10 Style Mistakes That Make You Look Frumpy

[@kathleensnow9836]

My absolutely most affirming moment came 10 years ago when I was on an Air France flight to Paris and the flight attendant spoke to me, initially, in French. When I looked slightly perplexed (high school was my last spoken French), she immediately switched to English and said "Oh, madame, I thought you were French." Yay. Beige slacks, black and beige abstract printed top, brown leather belt and black cardigan. How lovely to be thought to be French!

[@dancetheaterofnewenglandvi7757]

Totally one of my life goals.! Brava to you! Et oui oui, tres bien!

[@semperfidelis2970]

You must have felt like a million and all your efforts were worth it. And I rejoice along with you.

[@Lara-dfw]

I am from Belarus, and many Americans told me I am from Europe because I always dress nicely ))))

[@edanacichanowicz1711]

❤

[@poorthing]

I am glad to be an American. I don't want to be anything I am not. Tired of being typecast as loud, fat, no style....

[@dovebair]

I love how you don’t just say what NOT to wear, you’ve gone out of your way to show what a possible correct answer would be as well! How positive and thoughtful! Thank you for your work on this channel, I am really appreciating it

[@MarieAnneLecoeur]

You are very welcome Dovebair

[@selectiveoutrage6617]

I was at the supermarket yesterday and a man said, "You have impeccable style." I thought of you, Marie-Anne! I wore a straw fedora, an ivory cotton tee that I've had forever, Ralph Lauren linen-cotton straight leg trousers in a neutral paisley pattern (from Ebay), beige espadrilles, gold bracelet. Very comfortable on a hot day shopping. It didn't take me any longer to dress than if I had worn ripped jeans and a baggy tee.

[@nataliamiles7109]

What a great compliment! Keep at it!

[@lynnettehardy4533]

Here in Texas, I get compliments anytime I wear a FJB hat or shirt.

[@nataliamiles7109]

@@lynnettehardy4533 I love it! My sister sent me stickers that said, "Let's go Brandon" and I put them up all over town in Utah. I've seen the "FJB" on bumper stickers here. God bless Texas. A long, long time ago, I worked as a Playboy Bunny at the Dallas Playboy Club.

[@evelynbonner3908]

​@@lynnettehardy4533Classless. Why are you even here except to troll ?

[@evelynbonner3908]

​@@nataliamiles7109Equally classless.

[@kirstenbakker839]

As a 35 year old woman from the Netherlands (a.k.a. the Kingdom of Frumpy looks), I believe your styling tips are great for women of all ages - not just over 50. ❤️

[@nataliamiles7109]

Hi Kirsten, I didn't know that the Netherlands was so frumpy now. I was there back in 1982, and everyone looked so sharp and fit. Well, the sloppy look has overtaken the world! We must fight back one pencil skirt at a time . . .

[@alp7928]

Hello. I live in California now but I lived in the Nederlands for six years and was surprised to see how low effort is there, I mean I live in San Francisco, the land of frump but in the Nederlands was worse, I was in a small village in the north so maybe that's why?

[@turnbacktime65]

@@nataliamiles7109 BEST line ever. “One pencil skirt at a time.” I am new to MarieA. I’m binge watching. Saw your comment from a year ago.

[@BahaiMom]

Yep no-one dresses up, even the bank manager wears jeans! My first New Year's Eve here at the turn of the Millennium, I was the only one in a cocktail dress (I was used to NYEs in London by then) and was so overdressed. Now I understand why when everyone is setting off fireworks and eating oily "oliebollen" you dress down on NYE. I seriously have had no other suitable occasion to wear that dress ever since!

[@Timetraveler1111MN]

Ha ha ohh noo I didn’t know that people were frumpy :( sloppy dresser in Netherlands. Well you keep being classy and sexy,share this lol Maybe you should do videos on how to look stylish and still bicycle 🚴 lol

[@bonnieabbzug]

Hello Marie-Anne. I'm a big fan of your channel. I live in the Midwestern U.S., and today while I was shopping, a man came up behind me and said, "Ma'am, I am French. You are very classy." What a compliment! Thank you for the advice on style and elegance. It works!

[@denisen.893]

Oh how nice. 😊

[@esthercontreras3413]

What were u wearing ?

[@bonnieabbzug]

@@esthercontreras3413 The pants are black, flowy, wide-legged. The top is a fitted button-down with short cuffed sleeves and a slight puff at the shoulder, two-toned white stripes. Black belt and black heels. Very basic.

[@thereseclark797]

I am a Midwestern girl too, Bonnie! It's so nice to receive compliments like that!

