I recently bought wide-leg trouser jeans in both black and blue. They are super comfortable, and the style is a bit more elevated than regular five-pocket jeans. I’m wearing the Stargaze Wash here in the featured photos for today.
I wore this look to run errands including going to the grocery store. The skies are cloudy, but the temperatures are in the seventies today.
A similar watch is here. A similar ring is here. The linen blend vest is here. The white shirt is here. The handbag is here. My belt is several years old, so a similar one is here.
The loafers are here. The jeans in blue are here.
My favorite serum from Beautycounter here can be used with any skincare routine. It helps my skin to look more radiant, and my dark spots seem to be fading rather than getting darker.
Sheec no-show socks are perfect with pumps, loafers, sneakers, or booties! The company offers a sock-style appropriate for almost any shoe style. I’m wearing the ACTIVE-X high-cut in white below. Here is the link to get 15% off sitewide. The coupon code is: SUSANFW21 – It cannot be combined with other coupon codes. Code expires on 1/31/2022.
One of my all-time favorite bracelets was reworked a bit since some of the elements are no longer available. You can find the new style as pictured below here. (Use the code SAS10 for $10 off any one item at Beauty in Stone Jewelry.)
Hi Susan, thank you for your inspiration on establishing a retirement wardrobe. It has made me stop and think before buying unnecessary items. You always look put together and elegant. I enjoyed the book “Where the Crawdads Sing” by Delia Owens recently. My husband and I were able to enjoy a trip Asheville in June. We had a great time exploring the city and restaurants. The Blue Ridge Parkway was by far the best scenery! We even got to see a mama bear and her cub. Happy New Year to you and Mr. Mickey!
Happy New Year, Susan! I’ve been learning how to dress my body shape in the most flattering way. I’ve also gotten more picky about what clothing I order and what I actually keep. I’ve also been ridding my closet of things that just don’t feel right. I’m definitely a work in progress, and your blog posts are helping me to dress my retirement best! Happy New Year and best wishes for a happy and healthy 2022.
Love all that you share with us. Your style and grace are classic. I love seeing your ideas, makes me want to be better. And I love the bracelet too! Thank you for being you!
A good book I have recently read is Oh, William by Elizabeth Strout.
I’m planning to visit the Baltimore Estate in May. Hope to se Mr. Mickey and you roaming the grounds.
I look forward to your posts each week. Thank you for all your advice and wardrobe suggestions. One of my favorite excursions has been Waco, Texas, then on to Hill Country to see the Texas Bluebonnets. Beautiful!
Love your classic style!
Susan, A book that I read recently and enjoyed is The Lincoln Highway by Amor Towles who is also the author of Rules of Civility and A Gentleman in Moscow.
Thank you for all the wonderful lessons that you have provided us with over the years.
I am knee deep in Stephen Kings book Under the Dome. I am a fan of Mr. King but must say this is my favorite book so far! It is such an adjustment t after skinny jeans to see wide leg trousers and I do have to be careful as I am petite. However, here we go 2022 and I’m in for a try.
Went to Cookeville, Tennessee to visit my 90 year old mother. She is the greatest blessing in my life (besides my sweet husband), and I am so grateful to still have her. We always have the best time together. Hope you and. Mr. Mickey had a wonderful Christmas.
Hello Susan,
Wow what can I say! Those quick wardrobe changes
On the same basic outfit has made me rethink my
Whole way of shopping! I am one of those people that buy the same types of pieces but now I finally realize
How a jacket, vest or sweater and shoes, handbags and accessories ( or not )can totally change an outfit.
I love the long tank dress that you featured also and do
Have something similar that I wore with a rancher hat and sunglasses and sandals. It looked elegant. Thank
You for the inspiration!
Bonne fête de fin d’année à vous et à Mr Mickey ; que 2022 vous maintiennent tous les deux en bonne santé et heureux.
Votre blog que je fréquente depuis longtemps m’aide beaucoup à améliorer ma garde robe suite à une perte de poids. Dans les années 70, je portais des jeans droits (on ne trouvait pas d’autres formes de jeans) et plus tard j’ai aimé les jeans slim (plus fuselés), mais en vieillissant, je me sens mal à l’aise dans un jean serré à tel point que je ne porte plus du tout de jeans. Je vais essayer le modèle de jean que vous portez aujourd’hui, plus droit. Habitant en France, je vais chercher un modèle similaire sur les sites de ventes européens.
Continuez à nous faire rêver et à améliorer notre garde robe avec vos conseils avisés.
Evelyne
I love your classic style. You prove over and over that comfortable and casual need not be sloppy or frumpy. Thank you. Happy New Year .
I love your classic styles that combine comfort and elegance. I just finished reading The Lincoln Highway. Amor Towles never disappoints. Happy New Year
Our favorite August escape from Florida is Door County, WI. It’s low key, rural with great food and golf. Love, love this place!
I have learned to build my wardrobe with neutrals so that I can mix & match clothes and have many more outfits. Also purses, shoes & jewelry can change the look of an outfit from casual to dressy.
The Book of Two Ways by Jodi Picoult is about Dawn, a death doula, who helps people make the final transition. Then the plane she is on crashes, she survives, but finds herself questioning the choice she made 15 years ago to leave the career & the man she loved behind.
Susan, Happy New Year! Thank you for all of the helpful style and diet tips you’ve shared over the years. What an inspiration you are! The new bracelets are as lovely as before. I am currently reading “The Buddha in the Attic”, a poignant book set in the California of many years ago.
Love seeing your postings. So nice that you have suggestions for what to wear and interesting places to visit !
One of my favorite vacations was to Newport, Rhode Island and I thought Bryce Canyon was beautiful. Jane Harper is one of my favorite authors and her newest book is The Survivors. She is an Australian author who writes murder mysteries ( not graphic). Have a very happy new year.
My favorite place to visit is Sanibel Island FL. The temperatures in winter are typically around 70s. The Island has great walking paths which also used for bikes. The restaurants are great too. Not to mention is the number One place for shelling !
As always, you are a classic. Loved your wonderful red Christmas looks with your own Santa!
Best tip: ask seniors for advice. I am 62 and love talking with my elders! I know multiple centenarians and their views on things are priceless.
Recent book reads:
“The Very Secret Sex Lives of Medieval Women: An Inside Look at Women & Sex in Medieval Times”
“Erebus” by Michael Palin
“Digging Up Britain: Ten Discoveries, a Million Years of History”
“My Life As A Whore, The Biography of Madam Laura Evens”
“Mudlarking: Lost and Found on the River Thames”
“Meditations” by Marcus Aurelius
Yes, I have a wide variety of interests!
In our senior living communities, I offer historical fashion presentations, dressed in period-correct clothing (all of which I have sewn), on various subjects (Deadly Victorian Fashions; 19th Century Health; Medieval Women’s World; Corsets & Crinolines and more). They are great fun and my seniors are a fabulous, interactive audience!
Favorite place(s) to visit: England, France and off-season in both the Bahamas & Yellowstone.
The first two for their endless visual history & geography.
The Bahamas for a particular, quiet island with few visitors, miles of pristine beaches & warm water, the ultimate relaxation.
Yellowstone for incredible diversity of scenery, backcountry encounters with grizzlies & wolves and the inspiring, constant reminder that humans aren’t everything!
Gee, aren’t you glad you asked!
I’m re-reading In the Garden of Beasts by Erik Larsen. I enjoy this author and highly recommend this work of non-fiction.
I love spending time with my sisters in our favourite vacation spot in St Pete Beach Florida. We get along so well now we don’t want to waste the precious time we have left. Family is so special ❤️
One of my favorite places to visit is Sedona, AZ. The hikes are peaceful and beautiful. I recommend any of the restaurants but my favorite is Wildflower Bread Co. The balcony has a perfect view of Snoopy Rock. The rock formation looks like Snoopy sleeping on his doghouse. Love taking a drive just to see the scenery!
I love all the style tips you share! I definitely think about my clothing purchases different now. I travel with my husband for his business. We have been all over the US. We love poking around antique stores. I collect books, Phyllis Whitney, Catherine Cookson, and Mary Stewart are a few, also polish pottery and pink depression glass. We stop at parks to walk the dogs. I just enjoy finding the unexpected in our travels. I love the bracelet!
I enjoy your blog and look forward your posts in the new year!
Enjoy your blog. You always look so nicely put together. I try but I still tend to be drawn to whatever looks pretty and not what goes with my wardrobe . I just finished “These Tangled Vines” by Julianne MacLean.
Hi Susan, I recently finished reading an entertaining series by Ann B. Ross featuring Miss Julia Springer Murdock. Miss Julia is a “woman of a certain age” who lives in a fictional town near Asheville, N. C. The first novel is “Miss Julia Speaks Her Mind.”
Had fun visiting Carolina Beach.. My stepson just bought a house there, a two minute walk to the beach!!
Thank you for being a bright light in this dark world
My goodness, Leslie, I’d love to sit in on your historical fashion presentations! I’m a huge fan of reading historical fiction. Latest read is Flight of the Sparrow: A Novel of Early America by Amy Belding Brown.
Though I’m a Great Lakes Girl, I’ve lived in the state of Washington and the PNW will always hold a special place in my heart. I love ABQ, NM for the balloon fiesta and it was a thrill of a lifetime on a balloon flight. Myrtle Beach is fun when the beach calls. I love Savannah and Charleston but a new favorite I’ve discovered is the Outer Banks of NC.
Must say I missed your blog after a week, and it was good to see you today! I hope Christmas was a joyful time spent with family. Wishing you happy times and good health in 2022!
Your posts never disappoint. A thank you to all who shared interesting books and locations.
The Lincoln Highway:ANovel
I so enjoy your writing. I am retired and need to choose clothing that will work on more than one level – and I am learning to choose quality over quantity. I am petite and round and have found several good tips but the best is to choose my color palette and not even waste my time looking at clothes that won’t fit into that palette.
Happy New Year Y’all!
My husband and I recently took a road trip cross country and one of my favorite stops was the Cafe DuMonde in New Orleans for cafe au lait and beignets. We sat outside on the covered patio and listened to a jazz band and watched the street performers. It was fun and delicious and a treasured memory.
I hope you will have the pleasure of a visit there sometime in the new year.
I lived near New Orleans a few years ago, so I have enjoyed many mornings at Cafe DuMonde. There are so many fun things to see and do in New Orleans. I hope to return someday.
So many of your tips are helpful in choosing clothing proper and attractive for body shape, weight, height, and coloring that best suits the skin tone. I found the most helpful tip was about length in cardigans, blouses, jackets. Since I’m 5′ 1″ I have to be careful about choosing these items of clothing. I never knew how the length could shorten my legs or flatter my short status. I enjoy reading your blogs. I have gained a smarter outlook on how to take care of myself.
I like the new style bracelet. You’ve given me so many helpful tips that it’s difficult to choose one! I think that your introduction to the Countertime regimen has made the biggest impact in my skin care. Hope that you and Mr. Mickey have a wonderful New Year!
