When it comes to FOF fashion, there are no rules but plenty of opinions. Check out what our Five Fashion Gurus have to say about this look, then tell us: Do you agree?
FOF Robin Mizrahi: “Perrrrfect. This woman has got it going on. Her wonderful dress (I believe it is Celine) is clean, modern, appropriate-length and unadorned, which keeps it edgy. Honestly, when you are wearing a thigh high boot, sans hose, do you need any other adornment? Love the clean, classic boot shape–no wedge, or crazy platform. If I saw this woman on the street I might even get a bit intimidated by her. Well maybe not I, but most women would. Makes me wonder what perfume she wears . . .”
Robin Mizrahi is co-owner of Pamela Robbins boutique, buyer, merchandiser and entrepreneur.
—
FOF Terry Gibraltar: This outfit shouts in-control-New-York-working-woman. Head-to-toe black is a bit austere, but she looks quite put together. The dress is a flattering fit that emphasizes her trim waist, is not too short and works well with the very on-trend, over-the-knee boots. If an FOF’s thighs look good, she can always show a little thigh with pride.
–
–
Terry Gibralter is the founder of Bespoke Custom Shopping Tours, carefully-crafted shopping “vacations” and a self-proclaimed, “fashion-obsessed” FOF.
—
FOF Susan Grant: “A clean, fabulous look. The show of skin is totally acceptable as the skirt isn’t offensively short and the distance between the top of the boot and the hemline is minimal. The look of the season captured in a chic, age appropriate way.”
Susan Grant is merchandise manager for Muse, a full-service jewelry showroom.
—
FOF Sherrie Mathieson: The over-the-knee boot (a more sexy style than the classic knee-high boot, and in this case made a bit younger and sexier thanks to the heel) gives great coverage in exchange for that sexual innuendo. The gap between the dress and the boot is judiciously small and has a similar effect of a long sweater or anorak with tights and boots. She did it well…thumbs up!
Sherrie Mathieson is a leading style expert and Random House author of Steal this Style and Forever Cool.
—
FOF Gail Garramone: “Simple but powerful. It works because the wearer is thin and tall enough to pull it off. It also works because it is all black, which offers a slimming silhouette. There is just enough room between the top of the boot and the length of the skirt. An FOF should never wear a miniskirt with pumps or lower boots unless she is Tina Turner about to go on stage.”
–
–
Gail Garramone is a veteran V.P. of Liz Claiborne Inc. where she traveled around the country with Tim Gunn producing fashion workshops.
Tell us FOFs: Do you agree with our style experts? What do you think of this outfit?
0 Responses to “{Style Expert} What do you think of this look?”
Pamela Lloyd says:
She needs a little color splash and then the outfit might POP
Mamavalveeta03 says:
She’s got an amazing figure, so she can pull this off, but I wouldn’t do it myself. I’m not comfortable with a “shorter” skirt (this is by no means a mini!)
sharon910 says:
Oh yes she looks great. Love to have that look
Mortgage loan Re-financing says:
Wow, incredible weblog structure! How lengthy have you been blogging for? you make running a blog look easy. The entire look of your web site is magnificent, as well as the content!
anisemarsh says:
love it
NoreenB says:
Not another “sans hose” look. Boots without tights or stockings sounds horribly uncomfortable, sticky and damp.I hope she at least put lots of powder in there!
Pat says:
W O W! Love the look…love the dress, love the boots….great fall/early spring look…goes anywhere…!
fabulous mimi says:
Completely agree with the style experts. This gal exudes confidence. Totally classic, chic, timeless and a little bit sexy. Love the look. This woman has pulled it all together and doesn’t look like she is trying too hard.
Diana says:
A simple black skirt with a white or colored blouse would be a bit more stylish for the look she is trying to pull together with the boots.
Mick says:
I love this look. Simple is always better! NYC? Not neccessarily – the lady behind her is in a sleeveless dress. This could be CA or FL looking ‘on trend’ on a day that’s too hot for full blown leggings.
