| |

BEHIND THE SCENES – VOL. 5 – HAIR – BIRTHDAYS – LOOK FOR LESS

Over 40 Fashion Blogger, Tania Stephens and her granddaughter

I arrived in Livingston on Thursday just in time to grab my mom and head to a Fall Festival. My daughter drove separately so that she could meet up with my son before all the festivities started. Little did I know it was going to be a madhouse with hundreds of kids running everywhere.

We had a hard time navigating against the flow of tiny bodies, but we finally made it to the gym. Once inside, we found the rest of the family and laughed and had a great time. I learned that my 10 yr. old grandson has a nickname, “honey, love man,” which gave me quite a chuckle. Then, I watched as my granddaughter was crowned the princess/queen of the 8th grade.

Over 40 Fashion Blogger, Tania Stephens is with her daughter and mother

Friday started early for me since my hair appointment was at 9 am. I’ll include the hair formula below for anyone wanting to show it to their hairdresser. Then, I grabbed some groceries and went back to my parents, where we celebrated my daughter’s birthday. Tomorrow will be another jam-packed day with my mom and me visiting three of my aunts.

Hair Formula

Roots and {foiled in}lowlites- Redken Color Fusion 6na mixed with equal parts 15 volume (mix 10 and 20 together)
Highlights {foiled in} – Joico Blonde Life lightening powder mixed with equal parts 20 volume
Toner- Redken Shades EQ 10p mixed with equal parts developer

My Blog

When I started this blog in 2015, my goal was to help women feel beautiful and more confident. I wasn’t sure how to do that, but I knew when I thought I looked good, I felt better. So, I chose fashion and beauty as the tools I would use, and I hoped to impact women in some small way. However, last week, I inadvertently made someone feel exactly the opposite, and I’m truly sorry about that.

I did a post about my wish list picks as a gift guide, thinking it would be a fun way to pick items to show your spouse what you might want for Christmas. Because these were supposed to be a gift to you from your spouse, I picked items that were a little more on the expensive side. I plan on doing several gift guides, probably on Saturdays, and there will be some for stocking stuffers or items under $25 and $50.

A lady wrote me that I had ruined her day and that it made her feel poor because the items were things she couldn’t afford. This bothered me all week for a couple of reasons. I never want to make someone feel less than; instead, I want to lift women up. I know what it’s like to live on a budget, there was a time when Joe and I ate pinto beans and potatoes all the time, and a date night was at Taco Bell because we could get a lot of tacos or bean burritos for a couple of bucks.

I try to pick items from all price points so that everyone has the opportunity to purchase things to make them feel confident and beautiful. But, you should never feel better than, or less than, anyone else based on material possessions. While I was in Nashville, we were getting ready to head out to dinner when one of the ladies came up to me and said, “oh my, can I just feel this?” I nodded my head, and she proceeded to feel the handbag I was carrying. She said, “it feels so luxurious, and it is gorgeous.” I smiled at her and said, “it’s fake.”

My point of that story is; I could have kept my mouth shut. Whether the bag was real or not had no bearing on my confidence. I didn’t think my friend would think more of me if it was real or less of me because it wasn’t. The look of the bag was what I wanted, but I wasn’t willing to pay the price point. So, today, I’m going to repost my wish list, the original and one that is a look for less. It is up to you if you want the original item or the look for less.

The Original Wish List

Over 40 Fashion Blogger, Tania Stephens is showing her wish list picks for Christmas 2022

1-Brahmin Finley Small Croc Embossed Leather Satchel || 2- Michele Two-Tone Watch || 3- Dyson Corrale™ straightener/styler || 4- CHATELET AIR 2.0 Luggage ||5- David Yurman Cable Loop Bracelet || 6- Rechargeable LED Flashlight || 7- Dyson Supersonic™ hair dryer || 8- Barefoot Dreams Robe || 9- 18kt Gold Vermeil Cross Necklace || 10-Adeline Earrings || 11-Fleming Leather Convertible Shoulder Bag

 

The Look For Less Wish List

Over 40 Fashion Blogger, Tania Stephens is showing her luxe for less list picks for Christmas 2022

