Meet 75 Years Young Color Consultant & Fashion Advisor Ann Fulton

Today I am just delighted to interview Ann Fulton, an inspiring color consultant to women over 60. Ann is vibrant, enthusiastic, and inspiring. She is 75 years young and is an inspiration to all of us aged 60 and beyond. She can tie a mean scarf and has a positive outlook that is contagious. Please welcome 75 Years Young Color Consultant & Fashion Advisor Ann Fulton. I know you are going to love learning more about her.

Hi Ann! Introduce us to your story and share with us how your life’s focus has become helping people improve their image and feel more confident. 

I have loved clothing and accessories since I was young, playing with my Barbie. Her clothes were so stylish and fun. I wished I could duplicate them for myself (especially her long beige Chesterfield coat). My early fascination with fashion taught me to sew with my mom’s help. She was incredibly chic, accomplished, and a former model, and I was eager to follow in her stylish footsteps.

I attended the University of Colorado and am a Colorado native. During my sophomore year, I went on a blind date that would change my life. The most handsome man picked me up for the date, which my mom and his godmother arranged. Our country was at war in Vietnam, and my husband-to-be would be draft-eligible (1A) after graduating from the University of Denver. We met in September and married the following July. We wanted to face this uncertain future together and had the support and guidance of our families. He was planning to enlist in Officer Candidate School after our honeymoon.

Just one day before he was set to enlist, we received unexpected news: he had been accepted into the Air Force Reserves. Two weeks after we got married, Greg left for basic training, and a year after we first met, we found ourselves living in Wichita Falls, Texas. Wow!

We moved to New York City a few months later, where he studied as a stockbroker. We had little money, and I was twenty years old and needed to figure out a job. I started working in New York’s Garment District, first as a pattern model and model and then as a showroom assistant. I observed that many samples, incomplete garments, and sold-outs were stuffed into closets or discarded at the showroom. I knew these discards had markings of treasure. This idea stayed in the back of my head, percolating for decades.

We returned to Denver, where I finished my degree, Greg started his career, and we started our family. We have two adult children and six grands.

Family is everything to me. I spend as much time as possible with my kids and grandkids. I am fortunate that all (except the college-aged ones) live nearby. One of my favorite things is picking up the high schoolers from school and taking them out for a quick lunch. The one-on-one time together is the best. My husband and I have been married for 55 years, and he is my best friend. I am sure grateful for that blind date.

You were the owner of Never Pay Retail (NPR) – tell us about this store and how it helped you transition into the world of color and image consulting. What do you miss most about owning this store?

I was ready to jumpstart my career and wanted to focus on fashion and image. I was introduced to Color Profiles when I had my colors done by Debra Lindquist in 1975, a color system she developed with Cynthia Skari under the guidance of Colorado State University. I was fascinated by the concept that you could build a wardrobe, select your makeup, and look terrific by wearing the “right” colors. Until then, I thought I just needed to change my lipstick to look good in my clothes. The Color Profiles system worked so well for me that I trained with Ms. Lindquist and became a Certified Image Consultant in 1981.

My business flourished, and over the next two decades, I had the privilege of working with individuals and executives from companies like Xerox, Kodak, and Ernst & Young. Through countless programs, good humor, and some solid fundamentals, I helped these individuals realize the transformative power of presentation. 

Witnessing their confidence and self-esteem grow as they discovered the right colors and styles was a gratifying experience. I helped my clients with makeup selection, took them shopping, and helped them find the right accessories to complete their individualized look. I adored my job and loved watching ladies who had considered themselves hopeless at fashion blossom once they knew what looked best on them.

The basic tenet of the Color Profiles color system is that a terrific wardrobe always includes the individual’s neutrals: hair color, eye color, skin tone, or red tone. Combining one or more of your neutrals in an outfit will connect your head with your body—you never want a “floating head.” This fundamental principle will allow you to build a flattering wardrobe that can include the color and style trends of the season without becoming a fashion victim. The individual should always be the most essential part of the picture- think like to like. These “neutrals” can also be the base for your makeup and accessories. Once you understand your colors, shopping becomes a treasure hunt, looking for the clothing that matches you. 

One of my most enjoyable freelance assignments was when the Broadway Southwest department store offered me the position of “scarf lady.” I would work Saturdays at different store locations, helping customers tie scarves so they would be encouraged to buy them. I only knew two tying techniques when I was offered the job, but I quickly expanded my skills. Scarf tying has become one of my claims to fame, and adding a beautiful scarf always elevates your outfit.

