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An Over 50 All-American Woman with Classic Sensibilities

Today I am joining my friend Brenda Coffee from 1010 Park Place for our monthly Ageless Style Series. This month I am interviewing Kay Harms from Dressed for My Day. I grew up in the Midwest, and when I spotted Kay she looked like she might have been one of my high school class mates (but much younger). She has that comfortable all-American, polished classic style that so many of us can identify with. Let’s check out an Over 50 All-American Woman with Classic Sensibilities.

An Over 50 All-American Woman with Classic Sensibilities

An Over 50  All Amercan Woman with Classic Sensibilities

Tell us a bit about your story and background.

I’m a full time blogger at DressedforMyDay.com and a YouTuber at youtube.com/@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms I have a degree in public relations, so this isn’t a stretch for me. But it is a fairly new career. I started my blog a little over 5 years ago and my YouTube channel in the spring of 2020. I’m not professionally trained as a stylist, but I have learned over the years how to put together a functional and fun wardrobe, and I enjoy sharing what I’ve learned with other women.

Before I started my blog I had been a full time mom and homemaker, but I’d also had a speaking and writing ministry. I wrote several Bible studies and spoke to women’s groups all over the world. But at this point in my life I wanted to find some way to continue to serve women while also bringing in more income to help me and my husband as we prepared for retirement.

kay-harms-veronica-beard-bright-blue jacket

Why did you decide to write a blog, and how has it evolved? What has stayed the same?

I started this venture to do something to contribute to our household income so that my husband and I can retire one day. I’d been blogging at KayHarms.com as an inspirational/devotional blogger, but I wanted to monetize this venture. So I decided to begin Dressed for My Day.

At the same time I also noticed that many women in their 50s and beyond were struggling with their personal style, beauty routines and self-esteem. I shared some of those struggles, but I wanted to help us all find answers and get a new vision for this second half of our lives. I wanted to flourish over 50, not just survive. And I wanted to help other women do the same.

My blog and YouTube channel have been very successful, so I run it more like a business now with three part-time employees. But my focus has stayed the same: While I do share outfit inspiration and style tips, I’m really more passionate about helping women over 50 stay relevant and engaged. I have a real heart for women in this stage of life.3) In addition to your blog, you have a successful YouTube channel. What do you focus on when you post content for YouTube, and does it differ from the blog? I feel like I get to show up a little more at my YouTube channel. In many ways the content is similar, but I can flesh

out ideas and concepts a little better there. I share style inspiration, outfit tips, beauty demonstrations and more. It’s a lot of fun being able to really “converse” with my community there.

kay-harms-floral-dress for cindy hattersley for ageless style

What have you learned from your Youtube and Social Media Followers?

For the most part, my subscribers and followers are a very gracious and lovely group of women. I’ve learned that many women over 50 share the same struggles, and we’re all grateful for some support and a little information. I’m extremely grateful for these women. They send me the kindest, most humbling emails and comments.

Ageless Style Kay Harms in Jean Jacket for Cindy Hattersley Design

How would you define your own personal style?

I have a classic modern style. I love to wear blazers and cashmere sweaters and nice slacks, as well as jeans and sneakers. I love dressing up a bit, but in a casual way. I like to look polished and put together, but also approachable.

If you could pick one piece from your wardrobe, what would be your favorite, and why?

kay harms in veronica beard jacket

That would definitely be one of my Veronica Beard blazers. Honestly, I don’t know which one. But I love the way these blazers fit me and look. They have amazing versatility and make me feel so special.7) What’s your go-to accessory and why? I love adding a pretty watch to my outfit. I think a nice, classic watch can really elevate your outfit, but it’s also very functional and practical.

What’s your go to accessory and why?

I love adding a pretty watch to my outfit. I think a nice, classic watch can really elevate your outfit, but it’s also very functional and practical.

