Fashion bloggers over 40… This may be a surprise to some, but it’s actually great blogging in your forties (and, I should imagine, in your fifties, and sixties). If I were able to choose between starting a blog in my twenties or in my forties – the latter would win hands down every time.
I’m going to explain why blogging isn’t just a 20-something’s game, and how you can put those years of experience into good use and also learn some amazing things – we never want to stop learning, do we…?
In recent years the number of amazing older women starting fashion and style blogs has simply exploded. And yet I still hear women of my age (41) and older saying they’d love to start a blog but it really isn’t the sort of thing to do at their age (whether they’re also thinking I shouldn’t really be doing it I don’t know – or care). What they’re not realising is that there are so many advantages to blogging in your maturer years over doing it in your teens or twenties – and this makes us unique amongst the huge numbers of 20-somethings.
I’ve been blogging for two and a half years now, and have been lucky enough to work towards, and achieve, my goal of becoming a full-time blogger. So after writing 549 posts – this is the 550th – I’ve realised I’m glad I’m blogging in my forties and not at a younger age. This is why…
- I have a stylist that I’ve been working with for over 25 years… Me.
- When you’re young, you think that when you get to 40 you’ll be an old lady. When you actually get to 40 and feel 20 years younger, it’s pretty cool when you realise you’re not the old lady you thought you’d be after all. You appreciate yourself more.
- You can reminisce about current trends that you remember wearing first time around – for example: tartan. Tartan was big in the 90s. I remember wearing a pair of tartan trousers I bought in 1994, I wore them with a black polo neck sweater…
- Every “new” trend that comes around is usually a re-working of a trend you wore first time. You therefore know in advance whether you can try the trend again – or you know to leave well alone.
- Being older is a great USP (Unique Selling Point). There are less 40+ bloggers than 20 or even 30-something ones, so I like to advertise the fact that I’m over 40 just for that reason. It makes my blog stand out more.
- Brands want to work with older bloggers. A large percentage of the collaborations on my blog have been with brands who are looking to target an older audience (who generally have more money to spend).
- You have more life experience and a more stable view of the world. I’ve noticed this in the writing of 40+ bloggers – they’re more sure of themselves and their opinions.
- Readers are more intrigued by a 40+ blogger – you stand out amongst the sea of 20-somethings. No one’s expecting high fashion, so in effect you have free reign to wear whatever you like.
- Blogging saved me, sartorially-wise. Taking photos of myself every other day and studying the results on a widescreen monitor has made me realise where I’m going wrong and what I’m doing right; I have no worries about getting older and what I should be wearing as each decade goes by. My blog does that for me.
- Dressing yourself in your forties is more of a challenge. Getting older makes it more interesting – and certainly more of a challenge – than being 22 and knowing the whole of Topshop is at your disposal.
- I honestly wouldn’t have got the exposure I’ve had if I’d been 20 years younger. My age is what’s made my blog successful; it’s what gets people talking. “Fashion bloggers over 40” makes a great topic on blogs and websites with huge readerships, and for that I’m grateful.
For this post I asked some of the top fashion bloggers (who are all over 40 and some over 50) their thoughts on what makes being a 40+ blogger so great. Their answers are spot-on and make perfect sense, and I want to thank them all for taking the time to share their thoughts with me. So if you actually are over 40 and have dismissed the idea of blogging purely on account of your age, after reading what these lovely ladies have to say you may want to think again…
Take it away, girls!
(I added in my own at the end, too)
“Mature women interested in fashion and style are looking for genuine blogs they can relate to. Also brands realise the importance of mature bloggers for their target customers. My initial worries turned out to my advantage and I love our supportive international 40+ community!”
– Annette, Lady Of Style
“Blogging has expanded my view of the world beyond the place where I live. Connecting with women and sharing my style has helped me feel more freedom and confidence as a 40+ woman”
– Ann, Blue Hue Wonderland
“I definitely came into my own and was able to truly define my personal style once I hit 40. I know what I like and love sharing those perspectives with other women. Let’s face it, we all look halfway decent in our 20’s when age is on our side, but at 40, looking good is a true challenge. And I readily accept it. 40+ bloggers are the new black!”
– Susan, Ava Grace’s Closet
“I never wanted to be someone who gave up on fashion and style just because of my age. Fashion blogging in my 40s has kept me interested in being stylish and modern and the best part is, I don’t worry about my age as much as I used to when I didn’t blog. I have fun with fashion!”
