Style Secrets of Applewood’s Ageless Women
If you’re curious about one of the latest fashion trends, just look to your right or left. Senior women have taken center stage (and the catwalk) and are now dictating how women of a certain age can live stylishly and with aplomb.
And why shouldn’t they? They have life accomplishments, beauty and life lessons to spare.
From 83-year-old Joan Didion’s splashy fashion spread in Céline’s fall print campaign to 74-year-old Lauren Hutton confidently strutting down Bottega Veneta’s spring 2019 catwalk, women with life experience have much to teach the younger fashionistas following on their coattails.
Ahead, five fashion-savvy women who live at Applewood sat down with us to talk about their personal style, confidence in aging and how they look fantastic.
Collectively, they prove that age is just a number, indeed.
Marjorie Zemek
Former New York fashion model and professor of English at City University of NY
Style Lesson: I make up my own fashion classics that make me feel great. For example, I’ve never met a pair of Palazzo pants I didn’t love. While they’ve come back again, these chic and comfortable pants are a staple in my wardrobe in all colors and prints.
Words of Wisdom: From my experience in the industry, and through my own trial and error, I do these things religiously:
Moisturize and then moisturize again. The less makeup you wear, the younger you look. Color is your friend—always add it to your look, even if your base is black. Weigh yourself every day and exercise to stay healthy. Think Audrey Hepburn and you can’t go wrong.
Norma Rothstein
Brooklyn native, dental hygienist, will be 90-years-old in 2019
Style Lesson: I discovered my personal style after age 60, thanks to a fashionable friend who inspired me to have fun with clothing, jewelry and make-up. She taught me above all else to have a hairstyle you can manage on your own, without having to visit the hairdresser every week to keep it looking good.
Words of Wisdom: As I approach my tenth decade, the most essential beauty asset I have is my good health. I make it a priority every day. You look better when you feel good. I check in with Weight Watchers once a month and don’t miss a routine check-up—ever. I’m blessed to be in good health because of it.
An Interview with the 69-year-old face of CoverGirl Cosmetics
Joann Milazzo
Active, outgoing grandmother with a love of shopping and accessories
Style Lesson: My daughter studied fashion merchandising and she’s been a great consultant for me. I have never liked ‘old lady clothes’ because I don’t feel old. My husband makes a special effort to dress for events and that inspires me.
Words of Wisdom: When you are older, adding some color goes a long way. Personally, I love to top off an outfit with colored shoes. And I love to wear big statement pieces of jewelry which elevates and updates any outfit. When I get tired of it, I pass it down to my grandchildren.
We’re all savvy shoppers here at Applewood. We love the thrill of discovering beautiful things at TJ Maxx and Marshall’s which are surprisingly affordable.
Jean Frailey
Business administrator, Salvation Army officer, healthcare marketing manager
Style Lesson: I love classic, tailored looks that always look up-to-date, no matter what the fashion magazines say. I have found that a few high-quality pieces can last for many years—it’s so easy to give them a modern look with jewelry, a belt or a great scarf.
Words of Wisdom: I watch women on television to get ideas of what I like and don’t like. TV stylists are great with layering, which is key for me. But when it comes to footwear, I’m all about practicality. Thankfully, there are great options today which offer a clean design and are truly comfortable. Macy’s and Lord &Taylor have great shoe departments.
Pat Christiansen
Needlecrafter, stained-glass artisan, voracious reader, mother and grandmother
Style Lesson: Years ago, I took the Color Me Beautiful course which said I should wear jewel tones. Doing so adds a little sparkle to my face now that I’m a woman of a certain age. I don’t get the same effect if I wear black.
My husband of 60 years was a terrific dresser and inspired me to enjoy the art of dressing and fashion.
Words of Wisdom: If you feel stuck in finding the right outfit, try Chico’s and Nordstrom and visit on a weekday when it’s quiet. The sales people can offer ideas you may not have considered, but which ultimately look great on you! Be open to other people’s ideas. Only shop the sales!
How to Visit Applewood from the Comfort of Home
Live Stylishly at Applewood, a senior life care community
We are home to many vibrant and inspiring people like Marjorie, Norma, Joann, Jean and Pat. (And casual dressers are also welcomed!)
Once you visit our continuing care retirement community located in historic Monmouth County, New Jersey, you’ll see that senior living can be uplifting and full of positivity for mind, body and spirit, thanks to our Engaged Living® philosophy.
From comfortable apartments and cottage-style homes to a non-stop array of dining and activity options, being a senior has never been more fun.
If you’re ready to live in a managed care community that offers independent living with added on-site care, should you ever need it, welcome to Applewood. Call (732) 303-7416 to plan your visit soon.