2019 Update: We still stand by this advice on how to go gray intentionally — you may also want to check out a recent reader threadjack about going gray. Ladies, have you ever considered going gray intentionally? I’ve known a lot of darker-haired women who went blonde when their grays started to bother them, but … Read More about How to Go Gray… Intentionally
Style vs. Trend vs. Frump (Or, How to Cultivate Style)
There were a few intriguing comments in Friday’s open thread about brooches and whether they were in style, with some readers even suggesting it might be a matter of age. To me, though, this kind of comes down to style versus trend — and I thought it might make an interesting discussion here. After all, don’t … Read More about Style vs. Trend vs. Frump (Or, How to Cultivate Style)
Beauty Wednesday: Serums, Sunscreen, and Retinoids
Ladies, what is your skin routine? At what age did you get serious about skincare? What are your favorite products, both over-the-counter and prescription, whether for anti-aging, anti-wrinkles, exfoliating, or something else? I’ve seen a lot of readers talking recently about serums, sunscreens, retinoids and more, so let’s discuss. I’m curious to hear what everyone else is doing, … Read More about Beauty Wednesday: Serums, Sunscreen, and Retinoids
Feeling Jealous of a Younger Colleague
What should you do if you’re feeling envious of a colleague who’s younger than you, seemingly unappreciative of the opportunity you’re giving her, and also — in your opinion — inappropriately flirty at networking events? Reader J wonders: I’m a 40 yr old business development manager at an engineering firm. I’ve formed a group of female colleagues that helps … Read More about Feeling Jealous of a Younger Colleague
Hair Masks for Busy Women
As the weather is getting cooler and the air is getting dryer, I thought now might be a great time to talk about hair masks. I really got into them while pregnant with my second son — my skin was super dry, and my hair seemed to be too — so these are all ones … Read More about Hair Masks for Busy Women
Where To Start When You Need Style Inspiration
Where should you start when you need style inspiration? Are online stylists all out of your budget? Reader M has a great question: I am a 48 yr. young corporate professional / entrepreneur /contractor looking for professional, age appropriate looks. Can you suggest a website that can guide my “lack of style” sense to better … Read More about Where To Start When You Need Style Inspiration
Gray Hair: An Open Thread
2018 Update: We still stand by this advice on gray hair care, but you may also want to check out our latest discussion on how to go gray intentionally. We’ve talked about corporate women and gray hair before (as well as aging gracefully in general), but not in a long while, so I thought we’d … Read More about Gray Hair: An Open Thread
Guest Post: What Your Hair Says About You
We’ve talked a lot about professional hairstyles, from long hair for older women, to maintainable hair, to gray hair, to work-appropriate up-dos and braids. To continue the conversation, I’m thrilled to introduce you to today’s guest poster, Lois P. Frankel, Ph.D., giving you five quick tips to ensure that your hair makes a good impression … Read More about Guest Post: What Your Hair Says About You
Professional Frump: What To Avoid
Here’s a fun topic that we haven’t discussed in years — what makes something frumpy? How can professional women avoid frump? I agree with a lot of what I said four years ago in terms of avoiding professional frump — primarily: wearing clothes that don’t fit — this is a big one! A lot of … Read More about Professional Frump: What To Avoid
Colorful Pants and Professional Women
Are colorful pants appropriate in an office setting? Are they for young’uns only? Reader J sent in this question a while ago: Question – today’s trends are to wear colored pants. What are your thoughts on wearing colored pants to an office setting on casual fridays? And, more relevant to me, what are your thoughts … Read More about Colorful Pants and Professional Women
Is Ombre Hair Professional?
Is ombre hair appropriate for the office? When does any hair color become “unprofessional”? Reader P wrote in with a great question, and perhaps might lead us to an interesting discussion of when hair dyes and colors cross the line: I was wondering if you could do a post on whether ombre hair is professional. … Read More about Is Ombre Hair Professional?
Coffee Break: Hot Girls Pearls
These “pearl” bracelets and necklaces are filled with a non-toxic icy gel that can be frozen to keep you cool. I saw them touted in O:The Oprah Magazine as a great way to make it through menopausal hot flashes, but I think they’d be great for hot, sticky summer mornings in the subway. I prefer … Read More about Coffee Break: Hot Girls Pearls