– Adrienne, The Rich Life On A Budget
“[It’s great being a 40+ blogger] precisely because of our 40+ years. We’ve had time to think, to experiment, to fail brilliantly and succeed. Besides, we’ve had our hearts broken for real – if people find our boot cuts off-trend, we’ll survive”
– Lisa, Privilege
“There is no one way to be stylish. It is about expressing oneself and enjoying the journey. We created youlookfab.com almost 8 years ago to spread this empowering message. At 43, I’m glad to increase the age diversity of the fashion blogging community, but I also look forward to a day where age is merely a variable and youth isn’t viewed as a prerequisite for having fun with fashion and style”
– Angie, You Look Fab
“As my body changes over 40 I had to reassess the way I dress. Blogging showed me how. Better than any mirror could have done”
– Greetje, No Fear Of Fashion
“Blogging at midlife keeps my mind open to fresh style ideas. It helps me stay on my toes, fashion-wise, and connects me to a fabulous community of 40+ women who are brave, wise and stylish”
– Patti, Not Dead Yet Style
“Being over 40-50 gives me a wider perspective on life and makes me feel true to myself and the way I live and wear fashion”
– Sacramento, Mis Papelicos
“The great thing about being a blogger who is 40+ can be summed up in two words: ‘comfort’ and ‘community’. I’m comfortable in my own skin, I know my tastes, my body and have moved past the pursuit of perfection, and leave that to the 20 somethings. Therefore I can explore nuances of personal style with my readers – who happen to be like me and are comfortable in their skin, too. We share our history, we wear our history, with pleasure and joy, and since we all like ourselves, we offer up a warm, supportive camaraderie; there’s no room for catty competition here, just good ol’ fashioned ‘go team’ cheerleading amongst the ranks”
– Bella, The Citizen Rosebud
“I love my little fashion blog, and I wish the technology had been around when I was in my 20’s, because I have no doubt that I would have been a 20 year old fashion blogger if I could have been. I love fashion and clothing now just as much as I did then, but I have a more sophisticated eye and, I think, more defined taste. Even so, I don’t think we should ever stop having fun with fashion, and my fashion blog reminds me to keep experimenting”
– Heather, The Style Confessions
“I love being a blogger doing the work that I love and being over 40 is an added advantage. Not only do I make a lot more sense in my articles due to life experience, I am also more stylish now than in my twenties! An added bonus is the fabulous 40+ community”
– Sylvia, 40+ Style
“Readers are more intrigued by a 40+ blogger – you stand out amongst the sea of 20-somethings. No one’s expecting high fashion, so in effect you have free reign to wear whatever you like”
– Catherine, Not Dressed As Lamb
I hope you liked this post and that you take the time to check out these fabulous (and oh-so-wise) ladies. I would love to know if you’re not a blogger but have been thinking about starting one… let me know your thoughts in the comments 🙂
Here’s to us oldies – we’re a force to be reckoned with!
P.S. If you liked this post you might like 8 Over 40 Fashion Bloggers You Should Know!
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Hello,
May I ask about the ring you wear in this picture? it is very unique and lovely.
Kind Regards,
Celine
Author
Hi Celine, I’m afraid that as this picture is over five years old I have no idea where the ring came from – I think it may even have been a gift…! C x
I am so behind in commenting but I have been worrying constantly about starting a blog at 43. After reading this post I'm more inspired and confident that I can do this. Thank you!
Well I bought myself a pair of dungarees the other day so it doesn't matter that I'm approaching my fourth decade, I'll be wearing what I want, when I want! It's cool as they do may my style feel a bit younger. Lovely post. #brillblogposts x Sunita
LOVE LOVE LOVE this blog post! I'm almost 40 and have just started a lifestyle blog… with plenty of style posts to keep it fun dressing up and so on. I find I have much more confidence these days and love posing in front of a camera lol! The other thing about blogging now is that I have more money to be able to buy the clothes I love. It really is wonderful being a woman blogger approaching 40!
Suzy x
http://www.suzyturner.com
Im a 50 plus blogger and would not have it any other way. My sense of style is well established and I have a strong sense of me to share with other.
tbstyleworks.com is my blog. Im a newbie finding my way. Thanks for this post!!
Im a 50 plus blogger and would not have it any other way. My sense of style is well established and I have a strong sense of me to share with other.
tbstyleworks.com is my blog. Im a newbie finding my way. Thanks for this post!!
I read this with great interest. Fantastic reasons for blogging and wonderful that you have had so much success as a 40's blogger.
Thank you hun! Being part of a smaller group is what's made me stand out more – we should learn to embrace our age more :))
I've just came across you blog and can't stop reading! Thank you for this post. As a 30-something new blogger (only 6 months or so) my only worry is that I am somehow "not relevant" in the sea on 20-something bloggers. I kept worrying whether I came to the game too late. Now your post made me realise that there is so much potential for 30+ bloggers, whole generation of women my age wanting to relate to someone in their age group. Thank you!
Ana
http://www.champagnegirlsabouttown.co.uk
That's the thing, Ana – new bloggers who are a bit older often think they have to appeal to the teens or the 20-somethings… what they forget is that they're not the only 30 or 40-something out there, and there are (of course) LOADS of women the same age who want to read what they have to say! You have to be brave and be yourself, at the same time thinking about your audience and what they'd be interested in – which 9 times out of 10 is YOU!!