What is your favorite color and what impact does that have on your wardrobe as you move from one season to the next?

kay-harms-black-and-white

Honestly, I love black. And I wear a lot of it. I know a lot of women over 50 don’t like to wear black or feel like it makes them look washed out. And maybe that’s true, but I’m just not willing to give it up. I wear it all year long and often head to toe. I think it looks chic and elevated even in the simplest combinations.

With Summer approaching, please share your must-have skincare regimen.

  Of course I wear sunscreen, but I also continue to add moisture and hydration to my skin. I use mostly Colleen Rothschild products and I’m a big fan of adding their Face Oil No. 9 at the end of my nighttime skincare routine to seal in all those lotions and potions I’ve applied.

Tell us about your gray hair journey.

I’ve really never colored my hair; I just highlighted it for years. So it wasn’t a big jump to stop the highlights. I’m a natural blond, so the grey blends in pretty nicely. I’m the kind of woman who just goes through with something once I’ve made up my mind. And I just refuse to look back with regrets or waffle over it. So I really don’t think much about my hair color at this point.

Over 50 All Amerian Woman With Classic Sensibilities kay-harms-linen-outfit for Ageless Style with Cindy Hattersley

Do you have a style icon?

I love the way Melania Trump dresses, and I say that with no political overtones at all. I just think she always looks classy and appropriate for the occasion. I love her use of belts, scarves, classic pumps and color blocking.

What are some of your favorite online and boutique options?

I love shopping J.Crew, J. McLaughlin, Jenni Kayne, Eileen Fisher, Talbots and Banana Republic.

kay harms in a touch of pin for Cindy Hattesley's Ageless Style

Do you have a special diet of fitness plan that you follow? Are there any supplements that you can’t live without?

I have used the FASTer Way to Fat Loss program for over 5 years now. I love the daily workouts that I access through their app on my phone. And I’m a big believer in intermittent fasting and carb balancing. (Here’s my affiliate link if anyone is interested: https://www.fasterwaytofatloss.com/#KAYHARMS)

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

Go bigger. I think for years I waited until it was my turn. And then it never seemed like it was my turn. Now I’d tell myself to just go for it. Don’t just dream bigger, but go ahead and DO bigger.

kay-harms-chambray and white for Ageless Style for Cindy Hattersley

Share your words to live by

I’m a Christian, so my words to live by are focused on that integral part of my life. “Every day I want to know more of God and make Him known through my words and deeds.”

SHOP KAY’S LOOK

Thank you Kay so much for sharing your style. I strive each month to feature someone that will appeal to all different parts of my readership. I hope you enjoyed getting to know An Over 50 All-American Woman with Classic Sensibilities. If Kay were older she might have been one of my high school classmates. You can find my previous Ageless Style Interviews here.

Now let’s pop over and visit Brenda to see who she is interviewing this month

1010 PARK PLACE

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Suzi says

    Cindy Hattersley 2024! Just kidding…I wouldn’t wish that for you.😉
    Kindness over politics all day, every day!
    My apologies to Kay Harms and let us women commit to being positive examples of kindness and yes, forgiveness to the younger ones coming up behind us, like darling Summer!

  2. Bonnie Vokes says

    I’m fairly new to this site, but I do love the fashions best. It’s just to bad that a few narrow minded women have to bring politics into an otherwise lighthearted discussion. MT like her or not has perfect taste in clothing. I would wear her picks anytime if I had the body for it whether she was D or R. Enjoy this blog for what it is, not for a stomping ground for your political affiliation.

  3. Gray says

    Cindy – I enjoyed reading about Kay. I missed the Melania Trump comment and am sad that people went nuts. Life is more than politics. You are more than who you vote for.

  4. Rita says

    Hello Cindy, first time commenting. Her style is lovely, the kind of clothes I like. If the quality of the blazer is great I would prefer to save and purchase it than the fast fashion that is out there. Really enjoyed this post. Thank you for the time you put in producing them.

