How Would You Describe Your Style?
Casual, timeless, and tranquil. Timeless because I’m drawn to understated beauty that won’t be hemmed in by a certain era in history. Tranquil since…to be honest, for a few years there, I struggled with anxiety. Life moves fast and furious; so at 53, I am intentional about seeking peace and serenity. Casual because I’m barefoot like A LOT!
Fashion and wardrobe essentials I’m drawn to mirror design styles I favor and share on my interior design inspiration blog Hello Lovely.
I’m crazy about white decor and Nordic French style so it’s probably not surprising I love wearing white!
What inspires your signature style?
My conservative sensibilities surely are influenced by life lived in the Midwest. Peace, spirituality, and my faith are all inspiring elements as well. What is unique about me is the juxtaposition of my fondness for European sophistication with my sense of humor and tendency to not take myself too seriously.
What accessory Can You Not Do Without?
A white smile…if my teeth are bright white, I feel like me. A sense of humor leads to more smiling, and more smiling is lovely indeed!
Favorite Color?
White.
But chambray blue is a close second!
Do you have a signature piece that defines your style?
Linen shift dresses over jeans. I’m artsy and paint abstract seascapes and nightscapes on canvas…so I can’t resist a lovely linen tunic!
What are your style strengths?
Understated, sensual and unfussy.
Do you have a style icon?
I love the fearlessness and innovation of the Olsen Twins. They dress to please themselves, and since I am petite, I pay attention to their approach. I have a close friend who is an artist with impeccable taste…if she says ‘buy this immediately,’ that’s good enough for me!
What are your beauty essentials that you can’t do without?
It may sound boring, but a healthy diet!
Makeup…after all these years, it still feels like a fun art project! Have you tried It Cosmetics Bye Bye Foundation? Magical and dewy!
I’m not seeking a magic bullet, but quality skincare from Skinceuticals and SkinMedica makes a difference.
Rayban aviator sunglasses, black skinny jeans, chambray everything, black Converse sneakers, black leather moto jackets, and linen tunics.
Do you have repeat offenders in your closet…if so, what are they?
Boyfriend jeans, long sleeve white tees, and J. Crew vintage style pajama tops. My wardrobe and closet are small so I wear everything again and again!
What advice do you have for women over 50, or over 40?
Fall in love with learning, growing, and evolving. You’ll stay youthful, humble, and full of wonder.
Mindfully become a ‘don’t-know-it-all’ and discover a newfound freedom and humility which will prosper you and improve your relationships.
Do as Pema Chodron instructs: “Be kinder to yourself. And then let your kindness flood the world.”
Do you have any style rules that you live by?
Is it well made?
What are your favorite online go to sources?
Shabby Chic (Rachel Ashwell), J. Crew, Madewell, Anthropologie, Bhldn, and Ebay for vintage.
Do you have a particular designer that you are drawn to?
There aren’t many designer pieces hanging in my closet…but I admire: Chanel, Elie Saab, Erin Fetherston, and Rodarte. I love jewelry designed by Emma Cassi and Nixin. Ilse Jacobsen is a fav for outerwear (via Splendid Avenue) and Warby Parker for eyewear!
Thanks for the opportunity to reflect on ageless style, Cindy…while I’m not a fashionista, artful expression at any age adds a fun layer to life!
Thank you Michele for joining us here on Ageless Style. Be sure to visit her at Hello Lovely Studio where she shares” timeless and tranquil inspiration for interiors as well as lifestyle and the unexpected”! Pop on over to the Vintage Contessa’s blog to see who she is featuring.
Thanks for the kind words, Lisa! My favorite exercise is walking and hiking. I’m not athletic and got sort of burned out on classes at the gym. 🙂
LOVED this post. Michele’s is youthful and lovely! I feel my style is similar and I found a few new ways to wear my jeans from her 😀 Any tips on exercise routine, Michele? Or are you a natural petite? Thanks, Cindy for the share. I’ll pop over to her blog and check it out!
Wow lovely to read about this very inspiring and lovely human! I just love her style which I would call Californian. How cool she collects vintage bride’s dresses and pointe shoes! I cannot wait to check out her blog as she seems to have a very uplifting spin on life. I love seeing someone the same age as me looking so fab and living life in her own cool way. Thanks Cindy this is my favorite thing you ladies do. Have a great weekend! Kim
LOVE Michele and couldn’t wait to read more about her style. She is so down to earth in and casual and comfortable way.
Great post Cindy! You nailed it! Michele is beautiful, casual, and her poetry is deeply inspirational. She has a great blog… you two need to meet up. Thanks for highlighting her today.
It is so great to see a woman with a style completely different from mine. I love variety.
Especially wonderful was meeting you last Saturday, Cindy. A special connection!
Love, Sheila-Merle
Thank you for featuring Michele from Hello Lovely! I love her carefree style and attitude. I read her blog every day- it has amazing ideas and inspiration. Seeing someone 53 jump on a trampoline brings a smile to my face!
What a wonderful introduction to another inspiring woman!! Thanks for sharing!
XOXO
Jodie
http://www.jtouchofstyle.com
I love Michele’s blog! She has such great taste in style and in décor. And she seems like a truly warm and generous person. She inspires me every day.
I was so excited to see Michele on featured on your blog today. I follow Hello
Lovely and not just for the always lovely, peaceful design but for the poetic words that waft across her every post. I feel she is a truly grounded, tender and loving person. Michele liberally doses her posts with Joy.
Michele’s dress is sometimes fun & flirty, sometimes ethereal, always her. Who wouldn’t laugh with that cutie!
Well, anyone whose favorite color is chambray has got to be fun. What a beautiful woman. At 53 I feel like either she is a baby or I’m an old woman. What a lovely attitude about life. Love her PJ top. She looks wonderful in everything she wears. I must check out some PJ tops. I’m afraid I’d look like i forgot to take off my PJs for the day. She looks very Southern California. Sunshine babe. Great natural style.
Hi Sandra! Hope you are recovering well. I have been following Michele for a couple years and although she is young, she is so full of wisdom. Love her simplicity and authenticity.
So nice to see you feature Michele from Hello Lovely! I follow her very well written, insightful and thought provoking blog where she also never ceases to amaze me with her shopping finds. I have found that she and I also have a lot in common, not the least of which are sons who are both 3rd year law students in Chicago. Lovely post about a lovely lady.
A LOVELY INTERVIEW!I especially Love the WHITE oversized Mens PJ’s………
I use to do the same because DOMINQUE BROWNING the editor of HOUSE & GARDEN did that as well……….I ADORED HER!Miss that magazine!
YOU DO INDEED have a BEAUTIFUL SMILE!
THANK YOU for being OUR VICTIM!!!!!