Glad you liked the post, thank you and good luck x
I am som thankful for this article. I started blogging a few months ago and I had some doubts if this is right "hobby" for a 40+ woman. You gave me a courage to continue.o)
Anna that's wonderful! It's a shame in a way that more 40+ women who are thinking of starting a blog don't see all the wonderful blogs by women of the same age first… but then the more exposure we get the more it'll encourage others (I hope). Good luck with it, I hope it goes really well for you! C x
I have just come across your blog and read this particular article with great interest. I have reached my 40's and had been toying with the idea to start my fashion blog for ages but never really got to it. Just started e other day so reading responses from the many wonderful ladies of similar age is wonderful inspiration. I am happy that I finally got up and started the blog. It's in it's infancy but I am determined to build it up. I raise a glass to all you ladies and thanks
Such an honestly shared opinion Catherine! I think it's great to be a fashion blogger in general, no age restrictions! 🙂 If one has a desire to share it's personal style & ideas with others – I say go for it! And if/when they want to create a fashion blog on their own – we'll be here with our free Step by Step Guide http://firstsiteguide.com/guides/fashion-blog/ to provide them any help they need!
Such a sincere post Catherine! Love it!
Kindest regards,
Anja Skrba
Love this post!
I'm not a 40+ blogger yet but I'm getting there gradually 🙂 Reading this post maybe me smile and think about how amazing it actually is to get older! Yes it's scary and frustrating too sometimes but at the end of the day who'd want to be 18 again! I know I wouldn't. I knew nothing then.
Thank you for the wise words!
Jenni
http://www.gummibearlife.com
You. Are spot on. All the women quoted here have elegantly & succinctly summed up my own motivations and attitudes, putting into words the very thoughts I hadn't realised I had about fashion, style & the sharper eye we 40+ women have. Confidence is an unexpected boon of being over 40; I didn't know a "40+" community existed, and with such strength of purpose! We have a voice & we're doing it well! I'm in.
I just found your blog thru Adrienne's Rich Life and I love how you talk about this because I started my blog in my late 20's (now in my 30's) and I felt old like I should have started 5 years earlier, but you're so right how starting a little later is better especially because you have experience and my style has evolved so much (I'm glad I didn't have pics from when I was 25 on a blog lol). I love that you included so many other amazing bloggers in this too and I'll definitely check them out. Blogging is all about writing about what you love and are passionate about and there can never be an age limit on that. 🙂
xoDale
http://www.savvyspice.com
Wonderful post, found it searching for 40+ bloggers, as I was in two minds whether to focus on my age on my new blog…. mind made up, thanks to your post… and I have found wonderful ladies to follow.
Great post. Being a fashion blogger who is almost 50 I completely agree with your points. I truly enjoy blogging and sharing my fashion sense and style. Having the confidence to put yourself out there daily on the blog takes confidence, and I always say… Confidence is your best accessory! Love your blog!
Just fantastic, Catherine! I applaud your honesty. I absolutely loved this post. I'm in my early 30's, and from time to time I too get discouraged. I know I'm young, but sometimes feel too "old" to be blogging amongst so many twenty somethings. Especially since I just started. I try and focus on myself and the reasons as to why I started a blog in the first place. Not for success or recognition, but as a creative outlet. As long as it continues to make me feel happy and inspired, then I will forge on! 😉
Love this!!
I've been looking for 40+ blogs but with not much luck, but now I have several to look up and get to know. Awesome!!
I am a 40+ blogger myself, but just with a few readers and I don't post any photoes. Reason is that I don't have a camera….maybe some day:)
But for now I make fashion sets and it's a lot of fun. Some days I have 1 reader and some days I have 10, and I don't mind at all:) Even if I had none I would continue to blog:)
Like the others I am thrilled to have found all these blogs. I have been putting in searches for bloggers over 40/50 for the past year but not many ever came up ( could be my lack of techi skills of course) so I have cut and pasted all these to go through slowly and deliciously over a cup of tea or two. Thank you so very much.
I'm seriously so happy to have found your blog. After being one of those 20-something bloggers, I decided to start clean and develop a site for women in their 30s. I've noticed how my tastes have changed, and this post hits it on the head: There's so much joy in participating in fashion as an adult woman. Thank you for posting this and being an inspiration!
I finish this year, 61 years and since conducting a small blog about fashion and sewing. Because you're chronically seriously ill, is the nice little moments in my life. Keeping a blog gives me a feeling that I am not alone, will divert my bad thoughts and improves mood. Women like what the stretcher, I sew, I have this confirmed in the comments and a lot of visits, writes my blog in Polish and German. Maybe I'll try theses in English …. Feel free to me and greeting Isabella
I love following over 40 bloggers! They relate better to my age, lifestyle, taste … loving my new blog hobby. I still have much to learn but it's been so fun. Oxox
Hi Catherine! I am so glad to have found your blog a few days ago. It's great to see other women over 40 doing what they love. I am also over 40 and mainly post beauty, hair and some fashion videos to YouTube. Just wanted to introduce myself and say Hi! Keep up the great work. XO Kim
http://www.thehipchickonline.com
Wow. I'm so glad I found you! I'm 44 and blog in different niche and I'm a new follower.. I create DIY fashion and have a sewing blog. All the other sewing bloggers in my community are so much younger and I always felt self comscious of my age.I'm going to ow itnow! Id love you to stop by sometime! I'm at sew country chick. Thank you for turning me on to all these other bloggers. I thought I was the lone over forty blogger in blogland!
