Fashion Rules for the Mature Woman Over 40

Hair. A chic hairstyle is a must have. A classic bob style suits most women. Seek advice from a professional hair stylist. Look at highlights, low lights or a colour change. A professional hair cut can take years off you.

Invest in a regular manicure and pedicure. Not only will you feel good, but well manicured nails show you care about your appearance.

Make-up. Throw away old make-up. Cosmetics should be replaced regularly and make-up brushes washed. Go for a more natural day time look. For an evening look concentrate on either eyes or lips not both. Vampish eyes and bright red lips is not a look for the over 40's.

Dresses': Nothing more sexier than a classic dress. Whether, you choose an A-line style, The Shift or a Maxi Dress. The A-line style dress is very flattering for almost any figure. This is because the waistline is raised above the natural waist and settles under the bust line. Fabulous for: shorter petite figures and those who carry a little weight around the waistline. The empire line style of this dress creates the illusion of length and skims the body, camouflaging wide hips and a thick waist. The Shift dress is a timeless classic and is one of the most versatile dress styles that has stood the test of time. It's tailored enough for business and sexy enough for evening wear. A sophisticated classic black shift is a must for every woman's wardrobe. The absolute LBD. The Maxi Dress: So versatile and flattering to most figures. Every woman should possess a maxi. It is stylish and on trend. Perfect for daytime or evening. A great holiday look. Choose a glamorous flat sandal to compliment the dress and of course a pedicure!

Handbags: choose a bag shape that is in contrast to your body type. Voluptuous or curvy women would do well to choose a rectangular, longer
shape, whereas a tall, willowy, slim figure would be better off going for a slouchy, rounded one. If size-zero celebrities can get away with wearing the latest styles in oversized hand bags then if you are slight and petite, so can you! If you want to flatter your waist then choose a bag that finishes around this part of your torso. If you want to draw attention to your bust, shoulders or neck then go for a short-handled bag or a clutch

Tops and Trousers: Choose a classic shirt or longer length tops that will make you look slimmer. Forget those tight tops where you assets are on show. Trousers: Look for fluid and feminine lines, select trousers that are cut to flatter, that give an elegant silhouette. If choosing linen make sure they are lined and are a linen cotton mix so will not crease as easily.

Finally: Walk tall, be proud and be confident in yourself. Enjoy being a woman.

"While clothes may not make the woman, they certainly have a strong effect on her self-confidence - which, I believe, does make the woman."
Mary Kay Ashe