Janet Gunn is the inspiring influencer behind The Grateful Gardenia. Originally from Texas, the 58-year-old style guru is now settled in Los Angeles with her husband, son, and dog, Buster. She's worked as a Dallas Cowboys cheerleader, flight attendant, actor, jewelry designer, and beyond. In other words, she has a ton of experience and an equally cool personal style. Melissa Meyers is a Los Angeles–based influencer with a focus on beauty, style, travel, and wellness. Her blog, The Glow Girl, aims to empower women to embrace the best version of themselves, age gracefully, and cultivate a glow from the inside out. She also happens to be 55 years old and has a penchant for masterfully styling trends. Here, the fashionable duo teams up to discuss the basics they swear by. Oh, and don't forget to follow them at @janetgunngratefulgardenia and @melissameyers.
"When it comes to accessories, there’s a fine line between overuse and underuse to express yourself. We like to think of our accessories as "successories" because they are the best way to go from standard to stylish like that.
Back in February, we covered the simple must-have fashion pieces every woman needs to own. This month, we are exploring specific items that can take your outfit from basic to brilliant. Read on to see which adornments are on our It list (aka, will never go "out") for women over 50."
1. Statement Bag
On Gunn: Clare V backpack
The number one must-have accessory in our book is a fun daily handbag, an alternative to our standard classics. Choosing the right bag is such an individual choice, but two things to keep in mind are form and functionality for your lifestyle.
On Meyers: Cuyana bag
Our favorites for daily use are a backpack or a crossbody style.
2. Oversize Sunglasses
On Meyers: Oliver Peoples sunglasses; On Gunn: Ray-Ban sunglasses
We love a good pair of sunnies for their ability to make a fashion statement. Plus, you can never have too many shades in your collection, especially with all the incredible styles available today.
On Meyers: Tom Ford sunglasses
3. Printed Scarf
On Gunn: Hermès scarf; On Meyers: Louis Vuitton scarf
A flowy, oversize scarf is the most versatile accessory we can think of. Whether worn as a headscarf, a belt, or a classic accent around our necks, scarves are the perfect way to create a winning style.
On Meyers: Hermès scarf
On Gunn: Hermès scarf
4. Bold Belt
On Gunn: Gucci belt
Every closet needs a great go-to belt. We love a strong buckle with a classic designer monogram or a little bling. An animal print can add a bit of flair to even the most basic T-shirt and jeans.
On Meyers: Gucci belt
On Gunn: J.Crew belt
5. Eye-Catching Earrings
On Meyers: Elodie K earrings
Are statement earrings ever out of style? We think not. A strong earring can be a game changer in framing the face and elevating a simple outfit. We like this bold and gold vintage-inspired look.
6. Layered Necklaces
On Meyers: LOOMA x Melissa Meyers Glow necklace; Sarah Hendler locket; Tiny Tags necklace
When it comes to necklaces and bracelets, we love a layered look. Accessorizing like this is a fun way to express yourself by mixing and matching different styles and even multiple metals and finishes that complement each other.
7. Oversize Watch
On Meyers: Cartier watch
With cell phones never out of our grasp and able to tell us the time instantly, wearing watches has become more fashion than function. Call us old school, but we love an oversize watch for its simplicity and its ability to make a statement at the same time.
8. Statement Hair Clips
The hair clip has definitely evolved over the years. This year you can find them being worn in multiples. We like the idea of the more the merrier. Whether adorned with pearls, rhinestones, or a simple tortoiseshell finish, having fun with hair décor is so 2020.
9. Hat Carrier
On Gunn: Lindsey Albanese clip
Now, time for a more underrated accessory. The ultimate functional gadget that you didn’t know you needed until now. No more worrying about bringing a hat on vacay and having it get crushed in your luggage. This is the perfect companion that clips onto your handbag or carry-on to hold your skimmer.
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