Well I am well in my forties, started a blog last year but gave it up updating months ago: too time consuming for my taste. But I really feel the lack of place and audience for +40 fashion bloggers with real personal style. This is why I would like to introc=duce you to a fashion written by a french teacher (in french then but please, do open your mind to no english speaker..). She's got GREAT style, not at all like mine but she is herself and full or energy and colour. She is unique (sometimes too much) and had received more than often bad comments from women much younger.
Here: http://globe-mode.blogspot.de/
As for me it is true and sure I am much more confident, stylewise and else. I feel good in my body, in good health, full of energy still even if my face is now different . I do have strong opinions and know how to argue and prove myself. I do not know if it is easier to blog over 40 but all I can say is that it is certainly easier do deal with trends and time.
Love this post. I started my blog at 40 and am so glad I did.
Wow … I love this whole list you have put together, thank you!
At 40+ I am definitely more confident in who I am. The most surprising thing for me has been how the local news (FOX & ABC) uses Jen and I in their segments … we are not the 20 somethings, we are real women that more people can relate to. pippa
What a super post!!! I'm 32 now and have been blogging almost 9 years but I have always enjoyed variety in my blog reading and I do really like the wisdom and experience of older bloggers. In real life, I have always been more comfortable with people over 40, so naturally this comfort also translates into my blog reading! I love the quotes from people here
And I too had tartan trousers in the 90's! I LOVED them truly!
What a great post! There are so many amazing over 40 bloggers! How things change as we get older, and how somethings never change. How I feel about myself, and how I behave are so different than when I was younger, but there are still somethings that have not. Being a over 40 beauty blogger its interesting to think back when I was a teenager and how I feel and do things now that I would of never thought I would do. I am over at http://overallbeauty.com/beauty-blog and I am aging in style!
I am so happy you made this post! What a great end to my week. I will be keeping in touch by following you!
Following the fab favorites link up party! Would love for you to follow me back!
CLK Fashions
With ♥ From Minnesota
Fabulous post! As a 30-something blogger, I agree with almost everything on your list! And what a great idea to highlight some other fabulous 40+ bloggers. 😀
Jen @ Librarian for Life & Style
Hi,
I can't agree more with women bloggers who are over 40+. They have advantages in terms of their experience and they can certainly cache in to the popularity. Thanks for sharing such a wonderful post.
I'm so glad you agree, Afzal, and you're right! Thanks so much :))
Such a fantastic post! I love reading all of these ladies blogs, and yours, they all have such specific points of view on style. I'm somewhere in between the 20 somethings and the 40+, hopefully I'll find my niche 🙂
<3 Vicki
wildeinthecity.blogspot.com
What a fantastic article!!! I already follow two of the bloggers featured, now I have new ones to follow 🙂 As a fledgling blogger in her 30's, I anticipate growing in the blogosphere in my 40's!
InMyJoi.blogspot.com
It's all a good time, Joli – I just wanted to point out that for women who are over 40 it's not a bad thing, and quite the opposite in fact! They have so many strengths being that age!! Good luck with your blog, I hope it goes well for you x
this is excellent Catherine!! Love the sentiment expressed here. I'm not a fashion blogger, but a 40+ gal who designed and patented a fashion (& travel, fitness, etc) accessory starting at age 41 ..now on the journey of my life these last 6.5 years …and here on my mission to change the world. Be SMART as well as stylish… helping gals to help themselves…. ♥! @PortaPocketGal (www.portapocket.com) xox
That's a fantastic attitude, Kendra – good for you! Good luck with your business! x
AMEN! tomorrow is my (gulp) 47th Birthday..started my style blog at 42 when I was so ignorant I (thankfully) didn't even realize it was a young girl's game! I need more of this type of attitude and perspective in my life!
I guess I was the same when I started my blog – blisfully ignorant thankfully! I guess if we keep going on about it being a "young girl's game" then it will stay that way – we should simply get on with it! Thanks hun – and happy birthday!! x
Great post, I am inspired to find so many stylish women in one place. I am not a fashion blogger, but am a travel blogger in my 40s and a colleague of Adrienne's at Skimbaco Lifestyle. I started blogging when I was 42, and I'm so glad I hit publish that day.
I am one of the 20 somethings 🙂 But I found this post really interesting and inspirational. I I will certainly be checking out a few of these ladies.
x
Box Of Various
Excellent – I'm so glad, Heidi! I should have put as one of the "great things" that I get a lot of support from readers of all ages, not just those my own age. xx
Hi! I think you might like this post from a few years back. I wrote it for Feminist Fashion Bloggers collective back then, but I think it is still relevant: http://fishmonkey.blogspot.com/2011/10/ffb-woman-in-her-forties.html
Hi Monkey – yes I will have a look… thanks so the pointer! x
such an inspirational post!
ENTER MY Elle Magazine, Estee Lauder & Aldo accessories GIVEAWAY!
