Fabulous at Fifty: You Can Be Fifty, Fit, Feisty, and Freakin' Fantastic!

As you get older, are you just a little nervous about making more style and beauty mistakes? I have some ideas to help you become more comfortable with your style choices, and look better day-to-day:

· Go to a mall. Sit with a foo-foo coffee or smoothie; watch and notice fashion combinations that you like. Bring a notebook, and write them down! Then imitate those in a way that is YOU.

· Ask a friend and/or a family member that has good taste to go shopping with you. Tell them to be completely honest. They don't have to be mean when they tell you, but they do need to be clear when something isn't right. They could say something like, "it is not the most flattering look for you", or "it makes you look outdated".

· One word - UNDERGARMENTS. Sexy is great, and you should always feel sexy. Comfortable is key as well. However, if something is fitted, you MUST wear the proper undergarments that smooth you out. SPANX, or something similar, are a girl's best friend. A proper fitting bra, truly, is one of the biggest pieces of advice I can give. I wore the wrong size for 35 years. What a difference when I finally got sized!!

· Look closely in the mirror. Don't be obsessive, but be honest. If it is something that you can fix with a little extra beauty time, work on it. I love beauty nights. I lock the door, get out all my beauty products, and make it an evening. I put deep conditioner in my hair, and pull it up in a ponytail. I scrub my face and put on a facemask. I do an at-home pedicure. I dry brush my body, then moisturize head-to-toe. The last thing is a manicure. Then, I pour myself a glass of wine, and watch a Lifetime movie. Bliss, seriously. And, my skin, hair and body are so happy for it!

· On a daily basis, do NOT ignore your skin below the chin. Many women do skincare and sunscreen on the face, and then stop. Make SURE you go all the way down the décolletage as well. It does NOT look good to have a wrinkly, freckly neck and chest.

· If your legs are starting to get more and more freckles and varicose veins, use sunless tanning lotion. It does a great job of covering imperfections.

· If you have decided to go for laser treatments or Botox, check out the facility thoroughly. Though these procedures are done often, they are not to be taken lightly. They can do damage.

The last bit of advice I have for you is the most important. Have an air of confidence. It the best beauty tip of all. A woman with confidence radiates. Women and men want to be around them. If you really don't "own" that confidence yet, fake it til you feel it. It will come. Being over fifty is a great thing. You have so many experiences behind you, and so much ahead of you. Enjoy it!

Whether you are going on a cruise, a faraway get-a-way, or you are just going to the pool, if you are over 50, and readying for the water - panic is in the air! Not to fear, there ARE things you can do to make it better, and even make it an enjoyable experience. After all, it IS the beach, for goodness sakes! You should enjoy the atmosphere, and not stress about your body. Let me help you.

Let's start from the very beginning; whether you are at the weight you want to be or not, you should be doing some form of toning exercise. Regardless if you are luscious and curvy, slight and petite, or somewhere in between, it all looks better with a little tone. So, pick up those weights a few times a week and it will improve the overall look of your body. And, just for your health - try to walk, swim, bicycle, or do any other form of aerobic exercise 3 times per week.

Secondly, drink lots of water for supple skin. It really does make a difference in your skin texture, glow and health (honestly, this is from this nurse's perspective, as well as many, many medical studies). Keep hydrated girls. Your body will be happy for it!

Dry brush your body from toes to head (yes, in that order). There are several good reasons for this. First - it removes dead skin, and makes your skin look less ashy, flaky, and dry. Second - it helps your lymphatic system work, which keeps everything moving well. Third, it helps prepare your skin for the next tip - sunless tanning lotion.

Nothing quite covers flaws better than a good self-tanner (see my review on self-tanners). These have improved soooo much. They used to make your skin look very orange and unnatural. Not anymore! Self-tanners make you look thinner, healthier, and cover a multitude of sins (lumps, bumps, cellulite, and spider veins - sounds familiar?). But, the dry brushing step is important to make an even application easier. And, ALWAYS wash your hands well after applying. You do not want to have brown/orange palms - and THAT is the place it will show up. Remember to reapply every four or five days so it doesn't fade, and you still MUST wear sunscreen in the sun, no matter how tan you look.

Next, the biggie; what to put on that fabulous body. This is what brings fear and trepidation to all women. And why do women have to wear little, tiny bathing suits and men wear big, floppy shorts? Let me just say, life is just not fair. Whatever. Moving on. Here are some rules for bathing suits that will help your body type:

1. If you have big breasts; try to find a suit with a solid or dark color on top. Supportive V-necks are best because they show off the girls, but keep them in place.

