A fashion stylist reveals tips for summer

Fashion Secrets from La La Land

By: Cindy Pearlman

April 13, 2011

1 Comment

Source: Getty Images

Kim Cattrall knows how to show just enough skin.

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There are questions that weigh on our minds in the middle of the night. Will George Clooney ever call? Do I really have to go to Pilates tomorrow? And how short is too short when it comes to skirts and shorts now?

Celeb fashion stylist Lindsay Hillyard, a genuis who has worked as a stylist for the BET Network and with Mary J. Blige, provides a few insider tips that might surprise you (and cause you to get some good sleep):

"There is no age limit. You can go short over 40 if you have great legs," Hillyard confirms. "I love short skirts with a great pair of stockings. I do advise clients who are thicker or plus size ladies over 40 to avoid the pattern print stockings. Add a great pair pumps or flats to complete the look."

Now a word of warning: "Remember to check your rear view. Don't let any butt cheek hang out. That's not attractive at any age," she says with a laugh.

What about too low cut on top? "Helen Mirren always does it right," Hillyard says. "I recommend that you only show skin in one area. Pick a part. If you do a beautiful, draped low back then that's the only skin you show. If you do a short skirt, don't do a lower cut top. Don't show cleavage and legs at the same time over 40. It's sexy to just show one area of skin — but no more. The sexiest tip is to leave something to the imagination."

"Let's say you're back in the dating game post 40," she says. "I have a lot of women who ask what to wear and how much to show. Show almost nothing, but a glimpse of skin. Again, the imagination is your best friend," she says.

INSIDER INFORMATION:

What is the accessory we midlifers need for summer? Hillyard says to invest in two pairs of shades. "I have a great pair of black Prada shades and a pair of cheapies. If I'm headed to Fashion Week or something fancy there is nothing better than putting on my Pradas. The ultimate accessory. But if I'm headed out to grocery store then I put on my cheapies."

No need to lose your Pradas in the produce aisle.

READ MORE HOLLYWOOD BEAUTY INSIDER TIPS:

Sarah Jessica Parker's Secrets of Smelling Sexy

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Anonymous | Apr 30, 2011

I see a lot of under 25 year olds who shouldn't be showing as much skin as a lot of women over 40. I think it depends upon how good of shape you're in. Cheap looking is cheap looking, no matter the age.