  5. Joy says

    Kay is one of my favorite bloggers to follow! Her posts and YouTube videos provide helpful guidelines for putting together classic and stylish outfits for both everyday and special occasions, When she shares a more costly item, Kay often shares similar items with a more affordable cost. I also appreciate the relevant posts on inner/outer beauty topics that Kay shares on her blog.

  6. Willette says

    Hi Cindy,
    I would like you to interview a black/ African American blogger in the future. If you go on YouTube or IG you will find a few who has styles you could relate too.

    I ready your blog and really like your style.

  7. sandy f says

    I was actually offended by her MT comment. After everything that has occurred that goes against women, women’s rights, LGBTQ, Women’s right to choose, equal rights, on and on and on-how could ANY intelligent woman admire MT? Style is much more than the clothes a person wears. Of all of the stylish women why on earth would any woman use MT as an inspiration? The comment was not in jest-it was made with purpose and for reaction. I am surprised that she is featured on your always lovely blog. This is not being mean or negative-women have a duty to stand up for other women’s rights, and ANY mention of MT is a slap in our faces. Sorry-this downright just offended me.

    • K says

      And I disagree. That is how this works. We all get to have our own opinion. What a concept.

    • Sylvie Kahl says

      I must agree whole heartedly. It’s not a political statement. Her husband is a criminal. He has unsighted chaos and hatred. There is nothing lively about a woman that supports this behavior in a man. In fact I’ll say it makes her even more ugly. Everyone es safety is at risk when people like them are voted into power. May we all be empowered to vote and save our country! I am kind and honest and believe we all deserve to live in peace. But we are NOT. You can not separate her MT from what is going on bc she dresses nicely. That is purely superficial. I’m a huge fan of this blog and many of your followers. I don’t have any I’ll feelings at all. But please know this runs deep and see it for what it really is! Thank you.

    • Suzi says

      Hi Sandy. I respect your right to speak your mind, but where do you stand on biological males literally stealing accolades, placements, trophies, etc. from biological girls/women in sports? My daughter is an outstanding athlete and I am livid that scores of girls and women are not outraged by this. Clearly, all women are NOT for ALL women’s rights. The hypocrisy and awful example to our girls/women is pure evil!

    • Susan says

      Women have the right to disagree and thankfully we still live in a country that allows freedom of speech hopefully you will continue to abide by it much as you may not like what another says.

    • Susan says

      She NEVER said anything about how she personally feels about MT as a person or that she admired her. She just admires her STYLE! How can someone’s fashion style offend you?? Sorry Sandy but, you get offended extremely easily.

    • Francoise says

      I agree, and I don’t find your or others’ comments unkind at all. MT has supported a man who has caused untold harm to our democracy. As for MT’s style, how can that be separated from her choices in life? I am especially surprised that a woman who presents herself as Christian can admire this woman.

  8. Lesley Watson says

    How could anyone with principles honestly admire MT. A woman who wore a jacket with I really don’t care, do you? on the back. Give us a break, well,she just mentioned her politics didn’t she?

    • Lynn says

      I had no interest in this story after the MT comment. What? How? The “I don’t care do you” jacket sealed her fate with me.

  9. Elizabeth says

    Cindy,

    I love your style posts. Kay is a new to me blogger, but how refreshing to meet her. I love her classic style.

    There are women of all walks of life, demographics, ethnicities and religions that follow your blog. I love that you feature women from all of these.

    I find it small minded and sad that even on a wonderful, age/body positive blog like yours that people cannot look past the comment about MT. At the end of the day there is something about EVERYONE that someone could find fault with. Why leave a negative comment here. If you do not like the blog or the guests, don’t comment. Life is too short to spread negativity.

    Have a wonderful weekend Cindy.

  10. Nancy says

    Love or hate her husband Melania always dressed with class and elegance as First Lady
    Because of her politics she was ignored by the American fashion industry

  11. Bonnie White says

    The reason 31 Flavors Baskin Robbin is so popular is there is something for everyone.

    I read your posts because of you. These are not my fav posts (interviews), but I continue to read them because of you. I’m a pistachio almond fudge lover, she was Vanilla.