1-Vegan Leather Crocodile-Embossed Pattern Shoulder Bags || 2-Elegant Women’s Watch, Rectangular Mother of Pearl Dial || 3-Professional 1 Inch Cordless Flat Iron Wireless Straightener || 4-3 Piece Expandable Spinner Wheels Luggage || 5-Cross Cable Wire Bangle || 6-Rechargeable High Powered Flash Light || 7-1800W Professional Hair Dryer with Diffuser Ionic Conditioning || 8-Cozy Knit Stretchy Super Soft Long Robes || 9-Cross Necklace Faith Pendant 14K Plated || 10-14K Gold Hoop Earrings || 11-Genuine Leather Crossbody Quilted Handbag with Golden Chain Strap

Last Week’s Best Sellers

Best sellers 10-8-22

Trouser Jeans | Blazer | Shacket | Luggage | Shirt

Best sellers 10-8-22 1

Jeans | Quilted Jacket | Turtleneck | Vest | Bag

best sellers 10-8-22 3

Dress | Booties | Ankle Jeans | Jacket | Handbag

Whenever you SHARE my posts on PINTEREST, INSTAGRAM, YOUTUBE, AND FACEBOOK, it helps other ladies who might be style challenged to find my blog. I appreciate every one of you, and I consider you a friend.

Are You One Of The GURLS?

You will get a daily email reminder from me alerting you when a new blog post has gone live. And, occasionally, a “special” email will hit your inbox, so watch for those!

To GOD Goes The Glory!

Verse Of The Day

Matthew 6:14

14 For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. 15 But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.

50 Is Not Old partners with affiliate platforms where commission may be earned based on clicks and or purchases, and I would love it if you decided to use the links above. Affiliate Links help bloggers like me fund the free content we provide on our blogs. Some products might be gifted from brands.

ts seal

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

32 Comments

  1. I am so sorry that someone felt the need to share that comment. We all have different budgets, there is no shame in that. You do a great job of sharing a variety of price points. You also give tons of ideas about what to wear. If something you post is out of my budget, then I find something similar at a different price point.

  2. You should not feel bad about posting your wish list. Shame on that woman for scolding you for supposedly making her feel bad because she can’t afford anything on your list. One of the things that I really appreciate about your posts is the variety of items and price points. You post Old Navy, Kohls and Walmart. Hello, if they can’t afford these stores, then they can’t afford the phone or computer that they’re using to read your blog! Anyway, thank you for looking out for us ladies in 50’s. I’ve only been following you for about a month, but I’ve really enjoyed your posts and have purchased 5-6 items from your suggestions. Please keep up the good work. here’s my fav: Matthew 22:23 whatsoever you ask for in prayer, believing, you shall receive.

  3. I do love the “less” Brahmin bag. I’d never choose to buy a real one (just too much for me) but the “fake” is just as cute. The blue…. Still thinking about it!
    I’m sorry she felt bad, but it wasn’t your fault!

  4. Thank you for showing the “Look for Less”! Like you, even if I can afford an item I may not want to pay the price point. Also, I’m retiring soon and will want to make my clothing budget go further while still staying stylish. Thanks for all the work you do on your blog!

  5. You didn’t make her feel bad, you only feel bad if you have poor self esteem or feel enjoy from what others have. You have shown you can look great on all budgets. You work very hard, we do, too, and deserve some treats. I buy at Walmart, Target, Talbots, Eileen Fisher, Nordstroms, etc. but I buy only what I need. I admit I am having trouble with bloggers who fill their closets just too show what is available or on trend. You are a lovely, caring woman.

  6. One of the things I appreciate the most about your blog is that you present different price points. I’m down to about three fashion blogs I read any more, and yours is my favorite. In fact, I’m on the verge of discontinuing reading 1 of the 3 because she has so many “rules” about fashion and she tends to post only things that are out of my budget. But that’s not what you do, and I am grateful. I’m sorry you took that one comment to heart so deeply. (But I might’ve done the same thing.)

  7. Hmmm. Yeah, you could have included items from several price points in the same column, but you were mentioning items YOU were going to put on YOUR wish list. You did not say we should all want the same things and that we were losers if we couldn’t afford them! If someone feels bad because they can’t afford a certain material item that someone else has, they have a serious coveting problem! You should not be made to feel guilty for having reached a point in life where you can afford an item you would like to have. GOOD FOR YOU!

  8. I really enjoy your blog! I find that you have a wonderful selection at a variety of price points, I purchased the Amazon jacket last week, $34.00, it is great bargain. I mainly appreciate your fashion ideas and how you coordinate your outfits. I also, appreciate your thoughts and inspiration! You are a blessing!

  9. Thank you for this wonderful post today. I bought several things today. Keep doing what you are doing. You always give us different price points. Thank you for all you do to keep this lady looking great and giving us ideas what works for us. You are truly a blessing to us all.

