Polished and Put Together

“Please, consider sharing with us how you care for the things in your wardrobe. Your clothes, shoes, and accessories always look pristine.” “Please talk about achieving a more polished appearance. I’m often underdressed.” “What style changes have you made in your sixties?” Thank you for your questions and comments. They inspire many of my posts.

I’ve adjusted my choices along with my birthdays. I now avoid black blouses for daytime, distressed clothing, marled colors, dark red lips, eyeliner or mascara on the lower lashline, higher than three-inch heels, bare legs, too low necklines and ill-fitting jeans. My iron gets used regularly. I wouldn’t dream of wearing a wrinkled shirt or pants.

I do small loads of laundry and remove the garments before they are completely dry. Then, I reshape them and hang them on my rolling rack to finish drying. If something shrinks, pills, fades, loses shape, or gets stained, I donate it to a charity shop or the local textile recycling drop. Goodwill recycles textiles.

I follow the one skin rule: only one animal print or reptile print embossed item per outfit. My veiny white legs and feet should not be on display in winter, so I wear nude (closest to my skin color) pantyhose with light-colored shoes and black stockings with dark-colored shoes.

I polish my smooth leather shoes, wallets, and bags as needed and always clean and dry items after wearing them on a rainy day. I check the weather before I get dressed so that I don’t wear white pants or suede shoes when it might rain.

I’m careful not to overdo it with jewelry. A small pair of studs with a necklace is enough, never statement earrings and a bold necklace. I try to relate the bag or belt hardware and buttons with my jewelry. Note how the burnished buttons on the jacket blend with the necklace.

When I wear a hat, I never wear a necklace and reduce clutter around the face.

My hair gets trimmed more often these days, and I make an effort to control the frizz. Well-groomed nails and all-over moisturizers are imperative. I massage oil here on my arms, legs, and feet fresh out of the shower and then put on lotion here. Otherwise, I would have embarrassing dry, flaky skin all winter.

I wear much less makeup now, but I am devoted to my skin and hair care. I have been using Beautycounter (here) for the past few years, and I am delighted with the results.

---

This week I’m sharing some tips on adding more color to our basic neutrals. A bright blouse, camisole, or tank can light up your face. Unfortunately, the blue tank is more than four years old. I go up to a size large in knit tanks to avoid pulling across the bust.