I never was a bracelet gal until I started following you 5 years ago. Accessories add spice to a minimalist wardrobe. Happy new year!
Hi Susan, I enjoy your blog for the practical advice on so many topics. A tip I find helpful is to have a list inside my pantry door categorized by store (Kroger, Trader Joe’s, Target, Lowe’s etc.). When I run out of an item I write it under the store name so that the next time I’m going to that store I know to pick up quart sized baggies, for example, at Target. It saves a lot of return trips to stores for items I forgot I needed.
A book that helped me through some dark days this past year is “Keep Moving” by Maggie Smith. I highly recommend it. If you are facing a life change be it job loss, divorce, health concern, etc… you will find comfort and strength from this book.
I always look forward to each post. I learn a lot from your common sense approach in choosing clothing and making wise choices for a healthy lifestyle. Our area of northwest Tennessee has Discovery Park of America and beautiful and unique Reelfoot Lake, formed by an earthquake in 1811 and 1812. They are located about twenty miles apart. We are about 110 miles north of Memphis. Come see us.
Favorite tip from you was your review and recommendation of Beautycounter skincare.
I would love to be in the drawing for the bracelet.
marywyatt
Visited Sanibel Island in Florida recently. It was beautiful. I enjoy all your tips. Happy New Year
A favorite destination of mine is Savannah, GA. I was hooked during a college visit with my older daughter who went on to graduate from Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) in 2019. With each drop off/pick up, I found new things to love about this charming city. Fortunately for me, my younger daughter followed in her sister’s footsteps and is now a junior at SCAD. More excuses to visit.
I’m currently reading “Cloud Cuckoo Clock” by Anthony Doerr. Love your style tips.
I love Beauty in Stone! I’ve purchased a few things from her site. And I second your thought on the serum from Beautycounter. I’ve gotten excellent results!
During the quiet of the week between Christmas and New Years, I am reading “Imagine Heaven” by John Burke. As I get older, heaven gets nearer, and the things of this world become less interesting. Ha – but – yes, I still want to dress well, eat right, go for walks, and LOVE my family!!
I found all the comments here interesting and helpful. So smart of you to engage your readers to make recommendations. I recently visited Northern Virginia and beyond the major highways and toll roads are local roads filled with lovely scenery like the Shenandoah Parkway. I am currently reading Food Saved Me by Danielle Walker. Keep those fashion tips coming in 2022. Happy New Year!
Two tips I’ve found helpful are:
1-switching to shorter sweaters and jackets. Susan is right, they are more flattering. And
2- Resist wearing black near the face, it does not flatter my skin tone at my age.
Thank you as usual for all the ideas!
Great tip: Shapeez bras and Sheec no-show socks are game changers for me as far as comfort in dressing goes. My favorite place I travelled to this summer was to Lugano, Switzerland. Happy New Year!
I recently visited Callaway Gardens in Pine Mountain, GA for their Fantasy of Lights Trolley Tour. National Geographic list it as one of the top 5 Christmas light tours in the U.S. Absolutely put us in the Christmas spirit. They give Veterans a discount. Thank you Susan for mentioning Beauty in Stone. My new favorite place.
Your site is the first I visit….and return to several times to learn from your followers’ responses. The visits with Mr. Mickey that you chronicle have inspired me to visit your part of the USA. A recent favorite read of mine is the memoir of a young woman that is fantastically warm and funny: LONDON’s NUMBER ONE DOG WALKING AGENCY by Kate Macdougall. If you love London and dogs you will enjoy getting to know them….and their ‘walkers’!
Susan you have inspired me to buy two different white shirts. I have been wearing them with my jeans and I feel it dresses them up a bit. Thanks for your inspiration!!
One of my favorite places to visit is Biltmore. I plan to return during Christmas in a year or two
I’ve bought a nice pair of wide leg jeans but haven’t worn them yet. I love the au you styled yours…. Now I think I’ll like mine!,,
A favourite place I visited was Vienna, Austria. Happy New Year!
Hi Susan, thank you for continuing to include all of us in your life! Will you consider giving us a photo tour of Johnson City in 2022? Or perhaps a cute town near by? I don’t travel a lot but I highly recommend the Disney Food and Wine festival at Epcot. It’s a fantastic adult adventure! Books I’ve enjoyed are Can’t Wait to Get to Heaven by Fannie Flagg (entertaining and funny); The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah and Before We Were Yours by Lisa Wingate are a bit more intense but I couldn’t put them down.
I like your idea of keeping a donation bag for clothes that no longer serve you well. I’m trying to rid my closet of items that no longer give me joy. The bracelet is beautiful!! Thank you for all the time you put into your blog, really enjoy reading your ideas.
Love the style of this bracelet!
I was a latecomer to Kristin Hannah’s books but have recently loved The Nightengale and The Great Alone. Susan, I love your classic style and you have helped me rethink what I’m adding to my wardrobe as we get closer to retirement. Please keep sharing your lovely posts!
I have these trouser jeans and had them hemmed by the tailor. I don’t think they look right with my shoes similar to yours. We are the same height. Will you please tell me what the length of yours is? My tip is to plan what you will wear in advance. I take the time to try on the pieces I plan to wear along with accessories. It is easier for me to make changes in advance rather than when I am rushing around to get out of the house.
Thank you for continuing to write your blog.
My jeans have a thirty-inch inseam. I didn’t have them hemmed.
One of your tips which I’m trying to follow as I’m editing my current wardrobe, is to purchase classic basic pieces in the best quality I can afford within my personal color scheme. I no longer make impulse purchases just because they are on sale, unless I need to add or replace an item. A closet full of clothing that is not cohesive is a waste and time and money. All clothing purchases must be interchangeable in order to wear them with a variety of outfits. Selecting items from your closet to come up with a suitable outfit is so much easier and enjoyable. Plus that fact, that it makes you feel more confident in your appearance.
A book that I’m about to start reading is Echoes by Maeve Binchy. I’ve read a few of her books and really enjoy them.
Hi Susan. I have gotten inspiration from you on mix and match clothing where you have several outfits with a few basic pieces . As I age skincare has become even more important. I have started using beauty counter and I notice much softer skin and less dryness. I have been recently reading some of Nicholas Sparks novels. My most recent is See Me, The Rescue and The Return. All the best to you and Mr Mickey in the new year!
I have several pairs of Talbot’s jeans, and they stretch a lot. Do these stretch much?
I buy jeans to fit tight, knowing that they will stretch with more than 2% elastane.
Beautiful bracelets. So generous!
I now purchase my jackets in a shorter length. Being a pear shape this takes the emphasis off my hips and makes my legs look longer. I learned this from you.
Hi Susan lovely looks on you, as always. My favorite recently read book is “Splendid and the Vile” by Erik Larson. Happy new year and thank you for your posts!
I stumbled across your blog while trying to find styling tips for my mother &, I must say, I think I’ve hit the jackpot! Thank you for your insights! I hope to be able to construct a few outfit ideas for her from your posts.
Recently, she’s been coming to me for styling tips, as I love dressing up & pairing outfits together. Unfortunately, I’m a stick-thin 20yr old who is completely out of her depth when it comes to styling older women.
I do have a question about styling skirts though. Most posts/articles/videos etc. that I’ve come across for styling older women stick exclusively to pants. Which makes sense because they are often slimming; but unfortunately my family is Baptist & so my mother only wears skirts that fall below her knees.
Do you have any tips or tricks for styling longer skirts in a way that you can still achieve a slimming effect?
Thank you!
Guide your mom to skirts that are fitted at the waist and hips while avoiding any with gathers, pleats, or excess fabric. Always wear the darkest color on the thickest part of the body. Look for nude shoes in the same tone as the legs or wear black shoes and hose. The goal with a longer skirt is to extend the leg line, so wearing a shoe with a wedge heel or a small block heel helps.
Ich bin über Pinterest auf Ihren Blog aufmerksam geworden und freue mich nun auf jeden neuen Beitrag. Ich bin selbst im März 2021 in Rente gegangen und finde Ihre Anregungen sehr hilfreich. Machen Sie weiter so.
Good morning Susan,
I was looking forward to your next communication. I hope you had a lovely. Christmas. Your style choices have given me a whole new outlook for dressing “me”. I have gotten many compliments on my new look. I love this black vest. Too bad my size is sold out. I have a similar one in red, and it is very versatile. The bracelets are so pretty. Beauty in Stone pieces are a treasure. Thank you for brightening my day.
Happy New Year Blessings to You and Mr. Mickey
Sherry Thompson
The Little Book of Hygge is a lovely read especially during the winter months. It helps you detach from the chaos of life and focus on the relationships closest to you in your life as well as creating an enjoyable cosy atmosphere at home.
Susan I look forward to each new blog entry. I’ve just finished reading “Once Upon a River” by Diane Setterfield. It was very different from my usual reading material but once started I had a hard time putting it down.
The best tip I have learned this year is to take care of ME! I am worth that care! 2022 is going to be the year I focus on being the best version of me!
My tip….share what you love to do. I sew and quilt and give away most of what I sew.
I recently read the Sugar Queen, by Sarah Addison Allen. I enjoyed it so much, I went on to read her Waverly Family 2 book series. I highly recommend all of these books.
My favorite place to go is the Outer Banks in North Carolina! Love the lighthouses. Great seafood!
A favorite book of mine is ‘Redeeming Love’ by Francine Rivers. I’m so looking forward to seeing the movie in January 2022. Happy New Year, Susan. ❤
Thank you, Susan, for all the wonderful tips and looks throughout this year!
I am recently retired, so I have been enjoying reading this year – 120 books for the year! Some of my favorites this year are The Four Winds by Kristin Hannah, The Paris Library by Janet Skeslien Charles, The Lost Apothecary by Sarah Penner, and Golden Girl by Elin Hilderbrand.
Happy New Year!
Beauty in Stone artfully combines metals to create beautiful pieces of jewelry. Thank you, Susan, for introducing me to Suzanne’s creative work.
Hoping you have a wonderful New Year.
Recently visited Congee National Park in SC. Great kayaking tour!
I recently read Heaven Is For Real by Todd Burpo. I saw the movie but the book is better! I highly recommend it!!
Hi Susan! It has been fun to discover so many of your readers have tastes in books and travel similar to mine. My favorite book of 2021 was The Lincoln Highway by Amor Towles. Historical fiction is my favorite genre; I especially enjoy books by Marie Benedict. And like several of your readers, I enjoy winter vacations in Florida.
Happy New Year! A book I would recommend is The Tattoo Artist of Auschwitz
I love your style tips….you have helped me save money by not purchasing the latest trend….would love one of those beautiful bracelets around my wrist.
Floating In The Deep End by Patti Davis. A story about her Dad and Alzheimer’s.
Thanks for all the great tips. One hint that I use and pass along to others :
When considering an item for purchase, ask yourself, “Will I wear this item at least thirty times?”
I’m currently enjoying Prodigal Summer by Barbara Kingsolver.
