It’s time for Ageless Style. Once a month Elizabeth from the Vintage Contessa and I feature someone over 50 with great style. This month I have the pleasure of interviewing Susan Blakey from the much-loved blog Une Femme d’ un Certain Age. I have been following Susan for years but have recently gotten to know her better through some recent collaborations we have done together on the blog. Hopefully, we will be able to meet in person one day soon. Susan is charming, full of fun, and a consummate professional. She has recently had her colors done and I love her new look. Welcome to Ageless Style-Susan Blakey.
How would you describe your style?
Simple, casual, relaxed but neat, a little quirky, whimsical, and (as of recently) colorful.
Who Inspires You and Why ?
Gosh, it’s a long list! I’m inspired by so many style bloggers and Instagrammers, not necessarily because their style is similar to mine, but because they have a strong sense of their style and aren’t afraid to own it. Sometimes it’s about how someone mixes patterns or textures, or plays with proportion, or just seems to be having fun with what they’re wearing. Here are just a few @thatsnotmyage, @lindavwright, @brendakinsel, @kimair, @karywearsit, @bagandaberet, @stylecrone, @no_fear_of_fashion, @therealchiclife @iconaccidental @misjabeijers @glendakharrison @thecancerfashionista
I know you have recently had your colors done. How has that changed your style, and would you recommend it to others?
I’ve pretty much done an about-face with regard to color. Before, I rarely wore color, and now I rarely get dressed without it. It’s also helped me to “lighten up” about style, to experiment more, to have more fun, and not take it all so seriously. Working from a palette of colors has helped me to be a more discriminating shopper. And I’ve been pleasantly surprised to learn that even a colorful wardrobe can be cohesive if the colors and styles are chosen carefully. Everything goes together.
I would ABSOLUTELY recommend this to others, especially if they’re feeling stuck with their style, or would like to wear more color but aren’t sure which colors best suit them.
What is your favorite accessory?
At one time I was a total handbag junkie, but lately, I’ve been all about fun shoes and jewelry, especially rings. When the weather is cooler, I love wearing a beautiful scarf.
What are your favorite color combinations? I know that has recently changed. You look fabulous by the way!
Thank you!! I find aqua is one of those colors that just seems to look good with everything. I love aqua + green, aqua + yellow, and aqua + butterscotch or cinnamon brown.
Do you have a signature piece that defines your style?
Jeans, probably. And I still love a good jacket.
I know you are petite. What advice do you have for other petite women over 50?
It’s not just about height, but also proportions. Don’t let anyone tell you that you “can’t” wear something because you’re petite. You are not obligated to try to look taller. And never underestimate the power of alterations!
What are your favorite beauty products and why can’t you live without them?
#1 for sure is a mineral-based sunscreen! Skin cancer runs in my family, and I’ve worn sunscreen daily since my early 30’s. I like Elta MD and Versed. I like Colleen Rothschild skincare, but also try out and use a lot of different brands and products. I use prescription Retin-A most nights, and it’s really helped keep my skin from looking dull. I’m hooked on Makeover Workshop Re-Creation Lip Treatment; it’s one of my HG products. It keeps my lips from flaking, makes them smoother and fuller-looking. And Chanel Les Beiges Water Fresh Tint Foundation is AMAZING. Goes on sheer but just smooths and evens everything out.
Do you have any style rules that you live by, or do you choose to break the rules
I’m a believer in “tools, not rules.” I like having a style framework and often come up with formulas that simplify getting dressed. Though sometimes if a piece or combination outside that framework really speaks to me, I’ll go “off-piste.”
What are your favorite online and or boutique sources?
We really don’t have many independent boutiques nearby; almost everything is either a single brand store or department store. And almost no one carries Petites in the physical stores anymore, so I mostly shop online.
For basics, I look to J.Crew, Everlane, Chico’s, Eileen Fisher, Nordstrom. I’ve found some fun and quirky tops from Chinti & Parker (watch for sales!). The current fashion aesthetic (ruffles, florals, poofy & oversized pieces) doesn’t do much for me, so I’m hoping for a shift.
