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The Latest In
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In the Bag (11)
Oh No! (6)
Designer Dreams (5)
Sale Rack (5)
Mini-Me Style (7)
FantasTech (17)

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MarquetteMarquette

ClareClare

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Fashion Rules For the 40+ Set

Is it fair to have to certain trends for certain ages? We felt that some trends are just not suitable for women who are over 40. Does a 50 year old woman really need to wear "Key West" or anything else for that matter, across her backside?

Let us know if you think that certain trends are only OK for certain ages or if we should all just toss the rules of fashion out the window and wear what you want to wear... no matter how old you are.

The Great Debate

The issue of age-appropriate dressing has long piqued the interest of many men and women of all ages. Some agree, while others take offense. Should a 15 year old and a 35 year old shop in the same department? There has to be a line drawn somewhere, should the juniors department should be off limits to individuals of a certain age? Perhaps the issue of figure-appropriate dressing should also be included in this discussion. Should you flaunt it if you've got it? Or flatter your figure in tasteful, stylish looks? We can all admire and don the same trends, but each in a different way. The skinny jean is still a hot trend and can be worn by women of all ages. But not all women should wear the SAME pair of skinny jeans.

These are perfect for your tween:

Skinny Jeans

While the higher rise on these will flatter Mom. For those looking for a modest fit and a hint of control, this pair is perfect for you too:

Skinny Jeans

This pair is perfect for the 20 and 30-somethings:

Skinny Jeans

We can all follow the trends, look fabulous and age-appropriate!

However, there are certain fashions that continually top the "don't" list because they aren't flattering on any body of any age. Keep this in mind when you are championing the capri pant. Do exposed ankles keep you that much cooler in hot weather? Your legs appear short and stumpy, even if heels are worn. Why not opt for a flowing skirt? Remember ladies, just because it's comfortable and easy, doesn't mean it's flattering and stylish. Otherwise the muu muu would be a best-seller!

Agree? Or disagree, defend the capri pant. Share your comments with us. See fashion tips for men here.

Valentine's Day Gift Ideas by Relationship Status

Check out Shopping editor Marquette talking about Valentine's Day gift ideas by relationship status. Whether you just started dating or if you have been married for a long time, you can find a sweet gift guaranteed to knock your Valentine's socks off.

Do segments like this help you think of a gift for your loved one or are you all set in that department?


Skip the dermatologist - Better skin is just a bottle away

There are so many skin care options is it really necessary to visit a doctor's office to have healthy vibrant skin?

As my age creeps up, I'm starting to think more and more about having a solid skin care routine. Trying out different cleansers, toners, exfoliants and moisturizers is not only costly but can be pretty time consuming.

Currently, I use a gentle cleanser like Lancome's Purifying Foaming Cleanser and follow it with AVON's Age Repair Elixir and their Ageless Results Renewing Day Cream. The elixir comes in an ultra cool gold bottle and is a little pricey at $54, but is worth every drop. It honestly makes your skin look and feel noticably better in just a few days. And the Day Cream is nice because it is non greasy and contains SPF 15. I can definitely see a difference in my skin.

Can maintaining healthy skin be this easy or is it necessary to go the route of "The Real Housewives of Orange County" and succumb to botox? Share your skin care secrets!

Tory Burch - Wear The Rainbow

I have a major shoe crush. The Tory Burch Reva flat makes me giddy. I mean seriously. I have been admiring this shoe from afar for the past year. Initially when they burst on the scene I dismissed them --- thinking that they were overpriced shoes for the high society set but I cant seem to shake them. They are like skittles for your feet, they come in delicious colors like Orchard Pink, Banana Yellow and Grass Green, as well as super practical colors like Brown, Black and Navy. The gold TB logo takes them from mundane to uber sleek.

Okay they are a tad on the pricey side ($195) but they are super comfortable and can be worn with anything from wide leg jeans to skinny jeans (sorry but I think that these are going to be around for a while.)

And did I mention they even come in pint sizes for your mini me, at a "mere" $95 daughters and mommies can be equally sassy.

I am seriously considering indulging. Just need to be able to explain who Tory is to my husband. Maybe I can convince him that she is an out of network doctor from our insurance company.

In the Office

Your appearance is the first thing people see, so it is important to send the right message. People may cringe when they hear the word appropriate, but it is important for your clothing to be age-appropriate as well as work-place appropriate. You don't have to sacrifice fashion for function. Chic work wear is out there, a boring suit doesn't have to be your uniform. Here are some great office options.

In a casual environment opt for dark denim, a crisp white shirt and a fitted blazer.

7 For All Mankind 'Ginger' Wide Leg Stretch Denim Pants Stretch fitted shirt Halogen Peak Lapel Velvet Blazer

And if your dress code calls for a more dressed up look, then look for classics with a twist.

L.A.M.B. Wool Pencil Skirt Diane von Furstenberg 'Julian' Dress Valette Shadow Stripe Blouse

Tell us how you work your office look...