[@genxx2724]

My mom and her husband visited his elderly mother in Indiana every fall. She was very frumpy. She wanted to go to WalMart and my mom dutifully helped her look for clothes there. She wore ugly shirt sleeved tops with a tiny flower print, like bed sheets. Then on the day they took her to Indianapolis, my mom insisted on taking her to Nordstrom which had just opened. She bought a beautiful black pantsuit and some blouses with the help of my mom and a stylist. My mom asked them to do the alterations right away so she could wear the outfit to dinner in a nice restaurant that night. Also, if she took the things home she’d never get them altered. My mom also convinced her to buy two pair of good shoes which were far more then she’d ever imagined spending. She felt good wearing her new things and received many compliments. But in the beauty shop in her small town, the women were criticizing Nordstrom and the people who shopped there. They considered them snooty. She told my mom in the midst of all the compliments and women wanting to know where she got her new things, ‘I just kept my mouth shut.”

[@orangesspain3623]

Thank you, I needed this. I am 55 years old and work in a dental practice. This means I wear a uniform every day and only need clothing to go home. I am starting to feel like "why bother." Your pep talk is waking me up. Thank you again.

[@anitamackow6294]

So do I. Thank you❤

[@nancy1445]

What an inspiration! Years ago as I walked down the street dressed in navy head to toe, a man passed by and said "good morning sister". Shocked, I asked a friend if I dressed like a nun and she said YES! Absolutely! That evening I threw out most of my clothes and began rebuilding my wardrobe. I learn new things all the time and I found your channel a couple days ago. Thank you! I never want to be mistaken for a nun again. Avoiding frumpy is fundamental.

[@mhtammi]

I’m sorry that I chuckled when I read that. What a shock.😮

[@b.comeau2597]

Avoiding frumpy is fundamental! This is a great slogan!

[@sweethearts4ever]

One day I was dressed all in brown and someone thought I worked for UPS. That was the end of that outfit!

[@daniellelucas2964]

@@sweethearts4everthat’s so funny 😂

[@bethmoore-love4223]

For the past few years, I've been paying attention to your style advice, and I have not only learned a lot about what suits me best, but also how to pare down my wardrobe to only the clothes I wear and love to wear! Good quality, natural materials, mostly classics, with accessories like belts, bags, and shoes which bring out the style. I no longer need so many clothes, and I look forward to dressing each day, it becomes a pleasure, both for myself and others! Thank you so much for your channel, it really helps!

[@ImCarolB]

I love your observations but must protest about one! I have a brown wool buffalo plaid jacket/shirt that I wear as a jacket over a shirt or turtleneck. It looks like the old Woolrich 49er jacket. I can guarantee that every single time I wear it, I will get compliments. It is very flattering to my figure and coloring. I am very tall and have never had a waistline, even at my thinnest. The boxy jacket creates the illusion that there is a waistline about my slim hips. I think we each have to know our own figures.

[@kellyb.1257]

Loose dresses are airy and perfect for the summer..They are called Boho and personally I love them. They are flattering as they do not cling to the body but are flowy!

[@WandaWojcik]

I love Boho, but there are more fitted Boho dresses. Flowy but not wide.

[@maggiefisker994]

Love flowydresses

[@crazymelomanka]

They are even more beautiful when worn with a nice hat and pretty strappy sandals.

[@lisbethjensen8291]

But the thing is , why look pregnant when you are not ?

[@TheLadymolly]

Marie-Anne, I am 63 years young. I studied fashion for 4 years. I love clothes and now days I can't find good clothes that fit me well. After not sewing clothes for myself for over 20 years- I started making my own stylish clothes. Classic pieces, well make they way I learned to sew in fashion school. I love classic styles and that is what I am sewing for myself now and I started sewing for my little granddaughters as well. My mother dressed like you, and now I dress like my mother. Good, classic and well made clothes.

[@patmaurer8541]

I don't have your talent for sewing, so I've begun shopping thrift shops. Because vintage pieces are often classic lines, and superior quality. It's like a treasure hunt! And my deciding factor has become, "Is this effortlessly chic?" If it fits like it was made for me and I feel confident and classy wearing it--yes!

[@margaretthibideau127]

Yes, I have started sewing again because I can't find things that are stylish and classic in the fabrics I like. Most stores are selling the cheat possible garbage for fabric and design.

[@lindajoanbieg]

What a breath of fresh air you are. I have ALWAYS tried to dress with class. Yes, over the years I’ve made some mistakes, but I’ve made a conscious effort to look decent, modest and classy- no jeans, especially ripped jeans, no leggings or jogging pants, no cargo pants !!!!!! Thank you for this channel

[@lindajoanbieg]

By the way, I’m 63 and will not give up!

[@thereseclark797]

I could not agree more, Marie-Anne! I hate seeing all these frumpy clothes. I think it's good to raise our bar higher and go against the grain! Stand out! I'm not 50+ yet. I am a woman in my early 40s, but your style advice here is universal in my opinion!

[@eleanorcrawford9978]

I would like to see clothes for the over 30s upward every store & manufacturers are all chasing children and teens it’s crazy that why women give up it’s the fashion industry that’s destroying our interest in clothes.