Hello my dear! I just wanted to let you know I linked to this post in my blog today. I used your first picture … I do hope that it's OK. Just let me know if you have any problems with it. I am just so excited to share this post and it's celebration of being 40+.
Thank you again for rounding up such inspiration!
Oh Tamera that's absolutely fine to use my pic – I'm very flattered, thank you! I'll pop over and check it out xx
Excellent post! I especially agree with your 9th bullet as that was the reason I started blogging, knowing that what worked for me in my 20s and even my 30s wasn't anymore. Thanks for shining light on the community.
Gina
One thing that age brings us is a different eye for things. Most of us have "found ourselves". We know what's trendy, what's timeless, and what fits our style.
My goal is to put such an awesome "fashion and life" foot forward that the 40's, 50's, 60's, and 70's is not JUST a number, but THE number that everyone can hardly wait to get to!
We need to show the 20's and 30's how fashion and style is really done!
http://www.northsideofthecountryroad.com
Heehee I love your attitude, Elizabeth – you sound like a ballsy gal!! Thanks so much for your comment xx
LPC sent me here and I'm glad she did, I have now discovered a lot more of my peeps put there!
I thought of you Tabitha. You have your own category – not just a style blogger but a raconteur, in my mind. Even better, really.
Catherine, I contacted you in the summer regarding starting a blog – well we did it, our blog is aimed at the 50 and 60's. Really enjoyed this post, there is quite a community out there, we'll done for bringing us together. Go girls. Sue
And it gets better. At 58 getting dressed is easy-peasy. I know what works, feel comfy in my own skin and have teenage daughters to keep me from going too far astray. (Try to get that help from your toddlers!)
Great article.
Teenage daughters – of course!! Funnily enough I often ask my 15 year old niece which shoes I should wear with an outfit, or what necklace… she keeps me in check!! Thanks for reading, NN 🙂
Great piece Catherine, thanks for so eloquently tooting the 40+ horn!
Wonderful post with lots of great contributors.
bisous
Suzanne
Catherine,
I love your post it is a warm welcome to the 40+ female blogging arena. As a 40+ fashion enthusiast I am enjoying the opportunity to recreate my sense of style. One of the leading factors that prompt my search is diversity. I always look for people who look like me. As a African American women I would like to see clothing and read suggestions that fit my body type. Would you have any suggestions on which blogs I could check out that highlight what looks good on women from various ethnicity's as well as body types?
Hi Cleo! So glad you liked the post. I've been through my feed and all these bloggers whose blogs I enjoy reading are all of various ethnicities… hopefully you'll find lots of variety of body shapes too:
Folake from stylepantry.com
Cessily from vintage-nut.com
Gracey from fashionforgiants.blogspot.com
Yi-chia from alwaysmaylee.com
Cynthia from addicted2etsy.com
Nicole from garypeppergirl.com
Kenye from glowkouture.blogspot.com
Yen from diva-in-me.com
Chioma from csevolutionofstyle.com
Sasha from moiology.com
Rebecca from redtagchiclosangeles.com
Hope you enjoy checking these lovely ladies out – there are of course loads more out there! x
Great post Catherine and thank you for introducing some fabulous 40+ bloggers.
Thanks for sharing your insight. Loved reading about other ideas! I have been blogging seriously for about 1,5 years and it has definitely changed my perspective on fashion and the sharing of ideas is invaluable. The contacts, you name it. Its been such a phantastic experience that I just started my second fashion blog leaving the other to city reports and local designer report. Just because I am enjoying taking pics and creating my outfits so much. Sabina @ OceanblueStyle
Good for you, Sabina :)))
Fabulous post! I'm a former magazine beauty editor and recently started my beauty/lifestyle blog because so many I read are – although interesting – irrelevant to me at my time of life. Plus I love writing and want to get back into working as a writer. I was only recently wondering whether I should stick at blogging but it's early days and after reading this post – it's confirmed to me that I should! Thanks. Love your gorgeous fashion/style bloggers! x
I'm so glad you've decided to stick at it – that's great news! Your age should be a totally irrelevant reason to stick with it or give it up… good luck with it all!!
As a 40+ blogger, so glad I found this article – never knew there were so many of us!
As mentioned to another reader earlier, Marguerite: these ladies are only the tip of the iceberg! Check out Sylvia's 40+ Style blog for a huge list of over 40 bloggers, and get yourself on there! So glad you've found more of us x
Thanks! Will do!
Great post Catherine…and for you lovely young thing you have years and years of enjoying the blogging world and more…I am now 53 I started my business at 50 and blogging at 51…age is just a number and more so today than ever before…what an exciting world we live in 🙂
Pop by if you have time, I'd love to hear from you…
Catherine
http://www.cashmerelover.com
http://www.catherinerobinsoncashmere.com
Fabulous post, Catherine! Thank you!
Great post Catherine! I do find that community & support from 40+ is amazing! Thank you for sharing some new faces in there!
