What happens when you style a professional photographer and a retired rocket scientist? They become one of the most inspiring and fashionable couples around.
Linda Ford of North Olmsted wanted to refresh and streamline the remnants of her former corporate life to better reflect her current passion, capturing milestone life moments as a photographer. She started with her closet and turned to Traci McBride, a wardrobe stylist and founder of STYLEDbyTee.com.
“Working with a wardrobe styl- ist gave me a freedom I never had before,” Ford says. “Learning why certain items worked and others didn’t was eyeopening – it wasn’t me, it was the cut of the clothes.
I have more space in my closet, clothes I love that express me and mix into so many unique outfits, and a “Look Book” so I just effortlessly recreate outfits every day. My style is fun and expressive, which is how I live my life.”
Her husband Bill, says, “It’s priceless to have a wardrobe that easily transitions and layers into my on-the-go life, supporting my beautiful wife on photo shoots, enjoying activities with our grand kids and traveling around the world. “My style is colorful and complementary to the love of my life.”
CLOSET DETOX
• Avoid hanging onto sizes that no longer fit you; they are using valuable real estate in the closet. Remove what doesn’t reflect who you are now, andm embrace your ‘now’ body.
• Fit is next. Try on every item in front of a mirror. Note what needs to be tailored and consider the costs involved. Do you love the item enough to reinvest in it?
• Proportion is key. Too long or too wide for your body looks sloppy.
• Subtle details make all the difference. Mix pin stripes and plaid as Bill did in the photo. Play with your clothes and create new combinations by shopping in your closet.
• Pitch tired, dated or uncomfortable accessories.
• Find a friend. It’s difficult to be objective about yourself – find others who see your best assets and consider their opinions. Need support to best use your closet space? Wholly-Organized. com specializes in people 50 and older who are ready to maximize their spaces.
SHARE AS YOU RENEW, REFRESH AND REJUVENATE
Give back by donating those items you’ve identified that no longer honor your body and renewed style. Consider dressforsuccess.org/cleveland for office attire for women. Guys, share your items with thecitymission.org. Recycle your money and sell your clothes on consignment by visiting itssoyouboutique.com or if you prefer cash on the spot, clothesmentor.com.
TIPS TO REFRESH YOUR WARDROBE FOR GUYS AND GALS
It’s easy to bring more color into your life and wardrobe.
Have a Power Color Analysis done and build a wardrobe in your best palette.
If dark has been your go-to, bring in color with your shoes or purse. Guys, move outside your comfort zone and add shirts, polos or socks with a pop of bold color.
Get color next to your face.
Add a statement necklace, tie or scarf in a pop of your best color.
Be aware of how different color shades influence your face, eyes, blemishes and the delicate skin under your eyes.
Eyewear is a daily accessory — have some fun with it and stop playing it safe with black. If your skin tone is warm, go for tortoise or army green. Cool undertones? Go for red or navy.
TIPS TO REJUVENATE SKIN FOR EVERYONE
Irene Hatziantoniou, skin expert and owner of North Coast Aesthetic Center in Westlake (NCASkincare.com) says, “A few fine lines here, a hint of gray there, are normal changes of aging. We cannot stop the aging process but we can slow it down. With good skin rejuvenation products and facial treatments for your skin type that don’t involve surgery (this is a key factor), there are plenty of options for women and men over 50 who want to enhance the natural beauty of their skin.”
KEY TIPS YOU CAN DO AT HOME
1. STOP SMOKING – smoking prematurely ages skin
2. EAT RIGHT AND HYDRATE — skin will glow
3. PROTECT SKIN FROM THE SUN — use sunscreen
4. USE PROPER CLEANSER AND MOISTURIZER for your skin type
5. TRY TOPICAL VITAMIN C to give skin a boost
