Article by Ceri Wheeldon

Lorraine Kelly has become a permanent fixture on our morning TV screens – always looking stylish despite her early start to the day . I was lucky enough to meet with Lorraine to chat all things ‘style over 50. Lorraine was as lovely off screen as she comes across ‘on screen’ , very down to earth and happy to fetch the coffees.

So , here are Lorraine’s thoughts on life and style over 50.

Have you always been interested in fashion and clothes?

Not at all. In my early career I was a reporter on location. I dressed more for comfort and to stay warm and dry. Nobody was concerned about what I wore!

When did things change?

When I turned 50. I took part in a trek but contracted a virus. As a result I lost a lot of weight. Although I had been ill I liked how I felt and looked with the weight loss and how much better my clothes looked on me. I looked at how I could keep the weight off – I took up Zumba with a fabulous instructor- and the first time in years am actually happy with my arms as a result. My daughter Rosie is 20 and loves to tell me what clothes looks good on me – and what doesn’t!

Obviously I get a lot of support in terms of what I wear for my programme . Mark Heyes is always quick to point out the ‘Lorraine’ dress choices. I’m lucky that I never have to do my own hair – in fact on weekends I just wear my hair pulled back as I don’t know where to start if I have to do it myself. Of course as I am on TV quite early I need to wear clothes that are appropriate for that time of day – nothing too loud.

What do women over 50 want to wear?

I think once we get to 50 we want wearable clothes with shape that give us confidence. We want to look elegant and sexy, be aware of fashion but not look daft. We want 3/4 length sleeves, skirts that sit on the knee and jeans that fit. In our 50s we are passionate about life. We are adventurous, fitter- and we want the clothes that reflect our lifestyle. We want details that make our clothes a little different.

It is baffling to see so many retailers ignore us. We’re a fast growing section of the population . I was thrilled to get involved with JD Williams  as they are serious about giving women our age what they want. I have been able to get very involved – at the moment I have my own ‘edit’ but my spring/summer collections are my own designs. So far the feedback has been great. It’s been so much fun and I have learned a lot. I’ve only selected clothes that I myself would wear – and the same applies to the clothes I’ve designed for next season.

Lorraine was lovely to talk to – I shall look forward to seeing – and wearing- her designs next season, and looking at her current edited collection.

Ceri Wheeldon

Ceri is Founder and Editor of Fabafterfifty.co.uk She is a frequent speaker at events and in the media on topics related to women over 50 , including style and living agelessly. With 20+ years experience as a headhunter Ceri also now helps support those looking to extend their working lives.

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