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Ageless Style Series-Mary Ann Pickett of Classic Casual Home

 

Welcome to the third installment of our Ageless Style Series.  Each month Elizabeth (the Vintage Contessa) and I interview a stylish woman over 50.    You can check out Elizabeth’s post here.
I am happy to say this month I am featuring my friend Mary Ann Pickett; the quintessential “girl next door”.  Mary Ann of Classic Casual Home and I connected through blogging. When they relocated to San Francisco, we met at the Design Center and became fast friends.  Mary Ann has a refreshing “classic casual” style that is all her own.  She is cute, genuine, and charming.  Her style is natural, effortless and chic. I had to “twist” Mary Ann’s arm a little bit (no a lot!) to get her to participate in this series because she doesn’t think of herself as stylish.   I think you will clearly disagree with that. She always looks great without “trying too hard”, a trap some women our age can inadvertently  fall into.
red flats

How Would You Describe Your Style?
I think your “Ageless” description is good as I never think about my age (at 60) when shopping.  I ask myself…“Would I wear this soon? Is the fit flattering?  Is the color good on me?  Is it comfortable?”  Age isn’t one of the questions.

ann taylor white blouse (1)
What Inspires your signature style
Living in places like New York, Chicago, Paris and Florida has been influential, but I am a California girl at heart.  I was born in California and now I split my time between San Francisco and Southern California.  My style is a blend of “city” and  “weekend classic.”

What accessory Can You Not Do Without?
The diamond earrings that my husband gave me.  Also, I have a chic, little black and white accessory named, Chief.
white anthro dress with Chief

Favorite Color
I can’t pick just one.  Green or blue (or pale pink) but my closet says black and white.

Do you have a signature piece that defines your style?
I have had a black quilted Chanel handbag for years.  It’s old but it’s holding up pretty well.  It’s classic, compact and works in a variety of settings (adjectives that can also describe me)!
black jumpsuit

What are your style strengths?
Not many…why am I here again?  Here’s one:  knowing my limitations…since I’m short, I know I have to wear the clothes and not let the clothes wear me.
Madewell Tshirt Gap Denim Jacket

Do you have a style icon?
Yes,she is Cindy Hattersley.  She’s so haute right now! (did I mention Mary Ann also has a really good sense of humor?)

What are your beauty essentials that you couldn’t do without
Bronzer and Crest Teeth Whitening strips (so SoCal).  But seriously, a little bronzer can wake up tired skin and a nice smile is one of the first things people see. I also use a Bobbi Brown Retouching Wand for dark circles and Lancome Renergie moisturizer.
Do you have repeat offenders in your closet if so what are they?
Leather motorcycle jacket, skinny black and dark denim jeans, white blouses, striped t-shirts, loafers and Frye boots.
leather motorcycle jacket (1)
What advice do you have for women over 50, or over 40?
“With age there is wisdom.”  Love yourself at every age.
Play up your strengths (that’s why you won’t see me in a crop top).   Don’t wear yoga pants all day (I’ve been guilty of this).  Put a little effort forward and you will feel better about yourself.  Don’t wait until Cindy asks you to do a fashion post for her.
Tancredi Top and Chanel flats (1)
Do you have any style rules that you live by?
If necessary, get things tailored for a better fit.  That’s what the French do.  Don’t spend much on trendy items.  Splurge on a good purse or shoes.  Hit the sales rack first.
Gold accessories
What are your favorite online go to sources?
I probably do less online and more in person shopping since we have great shopping here in SF (and it puts steps on my Fitbit).  But online, I like Anthropologie for dresses and tunics, Ann Taylor and J. Crew for blouses and cardigans and Nordstrom, Madewell and Banana Republic for jeans.
Do you have a particular designer that you are drawn to?
No, not really.  My hair stylist always looks very stylish and she shops at Zara.  I love my leopard coat from there.  So, I must like the designers that Zara copies!  But I also love looking in the windows (and occasionally shopping) at Max Mara, Chanel, Celine, St. Laurent and Chloé.  If you can be in Paris during the summer or winter sales, you can get some great deals. It’s fun to buy just one perfect thing.
Anthro peasant top (1)
So what do you think? Is she the modern day Doris Day?

Thanks Pal for agreeing to do this I know you tried your hardest to get out of it.
Pop over to the vintage contessa to see who Elizabeth is interviewing.

My dad lived in Corpus Christi Texas for many years and still has property there.  Our heart goes out to all the victims of Hurricane Harvey. If you want to know how you can help go here.