Do you have a particular diet and or exercise regime that you follow
Not that I’ve been able to stick to recently! 😉 I have a private Pilates session once a week that’s really improved my strength & posture, and I do some exercises on my own in between. I try to walk at least 30 minutes per day.
Do you have any anti-aging foods and or supplements that you recommend?
Last year I switched to a (mostly) plant-based diet and saw my cholesterol numbers and glucose levels improve dramatically. I try to avoid a lot of processed foods. (Wine doesn’t count, right? 😆) The only supplement I’m currently taking is for a hair regrowth clinical trial. I won’t know what it is until the trial concludes in September, but I do notice some improvement so will probably continue taking it afterward.
What advice do you have for women over 50? You have inspired so many of us with your blog.
Thanks so much! I think my advice (which I’d hope would apply to women of any age) would be to have fun with style, don’t be afraid to try something new, travel as much as you can, and don’t shortchange yourself. Buy fewer but better pieces as much as you are able. Keep learning, keep growing. We each have our own gifts to bring to the table; don’t be afraid to share yours.
GET SUSAN’S LOOK
Thank you so much Susan for a peek into your personal style. I love your mantra that you believe in “tools not rules”. Such sage advice for those of us over 50 and beyond. We were delighted to have you here on Ageless Style-Susan Blakey. Be sure to check out Susan’s wonderful blog Un Femme d’ Un Certain Age. You won’t be disappointed. Thank you for being an inspiration to all of us “at a certain age”.
You might also enjoy Ageless Style-Sherry Hart where I interviewed my pal Sherry.
Now pop over and visit the Contessa and her latest victim. I know she is really excited about today’s feature. Don’t forget to leave a comment! It means so much to those we are featuring.
Susan is truly an inspiration when it comes to taking that leap and dressing in colors. I’m doing it a bit with my home, and last winter I began to add sweaters to my wardrobe in deep rusts and mustards. I don’t know if I’ll ever be a fan of bright red or green. I trust the earthy colors. I’m with Susan on fashion as it is for the petite gal. I have some weight to lose, but I’m just 5’2, and I have always avoided cropped wide leg pants, and long tops. Lo and behold, I bought a few pieces last summer and had the linen pants hemmed by a tailor. They are my go to now! Just a cute tee and some bold jewelry pieces and I’m set for many occasions.
Thanks for these wonderful interviews. I just came from Elizabeth’s. All my best to Susan, she sounds lovely.
Jane 😘
wonderful to know the woman behind one of my fav blogs!
another great choice & story about Susan!
I’ve enjoyed Susan’s fun and informative blog for many years and it’s great to see her featured here! Love her new colorful style, the Trina Turk caftan being my favorite on her! Susan writes the best travel and packing posts and always shares great beauty and skin care information too. I really enjoy Ageless Style. Thank you Cindy and Susan!
Wonderful post Cindy – I love your great questions! Thanks for the introduction to Susan – I’m going to hop over to her blog right now! 🙂 Happy Friday!!
Susan is at once cute and elegant. Her best accessory is her brilliant smile. I like her confidence and suspect she is a lot of fun to be around. Her colors are mostly opposite of mine, yet, she inspires me to try more color. Cindy, thank you and the Contessa for doing this for all of us. It’s interesting to look at what other gals in our age realm are doing and gives us ideas.
I have always liked Susan’s style and the color looks fantastic on her. I especially love her in the Trina Turk number!! I was just talking to a hairdresser and she said as we age we should all be wearing more color as we lose a lot of it in our skin and hair. It’s rejuvenating and Susan looks so pretty in all these. Love these style posts! Susan you are always inspiring! xo
I love Susan’s beautiful smile. And the fact that she is petite (like me) make her my style guru ! Great post.
Mary Ann
Is there a company in major cities to get your “colors done”?
