Fantastic at 50

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MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS Karen wears a Cinque skirt, $545; geometric-print Italian blouse, $145; Matt Bernson strappy shoes, $225; Treesje purse, $525; and circle necklace, $275, gold necklace, $245, turquoise enameled necklace, $195 (all Dean Davidson). All from Girl Candy Shop. (MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS) Photo Store

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Fashion model: Karen Banfield Woman of the '50s Connie Tamoto 120626 - Tuesday, June 26, 2012 - (MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS) (MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS) Photo Store

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Ruth Bonneville / Winnipeg Free Press Charlie Jade silk dress, $210; Birds of a Feather necklace, $38; Oxmo tank top, $39, all from Poppie Clothing. Kenneth Cole pumps $90 from Rooster

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MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS Leggings, $240; tunic, $690; and tank, $170, all Marie Saint Pierre; Matt Bernson cork sandals, $245; Romy Gold clutch, $415; Dean Davidson bangles and cuff, all from Girl Candy Shop. (MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS) Photo Store

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Ruth Bonneville / Winnipeg Free Press Fidelity jeans, $150; Blend T-shirt, $39; Left on Houston jacket, $198; Birds of a Feather necklace, $42, all from Poppie Clothing, 1724 Corydon Ave. Gold sandals, $65 at Soul Shoes and Accessories, 167 Lilac St.

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ruth Bonneville / Winnipeg Free Press Kathy wears a pale pink silk shell, $245; tweed jacket, $645; tweed skirt, $395, all Joeffer Caoc from Girl Candy Shop. Nine West nude pumps $120 from Rooster Shoes, 452 River Ave.

Having fun with trends at 50 is something to be embraced with confidence and flair, rather than apprehension and fear. You deserve to look fresh and fabulous -- can I get an "amen, sister" to that?

On the flip side of the coin, incorporating these trends doesn't mean rushing off to the nearest 20-something retail outlet for the latest "it" item, nor raiding your daughter's closet in a vain attempt to look cool.

As the saying goes, just because you dress younger doesn't mean you look younger. There is a fine line between sporting today's trends with sophistication and simply wearing them. But don't let this scare you away from trying something new.

It often seems easier to try to blend in rather than to stand out in a crowd. Add to that common aging issues -- gaining weight in the mid-section, losing tone in the arms, sagging or drooping knees -- and the little imp on your shoulder starts to plant doubt in your mind.

Well I say, time to shut that naysayer up for good and approach the trends head on. Look for items that complement your body while camouflaging any problem areas. Buy pieces that fit around the largest area and then have the rest tailored to fit. And most importantly -- as always with fashion -- have fun.

You don't need to look frumpy or forgettable at 50: remember, 50 is the new 40, so go ahead and refresh your look this summer with key pieces that celebrate style and your age.

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Dark denim is always a closet must-have for a gal of any age, but this summer, why not inject a little fun into your wardrobe with printed denim?

When choosing patterned denim, be sure to look for a mid-rise slim cut in a pattern that's not overbearing and incorporates colours that flatters your skin tone.

While mixing and matching patterns may look funky on a 25-year-old, not so much when you are in your 50s, so off-set a patterned denim with a top in a neutral tone.

Tummy trouble? Choose a top with some detailing to draw they eye upwards and opt for a fit that is loose but not droopy or unshaped.

A scarf is a great accessory that can serve many functions. It can take attention away from the neck area if worn long and can draw the eye upward if worn closer to the neck -- of course I would avoid this length though if "chicken neck" is the issue.

Don't be afraid to layer. Adding different colours and textures is a great way to create a look that has interest and depth.

Colour block with confidence by keeping it simple: take two strong, contrasting colours and team them up with a neutral.

A must for every woman is the V-neck wrap dress. This feminine cut accentuates the bust while adding definition to the waist. Avoid billowy dresses and frocks -- a waist (whether defined with a belt or sash) creates the illusion of shape.

Give your work wear a refreshing twist with a suit in a one of this season's hottest tones -- pastels. Look for a suit that is structured or tailored and cuts slightly above the knee.

Flabby arms? No problem. A graphic printed top with bat wing sleeves is the perfect camouflage. Team it up with a bold-hued skirt and you have the perfect outfit for Friday après-work cocktails on the patio.

Forget the yoga gear and opt for something chic and sleek, yet full of stretch and comfort. The V-neck overthrow covers up the mid-section while accentuating the bust and legs. The key is to wear this look with style by incorporating a fabulous heel and funky clutch for a fantastic weekend ensemble.

Got a suggestion for a future column or a fashion trend worth following? Email Connie Tamoto at connietamotofashion@hotmail.com.

Myra Gonzales

Myra is a local wardrobe stylist whose love for fashion led to the desire to help the fashionably challenged discover their individual style, empower them to have the confidence to shop on their own and above all, ensure all, her clients feel great about themselves in what they wear. For more information or to book a session with Myra, check out her website at www.mystylesense.com.

Models Karen and Katherine courtesy of Swish Model Management.

Republished from the Winnipeg Free Press print edition July 1, 2012 E1