2. Big bottom; show off the top! Wear the darker color on bottom, and wear the pattern on top.

3. Little breasts; Padding, rouching, ornamentation, draping of any kind will help.

4. Short legs; French cut legs (a nice high cut). Just make sure it covers your bottom in back.

5. Long torso; Helllooo tankini! The long top balances your long torso. I love, love, love these!

6. Big thighs; a skirted bathing suit - but PLEASE, make it a small skirt. There is nothing more aging than a suit that looks like a dress!

7. Big Belly; good suits have control panels built right in. It is worth the extra money to feel good about how you look. A wrap-suit is also great.

Now that you have the suit, you need accessories. Yes, I said accessories. At 20 or even 30, you didn't need them as much. At 40 or 50, they help you create your entrance. You need big, wonderful, Diva sunglasses, a hat (a really pretty beach hat); a cover-up, shoes, and a fun beach bag. Jewelry is okay, but keep it to a flashy, fun minimum. Keep everything tasteful, but bold. Believe me, people will notice YOU, not your perceived dimply thighs if you do it right!

And, speaking of your beach bag, what should you have in it? How about some extra sunscreen (because you are already covered - but you need to reapply), towel, a good book, water bottle, lip gloss, snacks, and flip flops for around the pool. If you are planning on changing after the pool, you can bring a change of clothes; though I don't recommend this unless absolutely necessary. If there is any way possible to stop home for a quick shower, or at the very least a wipe down and then change your clothes, that is the way to go. You will feel much better. And deodorant doesn't carry well in the heat!

The last thing I want to talk about is your actual "entrance" into the pool or beach area. Walk in with an air of confidence - never arrogance, but confidence. We all feel that people are staring at our flaws. This is just not true. Many people won't even notice. They are too busy with their own insecurities. If they are looking at us (after all that I have told you above), it is simply because they like the way you look and/or wish they could carry themselves the way you do. Besides, you are there to enjoy the sunshine and water. Have FUN!!!

"My look is attainable. Women can look like Audrey Hepburn by flipping out their hair, buying the large sunglasses, and the little sleeveless dresses."

"For beautiful eyes, look for the good in others; for beautiful lips, speak only words of kindness; and for poise, walk with the knowledge that you are never alone."

"Pick the day. Enjoy it - to the hilt. The day as it comes. People as they come... The past, I think, has helped me appreciate the present - and I don't want to spoil any of it by fretting about the future."

"There are certain shades of limelight that can wreck a girl's complexion."

Sunless tanners, a memory of orange skin and even more orange palms haunts me. My mother used to slather on the "QT" back in the day (what did that stand for - Quick Tan, I think?) She did look darker, but certainly more orange. Sunless tanners have come a LONG way. They come in various formulas (spray-on, creams, bronzers), different scents (light, fresh, coconut), and different shades (light, medium, and dark). In my quest to get a perfect a tan without going into the Arizona sun, I have tried numerous products. I have also asked around and read around for verification of my opinions. Now, I will give you the low-down on a number of self-tanners on the market now.

Body Drench Whipped Chocolate Self-Tanning Mousse - The results were not at all orange, and it gave a nice dark brown color. It smelled delicious and dried fairly quickly. Two problems with this product, though it is relatively inexpensive, you must buy it online. Secondly, I read (although I didn't experience) that some people had problems with the applicator bottle). Otherwise, a great color-in-a-bottle option. $9.99

L'Oreal Paris Sublime Bronze Gelee - This buildable self-tanner had a slightly runny, yet gel-like consistency. It seemed to instantly moisturize and it was easy to work with. It had a nice, non-orange, streak-free finish. The downside is that dried slowly; so you really should stay naked for 15 minutes or so before getting dressed or going to bed. Also, it had a strong perfume odor. $9.49

Coppertone Sunless Tanning Lotion - Worked fine; a natural color, not at all orange. But though it claimed to have a pleasing scent, it still had the typical strong "self-tanner" odor. $14.98

Clarins Intense Bronze Self-Tanning Tint - This gave an instant color by having a bronzer, while waiting for the self-tan to develop. It was not greasy, had a nice, light formula, with a nice odor. It was pretty expensive, on the down side, but otherwise a great product. $32.00

Jergens Natural Glow Daily Moisturizer - This product is like a daily moisturizer that gives you a tan. After one week of daily use, you will have a subtle, natural "glow". There were no streaks or blotches. The down side is that the lotion had a fairly strong odor to be using as a daily moisturizer. I was anxious to wash it off. $8.99

Estee Lauder Sunless SuperTan For Body - This Sunless SuperTan was a very good self-tan product. The color was very natural; it dried quickly, and didn't streak. I really didn't notice any strong odor. It was on the pricey side at $26.50