Hi Melinda
I know that the company that Susan used red leopard does online color consultations
I love Susan’s style and her blog. I often buy almost her whole outfit! I’m petite and live out on the end of Long Island but I am in Manhattan a lot. Susan’s style is very similar to mine! I love her colours and that she features a variedd price-range of great clothes. I especially love her travel wardrobes. And her scarves! And the silk tunic and Diana she featured recently.
Hi Jeanne
I am so glad you enjoyed this feature. Susan is an inspiration to all isn’t she?
Well, Susan is just adorable!!! She just looks like a fun time😁. Love her color choices and outfit ideas. Good on her to change things up and I think we could be friends because she seems to embrace jeans like I do! They ARE a staple you know! Thanks for introducing us to this delightful woman❤️
I agree Linda. I never realized what a staple jeans are for me until I started doing a little fashion on the blog. Honestly , the only pants I wear are jeans except for linen!
I love your chic style and strong color choices! And great beauty tips. What a great selection, Cindy!
Hi Tarik
Thanks for joining us! Love your style!!
I’ve been reading Susan also for over a year and really look forward to her appearance in my emails. My seasons are the opposite but I still learn something every time. She seems such a lovely , friendly person who is always willing to learn. Thank you for featuring her.
I love your comment Dee. I think you are right about your observations on Susan. She is much loved in the blogging community for her style and professionalism.
Cindy,
Susan’s style is lovely. The colors she is wearing in the pictures certainly are complimentary to her. I have been ready for some color lately, black, white and beige are beginning to bore me in my own wardrobe.
Karen
I agree Karen. I feel like we all need a little color right now since times are so grim. It just makes one feel better. Susan’s new style is a breath of fresh air.
Hi Cindy,
Wow, what a colorful transformation! Susan looks great and really has her style nailed down. I like her new hipper shoes now that she’s retired, too! She seems to glow in these photos, looks happy and comfortable in everything, and I like her clever “tools, not rules” philosophy!
XO Heidi
Hi Heidi
Don’t you love the tools not rules philosophy…we all need to remember that one!!
Thank you Cindy for the insightful interview. I have recently started following Susan and I so appreciate her energy and creativity and independence! I love her boldness and her sense of fun. She rocks!
Happy weekend,
Thanks so much Cindy! I’m honored and thrilled to be included.
I’ve read Susan for years! She’s super stylish and one of the nicest bloggers I’ve had the good fortune to meet.
Love all the color and Susan’s spunky style!!
WOW! I had stopped following Susan because her clothing choices didn’t fit with my tropical Florida life, but after seeing her “in color”, I will have to start following her again. What a difference. I noticed the bright colors immediately.
Hi Kathy
Doesn’t she look fabulous in color? She has inspired me to be more colorful as well!
Hi Kathy
Doesn’t Susan look fabulous in color? So chic!!
I have followed Susan for years and have seen her come alive in color. As a color lover myself, I am happy to see more women discover how vibrant and alive they look when they ditch the black.
You are so right Pam. I love black but color does bring women our age alive!
What a lovely treat to see Susan here. I’ve been a follower and friend for ages. I love your new look with colors. I’ve been worried about wearing aqua with grey hair. I thought it was too cliche looking. What do you think? I always go to Susans blog for travel inspiration and ideas, Susan is a very thoughtful shopper and traveler. She’s also a lot of fun! Love seeing you here. When this covid thing is all over, let’s so lunch. Great choice Cindy.
Hi Sandra
Susan is so lovely isn’t she? When I was looking for pics for this article I noticed a few with you!
GOOD MORNING SUSAN!HOW LOVELY TO SEE YOU HERE ON CINDY’s BLOG!
I AM STILL WAITING for MY YELLOW SANDALS I BOUGHT BECAUSE OF YOUR POST!!!!YOU INFLUENCER YOU!!!
HAPPY to hear you are wearing MORE COLOR……………..it makes ONE more UP BEAT AS WELL.
I bet YOU are stopped frequently about your SUNSHINE SPIRT?
Do you do PILATES REFORMER or CLASS?I did the REFORMER three times a week and LOVED IT!5 months of NOTHING and I am FEELING IT!
BE WELL.
XX