’s true if you’re 25 or if you’re 85.

So, be bold, be brave and try something new. If your fashion choices make you feel self-assured, happy and alluring you’ll project those feelings onto others.

In this way, what your wear on the outside really does change what you feel inside, enabling others to see the confident, beautiful mature woman that you are.

How would you describe your style in a few words? Will you get rid of anything in your wardrobe that no longer makes you smile? Will you eschew the idea of “age-appropriateness” in fashion and take some risks? Let’s have a chat!