Coppertone Dry Oil Continuous Spray with SPF10 - I am hesitant to mention this one, because of the SPF10. I believe you should never go out in the sun without at least a SPF15. However, if you are going out for a limited time, or want to use this as just a self-tanner and use your regular sunscreen when you go out to the beach or pool, then it can be a good option. It is an oil that isn't overly oily (if that makes sense - differently said, if you use it on the beach, it won't attract sand). It was very convenient to spray on, easy to spray on those hard to get areas like the back and thighs. $12.99

Mary Kay Sun Essentials Sunless Tanning Lotion - This product took many applications before you achieved much color. I think because I am fair skinned, the color was slightly orange on me. Also, the scent was not pleasant. $10.00

Coppertone Oil Free Sunless Tanning Lotion - This had a fairly pleasant scent, but without any oil in it, it was difficult to apply evenly. The color was nice, but I found the lack of moisturizing effect and application difficulty, made this one I would not use again. $6.99

As I have said before, it is very important to exfoliate your skin before applying self-tanner. The best way to do this is to use a natural bristle brush, and start from the bottom to the top. If you don't want to use this technique, then at least use a washcloth to go over the skin in the area you will be using the self tanner on. It will make the application much more even and natural. I promise you, it is worth the extra few minutes. Happy safe tanning!

Once you get a little older, your skin starts to do naughty things; age spots, wrinkles, sagging. It is not a fair fact of life, but it is a fact of life. However, it doesn't mean you can't do things to help your skin along and look more beautiful and healthy. Hopefully, you started using sunscreen when you were young. If not, it is never too late! Next tip - drink lots of water to keep hydrated. Third, keep a happy, positive attitude - this goes a long way towards outer beauty. The following are my five favorite recipes for facemasks straight from the kitchen and home, natural and nourishing. Always wash your face before using a mask; apply it, relax and enjoy the quiet time. Your skin will thank you for it!

1. Carrot, Avocado and Cream Nourishing Mask:
½ cup heavy cream
1 carrot, cooked and mashed
1 avocado, peeled, pitted, and mashed
3 tablespoons honey

Combine ingredients in a bowl and spread over face and neck. Relax for 15 minutes. Rinse with cool water. This mask will improve skin texture, diminish age spots, and rebuild skin collagen when used regularly.

2. Pineapple and Olive Oil Mask:
4 large pineapple chunks or ½ cup canned, drained pineapple
3 tablespoons olive oil

Place ingredients in blender and blend until almost smooth. Apply mixture to face with fingers and leave on for 15 minutes. Rinse with warm water and pat dry. Olive oil has great healing properties, moisturizes, and restores the skins surface. Pineapple helps rid the skin of dead cells.

3. Rose Oil and Honey Mask:
2 tablespoons honey
2 teaspoons almond oil
5 drops rose essential oil

Mix honey, almond and rose oil. Apply to face and neck with fingers. Relax for 15 minutes, and then rinse off with warm water. Pat dry. Rose oil is particularly effective for treating wrinkles, puffiness, and dry skin.

4. Aloe Hydrating Mask:
One tablespoon Aloe Vera Gel
One tablespoon milk

Mix aloe vera gel and milk together and apply to face. Let dry for 15 minutes, and then rinse with warm water. Pat dry.

5. Papaya Face Peel:
1 packet unflavored gelatin
3 tablespoons distilled water
1 papaya, peeled and seeded

In a saucepan, combine the gelatin and water and dissolve the gelatin over low heat. Place papaya in a blender and blend thoroughly. Strain and save the liquid. In a small bowl, combine gelatin and papaya juice. Refrigerate for about 20 minutes or until the gelatin is just beginning to set. Spread gelatin over face and neck and relax for 15 minutes. Rinse off with a soft sponge or cloth dipped in warm water. This is great for removing dead skin cells.

There you have it! Of course, you can always go out and purchase prepared skin care products. But, if you like to "make your own"; these are some of the best. Have fun, and don't eat the masks!

As we age, our skin texture and coloring changes. The products and methods we use on our face should reflect those changes. Following are some tips and tricks to help you look your sexy best every day.

Dos:

*Do choose natural rose, peach, and coral-toned colors that enhance your skin tone. Usually, the best formula is one that is moisture rich or cream-based.

*Mascara is a MUST! Use it generously on top lashes, and slightly more sparingly on lower lashes. If you find it ends up "creeping" under your eyes, change formulas until you find one that doesn't.

*Eyeliner is fabulous also, but play with the look until you find one that doesn't close your eyes in. Lower liner is tricky; use very, very sparingly and use lighter colors. Ask your friends to be truly honest with you and tell you if you need a change. Or, better yet, go to a makeup counter for an update.

