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Photo of Miss Chic Miss Chic

I'm 45 and at a loss for what to wear. I don't like frumpy, and I don't want to dress like an "old lady," but I know I can't get away with the funky, youthful fashions anymore (even though I like a lot of them). Any suggestions for some casual and moderately dressy outfits? And any suggestions as to where to shop?

Sometimes, when you're shopping, it seems like the clothes you find are made for anyone but you. And no one wants to look too young or too old! For advice on looking stylish in your 40s, I turned to Marlene Shiff, stylist and owner of Toronto shop Boutique Le Trou on Queen West West. She says: "There’s miles of room between old lady and funky youth! You have great options. "Mixing up the pieces will work for you. Start with what you consider age-appropriate in a bottom. In a pant, go full and sweeping. Flat front. In a skirt silhouette go NOW in a round skirt (balloon bottom), to the knee or all the way to midcalf. Again, flat front. There are a lot of them out now, in a variety of fabrics and weights. "Pair your bottom with a shoe that is very current. For example, stay away from the platform espadrille clog. Nothing screams oldest living teenager louder. Look for a fun, colourful sandal, or a slight heel on a rounded or squared pump. Go colourful. "Then go crazy on top! You can do fun T-shirts at all ages, wild jackets, layered tanks and tees in various lengths, accent vests. The easy way out is accessorizing. Add bold jewellery or a belt. "Try West Queen West, Dundas/Bathurst and College Street [in Toronto], for exciting designer boutiques catering to all ages. And Sarah Pacini, although hard to find, is a grown-up girl’s stylish dream come true. "You are not relegated to wearing polyester sacks! Forty-five is when real life begins. Live it up." Visit our forums to chat about fashion and beauty with other ELLE Canada readers!

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