I so enjoy your posts and have learned so much from you. THANK YOU! My all time favorite book is Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett. It didn’t seem like a book that would hold my interest but, I was so wrong. It really was a book I could not put down. It’s 800 pages and I found myself picking it up if I had an extra 10 minutes. Wishing you a healthy happy new year.
My husband and I recently visited San Diego. Our days were spent walking and exploring. My favorite place to walk around was Coronado Island. The island offers a beautiful view of San Diego, gorgeous beaches and wonderful neighborhoods and homes. Another favorite was The USS Midway Museum in San Diego. Living the adventures and honoring the legends will be an experience that I will always remember and appreciate.
And thank you for the education and many tips on how to look beautiful with ease!
My favorite place to visit is Hilton Head Island.
Gratitude is key! I start my day with thankfulness. It helps put everything in perspective and focuses my attitude on the positives. Thank you Susan for sharing your tips with us. You are a blessing!
I’m currently listening to Stanley Tucci’s memoir, “Taste,” on Audible. Even when he is reciting a recipe for an incredible Italian dish, he is so entertaining. I highly recommend it for all Italophiles.
The bracelet is lovely!
I really enjoy reading your blog with ideas of how to dress in our 60’s. I tend to choose solid colors now when shopping to add to my retirement wardrobe. Happy New Yesr!
The Time Traveler by Gwendolyn Womack.
Hi Susan, I look forward to your posts each week. Thank you for sharing what all you have learned in fashion, beauty products and nutrition.
My favorite vacation is at any ocean relaxing and reading a book.
My tip is what you wash your new jeans add Salk or vinegar to the wash. This will help set the color so they won’t fade as quickly.
Wishing you and Mr. Micky a blessed New Year!
Good morning! I’ve been reading some mystery spy books by Susan Elia MacNeal on my Kindle. The time period is WWII. I also have reread Lessons from Madame Chic by Jennifer Scott and Soul of the Seasons By Melody Scout. I’ve enjoyed them all.
My husband and I are attempting to travel on a cruise to a tropical climate in a few months. I’ve had fun buying a few things as I’ve managed to drop over ten pounds since last year. I do have eight more to go! These last are harder!
I have a project in mind for next year. I live within walking distance to a large regional park. It has so many unique and beautiful trees, but there is no listing of the varieties found there. So I am going to attempt to map the trees this next year. I go there daily and this will give even more purpose to my daily walks.
The best to you and Mr. Mickey as we move into a new year. Your blog certainly encourages me to work on enriching my life.
One of my husband’s and my favorite places to visit is Magnolia Springs, AL. Magnolia Springs is a tiny little town, nestled on the Magnolia River between the cities of Mobile, AL and Pensacola, FL. Quaint boathouses grace both shores of the river, and the narrow lanes, shaded by the abundance of magnolia trees, are lined with beautiful homes and well-tended gardens. Even today, Magnolia Springs receives mail by the only river route mail delivery service still existing in the continental US. Life in Magnolia Springs is relaxed and unhurried, but a visit to Jesse’s Restaurant, one of the few business establishments, is mandatory!!!
Thank you for your columns.
Book: Who’s Pushing Your Buttons: Dr. John Townsend excellent
MY FAVORITE TIP: Take advantage of your local library. It is a free resource and you don’t have to go into the library to check out books, audiobooks, magazines, etc. My library is Tennessee Reads. I use my local library with my library card and I am able to check out books and audiobooks digitally. I constantly listen to audiobooks while I clean my house, and work on various activities. I am now going to get a Nashville library card, (which will give me greater access to resources. It will cost me $10 per year since I don’t live in Davidson County. I can of course register for a card on line.
I am not commenting to enter the giveaway, just letting you know that I ordered some of the socks you recommended. Looking forward to receiving them. Thanks
Hi Susan! I’m always inspired by your classy style. One of the most important books I read this past year is “American Dirt” by Jeanine Cummins. It’s been around awhile and was one of Oprah’s picks for her book club some time ago. It was eye opening and compelling, especially in view of the immigration issues we constantly hear on the news.
My favorite tip is always look in the mirror with good lighting before you go out. Check yourself from all angles. Make sure your shirt isn’t inside out and the size sticky tag is off your pants. Oh boy could I tell you stories!
I have enjoyed your posts throughout 2021. Thank you for the many words of encouragement. Best wishes to you and your family for a happy, healthy 2022.
A favorite gift this Christmas was a scarf/shawl from Mark & Graham. Perfect to take into a cool restaurant.
We just enjoyed a week at Ft Myers beach
My husband and I decided to go cross-country skiing last week since our power was out and we had a fresh cover of 14″ of snow! It was a good workout and we packed a nice picnic for a reward when we completed our ‘course’! Happy New Year Susan & Mr. Mickey!
Happy Holidays!
My tip is to take some time for self care during this holiday season.
Mine is reading a Christmas book on my IPad/ kindle every night before bed from Dec. 1st- New Years.
Most of my favorite authors like Mary Kay Andrews, Anita Hughes, Steele, Jaimie Amman’s,Etc.release light romantic novels during the season. It is like reading the Hallmark channel but usually with a bit more substance.
Wishing you heath, happiness & peace in this new year.
Susan,
Thank you so much for your wonderful blog! I have learned from you to be very mindful of what I buy, with the thought in mind that all pieces, regardless of cost, are an investment. I also want to recommend the new Diana Gabaldon book, Go Tell the Bees That I am Gone. Oh my goodness! It is excellent!
Thank you for your blog and all the best for the new year. I have recently read Rumi’s Secret: The Life of the Sufi Poet of Love which is wonderful in transporting the reader to the time and place of Rumi’s lifetime. I think that in these trying times we all need a little escapism!
Love your blog. I’m Widowed and have been recently traveling alone. Recently I went to the gorgeous state of California. Southern California. Malibu and Santa Barbara.
No I’ve been listening to Audible as opposed to reading lately. Elin Hillenbrand never fails!
Love the bracelet!
My favorite book for 2021 is Cloud Cuckoo Land
YOU are an inspiration. At this time in our lives that is definitely needed. What fun to find inspiration in how we look and apply to enjoying each day. It does give us a bounce to our steps. Thank you.
Joyce Coday
I love your style and posts.
Hi Susan,
My husband of 52 years and I have enjoyed cruising for many years and really miss visiting other countries and, especially dressing up in my Sunday best. I love putting on some sparkle and favorite jewelry. Hoping we will be able to take a cruise soon.
Happy New Year to you and Mr. Mickey. I enjoy your blog very much. You are a classy lady and always look so put together. You are a great inspiration to all.
Thank you for helping us dress beautifully while aging gracefully. I’ve recently visited the lovely town of New Hope PA. It has many unique boutiques and wonderful restaurants, and is not far from Peddlers Village, another great walking town.
Best tip ever (from Susan, of course) is Simplicity = Elegance. Forget crazy prints, bright colors, and embellishments and stick with timeless, simple garments in my best solid colors.
Love the wide leg jeans. Will definitely try them out. A favorite travel destination is Charleston SC. Unfortunately I have canceled several trips in the last year or so. Sure hope to get back one day soon. Ps. Love the bracelets!
I just finished reading “The Four Winds” by Kristin Hannah. Very powerful story about the dust bowl. Read it in 2 days.
Thank you, Susan, for sharing your life with us on your blog. It is always inspiring and encouraging.
The last book I read was Surviving Savannah by Patti Callahan. I enjoyed it so much and was inspired to take a trip there this month with my husband.
Savannah is a beautiful and interesting city.
Happy New Year to you and Mr. Mickey!
Dorinda
Your tips are always helpful and I love to see all the places you visit with Mr. Mickey. My mother’s side of the family are in Tennessee. So Tennessee is home to my heart. If it wasn’t for my kids and grandkids I would move back home to Tennessee in a heartbeat. But I love being close to them all.
The wide leg pants look adorable on you! I’ve been wanting to try them! Believe I will take the leap in 2022! I have a food tip…after cutting an avocado in half just press the skin side of the pit…with a little nudge it will pop out! Happy New Year to you & Mr. Mickey! My husband retires tomorrow & I can’t wait to have him all to my self!! He is 70; in remission and so much fun! Life is good
I love sweaters, and recently found a Pinterest item that has been very helpful to me in protecting cardigans and other sweaters from stretching out on hangers. I love closet organizing tips! Susan, I would love to see a post from you on how your closet is organized. Enjoy this tip…
https://pin.it/6vlO4W2
Hi Susan, once again thank you for your lovely posts! I just ordered the Beauty Counter face serum, and I’m looking forward to trying it. I recently read “The Last Thing He Said’, a thriller/mystery. It’s not usually the genre I read, but it was riveting and my husband enjoyed it as well! I wish us all to have a very healthy, peaceful, and joyous 2022!
Happy Holidays!
I am currently reading “The Nature of the Beast” which is the eleventh book in the Inspector Gamache series by Louise Penny. Have enjoyed them all.
Thanks for all you do!
Sandra, I certainly agree with your opinion of Pillars of the Earth. Like you, I would never have thought that a book about building a medieval cathedral would captivate me, but it did. I also enjoyed other works by Ken Follett.
We visited Branson, MO in November. The mountains were beautiful. We saw Irish singer Daniel O’Donnell in a wonderful concert at the Welk Theatre. I would love to win the bracelet.
I love your classic style and the way that you use the basics to creative lovely outfits.
I hope you have a bright New Year and I love visiting the Grove Park Inn.
Fantastic book by Ali Master – Beyond The Golden Door. A great read – seeing the American Dream Through an Immigrant’s Eyes.
I am reading “Divine Disruption” by Tony Evans and his family. In the last several months so many have experienced the loss of a loved one or llness or financial difficulties and this book is excellent to address getting through the tough times.
I just retired after almost 23 years at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. I now have a part-time, purely for fun job at my local Barnes and Noble bookstore. Being surrounded by people who love to read is wonderful. I’m reading the Dune series by Herbert after reading them almost 40 years. My tip is reread books you’ve read before!
Susan, as always, an informative and enjoyable post. The current book I am really enjoying is “Forever Young by Hailey Mills”. She’s one of my favorite nostalgic actresses and I’m sure of many of us. Happy New Year ladies!
I enjoyed the Lessons You Have Learned post….especially the tip about using the glass bowls and not “saving the good things” for later. I tend to do that and am not enjoying several nice things my grandmother gave me. I am going to start using “the glass bowls”!
Thank you for your kind offer of the beautiful bracelet from Suzanne. She sells gorgeous jewelry! I love the beauty of the desert in Arizona when all the cacti are in bloom. The sunsets over the mountains in Tucson are a sight to behold. Hopefully, you’ve had a chance to visit Arizona in the spring time. Have a Happy and Healthy New Year!