*Do keep eye shadow colors in a more natural palate. Browns, taupe, deep plum, khaki, or a very, very subtle blue (a deep shade) are all fine - but keep your hand light!

*Do wear a long-lasting lipstick, and then apply a soft, clear semi-gloss over it throughout the day to keep lips moist and supple.

*Do use blush, but smile and apply it only to the apples of your cheeks. Don't try to do any makeup artist tricks with shading - go for the natural look.

*Do use foundation, but my suggestion is to use the mineral powders. First, use a concealer on the spots that need covering, and then use a brush to add the mineral powder all over your face. I started using it last year and I have never had more compliments. It is natural, yet covers. I LOVE this stuff!

Don'ts:

*Don't use pearlized or shimmery makeup; it exaggerates the changing texture of your skin (aka lines and wrinkles).

*Don't wear vibrant and/or wildly contrasting colors. They are too aging.

*Don't wear a heavy, red, matte lipstick. Yikes, I just think Grandma.

*Don't, for the love of all that is sacred, draw on your eyebrows. If yours are thinning, or you have over plucked, just use a brush and an eyebrow colored powder. If they are very thin, you will need to use a brow pencil in small, short strokes; then cover with the colored powder. I can promise you that it is aging and distracting to have one thin, drawn-on line.

Ladies, you can look better. You just have to make adjustments to your skin and face. Change is NOT a bad thing, it is a NEW thing. Embrace it and look great!

The quickest way to style is through the use of accessories. They give pizzazz and flair to any outfit. They can update a bland and boring dress. They make a boring pair of jeans and white shirt into a designer look. You can have a much smaller wardrobe, just by having a good supply of accessories. The people that always catch your eye and seem to look great are the ones who know how to accessorize. Think about it! Here are some tips for making the most of your appearance.

Whenever you speak, you want to be noticed. The best way to do that is to wear appropriate earrings, necklaces, and bracelets. Silver gives off energy, gold takes it in. Whenever you are doing a public speaking engagement, wear silver. Make sure you compliment your face shape with your necklace as well as your earrings (I will get into shapes in just a moment). There is power in bracelets dating back to the Roman Empire. Always stack them (wear more than one). However, if you are in an environment where it must be quiet, make sure they do not "clink", but you can still stack. Always wear a nice "right hand ring" - it draws the eye. Also, everyone needs a "check writing ring" that is flashy, fun, makes you feel good, and makes others wonder whether it is real or not.

If you are going out for an intimate dinner - wear gold. It is warm and inviting. You want to wear woods, beads, and earthy tones. As a side note, wear soft, luxurious clothing. Everything about you should be warm and alluring. This is not the time for silver or cool colors. I don't think you ever want to be thought of as cold when you are going out for a romantic, intimate dinner. Okay, back to jewelry.

Some rules for jewelry:

· The three inch rule - If a necklace falls below a neckline, it should extend at least 3" below the neckline for a balanced look (or it can be 3" above).

· If you have a larger body, wear larger earrings; a smaller body - smaller earrings. Do not let your earrings take over your petite frame or visa versa.

· Be sure your earrings compliment the shape of your face. If you have a round face, don't wear round earrings. If you have a long face, don't wear drop earrings.

· A round face looks best with drop or oblong earrings. Longer necklaces work best to add length.

· A square face looks best with round or oval earrings. Longer necklaces are the most flattering.

· A heart shaped face looks best with earrings that are wider at the bottom than they are at the top. Chokers or princess type necklaces work well with this face shape.

· An oval shaped face looks good with any earrings; the same goes for the necklaces.

Essential pieces of jewelry to have:

Earrings;
· Gold button type in shiny, brushed, antique or hammered finish with a shape to flatter your face type

· Silver - any geometric shape (square, triangle, octagon) in shiny, brushed or hammered finish, large or small to flatter your face type

· Pearls - small or large, dangle or not - to flatter your face type

· Hoops - can be more square or triangular if round is not flattering to your face type.

Necklaces:
· Short, single strand of pearls

· Long, single strand of pearls - can be knotted mid-way for a fun look

· Gold or silver chains (depending on which color looks best on you); one that hits above the collar bone, one that is longer (about 24")

· A few playful necklaces

Rings:
· A few nice pieces, some more simple than others, in gold or silver

· A "check writing ring" for fun

Pins:
· These are flirty and fashion making. They can also be attached to a chain to make a bold necklace.

Remember, accessories give you the flexibility to create your own style without spending a lot of money. You can look "put together" without a lot of effort. Play in your jewelry one evening, and find out which combinations look good. It will pay off because you will get noticed!