Fab Over 40 Fashions

Aug. 15, 2004 — -- "Good Morning America" kicked off "Fab Over 40" week this morning with a fashion show with four winners from More magazine's 40-plus model search. These women demonstrated how to look amazing in the hottest clothing trends while remaining age appropriate.

Kristina Davis, a 41-year-old stay-at-home mom and finalist in the More competition, modeled a Theory velvet blazer ($390), Theory wool turtleneck ($210) and Theory cropped pant ($240).

Tip: Cropped pants highlight positive areas -- toned calves and slim ankles. And, they work easily with any shoe height. A hip-length fitted jacket defines the torso, and deep jewel tones work like classic black to slim.

Cynthia Gouw, a 42-year-old TV reporter and More's second runner-up, modeled a Walter pencil skirt ($295), a Walter sequined turtleneck ($240) and a Walter Princess coat ($550). Substitute a plainer turtleneck and add low closed-toe pumps to make this outfit 9-to-5. You don't have to show skin to look glam after 40 -- trim tailored pieces in decorative fabrics do it for you.

Tip: Long coats flatter every figure.

Angela Paul, a 50-year-old writer and More's first runner-up, modeled a Banana Republic long cardigan ($148) and Banana Republic tweed pants ($128).

Tips: A cardigan covers aging upper arms. A lightweight belted sweater that drapes easily over your curves also discreetly camouflages untoned arms, hips, thighs and derriere. Choose herringbone and tweed menswear pants in tummy-slimming flat front styles that have full legs and no pleats.

Thea Kelly, a 43-year-old attorney who won More's contest, beating out 19,000 other women between the ages of 40 to 60 who entered, modeled a Cynthia Steffe skirt ($725), Cynthia Steffe jacket ($330) and Michael by Michael Kors sweater ($60).

Tip: A flattering alternative to pencil skirts, fuller skirts hide problem areas. If you're generously proportioned in the thighs and derriere, look for styles fitted through the hips and tummy to keep volume where you need it. Balance a full skirt with a body-hugging fitted jacket, wearing a sleeveless sweater underneath for a leaner line. Rich fabrics like tapestry prints and embroidered wools are all hot for fall.

Peggy Northrop, More's editor in chief, offered another piece of advice to make these clothes look even better.

"Remember, tailoring is your friend," she said. "Every woman over 40 should have a tailor in her back pocket."