Over the years, I had taken my clients to shop at a small boutique, NPR Inc., in an out-of-the- way industrial park. Margie Alexander started the business in her spare bedroom and then segued to a brick-and-mortar store, selling manufacturers’ samples at wholesale prices.

Her inventory included the lines of Paul Stanley, Jones, J’Envie, and David Brooks—some of the greats of the eighties. She had put into motion the idea that had been with me since my days in New York: sell beautiful, unique designs in a friendly environment at wholesale prices. I bought NPR Inc., which stands for Never Pay Retail, in 2001. I had no idea what to expect, but I was in for the time of my life.

In one place, I could do my Color Profiles, sell my Private Label makeup brand, wardrobe my clients, and procure samples from all over the US and Europe. It was a dream come true for me. I moved the store twice, expanding each time. After surviving COVID-19, being a retailer for over twenty years and being 72, I knew it was time to retire, and I sold NPR in May of 2022.

What I miss most about not having my store is attending the apparel markets across the country, finding new lines, and dealing with the manufacturers. I loved “The Hunt.” And, of course, I miss seeing the incredible women who shopped at NPR. After I retired, I thought, “Now what?” I signed a non-competition agreement with the new owner, so I couldn’t continue selling clothes. 

Aging with style and good humor is where you are focusing your efforts today. Share with us some words of advice on how you keep this perspective in mind. 

My daughter, @saratalbert, suggested I create an Instagram page to share all the tips and tricks I have learned in my 45-year career. I loved figuring out how to do the videos and focusing on the challenges of aging. Age should never be a determinant of looking chic and stylish. I am evangelical in encouraging the over-60 crowd to look their best regardless of age, size, or economics, and I try to do this with humor and fun. We all are insecure about our appearance.

On YouTube you share a variety of “how-to” videos along with tips and tricks ranging from makeup to fashion. What are some of your favorite videos that you have done on YouTube and why?

My favorite YouTube videos are my scarf tutorials. They are fun to make, and I love to tie scarves. I uploaded most videos to YouTube because I featured them in my newsletter.

On Instagram, you post outfits daily to your Stories – where do you find your inspiration for all these different looks?

I promised in my Instagram bio, “daily outfits in stories.” I love getting dressed in the morning. Putting on “real” clothes helps set my mindset toward having a great day. I channel a little whimsy, add practicality, and finish with pizazz. What you can find in your closet is enlightening if you know you must be picture-perfect.

What current fashion trends are you loving and incorporating into your own wardrobe?

The 2024 fall fashion trends I like most are the expanded use of bright colors (especially orange and green) combined with neutrals, the renewed interest in animal prints, wide-leg pants, tailored blazers, and beautifully tailored coats.

Describe your style – how has it changed with age and how has remained the same? Give us five solid tips for staying stylish as we get older. 

The style that defines me most is classic Colorado casual. I love my jeans, jackets, layers, and boots. Ralph Lauren and Adolpho Dominguez are my favorite designers, AG makes my favorite jeans, and Faherty makes cozy sweaters. Although my presentation has evolved with fashion trends, my essence has always remained: good colors, great fit, fabulous shoes, attractive jackets or vests, and unique accessories. My husband and I are passionate travelers, and I try to mimic the style of French and Italian women. Those stylish ladies set a high bar.

As we age, we must embrace individuality while focusing on comfort, confidence, and flattering styles. Good posture is essential; having “pep” in your step takes off years. Finding gratitude that we are here and can think about wardrobes and greeting everyone with a smile will exude confidence and transcend any fashion trend.

My tips for staying stylish as we age:

* Surround yourself with trustworthy professionals, such as hair stylists, opticians, and sales associates, who are unafraid to share honest opinions. These professionals will help you feel more confident about updating your hair, glasses, and makeup every few years. It’s easy to become complacent regarding your appearance.

* For aging women with rounded backs, collared shirts, shawl collars, and portrait necklines can be very flattering.

* Pay close attention to fit. Only buy items that fit you properly if you are unwilling to have them altered. Make sure that the sleeves and pant lengths are just right. A good tailor is worth her weight in gold.

*Remember your belt! Even though your waist might be thicker, you can still wear a belt. Belts can help define your waist, add structure to loose garments, coordinate colors, and create balance in your outfit. Wider-leg pants and shorter jackets and sweaters look better with the addition of a belt.

