Find figure-flattering clothes
Dear Answer Angel Ellen: I am an almost-56-year-old teacher who has a decent figure. I’m looking for clothes that are more fitted and show my figure but are also age-appropriate and not too sexy/clingy (as my figure isn’t THAT decent). I also feel like when I buy women’s professional clothing it is SO BORING. Ideas welcome!
— Jane J.
Dear Jane: Your quest should not be as hard as it is. But that goes for a lot of us shoppers who aren’t asking that much and yet find our choices limited no matter what our size or age. Some brands do offer what you’re looking for — a leaner silhouette. Calvin Klein sheath styles, available at reasonable prices at department stores, are a solid choice for you in a range of basic and bright colors in the $90 range. T Tahari sheaths (such as The Tonya) at $118 or so, also at department stores, hit just above the knee and are figure-flattering, not a bit dowdy. Sweater dresses at Banana Republic (bananarepublic.gap. com) in the $150 range are figure-flattering for your lean physique.
If these choices are a little too basic for you, that could be a good thing, since you can dress them up or down with jewelry, colored tights and a wide range of footwear from boots to strappy sandals.
Dear Answer Angel Ellen: I wanted your advice about leggings. I am 77 years old, 5-foot-7, 155 pounds, soooooooo can I wear leggings if I wear a shirt/ top that will cover my butt? I have tunic-style tops and think they would be OK, but wanted your take on it.
— Ann N.
Dear Ann: My take is go for it! This is a good look for women of any age and size as long as the top covers your backside when you bend at the waist. As my mom used to tell me, “The legs are the last thing to go.”
In other words, leggings that show off the legs can call attention to our best feature as we become interested in guiding attention away from some other parts (like gravity’s pull on upper arms and midriff, to name two).
Angelic readers
For reader Ruth F., who was looking for a makeup makeover, Carol P. says, “I suggest that she contact a Mary Kay representative. She will come to your house and do makeovers and offer suggestions on colors and types of makeup. They have lots of samples and can leave them for you to try. If you decide to order, they can ship directly to you.”
Andrea and Marlene W. (both have been Mary Kay consultants) are, not surprisingly, big fans. Marlene writes: “They offer ‘try before you buy,’ in your home. Keep in mind a good makeover starts with a good daily facial regimen. Go to the Mary Kay website (marykay.com) and see what they have to offer or use the site’s ‘consultant locator’ to find an expert near you.”
Now it’s your turn
Send your questions, rants, tips, favorite finds — on style, shopping, makeup, fashion and beauty — to answerangelellen@gmail. com.