Alice
http://www.happinessatmidlfie.com
Wonderful, wonderful post! So perfectly said, plus I enjoyed seeing all my blogging friends highlighted all in one post. I decided to begin blogging after my 50th birthday and have absolutely loved this vibrant, stylish, and creative community of 40 + bloggers.
Brilliant post! Ditto to Imogen's comment above. There is nothing more inspirational than seeing how fabulously stylish 'real' women your own age:)
Love this post – being over 40 allows us to express ourselves more authentically as we care less about what others think. We have often learned what works for us (our rules) and also how to break them to express our individuality.
Personal style – and by association, personal style blogging! – should never be about age!! It should be about freedom of expression, and "joie de vivre," and experimenting, and having fun…and then sharing all those things with one another!! Style can come in many different shapes, sizes, and ages; but it doesn't depend on any of these…it does, however, depend on self-confidence!! And what better way to develop said confidence than by sharing with an online community!! An inspiring post, dear Catherine…I wouldn't be surprised if you helped launch a few new blogging "careers!!"
http://www.StyleIsMyPudding.com
Oh that would be great Monika (to launch a few careers!) – thank you for thinking I may have a hand in that 🙂 I'm with you on the "age doesn't matter" thing, but sometimes you have to highlight the fact that it's NOT a bad thing to be over a certain age and blogging to make the point that age doesn't matter. Er, if that makes sense, which I'm not sure it does?!!
Hopefully you know what I mean!!! Thanks sweetie so much x
How wonderful to see all my friends highlighted here and some new faces too! This is such a fabulous community and I've adored learning about everyone's style across the world. To me that is what makes fashion blogging so amazing – the closeness among the community despite the fact that we haven't met and a week or two may go by without a post or a comment. I love this group!
xo ~kim
What a fabulous Article! Im not in my 40's , but in my mid 30's , however I carry the same sentiments in regards to blogging. I love that yopu introduced and interviewed some very stylish ladies over 40… LOVE IT!! Alot of women may feel slightly intimidated by putting themselves out there on the internet but it really is beautiful & INSPIRING 🙂
Love Sechy
Thank you for this amazing post! I've been loving your blog since I found it am excited to check out these other lovely ladies' blogs as well. I actually started a blog last May, but was too afraid to post pictures of myself. I figured who wants to see pictures of some old lady when there are all these cute 20 year olds with amazing bodies and no wrinkles. But then I realized that it am inspired by fashionable women of all ages. Hello, Iris Apfel. I want to be just like her. So, I decided to say screw it, and actually have posted pictures starting this new year wobbly bits and all!
Good for you sweetie – that's exactly the attitude! xoxo
What a fantastic post! such wise words and thanks so much for introducing more 40+ blogs. I'm almost 46 and love fashion just as much as I did in my 20s. I started a blog last year when recovering from ankle surgery as a way of documenting my recovery and style. It's proved to be an interesting journey for me, and has allowed me to connect with some truly wonderful women!
Thanks again!
One again you wrote a great post! I'm a over 40 too, I have a sewing blog and I'm thinking about posting what I really wear, but I'm not ready yet, my photos are not good enough to be shown to the world.
You rock, Catherine!
Oh I hope you do it straight away Carmen – remember we all have to start somewhere! Never put anything off because you think it won't be good enough… it's the only way to improve, by learning from what you've already done and the hits and misses we make. Please do it now, you won't regret it!!!!!
Thanks sweetie for your lovely comment x
Thank you for this wonderful post and the introduction to some new fashion blogs. Great to see such fashion savvy women over 40!
Being closer to 60 myself I appreciate seeing what other women are wearing and blogging for the past 4 years has definitely influenced my style of dressing and in the process I have learned a lot about myself.
Love this post & all these inspirational women!
Great post Catherine. I started my blog last year as I approached my 40th as part of my list of 40 things to do for my 40th & am absolutely loving it. Hopefully one day I will be able to make my blog & styling my full time career. Jane xx
http://www.mymidlifefashion.com
Thank you Jane – I hope you do as well – good luck!!
Not quite over 40 but I've just joined the 40 club recently. I feel 30 (in denial!) but the support from bloggers from the same age group has been fantastic.
Funny, I never think of your age until you mention it. You are a classic beauty. Hmm, I wonder what readers think my age is? :o)
http://www.dressupnotdown.blogspot.com
Catherine, thank you so much for including me!! The journey from my first post just a year ago until today has been incredible and the main reason is this fabulous 40+ community! My daughter, almost 20, who also blogs, unfortunately doesn't have this amazing support by her fellow bloggers. It is really unique for our age group.
You have been my inspiration from the very beginning and I cannot be thankful enough.
I am so much looking forward to where the journey will take all of us this year!
Big hug,
Annette | Lady of Style
You're so welcome Annette – thank you so much for taking part! And what you said about your daughter blogging… that's very interesting (and a bit of a shame)! Let's raise a big glass to ourselves :))
Wonderful. I was hoping Janet from The Gardener's Cottage blog would be here….she is in the 50 plus and is so down to earth and beautiful.
pve
Thank you for posting this. As a 40 something fashion blogger it is nice to know I am not alone out there.
