How not to look old

A few nights ago some girlfriends and I were out celebrating a birthday and the topic of 2 recent newspaper articles featuring Martha Stewart and Helen Mirren came up. The articles were contrasting the women's different approach to aging. Did you see it? Quite interesting... Helen at 77 is embracing her age and celebrating her ebullient and beautiful age-appropriate looks with a little help I'm sure, while Martha at 81 is fighting it all the way! She is doing everything in her power - including phtotoshop and the knife - to be on the cover of Sports Illustrated swimsuit edition.

Our conclusion?

Well first off, we decided that to look good it takes a lot more work and money than it used to! Secondly, we agreed that Martha's effort looked just too desperate and contrived, whereas Mirren wasn't trying to look 20 or 30 years younger - but just great! And she has succeeded! She is glamorous in a way that we all want to look...

So what does it take to look your best? I've put together a few of the top ways to make the most of your assets - and next month we'll take a look at "what not to do"!

No. 1

Get a great haircut and colour. This is key to looking current and youthful. Investment here is crucial! Find a makeup consultant you trust to show you tips and age appropriate skin care products that will highlight your best features. Obviously, hair and skin change as we age, so we need to adjust our care. Collagen is a great help!

No. 2

Pay close attention to undergarments that have had their best before date. Nothing kills a look more than when gravity has won! A well fitting bra makes all the difference. We love Shapeez because it not only lifts the "girls" but it also smooths the back and offers great support.

No. 3

Spend time putting together a workable wardrobe for your lifestyle. Find a stylist/great sales person you connect with and plan some classic pieces with fashionable additions that reflect your personality. Remember - Fashion changes but style remains. Or put another way - Your style is who you are but your fashion should evolve seasonally.

No. 4

Choose colour. Black is versatile and often practical, but an entire black wardrobe can be aging and make your complexion look dull. Find colours that work best for you and embrace them! If you are travelling, you can organize a basic black and white wardrobe - but add a dash of colour to brighten up the look. It also helps to be found in a crowd!

No. 5

Pay close attention to proportion when dressing. I can't stress this enough. It makes all the difference to your look. Study and practice putting together the correct shapes and lengths for your size and shape. Then, the right footwear is crucial to complete the look. It's great that there are so many fabulous, funky sneakers available that are also comfortable. It's important that if your style is the oversize look, you find a shoe that is solid enough to "ground" it.

Discover what styles look great on you and own it! Nothing looks more youthful than confidence! Flash a big (whitened) smile where ever you go and you will be irresistable!