I am going to TRY to get back on my twice a week blogging schedule next week.  The blog has been a little heavy on fashion lately.  Monday I will do an update post on my current design projects and Friday I will feature some favorites from the new Artful Home Catalogue.  They have some really fun things for Fall.

 

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Kelley says

    So late reading this!
    This feature on MaryAnn is wonderful. I loved her comment about not letting the clothes wear you because its something I always think about when I get dressed too. This is such a great series and shows how different women have completely unique and individual style. No one seems to be a trend lover yet everyone seems very current. I suppose that comes with feeling good inside as we mature and know who we are and learn to love ourselves a little more.

    Thanks so much Cindy and Mary Ann…..; )) And Elizabeth too!

  2. Leslie Harris says

    Cindy I've been meaning to get back here and tell you and Mary Ann how much I enjoyed this post! I could seriously have fun in MaryAnn's closet I wear similar clothes. And I agree. She is adorable in the fresh pretty Doris Day style. It's really been fun to see these 'fashion' pictures, this has turned out to be such an inspiring series. You and Elizabeth are doing a great job 🙂

  3. Katie Clooney says

    I love Mary Ann's blog and she is positively darling! She has great taste in clothes and accessories, especially watches (I have the same one). I thoroughly enjoy this series. Enjoy your week.

  4. Kris Jarrett says

    I LOVED this post – I think both you and Mary Ann are super stylish and always look so put together!!! And I adore her black and white accessory! 🙂

  5. Robin in Umbria says

    This is a wonderful post. I love Mary Ann's style. Always spot on, and casual. Her blog is so upbeat, and I adore her interior design. Thanks for hosting this series with Elizabeth. I really love it.

  6. Anonymous says

    I'm glad Mary Ann finally relented and let you feature her! I don't much like shopping but now I have a few ideas! I'd love a natural colored tunic as shown in the last picture…is there a link for this somewhere? Would be great for our hot Texas weather that always seems to continue late into the fall…thank you!

  7. Anonymous says

    I'm so happy you're featuring Mary Ann in this series. And you, did a great job describing her sweet personality. She's definitely one to follow, always positive, in a good mood, and exuding youthfulness. I think her personality is truly ageless, but of course she's always put together in her own tasteful and casual style.

  8. annie says

    Yes! The modern day Doris Day! I adore Mary Ann and she always looks elegant! And she's as warm, nice and fun to be around as she is beautiful! I hope one day I get to see you both in the same city! I love Mary Ann's style –Cindy, I love this series and love your style too!

  9. Gail Storti says

    I'm so glad you convinced Mary Ann to do your Ageless Style post, does she not look like a professional model? Sign that girl up. Great photos and love every style she wore. She is chic no matter what she wears! Now you're both my style icons! Happy Labor Day, Cindy! ����

  10. kim at northerncalstyle. says

    Mary Ann is adorable and totally a modern Doris! She is chic and sounds similar to me as far as her shopping. I think that is a very California girl thing- a little high, a little low and a good mix. She clearly has an eye as all you designers do! loving this series you and Elizabeth are doing. So fun to read. Have a good weekend.Praying for all those on Texas and we have given too. I hope it all helps. SO heartbreaking.
    xo Kim

  11. 1010ParkPlace says

    Mary Ann has a polished, classic style. Yes, a modern Doris Day! Like Mary Ann, I'm always put together, even when going to the gym. It makes me feel better, knowing I have makeup, hair and a stylish twist to my outfit. Cindy, I live in San Antonio, so many of my friends have been hit hard/rescued from the top floor of their homes in South Texas. At one point, watching the news, I just broke down in tears. It's more than I can fathom. Thanks for the link to help, Brenda

  12. Celia Becker @ After Orange County says

    Thank you Cindy for showing us the personal side of the beautiful & talented blogger we all admire. After reading your post I can see that Mary Ann is a woman of my own heart too, as I share so many of her values and ways of thinking about beauty, fashion and life after 50. Your series with La Contessa is much appreciated, as it helps us more mature women know we are not alone, not to mention, helps us with the challenges of aging. Thank you!

    • Cindy says

      Thanks Celia I am so happy we decided to do this series as well. I love hearing how women our age face the challenges of beauty and fashion!

  13. Karen says

    Cindy,
    I love both your and Mary Ann's style. Classic and always fresh. This is a fun feature and I'm so happy Mary Ann was willing to be interviewed. You are both my fashion gurus.
    xo,
    Karen

    • Cindy says

      Mary Ann always looks darling and owns her own style. What you see is what you get! She is as beautiful on the inside as she is on the outside!