    • Cindy Hattersley says

      Thank you Bonnie for your observation. This blog is about design, fashion, and aging gracefully. That is why I never discuss politics. I featured Kay because I think her style represents many women across America. If I only featured people who dress, read, and think, the way I do, this blog would be pretty boring. There are plenty of forums where we can air our political opinions. I have been criticized by other bloggers for not expressing my own. The reason I choose not to is because that is not what this blog is about. I love this community because we are a group of kind, interesting, active, free-thinking women.

      • Linda H. says

        Cindy, this is why I love your blog. It’s a safe place to go without political bs being forced down our throats under the guise of home, health and beauty. I have unsubscribed from a few of the bloggers who deem it important their political interests be known and have absolutely no interest in hearing another’s opinion. Our world has changed, I worry for the future generations. Please keep doing what you do!

      • Susan says

        I love your blog — sadly some have not yet realized that part of aging gracefully is extending grace towards those with whom they may disagree!

        • Pa Tricia Mason says

          Yes Susan ! Well said !
          “ The way to get along in this world is to not expect others to be like you “

      • Susan says

        Extremely well said! Your blog is not a place for politics and Kay’s opinion on MT’s style was not political at all. I also love her elegant style. It doesn’t mean I love everything she wears. I don’t know a lot about Jackie O but love her style. If Kay had said she admired Jackie O’s style, nobody would even blink. So sad.

  12. Barb L says

    Enjoyed the interview, and YES it is important to feature women from all walks of life. Isn’t that how we continually grow?

  13. Linda L says

    I’ve been following Kay for a few years now. I admire her Christian faith and her willingness to share the word. Melania Trump never got the respect she deserved as a fashion icon while she was First Lady. Vogue loved her before her husband was president but sadly media today is biased. Fashion bloggers are inspirational and meant to influence our style and when I see a garment out of my price range I choose to either not buy it or search like crazy for a less expensive look a like.

  14. KAREN says

    Cindy, I loved meeting Kay! I certainly will follow her. Nice to see a Christian woman who does not overly call attention to herself but is more concerned about her words and influence on others. I am a fan of black myself (and Melania Trump for that matter.) Jackie Kennedy and Melania Trump are fashion icons, imo.

  15. Lyn says

    Cindy, Thank you for this post featuring Kay, a lovely, gracious, interesting woman!
    I have just subscribed to her blog and am interested in viewing her videos!

  16. Kat k. says

    I agree with the other gals, Melania Trump is the last person I would want to emulate, beautiful clothes or not!
    Also, who of us can really afford a $698 Veronica Beard blazer??? I’m guessing this blog isn’t for the common woman. Hard pass from me!

    • Cindy Hattersley says

      Hi Kat

      The Veronica Beard blazers are definitely pricey. Since I am not much of a blazer girl, I can’t speak to the quality, but I know many love them.

  17. Christie Gilluly says

    I love reading Kay Harms posts every day! Folks, skip over her MT comment and get to know this fresh, forthright woman!

    • Cindy Hattersley says

      Hi Christie

      I think it is important to feature women from all walks of life no matter their views. If we all thought alike this would be a very boring world, wouldn’t it? I try to learn from those who think differently than myself.

    • Cindy Hattersley says

      Ha! I don’t think Melania would be my choice but she does have beautiful clothes.

    • Kameela Hays says

      Definitely agree . Remember those nude shots! Not very stylish at all. All the other first ladies dressed with decorum. Kameela

  18. Terry says

    Cindy, thank you for featuring one of my favorite bloggers. Kay’s daily posts overflow with information and her Wednesday YouTube videos give many styling tips, as well as, showcasing modern styles for the classic dresser.

  19. 1010ParkPlace says

    Hi Cindy, Thanks for introducing us to Kay. I’m going to check out her YouTube channel because so many women can identify with her classy style. xoxox, Brenda

    • Cindy Hattersley says

      Hi Brenda

      I am so bad about watching youtube videos. I should watch more!

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