Trisha says:
The boots are a bit too much “Pretty Woman” for a FOF. This would be ok for someone in her 30’s or even 40’s. A little too much “look at me!” I agree with the others that black hose/opaques would be a classier look.
kalee123 says:
I think that it;s simplicity at it’s best.
tarheel4ever says:
Nice, pulled together look. Love it!
Christine M Quigley says:
I like the looks and the lines of everything she’s wearing- would go with a smaller purse and it needs a splash of color.
The boots are apparently in style no matter what the season- same with scarves. I’ve seen many women in NYC wearing boots in the middle of summer.
sharon910 says:
i love it
Ann says:
Perhaps someone could introduce this woman to accessories. This is a very safe New York look and frankly I’m sick of black. She’s trim and trendy, why not splash out a little?
Fashionable 60s says:
A typical upwardly mobile New York City look, all black. Very safe but still fashionable. Each item worn is very expensive.
sharon910 says:
Omg I love it. I would love to have it.
sharon910 says:
Very chic love it. I would love it.
vkuhl says:
I have mixed feelings about this. It’s very New York, and she has the figure for it, but I wish I could see her face and hair to see what the overall impression really is. I don’t like this kind of boot at all, but it one is going to wear them, this is the way to do it. The rest of the outfit has to be very low-key. I don’t think she looks like a hooker because the dress is pretty conservative.
dbo says:
wear tummy control under garments or something less tight in that area,dress nice style,but are those boots a bit high heeled for comfort,safe walking or just meant to be seen going from taxi to place to sit ?
marcia says:
She looks perfect. I wouldn’t mind wearing this outfit myself and I am 67!!
Nancy says:
Step it up with black hose or black opaques and LOOK really classy.
Thereislightonthehorizon says:
Love the dress, not too enamored with the “Pirate” boots. The heel height seems like it wants to shove the whole foot into the toe of the boot, giving the impression of the woman teetering forward.
deestea says:
Love everything but the boots, which are a bit too much in mho.
sharon910 says:
LOve it lOVE IT lOVE IT
Cécile Wheatley says:
As Glamour Mag would put it: this is a “DO”….
TexasDuchess says:
The boots just bother me; they look like cold weather wear, but she’s in short sleeves. So, I’d go for sheer dark stockings and tailored, lower-heeled shoes–in black as this is the color scheme she’s going with.
shellrobin says:
Love this look. All black, professional with some attitude!
Fabio says:
Looks good–simple yet elegant!!
Montgomery Triangle is awesome!
Mary says:
I thought she looked fab. & sexy and very on trend. I just kept saying gosh wish that was me (shhh I can’t pull that off like she did) and some people should try either! But if you can why not no matter your age!
Pat says:
Looks Great! I would have like the dress a little longer.
Teri Davis Newman says:
Perfect. Stylish and age appropriate.
Rachel says:
with a figure like that, even a paper bag will look good! but the outfit is awesome! i would wear it in a flash!
rospl says:
I love the styles. I became really sick and had to retire at a very early age. I am unable to buy $400.00 boots and 200.00 necklaces, but I know they are not free. Looking for a great style that I am now fifty. What are your suggestions.
Wendy Plumb says:
When I see a woman wearing knee-high boots and bare arms, it makes me think she has forgotten her coat. Also, I’d prefer to see her purse zipped up, rather than looking at the contents.
Well…actually I’m just jealous! She looks stunning!
Belinda Drew says:
I absolutely love the look. It screams style and office sophistication.
Linda Hutson says:
Love the look. Realy tired of people telling women what is “age appropriate”. It’s fashion. Have fun with it. An over 50 woman wearing a mini will not cause the world to come to an end.
Carol Segal says:
I am not fond of the look. I do not like the style of the boots over the knee, looks uncomfortable to me. And I don’t like boots with a dress or skirt that leaves leg showing. I would prefer to hae the entire leg covered by the legnth of the dress.
Natalie Mather says:
I completely agree with the experts, I think the model looks great! Wish I could pull it off.
Patricia Locke says:
I think it’s fab! I have some boots just like them. They make everything look good! Only, she needs a little “bling”. That would set off the outfit. Some nice bright jewelry is all she needs.
Pleiades says:
LOVE, LOVE the look; classic, professional, well put together. And the boots? Everything this site is about…. Fabulous Over Fifty!!
