Mother Jean dispenses sane fashion advice for fall 2012

expensive, and W magazine and the Style section of The New York Times too outrageous, Mother Jean gives her annual fashion advice for fall 2012.

-Shop your closet: The possibilities are strong that what you already have, accessorized with a fall color such as burnt almond, leaf green or coral, will look just as good as what the stores are showing. One of the newer cropped jackets can team up with many pairs of your existing slacks, or a new scarf can revive an old cashmere sweater.

While fashion pundits now advise us that the “no white after Labor Day” rule is a thing of the past, I do think that white jeans or a polyester blend paired with a autumn-colored sweater or blouse looks fine, but lightweight white cotton or florals should now be banished to the basement or attic till next year.

-Put away the shorts: When it is really hot, they are a practical choice, but let’s face it, many of us (other than the bobbies in Bermuda) don’t look that great in shorts. Also, put away the flip-flops and sandals. It is time for real shoes or at least, darker colored, strap walking shoes.

-Accessories make the outfit: Early in my career, I was responsible for accessorizing the clothes chosen for fashion publicity photos. I learned that a well-chosen pin, scarf or blouse can add spice to a simple suit or dress. My own favorite accessory is a good-looking or unusual handbag, and I admit to owning quite a few.

For ladies “of a certain age” whose size, like mine, dictates that they can’t wear extreme fashion and whose budget and feet require they remain comfortably conservative, a unique, statement-making handbag can bring zing to an otherwise simple outfit.

T.J. Maxx always has a wonderful selection, and end-of-the-season sales at the Clinton Outlet can “bag” you a bargain.

-True elegance is wearing what becomes you: This season or any season, knowing what looks good on you and wearing it with your own personal flair, is what fashion is all about. Boots and leggings may be “in” and look great on slender, twentysomethings, but they can look ridiculous on a mature woman. If purple is this season’s color, but it makes you look as though you just left Yale-New Haven Hospital, don’t wear it.

Sleeveless styles are out unless you have arms like Michele Obama, and I’ve yet to see a woman who can walk gracefully while wearing stiletto heels.

-Take a good look in the mirror: Before leaving the house. Often you may have added one accessory too many or you will see a view from the rear that surprises you.

Then, when all seems right, smile and give yourself a compliment. Feeling good about yourself is a great way to start any day.

Contact Jean Cherni, certified senior adviser for Senior Living Solutions and Pearce Plus, a helpful, full-service program for seniors contemplating a move, at jeancherni@sbcglobal.net or 15 The Ponds at 101 Hotchkiss Grove, Branford 06405.

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