* Keep your shoes updated and maintained. Different footwear is often necessary as we age, but it doesn’t have to be unattractive or medicinal. I find the brands from Europe (where people walk everywhere) best. Gabor, Paul Green, Arche, and Pikalinos are my favorites

You have such a gift for understanding each person’s clothing challenges, regardless of age or size, to create a polished end result. How do you maintain this insight with ever-changing trends in fashion?

Confidence comes from knowing that you understand what styles and colors work best for you regardless of the current trends in fashion.

Image isn’t just created by what you wear and how you wear it – makeup certainly plays a role in one’s presentation. Which brands and products do you swear by and recommend to your clients regularly?

When I had my store, I carried a Private-Label makeup brand. They were great products, and I loved that I could select our colors and products. Since selling the store, I have had to branch out. What I love now is Erborian’s BB cream in the color Clair, Charlotte Tilbury Sexy Sienna lipstick, Laura Mercier Cafe Noir eye shadow stick, Sisley’s Pink Peony blush, and Lancome’s Le Stylo Waterproof liner. I am a diehard fan of L’Oreal’s Black Telescopic mascara. I do love putting on my makeup every day.

Taking care of your skin should be a priority regardless of age. I wear Ulta MD sunscreen and use Avene and Obagi skin care products. Lasers help maintain skin texture, and I have one once a year. I like the Picosure for age spots and the CO2 Fraxel for skin tightening and texture. Injectables have their place, just not on my face. I love the permanent brows I did last year—a real-time saver.

Let’s talk bold accessories! Jewelry, handbags, scarves, sunglasses, etc. What are your favorite ways to incorporate these into your wardrobe to elevate your look, and why? 

I am passionate about and love accessories because they are compact and versatile, taking up little space while offering flexibility to be styled in different ways as trends evolve.

In the winter, I love scarves because they are warm, and the combination of colors helps to finish an outfit. Classic chains, longer necklaces, and hoop earrings work for me on most days, and adding a colorful belt will pack a big fashion punch. I have worn glasses since I was sixteen and am conscious that frames must be updated as we age. Hats (not ball caps) add pizzazz to casual clothes, keep your face out of the sun, and hide messy hair. Lastly, a colorful necklace can pull together a whole outfit.

Share with us your tips for keeping your short hair healthy and fun!

My hair is a work in progress. My beloved stylist retired last year, and before I found my new stylist, I had some of the most disastrous haircuts ever. Zach Olson and I are working to find a different but flattering style for my face and neckline. My hair is thick, straight, and fine textured, and I love and use Phyto products, Artech, and Aquage. I admit to being a product junkie- always looking for the next, best thing.

Give us a snapshot of a normal day for you balancing work, life, and family.

I work out daily, doing weights, Pilates, walking, or hiking with my fur baby, Gracie. Movement is the secret to aging well, and I love being outside. Every morning, I make a green drink consisting of an apple, spinach, juice of one lemon, ginger, basil, mint, coconut water, whatever is in my fridge, and some powdered collagen. I still do color and makeup consultations, closet edits, and glasses shopping. The Insta videos take a bit of my day, and I love getting together with friends to hike or grab a bite to eat. My days are full and satisfying, and I still have room for an occasional nap.

Tell us five fun facts about you that we might not be able to learn from your online presence or blog. Any hobbies that might surprise us?

I can hang wallpaper and love to fix anything broken. E6000 is the best glue.

I have cooked every Thanksgiving dinner for my family and friends for the last fifty years. It’s my favorite holiday.

I am more of a Salted Nut Roll girl than a Chocolate Bar girl.

I read an average of one book weekly- mysteries and historical fiction are my favorites.

I love Coach Prime and The University of Colorado’s football team and cannot sit still while they are playing. Go Buffs!

If you could give your younger self any words of advice, what would they be?

I would tell my younger self to take care of your health, embrace change, cherish your friends, and not to compare yourself to others – you are more than enough (and do not get that perm- it will be a disaster).

Share your words to live by.

Life is short; spend time with those you love and do what brings you joy. It is never too late to try something new.

I’ve discovered that laughter truly is the best medicine. Aging is a challenge; it is best to face those wrinkles with a smile.

You can follow Ann on Instagram here, on her website Fashionwise by Ann here, on facebook here, and on Youtube here.

I hope you enjoyed reading Meet 75 Years Young Color Consultant & Fashion Advisor Ann Fulton. I found myself smiling throughout the interview. I have been following Ann on Instagram and have learned so much from her. She can tie a mean scarf and has so many practical fashion tips and tricks. I love her positive attitude on aging, and I have already ordered a few of her makeup products. Thanks, Ann, for letting us get to know you a little better.