Hi. Thank you very much for your regular updates of which I always look forward to receiving. You always look so smart and elegant. I just haven’t mastered it yet but I will. Anyway, re the competition. I want to share with you my experience of a trip to Canada which I took with my father just after my mother died. We spent two weeks in Toronto and we had the most fabulous time. My father and I had never been very close but that holiday just made everything click together for us. We did go everywhere and did see mist things. My dad always had that push for seeing the best sites. We had dinner up the CN tower, went to a Bluejays game, rode n the Maid of the Mist and got drenched, had a weekend up in North Bay, went across to the islands n the ferry and walked the boardwalk. We went wine tasting and ate in the most expensive restaurants. The weather was fabulous and to top it all off I got to meet two of my friends who live there. That was the most memorable occasion ever, spent with my dad. Just the two f us for two whole weeks.
Regards
Lynda Barnes
I like the Louise Penny series of books.
I’ve recently read Still Alice by Lisa Genova. This book is about a 50-year old Harvard professor named Alice Howland who is diagnosed with early on-set Alzheimer’s disease. It is told from Alice’s viewpoint -This book is very enlightening but terrifying. I couldn’t put it down. I read it for book club and it is unforgettable. Lisa Genova is a brilliant author. I pray there is a cure for Alzheimer’s soon.
I read the Self Care Solution by Dr. Jennifer Ashton. It is a simple plan to improve your life by adopting one habit per month.
Thank you, Susan, for teaching me how to dress nicely. I find that I must refresh my thinking, often, by looking at your blog regularly. Thank you for taking us back to simplicity and elegance, when we tend to be less so, trying to use what we have, so that we will get some good out of things. Happy 2022!
In the states my favorite place is Monument Valley. In Europe it’s anywhere in Italy. In Australia it’s Lizard Island
Richmond, Virginia is one of my favorite places to visit.
Happy New Year!
Khalid Hosseini’s book ‘And the Mountains Echoed’ may be the best book I’ve read in my lifetime. I’ve recommended it to so many people. Beautifully written, it tells an achingly haunted but lovely story that readers cannot forget.
Tip: set a work out goal for 15 – 20 min to get started. If that’s all I do, it is enough to maintain health. Often I can go a bit longer to increase stamina and strength.
Happy New Year! One of my favorite books this year is The Music of Bees. It is an uplifting story of loss overcome by friendship and love and so relevant in these difficult times.
I so enjoy your posts, Susan, and find your advice essential for those of us in our later years. I would love a bracelet. Bracelets are my favorite piece of jewelry and I never leave the house without one. I am currently reading “ Go Tell the Bees That I Am Gone” by Diana Gabaldon, ninth in the series. Those of us who are Outlander fans wait a long time for a new book but then we are busy for quite a while. The book is over 900 pages.
Susan, I enjoy your blog very much. I especially like your blog on the benefit of having a white button up shirt ( or many!!!) in your closet. I totally agree!
Happy New Year
My favorite book is the Nightingale by Kristen Hannah. I read the last chapter twice because I did not want the book to end!!!
Excellent book…..The Warmth of Other Sunshine by Isabel Wilkerson…..this book illuminated more of our country’s history….I highly recommend this read!
Live life with zest and a joyful spirit. If you do, you will have grace and style and all will ask- “where did you buy that!?” You will glow!
My husband and I have dear friends who invite us each summer to their approximately 4-acre private island in Canada. It’s one of our favorite vacation spots.
We had a fun trip on a pre-Christmas visit to Nashville.Be sure to visit the Hermitage.
I recently read State of Terror by Hillary Clinton and Louise Penny. It is a real thriller with terrific characters. Many of them seem familiar as you would expect. You cannot figure out who the bad guy is until the end. Plus you get a short trip to Quebec to visit Penny’s usual characters. I highly recommend it and it does not matter which party you support. There are an enough bad guys or girls in both.
Your simple elegance always inspires me in my late 70’s to follow your example!
Your ideas for styling basics never get old. Thank you for sharing. Your jewelry choices are always great additions. Happy 2022
A good book….It Ends With Us by Coleen Hoover. Thank you for this opportunity!
Hi Susan. Reading Eat To Live-thanks to you. And working on improving my diet. Also read The Story of Lost Friends-5 stars! Happy New Year!
I enjoy your posts tremendously. The ones about your favorite restaurants with food pictures are very inspiring. I particularly like your comments about having an appetizer, then sharing the main dish with Mr; Mickey and then sharing dessert. I think it’s a wonderful way to eat anything you want and to keep trim. Happy New Year Susan!
I highly recommend Towles’ The Lincoln Highway. He wrote another favorite A Gentleman in Moscow.
Hi, Susan! My favorite book of 2021 was Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir.
Santa brought the newest book in the Outlander saga…can’t wait to read it. If you haven’t read the series I highly recommend to begin with the first OUTLANDER,
The responses to your post have been so much fun! Because of this I have a number of books to add to my reading list. As to my favorite place, since I love to travel, alone and with others, often it’s the place I’ve been most recently. Thanks for starting this conversation among friend who have never met.
I have enjoyed reading Aging with Grace by Sharon Better and Susan Hunt. Thanks, Susan, so much for all the thought and great ideas you put into your posts!
Hi Susan, love the new jeans style on you. I found Beauty in Stone from your site and love the lariats. So multi functional. We recently visited our kids in Charleston, SC. Such a fun city to visit; stayed at a new spot called Liberty Place.. It was lovely. Wishing you a wonderful New Year. Denise
We love to hike the Shenandoah National Park and enjoy staying somewhere fairly close to the park. Early fall we stayed in New Market, VA and had the best time strolling through downtown. There are a few excellent dining choices, a potato chip factory, a Civil War museum and the cutest little general store. I’ve come to love a little shop called The Buttercup and follow them with their Facebook videos to see their latest fashions. The Buttercup is size inclusive and I love that!
Susan, I very much look forward to your posts. Probably the most helpful tip or insight I have gleaned from your wisdom is that solid colored basics will work in almost every situation or for any occasion.
Hi Susan, thank you for all the tips, lovely photos and good advice over the last year. Wishing you and Mr Mickey a wonderful 2022
Regards,
Carol
Greetings from Houston, Texas where it was a balmy 84° today! So I am headed to Galveston tomorrow to read and nap on the beach before it drops to 32° Sunday! Happy New Year!
Happy New Year. I have enjoyed your blog for years now. I have become more aware of the impact of color and neckline impact on my short neck. Thanks for the opportunity to win this beautiful bracelet.
Thank you. I am learning from you how much more elegant wearing solids and can travel so much more easily by packing high quality basics. Thank you!
I use the same primer that l use on my eyelids on my lips. It stops the ‘ bleeding’ of my lipstick. Doesn’t matter if it has a tint or not.
I love Suzanne’s jewelry in silver. She makes beautiful jewellery.
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
Love the wide leg look. We recently visited Savannah GA
So pretty.
Just finished reading John Grisham’’s “The Judge’s List”. Would recommend this book but I am a long time Grisham fan.
Thanks for all your good advice & fashion tips. This year I plan on taking better care of myself in every way, to stay active and age gracefully. My most recent book to read is “The China Study”, focusing on eating healthy.
Best tip EVER for me has been the Shapeez bras! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! I’ve spent years buying and trying so many brands and have never had one fit and flatter like these. No more straps sliding down my arms. They’re the only bras I own now and I would have never found them had it not been for your blog!
I really enjoy your practical suggestions for clothes that can be worn in various combinations. Thanks for helping me make better choices!
Hi Susan! Thank you for your constant inspiration. My closet looks so much better and I no longer find myself saying “I have nothing to wear”. My husband and I were fortunate to be given a retirement gift for him this summer from his company. They sent us to a little jewel of a place….Manchester, Vermont. It’s a beautiful little town that is rich in history and it is full of of wonderful restaurants. Our first trip in retirement has been planned and we will be spending two weeks in Santa Fe as well as a couple of those days in Albequerque to attend the International Balloon Festival in 2022. Happy New Year to you and Mr. Mickey!!
I loved the tip about length of tops and where they cut you off and how that makes your torso or legs appear shorter or longer.
I just finished Mitch Albom’s newest book “the stranger in the lifeboat” Five stars!
I love Camden Maine.
One of my favorite books is Far Pavilions by M. M, Kaye. The story takes place in 19 century India,and follows the life of British Officer born in India who ended up marrying local woman.
I recently visited Franklin in Tennessee. A beautiful Main Street filled with quaint stores and plenty of history. Meeridees breadbasket is a perfect place for coffee and cake.
I just returned from spending time in Wisconsin. We enjoyed the many cheese shops, fresh spices, sausages and my favorite, cheese curds. I also enjoyed the beautiful snow until it delayed our flights home!
Happy I found you! I have copied several of your looks and look forward to your posts. I just retired and while I have loads of great designer work clothes I am having a hard time finding casual clothes for my new life. Your posts keep giving me outfits to try. I have ordered several pieces from Stone Jewelry. Good price so pretty!
Happy New Year. Mella 67 and counting!
Love the bell jeans. I need to get a pair. Miss wearing them. Lol. Long time ago.
Happy New Years
Of all the valuable fashion tips that I’ve learned from your blog, my favorite tip is to follow the “rule of thirds”, which is always a good way to make sure my clothes look in proper proportion on my body!
Sure had a wonderful trip to Highlands, NC earlier this year. Beautiful scenery, fabulous food, and delightful people made for a fantastic February long weekend.
A good book “a Tree grows in Brooklyn “! Always enjoy seeing your posts!
Hello and Happy New Year! I so enjoy your articles and tips for retirement wardrobe styling. Having retired last February my husband and I both looked forward to doing a little travelling. However, with one issue after the other we just haven’t been able to do it. As a result, I’ve re-discovered reading. What a pleasure! As an introvert growing up, I found that some of my best friends were my books. Now that I’ve retired from a very stressful career, I am rediscovering this simple pleasure. Perhaps the best book I have read is “The Last Green Valley” by Mark Sullivan. Set in 1944, Stalin’s forces are pushing into the Ukraine. A young couple is forced to make a terrible decision, either to wait for the inevitable invasion and be sent to Siberia or remain with the Nazi officers who have pledged to protect them. They overcome horrific trials in their pursuit of the West. I don’t want to give away the ending, but this is truly one of the best books I have ever read!
Wishing you a happy New Year. I’m not sure of the wide leg slacks but they look great on you.
I love to read for about an hour before going to bed. It helps me relax and fall asleep. I just finished a book by James Patterson. The Black Book. Enjoy!
I have followed you for the past 2 and a half years. When I shop for clothes now I usually buy solid colors because I find them more versatile to wear with other pieces from slacks, blouses, and sweaters. I can make so many more outfits now! Thank you for helping me expand my wardrobe with fewer pieces!
Most helpful is how to wear a scarf, always got it wrong before I found your blog. Thanks for your very valuable expertise.