The North Face Down Triclimate Jacket - Worth Every Penny

The North Face Down Triclimate Jacket - Women's

I have been searching for a functional (yet fashionable) winter jacket forever. As a mom, I was tired of being wet (getting the kids in and out of the car when it was raining) and cold (waiting on said kids to hurry up while enjoying nature on a 30 degree day.)

I was very specific in my wants: a coat that would be light enough that I could throw it on while running errands, but warm enough to wear when it was really cold outside. I wanted a hood for days when it is raining and preferred something that could be worn with both athletic-wear and jeans and still look casual and cute but not feel too bulky.

After extensive research I selected The North Face Down Triclimate Jacket in Brownie . It is basically 3 coats in one! There is a down liner that zips into a HyVent shell. You can use the liner and shell separately or together. The shell protects you from rain, snow etc while the down liner keeps you warm. When used together you have the quintessential winter jacket.

The price tag seems a little steep (around $350) but it is a sound investment that you will surely use for seasons to come.

Pump In Style (A Sassy Bag for your Breast Pump)

Dilemma - How to fashionably lug a not so fashionable breast pump to and from work everyday?

Solution - Kate Spade!

As a self proclaimed sassy working mom, I am always looking for things that make my life easier and are fashionable. A friend recently sent me the link for an ultra hip pump carrier made by Kate Spade. Yes Kate Spade! So now instead of lugging around your breast pump in a non descript black bag you can flaunt your mommy-hood with style and grace. Go head moms! Pump in style! Check out www.KateSpade.com

Gray's Anatomy


Dress your body in the hottest hue of the season. With just two purchases, I've come down with a case of gray fever! The color freshens up the traditional fall wardrobe full of blacks and browns. It's flattering on any complexion and as a neutral, it works with almost every color of clothing or accessory, even yellow gold. I know, I know ... I doubted it too, but I just so happpened to be wearing my favorite long gold chain necklace when I tried on my new gray frock. I looked in the mirror and I was sold. The contrasting colors worked and looked so chic. Gray also comes in many shades, giving you the justification you need to buy that umpteenth sweater. Um, hello.... charcoal and pewter are TOTALLY different! Ready to go gray? Here's my prescription for looking McSexy this fall. Seriously? ... Seriously.

For Work:
The bib detail of this GAP Ruffled Henley Tee makes it professional enough for the office. The chunky heel on this Chinese Laundry 'Devote' Patent Pump makes it wearable from 9 to 5. When you're rushed in the morning, you want a no-fuss, easy-to-slip-on kind of outfit. You're in luck with this Worthington® 3/4 Sleeve Scoopneck Dress, which comes equipped with a belt. Add on some black boots and you've got a pulled-together look in a snap. This BB Dakota Plaid Trench Coat will surely have you wishing for the cold. Tucked in with a button down, this Citizens of Humanity Straight Leg Jean lends a new option for casual Fridays.

For Play:
It's the weekend so time to let loose! You're bound to have fun in this flirty Grey Ant V Front Dress. For a day dress, check out this Tunic Sweater Dress, which I recommend wearing with tights and these darling Crossover Tie Ankle Boots. Come date night, this Sparkling Blouson Sweater has just the amount of shimmer to make you shine. To fight the cool breeze as you run errands this fall, take a look at this cozy and casual Free People Terry Duster Jacket. The fur trim and the unique cut make it quite posh. See more ways to wear gray or for a complete guide to the season's trends, check out AOL Shopping's Fall Fashion & Beauty Event!

Solution for disgusting doggie odor (this REALLY works)

I am a self admitted clean freak which never posed a problem in my daily life UNTIL I got married to a not so neat guy, got two not so fragrant dogs, and had two semi neat little girls.
My biggest issue with cleaning is that I like everything to be clean and to smell clean which can be very challenging when you have pets (and yes I know that bathing them is a must but unless you can bathe your dogs everyday they can still get a little stinky.)
I found out about an air revitalizer and tried it out. I put HoMedics Brethe Air Revitalizer in my dog's primary room and it has worked WONDERS. I generally clean out their room 3 times a week sweeping and mopping the floor to make sure it doesn't smell doggie.
I set up the air revitalizer in their room a couple of days ago and there has been NO trace of dog smell since. The air smells clean and fresh. The product comes with 3 different scents, I am partial to vanilla. The house smells fragrant but not overpowering. I am hooked!

Brethe

Jacket Required

Fall for me, is that time of year to start off with a clean (fashion) plate. A great time to purge your closet and I don't mean "rediscover" items that you think you could, perhaps, maybe one day wear, but a time to really take inventory of what you need and want for the fall and winter, and get rid of things you haven't worn in over a year and have no business having (anything that makes me reminisce about my "past" life I put in this bucket.) My one must-have piece for this fall would be a well tailored blazer. Blazers can pull together any outfit, and with a nice wrap, can be worn into winter. Now that I am in my 30s Fall is less about buying what is trendy but buying key pieces to update my wardrobe. You can also get one for your mini me if you would like.

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