Sveta, you are totally right--Demure Bombshell! (I think I actually asked if there was such a thing as that in one of my earlier posts!) Hey MaryK...I keep meaning to ask--what is the Z in ZOMG?

It's for "Zoh!"

OK, I am cheating here because I didn't read everything first. I just checked back in and saw your alltime fave outfit, and the phrase Ladylike Luxe popped into my head. Beautiful, opulent materials in rich colors - but worn in a modest and proper way, as opposed to, for example, the more ubiquitous Boho Luxe look.

What an interesting read to see how you came to define your style! I think it's totally spot on. Great to see all your outfits too. I spent hours just going through all the links and read about how you and others find their style. Should probably have read all of this before posting my own article on this! But plenty of inspiration for upcoming articles on style. How do you feel now that you have a clear definition of your style? Is it a big help?

I love the photo montage! I think you're an autumn, and I'd call you the Daring Professional. 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" ;>

Hi! First of all, I envy your extensive wardrobe!!! I ADORE your red coat, blue cowl neck sweater, and the skirt & bag in pic #9! From this post alone (I'm new)l I'd describe your style as Trendy Professional, very polished & pulled together!

I LOVE Rae's take: Ladylike Luxe. That, to me, encapsulates your fave looks so far.

How are you feeling about it all now, Natalie? Do you feel any closer to understanding yourself and where you are headed, style-wise?

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!

A fascinating thread!

I think so, too! Natalie, you are like a beautiful flower that is opening up before our vry eyes!!

So true, Mary K! Isn't she amazing?!! It's a pleasure to watch the unfolding.