Hi Susan, I have truly appreciated your insight & “pearls of wisdom”, especially as this relates to foundation pieces. I’ve learned a great deal about bra sizing, panty hose vs knee highs (for no lines showing through pants), and the difference a low heel vs flat can make (it feels more comfortable too). I look forward to learning more in 2022. Best wishes for a New Year to you & Mr. Micky. Respectfully, Ina Doowney, Austin TX
My favorite place to visit is Cambria, California
Dear Susan, my husband and I live in Fairhope, AL on Mobile Bay. We just returned from Naples, FL where we spent Christmas with our daughter and son-in-law. We both love Naples. From their house we drive the golf cart downtown, walk their dog, walk all around downtown, shop, and sometimes stop for coffee. The beach is only a few blocks away and I love the shelling! I am reading the historical series, Maisie Dobbs by Jacqueline Winspear. It is set in and around London at the start of WWI. I am on the eight book and am very impressed with the research the author has done. We are looking forward to driving over to New Orleans for a few nights. New Orleans is a favorite spot to visit and we have friends there as well. Thank you for your style tips!
Joining in to let you help me with fashion as I make 65 look great! Excited to be here!
I appreciate your tips!
The StarGaze wide leg pants look great on you!
HAPPY NEW YEAR 2022 to you and Mr Mickey!!
Of all the places we’ve traveled, my husband and I enjoy staying in a cabin in the Smokey Mountains the most. Memories: A rooster crows in the morning, and occasionally turkeys make their presence in the surrounding woods known. Sitting on the cabin deck as night falls, tiny specks of light from other cabins and homes appear like diamonds sparkling on the mountain sides snd valleys. It’s such a special kind of solitude and peacefulness. Love those Smoky Mountains.
A favorite place I’ve visited is Naples, FL! Love 5th Avenue, the Naples Pier, Venetian Bay, the restaurant/grocery store Seed to Table. Love it so much we just bought a villa there!
I really appreciated the blog where you showed us how to wear the scarf that you were wearing that day. I love xcarves and have included wearing that style several times. Thank you and Happy New Yeea. I enjoy your blog very much.
Happy New Year!!! I recently read When Crickets Cry by Charles Martin – a very good book! I enjoyed it so much, I’ll be reading more of his work. The bracelet is beautiful! Thanks Susan
Happy New Year, Susan!
I wanted to share with you two of your tips that I have enjoyed I purchased your Sheec socks and I love them. I always had trouble with no show socks slipping off, but not them! I also purchased the Scala sun hat you wear often. White wasn’t available on the link you provided so I selected tan. I get so many compliments on it. I also have become a Chico’s shopper. I enjoy your articles very much and I appreciate how much they have helped my wardrobe choices. Thank you so much for writing them!
Happy new year Susan!! During the shutdown last year. I found “Yoga with Adriene” on YouTube. Her videos and 30 day yoga challenges helped me get through the stress of that time and the current craziness. I work in healthcare and have found self care to be a necessity. I also look forward to your blog and have been working on my style as well. Thank you for all that you do.
I’m doing the 30-day yoga challenge with Adriene also! I love her gentle way.
I’m currently reading 11/22/63 by Stephen King, which is a fictional story surrounding John F Kennedy’s assassination and includes time travel. Thanks so much for doing your blog!
The Storyteller’s Secret is my new favorite book. A beautiful story about a daughter, mother and the life of a grandmother in India. Empowering women to be and do what only their dreams allow them to do. Heartwarming book.
One of the best tips that I have is to buy a small journal or notebook and keep a record of your medical history-each doctor’s visit, including blood pressure, weight, etc. Also, record what the doctor says. This is also a good place to record family health history. Example: Ages of parents or siblings and when they developed certain health issues.
We are visiting American Revolution battle sites in South Carolina and reading books about the history of that time! We have visited Cowpens, Ninety Six, and other sites. The crowds are minimal, abs the films shown are quite fine, as well as the walking and/or driving routes available!
Always reading! The Huntress by Kate Quinn is a gripping piece of historical fiction!
Thank you, Sudan, for all that you share; I do enjoy your advice!
Happy New Year!
Bonnie Kelley
Good morning! Happy New Year! One of my much anticipated reads coming up for winter is the series of books by James Herriot, “All Creatures Great and Small”. Soooo good!
Thank you for the opportunity to be in the drawing!
Julie
Hi Susan.
As always your look and advice are great.
Because of you and another blogger I have minimized my wardrobe and receive compliments on being together.
I’ve lost about 15 pounds and am now at 111 pounds at 5’ 2”.
I follow a whole food plant based diet and have eliminated almost all fats, other than nuts, seeds, and avocados. I use no oil and sauté vegetables in broth or water and they taste great now if I eat oily food it is unpleasant.
That’s my tip. Work to eliminate fat and salt. I’ve become very used to doing this and it has helped me to look more lean.
Thanks for all your tips.
I love the way you put together pieces for an elegant look. Im 72 and am always trying to look my best…for my age. Thank you Susan!
Susan Byars
Retired School Administrator
An excellent and true story book I’ve read is “A Woman of No Importance: The Untold Story of the American Spy Who Helped Win World War II” by Sonia Purnell. Thank you for the fashion and beauty tips. It is inspiring to have age-appropriate guidance! The bracelets are in-deed beautiful and elegant.
I read THE LAST MRS PARISH which is a psychological thriller/mystery and it truly kept me guessing until the very end. Even though I know the plot surprises, it was such a delicious story that I have read it 3 times.
My favorite place I visited this year was the Berkshires. We enjoyed great theater, wonderful music at Tanglewood and beautiful hikes. We enjoyed our summer stay so much that we returned to experience the fall colors!
I love how you have helped me keep the classic styles instead of the trends. Basic, classic pieces for me from now on! Thank you Susan!
A favorite book is The Language of Flowers. I really enjoy your fashion looks.
I have been reading Louise Penny’s Inspector Gamache series. A friend of mine turned me onto this series and she said that the first book was okay, but they got progressively better and better. As I finish each book, I think “How can the books get any better?”, but they do! Ms. Penny is a genius.
Susan, thank you for all your advice. I have followed you since Fifty not Frumpy. I retired five years ago, and three years ago I decided it was time to purge my closet. It was during Lent and my church was holding a yard sale. I donated probably a third of the clothes in my closet, mostly work clothes I didn’t wear anymore. I have since purged half of what I had left, and my existing wardrobe is similar to what you reflect in your most recent posts. It is practical and more in line with my lifestyle now. My husband and I have not traveled far in the past couple of years. We tend to gravitate toward nature, and have enjoyed trips to Yellowstone NP and the state of Maine in the last. More recently we have remained close to our home in Florida. In the winter, one of our favorite places is Blue Springs State Park where manatees gather to spend the cold season. They are such magnificent creatures, but their existence is threatened due to environmental concerns. I hope your blog continues for many more years. Happy New Year to you and Mr. Mickey.
My favorite, most useful tip from you was on how to use a continuous column of color such as black pants with a black top paired with a colorful blazer, vest, etc. to create an illusion of height.
“Atlas of the Heart” by Brene Brown
I love waking up with coffee in hand enjoying the daily devotion from Jesus is Calling!
Hi Susan
I always enjoy your posts and tips. Recently I started reading Make your Bed, a book recommended by a friend am I’m thorough enjoying it.
Happy new Year to you!
Paula
Great book…..The Great Alone…love Krisitn Hannah
Looking back to a wonderful trip to Maine, pre Covid, and looking forward to other destinations when the time is safe. Happy New Year Susan!
Love the new pants! Best book I read in 2021 was Four Winds by Kristin Hannah. Happy New Year!
Always enjoy learning from your writings.
I joined Friends and Fiction on Facebook and discovered many new authors this past year. One of these authors is William Kent Krueger and my favorite book this past year was This Tender Land. It’s wonderful! If I were still teaching reading/LA.’s it would be required reading. He also wrote Ordinary Grace which is also excellent but Tender Land was my favorite. If you want to join a wonderful group of readers and discover new literature as well as authors, consider Friends and Fiction. Wednesday evenings there is a discussion with a famous author. Happy New Year and Happy Reading!!!!
I love Isle of Palms, SC and Johns Island, SC for beach trips and Asheville and Waynesville for mountain trips. We enjoy friends and family in both locales. My favorite books recently were, “News of the World” and “Four Winds.”
Happy, healthy New Year!
My husband and I are new to this area and we love to hike. There are so many places here to do just that. We went to Buffalo Mountain in Johnson City to have lunch. There was no place to do that, but we did go on a wonderful hike there. It was a bit longer than we expected and we really weren’t prepared so far as water and shoes but it was a very challenging but beautiful trail. We are both seniors so a bit challenging for us but we’ll worth the hike. The scenes from the top are absolutely gorgeous. I would highly recommend anyone who likes to hike to try this trail. Make sure you have water and correct shoes though. lol. Happy new year. Really enjoy your blogs.
If you get a chance to hike there in the early spring, you may see Lady Slipper Orchids blooming. It is magical!
I was lucky enough to be able to visit Raleigh, NC to spend Christmas with my son and his lady, for their first Christmas in their new home. These bracelets are beautiful- thank you for al of your helpful info.
Hi Susan, sure love your style! A favorite tip of mine is stay in your color palette and choose classic styles that can be worn multiple times in many ways. All your tips are spot on!
Love the Beauty in Stone bracelet!
Susan, I look forward to your posts and enjoy looking at my wardrobe with different eyes to see how I can spruce up what I already have. I’ve enjoyed The book , The Guernsey literary and Potato Peel Society by Mary Ann Shaffer.
And bracelet is beautiful!
Tami
I bought the Sheec no show socks and I love them. They do not slip like so many no show socks!
It was a cold night in early December that my 6 year old grandson, my husband, and I all went for my first time to a local light display at Roanoke County Virginia Explore Park light display known as Illuminights- A winter walk of lights. It was a beautiful night with two of my favorite men and it was magical with all the lights and the natural setting all lit up in so many ways. It is an annual display in our area so it is on my list of a favorite place to visit. I’m planning a return visit for next year already.
I hope you had a wonderful Christmas. My favorite place to visit is Estes Park, Colorado. The mountains are so peaceful.
Thanks for all your style advice. Happy New Year!
Excellent outfit styling. I enjoy your blog Susan! My favorite book of 2021 was The Extraordinary Life of Sam Hell. So good, I read it twice!
I have only just discovered the Old Sheldon Church ruins, outside of Beaufort, SC, after living in the region for almost 30 years. 3 visits in 4 months and I am planning a 4th one in February. I just cannot get enough of the beauty. If you are ever in the area please make it a point to pay this beautiful ruin a visit.
Thank you for reminding me to always to make sure I have at least three garments in my closet that will coordinate with the new purchase. Happy New Year.
,❤️Hi Susan! Love❤️ your blog❤️
Love the clothes and assessories you show. I also love the countryside, flowers and landscape you include. Love the introduction to new places, new jewelry and new outfits ❤️
Happy New Year to you and yours! Stay healthy, safe and keep blogging❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Outfits with a white tee or a crisp white shirt always look polished. The outfits you show above are great! Unfortunately, I do not look good in white; even a small amount of white peeking out is not flattering. Do you have any suggestions for someone like me? I look better in black than white, but usually medium contrast is better.
Consider adding a light neutral color that is close to the color of your teeth.
