BoomerGirl Diary

Yes, it’s the beginning of the year and the end of what has become “Self-Help” month.

I don’t believe in isolating one month from the rest of the year. I believe in the total picture and it begins with real commitment, and an understanding of what you’re committing to.

I’m sure you’ve noticed how much attention is focused on weight. It amazes me how much is out there to tempt us to eat and eat. You’ll see a program guiding you to cook with tons of butter and lots of yummy cream, and the next commercial assumes how awful it is to be fat!

So many mixed messages! I began to see a correlation between food and style.

I believe that all those sugary (and deliciously tempting) foods bear a direct resemblance to all the glitzy, over-patterned, over-styled clothes that clog the aisles of too many stores.

How can anyone select the good from the bad? How can you be creative and really stylish (like home-baked 9-grain crusty bread), when you have to filter out so much (white bread)?

You don’t even have labels, as you have for food, that could warn: “Not appropriate,” “Cheesy at best!” “ Poor quality” “This look should not be resurrected!”

Even the stores that are supposedly specific to an aging woman, usually have racks of clothes that announce “old’ the minute you put them on.

So how do you get “fashion healthy” as you age?

Just as nutritious eating can be delicious, style can be understated and simple without being boring.

Here are some “vitamins” to take for a new attitude and a commitment to a hip and modern you:

• Make simplicity and classicism (updated to current cut) the “core” of your wardrobe.

• Establish an easy mix-and-match wardrobe of neutral colored pieces without pattern (black, browns, greys, tan, white). Go easy on the black because it can be harsh next to aging skin. The fabrication makes a huge difference.

• Invest in great accessories — bags, shoes, glasses and watches are the most important.

• Try to effect a natural look (even with make-up) for your face, hair and nails.

Walk away or be rid of:

• Anything that has rhinestones, glitter, or fringe (except a cool, classic western jacket)

• Things that are jewel-toned (ruby, teal, burgundy etc) or any color palette that is harsh and aging.

• Fabrics that feel stiff and cheap (Yes, you can actually feel that!).

• Holiday sweaters and anything “cutesy,” including those silly sayings on t-shirts and sweatshirts.

• Orthopedic looking or “sensible” type shoes (unless you have no choice)

My clients tell me they feel good when they look good. I’m no exception; I feel that way too.

This is the “fashion nutrition” I swear by. I guarantee it will make you feel better about yourself!