Dancing with the Stars | Mental and Physical Health after 60

Dancing with the Stars | Mental and Physical Health after 60

Recently I had the opportunity to meet and support friends at a competitive sport new to me: Ballroom dancing. I never realized how rewarding and physical it could be. Not only do you have to remember all the steps, learn to coordinate, and have excellent lung capacity, you have to do it all at once!

When Net-A-Porter AND The Fine Magazine both have articles on dancing, you know you’re on the right track.

In the Net-A-Porter article “The Happiness Swerve,” there is a section titled “Learn to Dance”. It talks about a Harvard medical study that shows learning a new skill fundamentally improves your brain health. According to the study, any form of dancing that requires coordination can improve mental sharpness and (even more fascinating) can help protect the brain against the early onset of dementia.
What more motivation would we need to get out there and shake our tail feathers!

I met people in their 80’s and beyond enjoying the camaraderie that comes from music and dancing. Here are just a few of my stars in action.

Approximately two years ago, Victoria started competitive ballroom dancing. Here she is performing her winning Paso Doble.

Virginia is 91 and still going strong! I mean, look at the size of that trophy!

Anita is a 99-year-old winner of the dance competition. 

Murrey is in his 80’s and as happy as can be.

My Dear Friend Victoria! The Paso Doble and All Round Winner! Victoria took up dancing to relieve stress. Not only is she an incredibly successful businesswoman, she knows that relieving stress is one of the most important things you can do for long and healthy life. She gives her stress reduction 100%, just like everything she does. It shows in her work, her hobbies and her friends. She is an excellent example for all of us.

Well, a flirt at any age is a joy!

To sum up my trip, I met lovely people of all ages with a joie de vivre, which is sadly lacking at times. When we get stuck in our ways and reclusive, it could be hard to get out of that rut. The first step is not allowing ourselves to get there, but if you are, let a friend take you out and experience a new adventure. Say yes to life, and that could be at your closest dance studio. Just remember everyone has a left foot. 🤪

Effortless Dresses From Kaftans to Cocktails!

Effortless Dresses From Kaftans to Cocktails!

When I think of timeless silhouettes that are effortless, relaxed and always just right I think of Ala Von Auersperg. You may remember AvA from our post in April featuring an incredible ruffle sleeve kaftan perfect for a Spring/Summer wedding. If you missed it, you can check it out here. Dressing up a kaftan has been a trick up my sleeve since my hippie days and the Francoise Kaftan in this beautiful rose print is no exception. 

The prints are an organic extension of my life and my work as an artist… When she moves, so does the print and she becomes the work of art. That’s why we say: Wear AvA and become your own masterpiece.

~ Ala Von Auersperg 

While I was Vegas last week I went full Grecian Goddess and piled on decedent gold jewelry and my vintage Dior monogram mule sandals. I couldn’t make it through the lobby without ecstatic raves about this look! 

This boldly feminine rose print is inspired by Ala’s Hamptons home.

AvA’s collection also encompasses casual day wear that can be worn for any occasion. I love that she uses the same soft airy knit mesh fabric throughout the collection. This fabric is great for layering or on their own as a coverup like I have styled here. 

Side Note: I transformed a lariat necklace from Proud Pearls as a belt here! I love to create something out of something else! 

Shop the Look:

Francoise Kaftan in Moraine

Louise Dress in Sea Rope

Layered Necklace in Gold 

Necklace with Tassel of Suede 

Two For the Price of One | One Outfit Two Ways

Two For the Price of One | One Outfit Two Ways

If you’ve been following along, you know that I love to mix high fashion with accessible essentials. I wanted to share with you some outfit ideas that not only do that, but they also give you the most bang for your buck!

Part of the enjoyment that I get out of styling is in the creativity of using what is available within the given budget. So here are some “two for one’res” to get your thrifty fashionista some inspiration today! 

You may remember some of these pieces from my wardrobe if you follow me on Instagram. These pants were originally posted a few months back when we shot our summer wardrobe-essentials from Chicos.

Cami: Black Halo

Ruffle Sleeve Blouse: ALC

Pants: Chico’s  

Orange Strappy Sandals: Zara 

Black Wedge Sandals: Saks Fifth Ave 

 Dior Sadal Bag and Hermès Kelly Bag: Fashion Reloved

What’s more classic (and budget-friendly) than white and navy? 

Here at Style Beyond Age, we think that leopard IS a neutral. This skirt from Free People is no exception! 

Printed Blouse: H&M

Graphic T-Shirt: Chaser Brand

Jacket: Lucky Brand

Skirt: Free People

Pearl Sandals: Tory Burch

Lucite Sandals: Steve Madden

Bone Crossbody: Givenchy

 

Maximize your investment with accessible and versatile pieces.

I did a little tutorial on my IG videos on how I modified this t-shirt. Sometimes I prefer a little more flirty and feminine than what the out of the box crew neck t-shirt has to offer! This one now falls off of the shoulders perfectly without gapping too much. 

Happiness T-Shirt: Spiritual Gangster

Ruffle Sleeve Blouse: Antonio Melani

Pants: Chicos

Sneakers: Adidas

White Sandals: Francesco Russo

 

Make an unexpected statement by pairing an architectural blouse with flowy pants. 

Striped Tunic: Cupio

Crochet Sweater: Chicos

Pants: Free People

Flat Bow Sandals: Karl Lagerfield

Rattan Purse: Anthropologie

Rattan Bucket Bag: Rebecca Minkoff