I have learned from you that polished basics make a great wardrobe base and can be dressed up or down. Thanks and happy new year.
Great read- The book of lost friends by Lisa Wingate.
Hi Susan,
I have always looked forward to reading your blog post. I’m 69 and over the over years have picked up on quite a number of your wardrobe and beauty comments/suggestions. By integrating them into my life they have helped me focus my wardrobe and beauty routine to make for a “simpler, classy and modern” approach in my retirement years. I loved your suggestions to dressing that were age appropriate but still modern and fun. So thank you! However, in my opinion over the last several months, the posts have tended toward a more matronly wardrobe approach … what gives? … I miss the fun loving Susan.
My dressing style changes with my age and my lifestyle. With COVID raging again, I rarely go anywhere other than the grocery store and visit my parents. So rather than dress up in something and take pictures of me pretending to go somewhere fun, I show you what I wore for my regular day-to-day life.
Sheec socks are the best. I have a pair for every type of shoe I have, My Mom loves them too. Thanks for sharing. Happy New Year!
Good morning. I really enjoy your posts. I’ll be 74 in March. It’s getting more difficult to buy clothes for my age without looking frumpy or clothes that are for a younger women. You make it much easier to shop. I recently took a road trip down the coast near me. I stopped at the parks in each area along the trip. It was a very relaxing day.
Happy New Year to you and Mr Mickey!
Love your style and advice, thank you so much for sharing with all of us. ❤
Just finished a book called “Lincoln’s Spies”, a fascinating read.
Blessings in the New Year!
Susan, I recently read “Beautiful Country” by Qian Julie Wang. I highly recommend it. Thank you.
I do love your posts! I have always been one who dresses in a classic style but sometimes stray by buying trendy pieces that often end up being unflattering or just ‘not me’. You inspire me to stick with what works for me. As for places I love to visit I would have to say Tuscany, Italy. Walking the cobblestone streets in towns like Montipulciano or Montefollonico warm my heart.
Happy New Year Susan! We recently moved from CO to AZ and I’m loving Arizona! My favorite place to visit so far is Sedona. Sedona is well-known and well loved, but relatively new to us. I recently read an excellent book titled, Leonardo Da Vinci by Walter Isaacson. A non-fiction work, but very engaging. It inspired me to not reinvent myself per se, (I like who I am), but to explore new opportunities/possibilities in the new year. As such, I have signed up for a beginner figure drawing class at an art school in Scottsdale, AZ. I may be the oldest beginner in the class, but that won’t bother me anymore. My creative “spirit” was pretty much squashed in high school by the art teacher. I haven’t had the nerve to really explore my creativity much since then. Getting older has its benefits, one of which is being willing to try and fail at new things. I hope you and Mr. Mickey have a sparkling 2022!
Susan – Two of your suggestions have been particularly helpful this last year. First, buy classic pieces in the best quality I can afford. They last longer, feel better, and look great. Second, while planning for retirement be sure to include my wardrobe. I am now asking myself a different set of questions before I buy a new piece. Love your blog!
I hope your Christmas was wonderful Susan. Thank you for being such an awesome inspiration during 2021. You helped us get through it! One of my favorite places to visit is the Golden Isles of Georgia, which includes Jekyll Island and St. Simons Island. It’s very relaxing and beautiful with wonderful areas to go bike riding, hiking, and just beachcombing.
Here’s wishing you a Happy New Year!
I traveled to Las Vegas to visit my son for Christmas. He lives in the community of Summerlin. We were able to enjoy the beautiful view of Red Rock Canyon. The desert at sunset can be as beautiful as the neon lights of the strip. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder in landscape and outfits. Love your effortless classic style
I have gotten so many ideas from you on how to look stylish. If I could, I would copy every single item you wear plus your hair and smile. Thanks Susan!
Love to visit San Antonio, especially the Christmas season, the luminaires are very beautiful!
Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square Pennsylvania (near Wilmington Delaware) has a nighttime illuminated dancing-waters fountain show in summer that is absolutely worth the trip! It is spectacular.
I highly recommend the book “the Snow Child” by Eowyn Ivey for a good winter read!
Like your ideas for everyday outfits like for going to the grocery store.
My favorite book is Jesus always by Sarah Young. I love to sit in the quite morning reading a devotion and reflecting on the day ahead. I really like the jeans on you. The outfits you put together are great. I’m 74 and started wearing jeans right after seeing you in them. I love the jeans. Thank you for all your advice this past year. The beautiful pictures you show and the drives you and Micky take really brighten my day when you post them. I would love to move to your area, but do not have the courage to move where I do not know anyone. THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR YOUR BLOG. WISHING YOU AND MICKEY A VERY HAPPY NEW YEAR
Patricia Kane
Happy New Year, Susan! I will continue to look forward to your blog posts in 2022.. We actually visited your area when returning from a trip to Kentucy (The Arc Encounter and Creation Museum) in August. You live in a beautiful part of the country.
Earlier this month a friend and myself had tea at a lovely tea room called Lady Magpies in Tuckerton, NJ.
This year will finally be the year I retire, so I like your stylish but relaxed looks. They give me ideas for my own retirement wardrobe.
Thank you for the chance to win one of Suzanne’s beautiful stone bracelets.
A favorite tip that I just learned is an easy way to cook brown rice that turns out great every time. Instead of following the usual directions, I’ve learned to boil it just like pasta in plenty of salted boiling water, after soaking it for at least two minutes to rinse off residue. Boil for about 40 minutes, drain, and it turns out great. Much more consistent than the usual way of cooking it. I hope this will help someone as much as it has helped me
Oooh, I would love to “win” one of these beautiful bracelets! I have always admired your elegant look and especially the jewelry you wear
This is my first time respond to your emails. I guess an offer of giveaway is a good prompt. I have enjoyed reading and applying many of your suggestions for what to wear and what to purchase. Since I am not tall (5’) and have recently lost 30 lbs, I’m purging many of the unflattering clothes in my wardrobe and adding items that make me appear taller (or at least not as short) and are more flattering.
May this New Year bring an end to this terrible pandemic and give us all an opportunity to travel safely!
Oh dear! My booklist is getting so long with all these suggestions!! As another commenter suggested, I am a big public library user and have just added many titles to my “for later” list. I listen to audio books while running, walking the dog, gardening and puttering, and always have a physical book going as well. It’s so easy to manage the flow of books with my phone and computer. Two recent great reads were Hamnet by Maggie O’Farrell and The Spies of Shilling Lane by Jennifer Ryan. I am currently reading The Sea Wife by Amity Gauge. Thanks to the pandemic, I have transitioned to working full-time from home, which I love, but I no longer dress up to go to the office each day, and I no longer have my two half-hour commutes on the train per day for reading. I keep a running list of titles read or heard (fiction and non-fiction).
Happy new year to all!
The bracelets are beautiful! Link style bracelets are perfect for me, as I have small wrists and can adjust them to be the perfect size.
Since retiring, I was having a hard time figuring out what to wear for my more casual, relaxed life. I found you through Pinterest and am thrilled to find advice on outfits for this stage in my life. I can’t say there is just one idea you’ve given me because I needed Everything !
If you want to start the new year with a good book, try The Paris Library. It is a wonderful historical novel that will have you turning pages and engrossed until the end. Enjoy!
I just finished reading THE LAST THING HE TOLD ME by Laura Dave. Couldn’t put it down, finished in one day!
Grateful I found your blog last spring and now have a wardrobe that coordinates and has made my choices easy each day to dress. Once the pandemic is past please consider visiting Victoria, BC. It is beautiful and you would love our Butchart Gardens.
I have noticed that when I focus on the intensity and contrast levels of my hair color, eye color, and skin color that I tend to carry these contrasts over into my clothing when creating new outfits. It has been very helpful in the pulling together of pieces to create a cohesive look. Happy New Year.
I am very envious of your hair style. I wonder if it is high maintenance. What do you use to keep it in place?
My hairstyle couldn’t be more manageable. I blow dry it in every direction and then shape it as I want with a round 1″ barrel vented brush. If I get flyaways, I use some hairspray in my hands to tame it down a little. It’s a very low-maintenance cut.
Happy New Year! Best wishes for a healthful and adventurous 2022. Keep on blogging. I love your posts. ❤️
Another Susan….
Recently read book is “a painted house”. Reminds me of my granddaddy’s home place in Arkansas when I was little.
Nancy Kane
As a recent retiree, I have really valued and benefitted from your advice about purchasing the highest quality basics I can afford. I have built a casual wardrobe with beautiful cardigans and jackets, quality jeans and tops using links you have shared. I appreciate you!
Hi Susan, Here’s my favorite book — well, author.
My absolute favorite author is Wilber Smith, who started writing in the 1970’s. He’s written several historical-fiction series (family sagas) that take place in the middle east and South Africa. While getting to know the families, you’ll learn about early sailing, diamond mining, the development of African nations, and Egyptian history. This is not light reading. I kept a dictionary beside me. And sometimes it’s pretty gory, but when put in context it seems appropriate.
But if you like James Clavell (Shogun, Tai-Pan) you’ll love Wilber Smith. Do read the books in order. Unfortunately, Wilber lost his gift somewhere around 2010, probably due to age or maybe he starting using a ghost writer. Don’t bother with those books. In any event, I highly recommend him.
Happy New Year!
Margaret
Great book I’ve just read “Midnight Library”! Couldn’t put it down.
My daughter and I just spent a couple of days in Dallas. Highly recommend a walk in the Katy Trail with adult beverages and food at the Katy Trail Ice House afterwards!
Happy New Year.
I enjoy your posts. I always get something out of them – from jewelry choices to sweaters and shoes. Thank you for your expertise.
Visited Glacier National Park in the fall. It was wonderful – smoky sky because of the wildfires in California. Hope to return some day!
Happy New Year all!
I love your classic looks. They are up to date yet not trendy. I find I have fewer and fewer items in my closet and it’s so liberating! Happy and Healthy New Year Susan!
Susan, you are never over the top. If I ever saw you wearing torn jeans then I would know your “over 60” style was fake. But no, you always comes through with true classic style. It is exactly my style, and I read every single blog because I know your advice is truly “classy.”
Thank you Susan for your inspiring, classic styles. As an older woman, I choose from my closet of classics and add a newer accessory here and there. I especially enjoyed your recent post listing the stores where you find your classic pieces. Many of them are favorites of mine as well. I look forward to my husband’s retirement so that we can take day trips together and explore our area too.
Hello Susan! I would like to enter the giveaway!
My tip is this: Keep a shopping bag on the floor of your closet. When something doesn’t fit quite right or you don’t like it anymore, toss it into the bag. When it’s full, take it to your favorite donation station.
My tip is get dressed every day. No lounging around all day in your pajamas! Get up, get dressed and put on some makeup. Greet the day ready to embrace it. No matter what the day brings you it is a gift.
I want to say those wide leg denims looking fabulous on you!!
Wow! That is what I said (aloud) when I saw that picture of you in that linen vest. It is so youthful and fun looking. I am not fond of the wider legged jeans on myself, but they look good on you. I will wear boot-cut, because they tend to run longer that the straight legged jeans, which are my favorite.