  10. That really bothered me that you were upset by the woman’s comment that she couldn’t afford anything on the “wish” list. You have the kindest heart and would never intentionally hurt another individual. You have no control over how others feel. You DO include different price points which is something I really like about you. I follow another blogger and I can’t afford most of what she wears but I still like to see her styles. BTW I always love your family shots. Keep on doing what you do!

  11. Your granddaughter is so pretty! Happy Birthday to your daughter! That is a great picture of you, your mom, and your daughter. Wishing you a fabulous weekend.

  12. You truly have a heart to help us gals feel better about ourselves and the way we look. I love that you include all price points from a variety of stores and shops. I’m not in the least offended when you show something out of my price range. I know to look for something similar at a different store or I know when to say “no” I don’t need every item featured. Keep up the great work you are doing. We appreciate you!

  13. I was reminded of being a child and having the Sears “wish book” and the lists I would make. I have ALWAYS been conscious of price points. I often save for the expensive item and like many of the other gurls, shop for the item that is similar but less costly. You are providing ideas and I love that. You are kind and gracious and I know you never intend to make someone feel inferior in any way. Thanks for having a heart for all of us.

  14. Hi Tania, You didn’t do anything wrong. After all, it is a “wish list.” I know we all wish for things that are out of our budget at different times. It’s wonderful that you also posted less expensive items today to be inclusive. So, don’t let it bother you! We are all responsible for our own feelings so you can’t control how a post will make someone feel. You DO lift women up!

  15. This was a great post. I really like that you give options at all price points. My wish list would also include some high end items! However, my actual list is more budget minded. Thanks again for your many choices.

  16. Always enjoy reading your posts and clicking on the links! while I have purchased several items, I love the inspiration you provide. You have such a sweet spirit and yet will not please everyone. Remember, as Eleanor Roosevelt said, “No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.”
    Thanks for always being uplifting!

  17. Hmmmm……I felt sad after reading this post, It’s all about the kindness and what comes from the heart. Even if I can afford something, I sometimes I have my self imposed limits and part of the fun can be looking for something at a lower price point. You are such a heart warming blogger and fashionista.

  18. I’m always inspired by your fashion choices and click-thru many of your pieces. If the price seems high ‘for my budget’ I use Google picture search or search my favorite store sites to find something similar. I know you may not get the click-thru but your posts are still working to inspire! I hope other women don’t just stop at the $! Be inspired!! Thank you for keeping this 64 yr old looking sharp!

  19. I love this idea. One thing I really like about your blog is your various price points and showcasing sales. I’ve purchased many items from all price ranges from your blog. Your perspective is great! Thanks!

  20. Thank you for giving less expensive options! A friend and I were just discussing that many blogger that we started following years ago had great price points and as their audience became larger their prices on recommendations went right as their audience grew.
    Thanks again!

  21. I enjoy checking out your blog. I appreciate how you always include different price points, styles, and fun stories, especially about your travels.

  22. Thank you for the updated less costly options. I love your blog and have looked at a few things and thought I can’t spend $110 on a necklace or $400 on a bag. Thanks for helping eveyr budget look great!

  23. As I’ve written to you before about how much I appreciate & enjoy what you do. So it makes me sad to hear how it can have an opposite affect on some like when I read the post about the woman feeling bad about not being able to afford what you had posted. But again you were so kind & wise in how you dealt with it. We can’t be responsible all the time for how people feel or take things when we believe we are trying to help. So with that said keep doing what you do for the glory of God.
    Linda in Ohio.

  24. Happy Birthday! It looks like you are having a great time! I enjoy the high/low posts. Affordability is an individual decision. These are just examples.

  25. I am sorry your reader felt this way and in turn made you feel bad. I always love your picks. If I can’t afford something you’ve picked I always look for a less expensive look. You do a great job!! Have a great weekend!!

  26. Keep doing what your doing! You have helped me to embrace this aging thing! Let’s face it the alternative is worse. It’s kind that you apologized but it is fun to look at an expensive wish list and try to find a budget friendly alternative. Only the reader knows their budget

  27. You seem to have a lot of clothes and accessories. How and where do you store them? And when you purge your closet, what do you do with those items? Consign them, donate to useful causes, etc.?
    Thank you.

  28. Thank you for showing affordable options. I am on a budget and really appreciate your suggestions. You always pick such cute things that are within most budgets. You made my day!!