Suz--to answer your question, this thread has been enormously helpful to me in figuring out my style! I appreciate all the help that everyone has given me in trying to refine what my style is. Mrseccentric's musings and suggestions were especially enlightening, and I have read everyone's comments over and over...such a treasure trove of advice!
I am still amazed at how far I've come in such a short time on my style journey. Wow, a couple months ago I never would have thought that I would be picked to be a style example on a fashion blog!
http://40plusstyle.com/describ.....statement/
(Thanks Sylvia!)
I love all the phrases that have been used to describe me...demure bombshell, classic elegant, retro ladylike, boho luxe, ladylike luxe...they all sound so fashionable and elegant! It really helps me figure out what I think will appeal to me. I now am learning how to think about fashion on a higher level rather than just having gut reactions without being able to articulate why! Instead of just randomly saying, "Oh I like this, I don't like that" when I'm shopping or picking out outfits, I'll be able to head in a certain style direction because I know where I'm going and what I am looking for. I can either play up my usual style, or play against it by going completely opposite, which is fun too (ie the RATE look). Now that I know what my style is, I'm having fun tweaking it and incorporating elements of the "opposite" style to provide some contrast and tension.
Rachylou, I also think you hit the nail on the head with your comments:
"Fundamentally, your outfits are completely within bounds, but at the same time you tweak them a little bit. They're not "make me invisible" safe. Like you have pattern and you mix patterns - that's pretty daring if one takes a look around. I mean, knee-high boots always say "dangerously attractive girl" ;> "
I also realized that my fashion motto is "classics with a twist". I don't like purely traditional "timeless" classics...too neutral/boring for me. I love to add some unique twist like bright colors, patterns, pattern mixing, ruffles, zippers, texture, interesting lining etc. to dress up the classic silhouette. So I'm trying to be polished & professional, but with a bit of flair!
Thanks everyone for helping me figure all this out! I'm having a blast with all of you!