The best book I have read lately is “Angels Walking” by Karen Kingsbury. It is first in her series of three, by the same name. “Angels Walking” It has been awhile since a book has made me cry in a positive way. Quite an assortment of characters locations and situations, all intertwined in unexpected ways. I would really recommend it.
Happy New Year Susan. Always enjoy your blog. Just wanted to mention a new book I just finished reading by Jodi Picoult, one of my favorite contemporary authors, “Wish You Were Here”. This novel is set in New York City and the Galapagos Islands at the beginning of the Covid 19 quarantine. Very interesting.
Susan,
A bit off topic but I have 2 questions….
1. Do you ever wear crew neck tops/blouses ?
…or is it a hard and fast NO if it’s not scooped
enough to show your inner clavicles. ?
2. Same question concerning horizontal striped
tops. ?
Just curious as I am full busted.
Thank you
When it is cold outside, I will wear turtlenecks or crewnecks with layers including a scarf, necklace, or a vest to cut the expanse of my upper body. I love striped tees and tanks but tend to wear them as foundation pieces with jackets or cardigans over them so that only a small part of the front shows.
Thank you Susan for always updating our wardrobes. I just bought a pair of wide black jeans myself and I love them! Happy New Year to you and Mr. Mickey.
Thanks for your helpful tips. I thought the information on foundation items particularly helpful since nothing looks good without a good foundation. I like your style.
Your blog, inspires me to rethink my clothes choices. The pictures you post are copied and put on my closet wall, to remind me how to put my outfits together. Your guidance and knowledge help and encourage my choices each and every day. To dress with thought in my choices, whether I leave the house or stay at home for the day, gives me that self worth and good vibes. Thank you for “you”.
Best wishes for the New Year. Joan
I feel tipped out, but I’ve learned a couple of things over time. I like to match my shoes to my leg wear – ie, my pants or skirt, as opposed to having a big contrast by matching a light top to dark jeans. I have also learned from Susan that a little leopard goes a long way…
A favorite book I received as a Christmas gift from my husband is Christmas at Highclere. We’ve been there in person and it has been a highlight of our time together (4.5 years). It’s where Downton Abbey was filmed. I’m making a recipe from it tonight from leftover turkey.
I love that the wide leg jeans are making a return. I agree that they elevate an outfit to something a little less casual and more tailored in appearance. I, too, have them in black and blue. I’ll bet the bracelet will look great with them! Happy New Year to you – hope you had a lovely Christmas!
Hi Susan,
I love you in the color red!! It is also one of my go to colors. I have enjoyed your emails with so many Great tips! The jewelry is so.beautiful and I would love to win the bracelet!!
Have a Happy New Year!!
Shonnie Whitney, Salt Lake City, UT
A style tip of Susan’s that speaks to me: “Purge – When the item no longer fits, looks good, reflects your style, or gets worn, let it go.”
Many thanks, Susan.
Angela – Apple Valley, Minnesota
I have enjoyed reading your newsletters. I like the tips you give about wearing plain colors and accessorizing with scarfs, necklaces, etc. This helps me with my buying decisions.
Hi Susan, I totally enjoy your website. I went to ASU in Boone, NC (a long time ago) and have enjoyed the photos of you and Mr. Mickey going to Blowing Rock and other places I recognize. The book I would recommend is Moloka’i by Alan Brennert about leper colonies in Hawaii in the late 1800’s and early 1900’s. What a story! I also enjoyed The Music of Bees by Eileen Garvin, The Bookshop at Water’s End by Patti Callahan Henry, Before We Were Yours by Lisa Wingate. Becoming Mrs. Lewis by Patti Callahan and Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens. Happy New Year and I look forward to more beautiful outfits from you in 2022! Warm regards.
When there is something beautiful to win everyone chimes in! Guilty. I love the idea of sharing a tip, adventure or book because we all need these things to try, read or look forward to doing during these uncertain times. There are so many places to see, but a more recent trip we enjoyed was the Oregon coast. We live on the East Coast and always enjoy any travel that involves water views. Happy Healthy New Year.
One of my favorite reads this year is a novel, The Four Winds, by Kristen Hannah. It is a story of one woman’s struggles during the Dust Bowl era and the will to survive under insurmountable circumstances. It makes me more appreciative of every precious moment, even during these trying COVID times.–a home and family, good friends, and the ability to reach out and help others even in small ways. Pls enter me in the drawing for the pretty bracelet.
Susan, I’d love to be considered for one the bracelets. I’ve been looking at them for quite awhile. I always look forward to your blogs and enjoy reading them. I’ve even created a file for some of your recommendations that are appropriate for me and my lifestyle. I like how you re-purpose items from your closet instead of buying new similar items. You reinforce my desire to be more of a minimalist. It’s quality over quantity! Wishing you and Mr Mickey a New Year filled with good health, happiness, love and peace. ……Sunny,
I always enjoy your posts. I’m 75 years young and I still love to look the best I can. Thank you for all your tips on fashion, beauty and my favorite, jewelry. I hope you and Mr. Mickey have a great 2022!!
I enjoy reading your blog. One of your tips that I have used is hanging sweaters inside out. Works great, no “bumps”. A favorite place to visit is Door County Wisconsin. All seasons are wonderful, but the fall is especially beautiful.
Susan,
Your many tips have truly helped me to upgrade my look, especially since I retired and let my hair go silver at the beginning of the pandemic. Contrary to the yoga pants/pajamas all day look many have defaulted to in these stay-at-home times, I am dressing better thanks to you. This has improved my morale considerably. I have also benefitted from your way of eating and have lost 27 pounds so far. (Again, going against the pandemic trend – THANK YOU!!)
The best tip I have is to measure yourself frequently. To make EVERY outfit look good, buy new bras every year. Measure each year to make sure they fit. My preference is to buy tee-shirt bras in a color close to my skin color. Wash them carefully and air-dry, don’t fold the cups. Also, clothing sizes are random numbers that vary from each manufacturer, and within each company their own styles may fit differently. Pay attention to their size guides. No need for vanity or wishful thinking – the number is just there to help you shop efficiently. This is especially important for pants.
Another tip I have is to write down a quick inventory of the clothes you will actually wear for the current season. (I do spring/summer and fall/winter, with some items that go year-round like jeans.) Be honest about how many of each item you really need, what colors, what sleeve lengths. Try to limit each category to 1-3 items, usually 2 neutrals and 1 pop of color, print or “edgy” piece per category. I have found I can keep the total number of items to less than 20, not including underwear, sleepwear, workout clothes, socks/tights, special occasion outfits, or accessories. I have very little variety in my accessories, having only one each for purse, necklace, earrings, scarves.
I love the way I look every day, feel great and get lots of positive comments. My friends and family have started asking me for advice, and I always tell them to start with you.
Many thanks for your calm, stylish presence. Your newsletter is always a highlight for me.
Kate
I love the way you incorporate old items with the new. It helps me with my budget and enables me to buy the new items I need for my wardrobe. Happy New Year ,
A Faithful reader!
Gwen
I recently read Victoria Thompson’s gaslight series which takes place in New York in the late 1800’s and the early 1900’s.
The books are historical fiction and the author does an excellent job researching. I found the characters interesting and though much has changed in fashion and customs, it made me realize that there has always been turmoil, discrimination, political scandal, fights for women’s rights, unequality and class differences. Some things never change! I can’t wait for #25 of the series to be published.
I’ve just recently visited a small town in Colorado while waiting for snow in ski resorts. The town is Ouray. Nestled at the foot of San Juan mountains, known as the Switzerland of America.
I was fortunate to spend Christmas with my kids and grandkids. They came to oregon from Arizona and enjoyed a beautiful snow day after Christmas. So my favorite place this year is home!
I look forward to seeing your outfits and the photos of the areas you tour. However, fashion is thrown out the window when the temperature is – 32c, with a wind chill of -43c. Please send up some bottled heat to Slave Lake, Alberta.
My favorite place that I have visited is Rome, Italy. I’ve been 2X. I love the culture, the food, the history.
The bracelets are just beautiful. Our church book club recently read The Hiding Place. I had read it years ago,but new things always show up when you reread a great book. We are now reading BenHur A Tale of Christ. Wishing you a happy and blessed new year!
My husband and I visited Abingdon, VA on our way to visit family in Maryland.
We have visited a few times before and always enjoy it. We had dinner at the Tavern and I highly recommend it.
The food was outstanding and the atmosphere can’t be beat. We met the owner and it was such a delight to listen to how
he came to own it.
Beauty tip: Now that I’m older my skin is much dryer so I’ve been mixing moisturizer with my liquid foundation. It doesn’t settle in the creases and it doesn’t make my skin look so parched.
Love the Beauty in Stone jewelry.
Beautiful bracelets! Favourite place to visit is Sanibel Island, Florida. Coming from Canada it’s a nice break in the winter but maybe not this year again for us, will see how everything goes this winter.
My favorite place to visit was Alaska! Seemingly endless beautiful scenery!
Susan,
Look online at the amazing photos of Natural Tunnel State Park in Scott Co., Va. The tunnel is so large a train line goes through it. Enjoy the chairlift in and out of the gorge, beautiful scenery, a lodge, cabins, camping area, gift shop, loads of history, hiking, the Lover’s Leap story and much more. You might like a trip there in the summer or fall. There may not be a restaurant. If not, you will have to pack a lunch. It is only 34 min. from Kingsport, Tn.
Your posts each week are greatly anticipated and so helpful.
Since we are not doing much traveling during these difficult times, I am reading Mark Twain’s The Innocents Abroad. This travel book, written when Twain was comparatively unknown, details his travels in Europe and the Holy Land in 1867. His travels took place during a cholera pandemic that prevented the passengers and the ship he was on from entering the harbors of some of the cities they wished to visit. I had not known about the cholera pandemic, so that parallel to our present time has been interesting.
Outliers by Malcolm Gladwell. Great book about why certain people are successful!
I love all your posts. I a, in my seventies and want to be comfortable. Chico’s is my go to but still love Talbots for classics. Thank you for all you post. Happy 2022!
A good read
Girls of Summer by Nancy Thayer
I love, love, love Sheec no-show socks! I have just begun using Beauty Counter skin care products, too. Your endorsement of both product lines has been great information for me!
Cindy
I love, love love Sheec no-show socks!
One particular tip you have shared-skincare being especially important after 60- is one I have embraced. I have always taken care of my skin, but your guidance has helped me to go lighter on the makeup/foundation and concentrate more on good skincare. Thank you, Susan!
I enjoy seeing the lovely meals you prepare, and I like all the foods I see. And I too should be taking walks and exercising. But after being cooped up due to covid for so long, I now have a complete lack of discipline and motivation. How do you self-motivate to accomplish all the things you do?
I want to be the best version of myself for the people I love and remain strong and healthy to care for others. Even if I can’t safely travel now and my outings are very limited, I believe that soon things will be better, and I want to be ready for it. Cheers to 2022!