Thanks for posting it.
Marcia Robinson says:
Eh! Think boots are too high in the back and while she has a nice figure, it’s too black. And no, I’m not jealous of her age and figure.
Patricia says:
I like this outfit. It looks put together well, and very classy.
Angela Mogin says:
Black is fine but she looks to me like she is going to a funeral of someone she didn’t particularly like, hence the boots. No one over 25 could pull this off.
Silver Fox says:
I disagree with the experts, and my disagreement has nothing to do with the boots or the leg. It has to do with the total black, the misfit of above elbow-length sleeve to boot, and where the viewer’s eye is taken. If its appropriate to wear boots, then the arm should be covered. The lack of color makes this totally boring. If the dress is a favorite (and I don’t think it should be), wear a bright something–tucked into the button front OR bracelet OR hat OR scarf tied to briefcase OR sunglasses OR something– ANYTHING with color. The photograph does not show the dress well, but I am unimpressed with the neckline, fit, or sleeve. For “in city” style, lose either the purse or the briefcase. Finally, for the viewer, the eye is taken to the boot and leg. I want my viewer’s eyes to end up at my face–making eye contact with me, not on the ground.
Nancy Nix-Rice says:
Right on! This look is all about what retail is constantly telling women we should all wear – black, black and more black. Style icons like Channel and Vreeland acknowledge that it is flattering on only a few. This woman may be “well-dressed” but she could be OPTIMALLY dressed by choosing colors and styles that showcase her face, her coloring … HER … instead of her showcasing the clothes.
Dianne Conner says:
FAbulous! Conservative but with an edge! Great style!
What FOF wants to look frumpy?
Ambianz says:
Since I can’t tell her age and I’m assuming she is a FOF, if that is the case I think the skirt is too short. Otherwise a great look, and very together! If she is younger it is perfect.
sherie says:
i really like this look! the only thing i would change is the sleeve lenght! i just can’t see short sleeves with these boots. but all in all it works! just my opinion!
Gail Stephenson says:
I agree that it’s a great look if you happen to be tall and thin, no matter your age. Wouldn’t work for someone like me, though–short legs (I’m 5′) do not work with over the knee boots, and a purse that big would overwhelm me.
Mariann McGill says:
All I can say is that she looks fabulous. Although stylish, professional and a hint of sexy. It is not too over the top and just right. The boots and handbag set the outfit out. She probably could wear anything since she is tall and slender but I believe the right plus size women could rock this outfit as well.
Erika Bradley says:
Not an age “thing”…whether the wearer is 35 or 65, the dress is blah; definitely don’t like the sleeve length nor the neckline. The bag: nondescript.
The boots, on the other hand, are AMAZING! Pair them up with a dress that actually deserves them and you’ve got style!
Carol Stark says:
I do not agree with the experts at all on this one–I feel the dress appears to pull in areas that it shouldn’t, I do not like the button front-it makes it appear to be an oversized polo shirt, and the sleeve length does not fit “The Look.” If the sleeves were to the wrist I think I might like the look a bit better.
And the boots as another woman mentioned do look a bit like hooker boots. Perhaps with leggings or a skinny jean it would look more appropriate.
Sharon says:
I don’t care for the look at all. I think it looks cheap. It presents a “choppy” look overall. In my opinion, a longer dress and heels would present a much sexier, well put together look.
Joyce says:
I LOVE it!
Sally G says:
Great look, and she wears it so well. If only the boots were taller! All I see is the exposed flesh between the top of the boots and the hem of the brilliant modern classic dress. Oh, and the huge bag is dragging her down; please at least zip it up.
Debbie Schrodt says:
I love the dress its a little black classic… i love the boots however i don’t like those boots with the dress – it’s like your trying too hard to be hip. I think another boot would be more appropriate.
Darlene says:
A woman in her twenties may be able to pull this off; but for a 50 something LADY it looks to harsh with total black and gestapo qualities. A softer look with textured hose and heels, a metal or colored stone necklace might be a softer look with this dress. I think the length could come down a few inches. A 50+ Lady wouldn’t want to reveal her thighs when she sits down.
