If you think fashion is just for the young, this book will change your perception. Advanced Style challenges stereotypical views on age and ageing by featuring elegant, glamourous and even quirky women in their senior years.
The author, Ari Seth Cohen, calls this book "the celebration of life". The final chapter of the book is an interview by the seductive Dita Von Teese with Ilona Royce Smithkin, whom the reader will very likely recognise as the one with the orange false eyelashes.
The book features inspiring women who dress to reflect who they are, not what their age says they should be. Some women are over a century old, but their styles are eye-catching and truly amazing - something they've learned from experience. Alongside the photos are quotes from the women which can be applied to any woman of any age.
A woman named Rose has developed a keen eye for fashion over the past 100 years of her life, and her words of wisdom should be requisite reading for anyone wondering how to live life to its utmost. One of her most relatable and useful quotes is: "Inexpensive lipstick is as good as expensive, only better."
Styles for older women don't have to be boring. Neon colours, leopard prints, chunky accessories, rainbow highlights and, yes, even orange false eyelashes can be worn without looking like trying too hard to be young. Debra Rapoport believes that style has the power to heal and is a process of self-discovery.
"I don't believe in age-appropriate dress - just make your personal statement and feel confident about it."
Unlike women in fashion shoots, these women look real and relaxed in what they are wearing. Although the clothes they wear might seem unusual for someone their age, the pictures do not look forced - they are all very natural. Their styles range from elegant, androgynous and ultra feminine to casual or fashionably crazy. However, one thing everyone in this book wears is confidence.
Lubi, whose style is all about "less is more", said: "Some might see it as grey hair, age, genetics, stress, etc. I see it differently. I see it as platinum elegance."
