BoomerGirl Diary

I wonder as I type, perhaps as a 60-year-old Carrie Bradshaw (of "Sex and the City" fame) might…

Is it true that as they age, boomers still want to look sexy? Surely a lot of the media assumes so. Look at some of those celebs and TV style makeovers as they spill-over their dresses.

But, if so, how do they do it without looking inappropriate?

What’s more, the holidays are approaching, and women will be trying to get it together in last-minute holiday style. Especially for social occasions like cocktail and black-tie parties, most ladies stress (almost as much as picking a bathing suit) over how to look great, not wear the same outfit as last year ... and hope it’s not asking to much to have their bodies cooperate.

My philosophy is: Yes, you can look as sexy as your body and age permit. So at over 50, that means REASSESS:

1. Take a long hard look and use a 5X mirror for your “close-up.” Do it often.

2. Starting at the top, don’t use heavy make-up and hairspray. Nothing is less becoming than a passé look that makes you seem ancient. By remaining fairly natural (or made-up with that goal), and having hair that says “accessible” you’ve taken the youthful route.

3. If possible, wear contact lenses for black tie occasions. (You know the saying "Men don’t make passes ...”) Glasses can be extremely stylish, but I have yet to see a pair that work with ball gowns (sorry, Sophia).

4. What was once sexy on you then, might only reveal too much information now. Watch that plunging neckline, beware of the “sausage effect” of too-tight anything and make sure your hemline is at the knee (cocktail length).

Over-exposure may win you stares but you may never make eye contact again. Remember, men stare as a knee-jerk reaction; they are programmed that way!

5. Think twice before you pour on the sequins, the bling and the glitz. It screams “gaudy” and is unrefined. “Less is more” could not be truer after 50.

6. On the other hand, don’t hide out looking sooo conservative and unstylish that you become the other extreme. Make an attempt at updating your look. Even the simple black dress can remain just that - beautifully cut, in a great fabric. Add personality with great accessories that up the ante by their extraordinary style. Seek out a beautiful shawl or a fine fur caplet.

7. Your choice of shoes and bag should never be an afterthought. You also needn’t sacrifice style for comfort. By skimping on thought and value on the right accessories your whole outfit can be compromised.

The art of subtlety translates into way more sexy as you age. Look like a “class act” and you’ll be noticed and applauded.