Dressing for nobody but you

Too old for leather trousers. Too old for a mini. Too old for trainers with a dress. I've heard them all. You probably have too. Usually from someone who isn't paying for your clothes.

So let's retire the phrase 'age-appropriate'. It's dull, it's bossy, and it's never once made anyone feel good.

Ask better questions

• Do I feel like me in this? Not like your mum. Not like your daughter. You.
• Can I move in it? Sit, walk, dance, chase a bus. Clothes are for living in.
• Does it fit the body I have today? Not the one you had. Not the one you're 'working towards'. This one.
• Does it make me stand a bit taller? Then it's appropriate. Done.

The most stylish women I know stopped asking permission years ago.

Over 40 isn't the time to fade out. It's when you finally know who you are — and you can dress like it. Wear the sequins on a Monday. Wear the red lipstick to Tesco. Life's short. Your style shouldn't be.

Mabel x