THIS IS WHAT 51 LOOKS LIKE
BRigitte waRD is a stylist. She lives in Monmouthshire, South wales, with her husband, trent. they have two children, Zoe, 24, and Zara, 20.
GET FLAWLESS LEGS
EVERY morning, I apply Garnier Summer Body Light Gradual Tan Moisturiser (£9.99,
superdrug.com). It makes my skin so soft and gives you a lovely, natural glow. For a special occasion, I spritz my legs with Sally Hansen Airbrush Legs Light Glow (£6.66,
boots.com). It’s in between a fake tan and foundation, so is great for covering blemishes such as pigmentation and veins.
EXERCISE THERAPIST
I USED to think I wasn’t a runner, but I did a half-marathon aged 43 — after getting a personal trainer. She recommended running, as it’s a great way to lose weight and get back into exercise because you can build it up gradually. I see her every six months for a maintenance programme. She is 53 and I think it’s helpful to work with someone who understands you and your body. It’s like having a therapist.
NAIL VARNISH BREAK
ONCE a fortnight, I get my nails done professionally (£30). It’s important to treat yourself to something small. If my nails, hair and make-up are right, I feel confident and put together. It’s part of my whole image. However, every six months, I take a month off to give my nails a break and keep them in good condition.
TRY COUPLES DIETING
FOR the past few years, my husband and I have done ‘Dry January’, as we’d both put on weight. After giving up alcohol for a month, I always lose a couple of pounds, and feel fitter and fresher. Now we only drink on weekends, to have a balance. We cook from scratch more often, too — particularly vegetable soups. This motivates me more than dieting on my own.
MIDLIFE STYLIST
AT 46, I set up a fashion blog and changed career to become a stylist. I think a lot of women can feel like they’ve lost their identity in their 50s — you don’t want to be frumpy, or ‘mutton dressed as lamb’.
I always recommend starting with a bra fitting, to give your clothes a better shape. Then I help clients build a capsule wardrobe of 70 per cent classics, which you can supplement with trend pieces. I love seeing women grow in confidence.
This is my second act: it’s never too late.