You are so not alone at all, hun!! The 40+ community is a brilliant community to be part of – exactly what Patti, Bella and others said in the quotes. I'm so glad you've "found" these ladies, and more soon I hope :))
Great post. I am a blogger in late 30s, but I definitively aggre with all those gorgeous ladies. As you are getting older, you have more sence of yourself, your style and life in general. You are more comfident and not worried about little silly things. Keep on rocking.
Fabulous 30s
Absolutely, Ana – I couldn't agree more! We have so much to offer when we're a bit older, I hope more older ladies will start seeing that! Thank you xx
What an awesome post Catherine, and I love hearing other over 40 bloggers perspective on it as well. so many younger bloggers i hear saying "i don't want to keep blogging when i'm in my 40s (or 30s!)," and that's sad. maybe it's because they'll be burnt out on it by then, but i think we have much to offer in the way of fashion but also life.
That's so true, Kim – which is why it's brilliant actually *starting* your blog when you're a bit older, don't you think?! Thanks so much and for your lovely comments xx
Really nice post. Although I'm in my mid 40's I guess I don't feel like I need to advertise it .. as my target is shape. I can be 20 yrs old or 50 yrs old, but darn it all .. I'll always be a pear shaped gal ..lol.
Monica, http://www.pear-shaped-gal.com
Shape is also a great point to emphasise, Monica – and you've found a brilliant niche (I can't think of another blog that's specifically about being a pear shape – and it's a common shape!!) Glad you liked the post 🙂
Hooray for life (and blogging) after 40 that is exciting, fulfilling, and so much sexier! Great points, all of which I echo, of course.
And as one of the most stylish 40+ bloggers I know, V – that's high praise indeed!! Thank you so much xx
What fun. A whole new pack of fashion bloggers to read that are not 20. As a 70-year old, i just don't look that great in teens clothes.
Wow, Sandy – a 70 year old blog reader – that's fantastic! So glad to have you here, and I'm pleased you've found some new blogs to read. There are so many more than just these 12, do check them all out! Thank you xx
I am near 40… you are all wonderful girls!!!
Thank you Nicky!
Love this post! I am a 40+ (almost 50 & Fabulous girls!) but I had never thought of putting g my age out there to the world to attract more mature readers. Well there ya go. Now I know how to build my followers. Thanks to all of you wonderful ladies!! 🙂 I will visit each of these bloggers & my hope is to build a friendship with you. Thanks stylish ladies!!!
Debra@stylewisebydebra.com
Oh absolutely, Debra – it's a huge selling point!! The more you develop your "niche", the more people you'll reach. The community is the best part, so you've absolutely got the right attitude! So glad you've discovered some new blogs, and thank you for your comments :))
Never in my wildest dreams did I ever think I would be portrayed as an example in the internet/fashion world. Thank you Catherine. What a lovely post.
Greetje
Well there you go, Greetje!! Good for you – and it's well deserved!! Thank you for taking part, so glad to have included you xx
WOW!!!!! well done Catherine
everything you have all said is absolutely spot on.
I'm so proud to be 40+ it is definitely my favorite decade so far.
Fantastically written….love it xxx
Thanks Liz so much – and good for you for being 40+ and proud, yay!
Oh Catherine what a wonderful post to start my week with!! Fabulously done my dear … such an absolutely inspiring grouping of women! I couldn't agree more with your opinions on blogging at an older age!
I am 54 and have been blogging for two years now, and it has truly changed my life … blogging has been a path back … to finding myself and my own passions…I had lost who I was … while I raised my three children. I will always remember my first photo I took of myself for my blog … when I had a burst of realization … it had been almost 20 year since I had a picture of just me … not as a wife or a mother .. just me.
Thank you my dear for always being such a strong champion of those of us over 40 … and championing just how very much can be gained through blogging … and … this highly supportive community! Your post has given me some pep in my step this morning … I send you much gratitude for the reminder of the multiple gifts in blogging.
xoxo
Tamera
What amazing reasons for blogging, Tamera – I salute you! You're most welcome for the reminder, it was actually the input from these lovely ladies that made the post so special. Thanks so much for your lovely comments my dear! xx
Fantastic post- Catherine! I love what you say, and how you say it. Thanks for including me among some of the best of the best. Being +40 is pretty awesome, especially when you're in such great company!
Aww thanks Bella – as a big supporter of the 40+ gals you simply had to be included!! And I totally agree with all that you said… wise words!! xx
Great Post Catherine. It was last year when I started my blog, aged 39. I wouldn't have had the confidence to start or to put myself out there before then. I am more driven than ever to make it a success and I embraced turning 40 with open arms. I feel better than I did when I turned 30 and I feel like I'm in my prime with a whole chapter ahead of me. I too would love to become a full time blogger, something I'm working incredibly hard to achieve. Thank you Catherine, you're an inspiration, love Liz (www.whatlizzyloves.com)
39 – that was the age I was when I started mine! Good for you for having such a positive attitude to blogging at this age… I hope you achieve your goal. Thanks Elizabeth so much (email me anytime if there's anything I might be able to help you with, won't you?!)
