50Fabulous.com

I love the magazine I receive on a monthly basis that is targeted at mid-life women. But, this month I found myself saying…pleeeeze! Am I the only woman out here who doesn’t consider that a “budget” outfit should cost $4,500! I don’t care if they are “investment pieces.” The next “budget” example was $1,400 for dress, shoes and bag? And, that is from consignment and resale stores. The budget part is that the original price would have been almost $5,000. The next example was $850 for dress, bag, and shoes which seems a little closer to reality for some, but not I suspect for many women.

As I scanned the rest of the pub, I was focused on the clothes being offered and yet again I found myself asking if the majority of American women would even be able to consider these options…$1,245 for a little black dress, shoes, clutch and necklace; $628 for dress and pumps; $1432 for dress, pumps and clutch; $400-500 for a sweater. And, the luxury segment winged into $6,500 for three pieces.

And remember, for most of these we’re talking dress, shoes, and bag. What about jewelry, underwear, hose/leggings, not to mention the additional expense of the beauty piece…beauty services (hair cut & color, facials, etc.), and products (make-up, and skincare)?

No wonder the show, "The Look for Less" is so popular. Now, we just need them to focus some of their segments on we 50+ women! I'd love to hear what other women think about all of this.

Yesterday, I had lunch with an extremely fit, beautiful, educated and accomplished 50+ woman…and she felt anything but. As we discussed some personal issues, it occurred to me that many of us might be grappling with issues that make it impossible to see ourselves as the Fabulous women we are. In reality, it doesn’t make any difference if other people think we are fabulous or not. But, it does have a significant impact on our lives if WE do not perceive ourselves as such!

As we navigate the many transitions that take place in our lives, we do ourselves a disservice when we neglect to remind ourselves that we need to pay attention to our unique talents, treat our bodies with respect, carefully monitor the messages that we tell ourselves, and remember or discover that we are indeed extraordinary women!

One of my favorite things to do is to meet women who are doing interesting things with their lives, overcoming adversity and navigating life's transitions with grace, guts, and a Fabulous attitude. Because I feel that sharing their stories motivates other women to go after their dreams, I've met with and interviewed many and will continue to do so. These women have endured tragedy, opposition, and betrayal. They have made the choice to transcend difficulty, and transition into a Fabulous life!

Read Sheila Boyd's story on the 50Fabulous.com website. She lost everything, including her home, at 50 years of age and had to declare bankruptcy. She made the decision to bring herself back to life and financial security using her art. And she did.

And, there is Linda Jay Geldens who lost her husband and fought back through her grief to build a new life and find love.

Not all the profiles are about overcoming tragedy, but most are about women who have successfully conquered transitions. They are all about 50+ women and they are all inspiring! Motivate yourself by spending time with them at www.50Fabulous.com.