  14. Nancy Powell says

    I loved this post and have always admired Mary Ann- and Cindy!! You two would be in my close circle of friends, I just know it. Thanks for keeping it real(over 60). Xoxox

  15. cherie at stylenudge.com says

    What a wonderful post Cindy! I agree with Sandra, Mary Ann does have effortless, classic style and her smile really is as big part of it. I guess that's Doris Day too. She also had a great smile. And, my favorite accessory of her's is her Boston Terrier, Chief. I grew up with and my mom bred Boston Terriers – love them!!! So nice to get to know both, Cindy and Mary Ann, of you better!

  16. Anonymous says

    What a fun installment, Cindy. Mary Ann sounds like a gal I'd love to meet! Effortless, classic style. Fab! Karen (@figandscallion)

  17. michele says

    So fun to get to know Mary Ann a little better! I love her sensibility and effortless approach to fashion and style. She's tiny like moi and knows how to work it! 🙂

  18. Jan Walton says

    Mary Ann is AMAZING. I love her. She is kind, talented, smart, and a delight to be around. I envy her fashion style! Can you please be my personal shopper, Mary Ann? We already know what a wonderful decorator she is! Every room she has helped me with is a jewel. She has impeccable taste and is patient with my indecisiveness. I'm so fortunate to have found her. Thank you Mary Ann.

  19. Sandra Sallin says

    Mary Ann looks so great because she isn't trying. I'd call it effortless style. She just gets herself together and out the door. Great American sportswear look. Plus a delightful sense of humor. Taste and style that doesn't call attention to herself. She's got enough confidence to just look good!!! Must use those white strips!!!Lovely seeing you here.

    • Cindy says

      Sandy you always leave the most thoughtful comments. I am so glad we all connected…we need to plan that girls weekend when you are back to normal!!

    • JenT says

      Ditto what Sandra said. I was going to leave a comment but Sandra's is so good, and I completely agree, so DITTO! Well done Mary Ann. You rocked this assignment. 🙂

  20. othello says

    What a wonderful interview! Cherie is delightful and her smile is so engaging! She is so lovely, warm, easy and without an ounce of pretension! She is the woman I would want to have visit my home for coffee or for a glass of wine. Cherie would make anyone feel at ease and welcome. Thank you for introducing us to Cherie…now off to get some of those Crest White Strips….

  21. home before dark says

    I'm with TOF and vote Reese Witherspoon. Henry Mitchell the great garden writer wrote that we should find what grows well in our garden and plant lots of it. I think that also applies to Mary Ann's style. She found what works for her body and her life and she works it with ease, comfort and grace. Chief doesn't hurt.

  22. Taste of France says

    Honestly, I kept thinking she looks like Reese Witherspoon. Especially in some of the shots I've seen of the new Nancy Meyers (via her daughter) film "Home Again."
    Very French style. Simple, classic, not overdone and casual without being sloppy. The white dress in the third photo is typical of what French women were wearing this summer–simple, white cotton dresses. Elegant and casual at the same time.

  23. Kathysue says

    Love Mary Ann and yes indeed she is the girl next door. A natural beauty with an ease about her that is endearing. Love her style and how she puts it together!! Good job Mary Ann and thank you Cyndi for featuring such fabulous ladies!!

  24. Anonymous says

    This is a great series. Just came over from Mary Ann's blog. Love that you got her to do this!

  25. Mary Ann Pickett says

    I still can't believe you got me to do this, Cindy…but you did such a wonderful job. Love the collage at the end! I'm going to have to frame it for Howard….hahaha. Doris Day did love dogs, didn't she?

    • Cindy says

      Yes Doris Day is still a very active animal activist! You should frame that for Howard! My favorite is the one in the Tancredi shirt with your hair in a ponytail!

  26. La Contessa says

    OH YES I LOVE THAT IMAGE!"MODERN DAY DORIS DAY………I adored that SHOW!
    MARYANN is the GIRL NEXT DOOR PLUS SHE HAS A GREAT PERSONALITY!!!!!!I know this because she came to my house for my BIRTHDAY SOIREE!!!FUll of LIFE and A ZEST for LIFE!
    I CANNOT BELIEVE SHE IS 60!!!!!!!!!!!!!
    THANKS MARY ANN…………….YOU get an A PLUS from ME!!!!!!!!!
    XX

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