Thanks for this, not only have I found additional reinforcement to keep doing what I am doing I have found some new over 40 blogs to follow. Nice to hear that I may be of value out there as my blog starts growing.
PS I follow you not just because you are an over 40 but I love the freedom of style that you have and like you given a choice starting a blog now was the right thing to do.
I'm so glad you've found some new awesome bloggers, Linda! We need to promote our age as a positive thing, not the opposite! And thank you for your lovely comments about me/my blog, very kind of you to say xx
I really enjoyed reading this post, totally agree! Blogging is for everyone and anyone that have something to say! xxx
http://www.maisymeow.com
You're spot on, Maisy. Thank you!!!
Great post Catherine 🙂 I love posting my outfit but something always happens to knock my confidence!! latest is explaining to my mother in law and partner why I have a blog and posting pictures of myself ha. They have just discovered all 3 years of work!! I would love to work with fashion brands you have done great. I always get offered food haha I do love my food too though 🙂
Oh please don't let it knock your confidence, Justine – remember to be proud when you're talking about it – though it IS hard to explain the concept to someone who's never heard of a blog before…!! I was wondering if you'd signed up to the websites that connect brands with blogs… I'll be doing a post about that in the next month or two, so watch out for it. But that's great about being offered food – lucky girl (I can't eat all the shoes I have can I)!!!!!!
Thanks for the reply, I had wondered about joining a brand website as I have seen a few bloggers with the badges on but honestly I haven't go a clue. I can't wait to read that post 🙂 will keep stopping by 🙂
Great post, Catherine. Thanks for including me in your round up of fabulous bloggers. Go Team Loves To Have Fun With Fashion At Any Age. xo
Thank you Angie – I'm so glad you took part and liked the result!! You lot all made it a great read I think 🙂
Really interesting read, thanks for taking the time to put this together!
I'm really glad you liked it Lou – thank you so much x
I'm 21 and I am incredibly inspired by your blog and your style! I definetly don't think blogging should be reserved to any specific age group, we all have different talents to offer the blog world (:
That's a brilliant view, Princess Jord – and so wise for someone so young! It's great to know someone of your age loves to read blogs from other age groups – and vice versa. Thanks hun x
Beautiful post. So well done, so many women with their own style. Thank you very much for including me. I'm honored to be in this company.
Lisa you've summed it up perfectly – and thank you being part of this post, I really appreciate it!! x
So well said Catherine and many of my favorite bloggers here. This is inspiring to me personally. Thank you for stating all the positives about blogging over 40, I agree with you completely! I won't "fade into the woodwork" as I age, so bring it on! I'm still looking for new and fun styles to wear in my 50's.
blue hue wonderland
I thought it was time to shout about the fact that it's great blogging at this age, Ann!! Thank you for your input – so glad to have included you! x
Catherine. This is a wonderful post – jaw-droppingly wonderful. I am beyond honored to be featured among such successful bloggers.
We 40+ fashion bloggers offer so much to our communities – authentic women, real fashion, positive support for one another and valuable information. It's something I feel so fortunate to be a part of. Thank you again for including me with such super stars!
xoxo, A
Wow Adrienne – what a fantastic compliment!! It was all of you that really made the post special, so thanks go to you really! And yes I agree with you about feeling so fortunate to be part of the community… (it's the best bit)!
Fantastic read…great post and love seeing all that style.
That's really nice of you to say – thank you so much!
LOVED this! Well written and oh so true.
Thanks for having me! xo
You're very welcome, Susan – thank YOU for taking the time to contribute!!
This was wonderful!! All of these ladies – you too, are amazing!! And it's great to see amazing style and confidence in all ages. I'm in my mid-30's and already feel much happier and self-content than I did in my 20's. I have no qualms about when I hit the 40's and so on with ladies like this!! I do feel that the older ladies are more self-assured and will wear as they please and don't get caught up in the trends or 'rules' of what they should wear & I love that!! Perfect post!!
Kizzy xx
Beautifully put, Kizzy – I couldn't agree with you more! Thanks so much hun x
Wonderful post Catherine! I loved to read the views from all my favorite bloggers and all your reasons were so spot on!
Thanks for your contribution Sylvia – and it's amazing but everyone had a slightly different thing to say which was wonderful :))
Me too, with the tears – beautifully done, Catherine and thank you. xox
Aww Patti thank you – I always appreciate the time you take to comment and was so pleased to include you x
WOWWWWWWWWWWW Catherine you have me nearly in tears of joy, what a fabulous piece of writing.
I am soooooooooo honoured to be here and I couldn´t agree more with every single words.
Thank you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Oh Sacramento that's so lovely of you to say, bless you my dear! Thank you SO much for participating! xoxo
I cannot agree more. I will turn 41 this year and absolutely loving it. I always says hey I am in my forties and proud of it. Nicely written post Catherine and yayyyy to all this fabulous women !!!
xo
Sam
http://fabulouspetite.blogspot.com
Thank you Sam! It's great to be proud of your age, no matter what it is!!