My favorite place to visit is Black Mountain, NC. Susan, you had mentioned some areas around Asheville and I messaged you asking for recommendations of best small towns to stay in the area. Black Mountain was your recommendation and my husband and I have a 4 year run now of going there. Love it so much and would love to win the bracelet!
I also appreciated the tip on hanging sweaters inside out – cuts down on the ironing. I am going to reread a favourite book ” The Language of Flowers” Am also looking forward to reading “Tell the Bees that I am Gone”. Love the trouser jeans, nice with the vest and white shirt. Best wishes for 2022!
I learned to be careful and aware of lengths,whether it be jackets, blouses or vest. It makes a difference in how my body proportions appear.
Happy New year. May 2022 bring you much happiness!
A book I enjoyed recently was All the Frequent Troubles of Our Days, by Rebecca Donner, the true story of an American woman who was an important part of the German resistance to Hitler. Fascinating!
Thank you for the chance to win the beautiful bracelet!
Dear Susan,
I’m so grateful for all the helpful tips and wisdom you have imparted to us along the way and the time and effort you have taken in doing so. Thank you! So looking forward to 2022. Onward and upward I say! Many blessings for a healthy and happy New Year to you and Mr. Mickey.
Charleston, South Carolina is a favorite city of mine. It’s the perfect combination of history, charm, elegance, and a glimpse into a way of life that we will never see again.
I was blessed to be able to visit Savannah,GA and Charleston, SC this year. Both were on my bucket list!! An interesting book that I just finished is “The Mystery of Mrs. Christie “ by Marie Benedict
Happy New Year and thanks for the wonderful posts of 2021
I enjoy your blog so much! The wisdom you share inspires me to be more intentional in my clothing shopping. A place I have come to love is the Oregon coast. Our son & his family moved to WA and then OR so we have done several road trips to visit them from southern CA. We drive home along the coast and especially fell in love with Newport, OR!
A tip that has helped me the most is the tip…….make sure your clothes fit you. Since reading this I discovered that I wear petite size for tops. My legs are too long for petite pants. No wonder nothing looked right! Now my clothes fit, and I feel well put together.
The tip that helped me the most was the tip to make sure your clothes fit you. And how to determine a good fit. Since reading that, I’ve found that I wear a petite on top and my legs are too long for petite bottoms. No wonder nothing ever looked right! Now my clothes fit and feel well put together.
Hi
I only want to wish you a Happy New Year , to you and your family
Hi Susan, the wide-leg trouser jeans look great and I’m going to treat myself to a pair in the New Year. Shortly before Christmas hubby and I took a steam train journey across England, from Liverpool to York. We visited the wonderful York Minster Cathedral, which was all decorated for Christmas, and just perfect. Lots of good memories to help us get through winter and the increasing covid rules.
Let’s hope 2022 will be kinder to us, and best wishes to all.
Hello Susan
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Let’s hope 2022 is a year to remember – in the most positive way.
I recently read Love Stories by Trent Dalton – just a beautiful book – I highly recommend it.
Please keep doing what you do – I so look forward to your posts.
Keep safe and well
Kind regards
Margaret Barnes ( Perth, Western Australia)
I “stumbled” on your blog several months ago and actually look forward to your emails. I am taller than you but can still use so many of your styling tips. My favorite ones are about buying classics that will last season after season.
Another is how to wear scarves. Simple color, with out tying in the bulky ways I used to wear them.
Thank you and wishing you a happy new year
One of my favorite places to visit is Paradise Park, a gorgeous park near my house. An ancient oak canopy with flowering shrubs and annuals, walking paths and a view of a small lake is so calming and peaceful! So blessed to live nearby, happy New Year, Susan and your followers!
Happy New Year Susan! I have just completed my third year with you and the discovery of your blog. I have visited other sites just to look, however, I always come back home. I really like the addition of the Outfit tab to your site. I was able to meet a friend in Beaufort, SC and we enjoyed a late lunch at the restaurant on the river that you suggested when you visited there. Thank you again.
Thank you again for your most helpful and enjoyable blog Susan. I am a longtime fan and feel like you are a dear friend, even though we have never met.
I would like to recommend Mary Anne Wilson and her Sit and Be Fit series. This show, started in the 1980s is still on many PBS stations as well as available on YouTube. I have watched her for years and enjoy it more as I age. I purchased a folding card table type chair (about $20) that I can store easily and keep handy enough to open and use regularly.
Happy New Year
I look forward to each and every one of your posts! My style is casual and I wear a lot of athleisure wear but your style tips still apply…purchasing quality fabric, dressing my age and avoiding trends and impulse buying. Thank you and happy new year!
Good things I’ve discovered this year, “Food Rules” by Michael Pollen ( a book that provides simple and excellent healthy eating tips)
CC creme by Perbelle
This is a must have…just gorgeous!
“Be at war with your vices, at peace with your neighbors, and let every new year find you a better man.”
BENJAMIN FRANKLIN
A great tip for all!
Your tip to go to the classics and buy pieces that last numerous seasons and even years has made the biggest improvement in my wardrobe. I am elderly so this is something I wished I had learned years ago. Thank you.
My most recent favorite place to visit is in Pennsylvania where I traveled to meet my first grandchild on Christmas Day. Happy Healthy New Year!
Happy New Year, Susan. I just finished reading The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah that you recommended a couple of years ago. I see that others liked it also. It was intense for anyone who has been close to domestic abuse but a wonderful read. Thank you and they for the recommendation.
Perhaps soon you can do another column on proportions and the rule of thirds. I think that would be quite helpful.
I plan to make a list of some of these recommendations as a guide to future reading.
The best tip I’ve gotten from reading this site is to care about how I look all the time even at home. I think doing this raises my self-confidence, helps me to eat better and exercise more. It spills over into other areas of my life.
Happy New Year ! I love the tip of dressing for your life now. I have stopped myself many times and asked where will you wear that? Saved me from making a purchase I would not wear.
Recently reread my all time favorite book by Francine Rivers, Redeeming Love. It has been made into a movie and will soon be released. Can’t wait!
A good book I have read, any book by Charles Martin. He is a writer that engages the reader immediately and writes with a beautiful style. I have not read a single book of his that I have not loved!
Thanks for your common sense blog, Susan. I always look forward to your kind and sound suggestions., such as Shapeez bras. Now, I only feel comfortable in Shapeez, both long and short styles.
A fav place is The Fashion History Museum in Cambridge, Ontario, about an hour outside Toronto, here in Canada. While in this part of Canada, check out Stratford & Niagara-on-the-Lake. Both towns are beautiful to explore and famous for their theatres, though closed due to Covid. Just read through and highly recommend the Irish Country Doctor series written by Dr. Patrick Taylor. It’s heart warming, blunt, and the characters are so convincing, it’s hard to believe it’s fiction.
Wishing you a very happy and healthy New Year, Susan!
Hello Susan
Thank you for the chance to win your give away bracelet. It is so pretty! Favorite place I had the chance to visit was New York City this Christmas. It was my first trip to NY and I loved every minute of it, favorite memory was of Central Park!
A favorite place I’ve visited is Clayton, NY and the surrounding 1,000 Islands. This is a beautiful area with history and loads of activities! Thanks for sharing your favorites and including where to buy the items or similar products. All your information is very helpful! Thanks again!
One of my favorite books is
Mandela’s Way by Richard Stengel.
My favorite place to visit is Ocean City Maryland. Love the beach.
I love a good who done it and am enjoying the Tea Shop Mysteries by Laura Child’s I find it very relaxing to read and am enjoying getting to know Charleston SC and some of the interesting tib bits about southern living. I am northern born and raised and have never left. I find it interesting how different we all are different and yet how much we are the same. Enjoy! Happy New Year to all
I’m reading The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up, by Marie Kondo.
Happy New Year to you, Susan. The bracelet is beautiful.
I forgot to leave my comment. I read Wintering by Katherine Mays. It’s about embracing winter and embracing the times of wintering in our lives. It was an excellent book.
One of my favorite vacation trips was to Maine. The coastal towns are so charming, and the lobster is delicious! Thank you for such a wonderful giveaway. Her jewelry is spectacular!
I almost forgot my book suggestion! “my grandmother asked me to tell you she’s sorry” by Fredrik Blackman. He also wrote the equally fabulous A Man Called Ove. The comments from this post make a great list to keep on hand. Thank you for doing this.
Brain XX by Lisa Mosconi, PhD
A great book I recommend for all women. Empowers women to maximize cognitive health and prevent Alzheimer’s Disease by what we put into our bodies. Very timely since many think about health and adjust goals at the turn of the new year.
https://www.lisamosconi.com/xxbrain
Happy New Year!!!
I just finished Hepburn’s Necklace by Jan Moran. If you haven’t read it yet I believe you would enjoy it…I did!!!
Happy New Year!!!
I just finished Hepburn’s Necklace by Jan Moran. If you haven’t read it yet I believe you would enjoy it…I did!!!
Love your blog! Happy New Year, wishing you many blessings!
I just finished reading the latest book in the Outlander series titled “Go Tell The Bees That I Am Gone” It’s 888 pages with very small print. I had glaucoma and cataract surgery on both eyes and the last surgery was 2 weeks prior to reading this book. This made reading quite a challenge but I finished in 17 days, 1 day before I had to return it to the library. I’ve lost 35 lbs this year, starting 2021 with COVID. I’ve had other challenges this year including a tornado in March at my house. Through it all, I take your advice on fashion to heart and will start 2022 with a serious purge of my closet. I started reading your posts about 6 years ago. Thank you for helping me persevere this past year.
Happy New Year! The most helpful tip you have engrained in me is to purchase classics of high quality and to wear them together in different ways. I have fewer clothes now but can wear what I have for years and look put together.
Book I’ve loved is; it’s ok that you’re not ok by Morgan Devine. It’s been helpful after the loss of my son. It’s about meeting grief and loss in a culture that doesn’t understand…
Book I’m reading is Bearing the Unbearable by Joanne Cacciatore. It’s been helpful after the loss of my son. It’s about meeting grief and loss in a culture that doesn’t understand…
I’m sorry that you have suffered such a loss.
Not receiving emails anymore. Please add me back. Thanks
You are confirmed, so I don’t know why you aren’t getting the emails. Are they landing in your Spam file?
I recommend The Seven Sisters by Lucinda Riley. It’s the first in a series and an engaging read!
I absolutely love how you choose a few pieces in your wardrobe and embellish them with either jackets or scarves to totally change the look and the outfits. Basic black top and slacks are amazing and you give me encouragement to try on my scarves/jackets again and wear them instead of just STORE and TAKE UP SPACE in my closet. This segment from your trip to North Florida and how you packed your underwear and socks in your three purses was also very helpful. I love to pack as organized as I can and that was a super tip also. Loved this one. I’m going through my closet and pare down my clothing. I have somethings I NEVER wear and they are in great shape. Goodwill will love them and as my husband always says, GOOD WILL come from this (donating to the Goodwill store).