Patricia says:
She’s trying to look young. When you reach FOF age I think I would go with the classic looked not what is “in style”. The dress is too short. Sorry ladies but boots like this screams youth and should not be in our closets. Thumbs down.
Gloria says:
Your gurus are wrong.
1) Unless she’s hooking, she should wear pantyhose.
2) She shouldn’t be drawing the eye to her less-than-perfect elbows by exposing them. Roll those sleeves down a cuff or two. Big improvement.
3) Add a scarf or shawl.
4) A big floppy hat would be superb.
Lisa says:
Huh. I think she looks fantastic. The structure of the dress keeps the whole outfit quite dignified, and corrals the OTK boots into trend, rather than tipping them into hooker.
Red says:
I agree with the experts. Great look. I especially love the boots, and I wish I could pull off that look.
Gina P says:
I like it overall. She’s got the right figure for this outfit. She can pull it off. Not all could. Kind of like ‘skinny jeans’….they’re not “make you skinny jeans”!!!! I don’t know if I care for the over the knee boot trend in genial. Overall, I give this a 7.5 out of 10,
Hollis Wagenstein says:
I think she looks fierce, fit, and REAL. I agree with my fellow posters – a bit austere (nothing a great scarf couldn’t fix) and the fit reflects the lack of Photoshopping that has led us to expect (or hope for) the artificial perfection we see in magazine ads. Love the look!
Sue S. says:
I think the look works well. The dress is clean and simple..no ruffles or kitch and the boots are hot but not tacky. I believe the small distance between the hem and the top of the boot is the key.
We wear thigh high boots out here in Southern Maryland (Annapolis) all the time…but of course, we’re equestrians!
mrgvintage says:
I think it’s a super look! It is fashionable, well coordinated and classy. Perhaps not for every age, but for the woman who can carry it off, age does not have to be a determining factor.
Shari says:
Gorgeous! Wish I had that outfit and that my thighs could pull it off! HA!
Mary Jo says:
While it may just be the photo, or the way she is standing, to me it doesn’t look like the dress fits well. It looks like it’s pulling in places it shouldn’t if it was a good fit. And I don’t like over the knee boots with short sleeves.
eleanore wells says:
I agree with the Experts. I love this outfit: it’s well put-together, attractive without being loud, the dress fits well, and the boots are stylish and attractive. What I love the most is that it’s Ageless. If you’ve got the body and the bounce in your step, go for it!
eleanore
http://www.TheSpinsterliciousLife.com
Julie says:
I think she looks great!! I think that if I were younger and thinner:) I would look great in that outfit too!
Cynthia says:
Actually, I quite like the look! Hate the bag. If it looks like you’re ‘schlepping’, you are.
Shellie says:
Love the look!
Michaela says:
I love it and would wear it in a heartbeat.
Kim says:
Gotta say it does nothing for me. The boots are cute, the dress so so. It does not have a nice fit at all. And, the material of the dress ( texture) goes poorly with the boots. Too little space between the hemline and the boots. Doesn’t look professional, looks thrift store. Not that shopping at thrift stores has to look that way.
Sirrot says:
The beauty of this outfit is that it can changed in a flash. I love the boot..I am assuring they are the kind that can be folded down for a different look. Very nice! And they scream expensive which usually goes a long way1
b
http://www.retireinstyleblog.com
Cece says:
I think she looks professional and together….plus she has a great figure! Age is only a number. Shes not flashing a lot of leg.
ctgal says:
I don’t think I agree. I think it looks like she’s trying too hard to be young. I think, if I ran into her, I would look at the outfit and think “cool” and then look at the wearer’s face and think, “oh my”. Sorry. I also wear younger things (I’m 59 and trim), but I make sure not to overdo it and to stay covered as much as possible.
Toby Wollinh says:
I’m sore of ‘meh’ on the ‘over the knee boot’ thing, personally. Part of that is my age – to me, that screams ‘hooker’ but it’s obviously been embraced by the glitterati. I think the dress could have been 4″ longer and worn with regular boots and it would have looked even more fab. But then, it’s IMHO and all that.