[@deborahlaird4141]

@@eleanorcrawford9978 thats why women need to know or learn to make their own clothes. 🙂🌻🌞🦋🌈❤️🌹

[@circumquentiam]

I’m a 22 yo guy and this is improving my confidence just listening. Thanks Marie-Anne!

[@gabrielafranze1805]

Szia, Marie-Anne from a hungarian 60-years old (young) grandma, living in cold old Germany. You are my inspiration for years. Let me say thank you for your time, your work, support and scale. I became another woman since I see your podcasts and I am feeling sooooooooo good with you

[@gabrielafranze1805]

@@MarieAnneLecoeur Give you a big, fat hug

[@SeamsLikeAGoodIdea]

"What is a shacket, you may ask, Marianne? If you don't know, I'm delighted!" The delivery of this was 100% hilarious and awesome. Thank you for this video. It's brilliant and funny and a wonderful reminder to not give up and continue to elevate!

[@stacyjomcdermott693]

I did not know there was such a thing until today🤣...I will run the other direction should I encounter one!

[@lisahansen6014]

“ shaver” just another ploy as something new

[@ef5686]

"Is frumpy the new black?!" 🤣 You help me change, laugh and enjoy it!! Thank you Marie-Anne! What a philosophy- elevate yourself and your surroundings by being chic: mindfulness, self worth, be an example, dont give up, dont take yourself/things for granted, so many positive messages!!

[@DJMusicPruductions]

It is always worth making the effort. During the two year lockdown I dressed up everyday as if I were going into work at my college library were I am a librarian and instructor. No baggy yoga or sweat pants but colorful well fitted clothing. I was so productive during the pandemic. I produced work dressed in style and I am 60 years old.

[@elizabethpetrie2732]

I took early retirement nine years ago, and although I have pared down my work wardrobe, and tend to wear more casual clothes every day, I still always wear outfits that go together, along with (minimal) makeup, earrings, and perhaps another piece of jewellery or a bright scarf. Even when playing with the grandchildren, I know I’m dressed in a way that makes me ready for anything. And while it’s certainly respectful to others to look our best, I feel it’s even more a matter of self-respect. I’ve reached the moment where “je me sens bien dans la peau.” And I like it!

[@NYEmma]

I have been interested in style since I was a little girl, and now I'm older than you. Yes, really! :D I always thought I did fairly well in the style department but, at 73, I'm still learning things from you. The biggest take away I have gotten was to always remember, "If you don't love it, it's a non." I buy mostly online, so things arrive and I find myself thinking, oh, it's good enough. And to be honest, returning things is a chore. Bit this week, two different tops arrived that I hung in my closet. But after thinking it over, I am returning them both. Life is too short not to feel stunning all the time.

[@nataliamiles7109]

If it is not a wow, it is a bow wow.

[@allthingswavy6420]

Agree 💯!!

[@nataliamiles7109]

You have a brilliant outlook: "Life is too short not to feel stunning all the time." Yes, that is how I also live my life, and it drives others crazy. They are content in their frumpiness and take it as a personal afront when I show up looking elegant and polished. Let them eat cake! I will continue to dress in an elegant manner each and every day and revel in the artistry of elegance.

[@robinr1714]

I've been waiting for years for style to come back--I love to see the stylish clothes women wore in the 40s & 50s. Frumpy is never an option!

[@CFinch360]

Don't wait for others Robin, be a trendsetter yourself 🙂

[@LoveToLearn03]

I’m grateful I learned to sew and have sewing patterns from the 40s and 50s that I inherited from my aunts.

[@b.comeau2597]

The clothes from the 1940s-50s era were so lovely and well made.

[@dianachin4849]

Frumpy is only for wearing in the house

[@jfvk9916]

My style role model? Carol Burnett. She's never shabby. She is always chic and fabulous.

[@caroloshea7830]

Love the term "Dump the frump." As a resident of Queensland Australia I have to admit I am surrounded by style that is too casual. It's partly because of the warm climate but that is never an excuse. Making an effort always makes one feel more confident.

[@nataliamiles7109]

Yes, making excuses not to look elegant is too easy. I lived in Henderson, Nevada and Sun City, Arizona--well into 115 in the summer for months--and I always wore a linen blazer, high heels, and elegant skirts or pants. And don't forget your broad-brimmed elegant hat, such as Audren Hepburn's in "Breakfast at Tiffany's." I have them in black and white and tie a long ribbon around them so that it hangs down my back. I always receive compliments on my dramatic summer hats, and they protect my delicate fair skin.

[@caroloshea7830]

@@nataliamiles7109 Wow Natalie. You sound amazing. I love Audrey Hepburn and have watched Breakfast at Tiffany's over and over. I think those days of elegance are gone unfortunately.

[@nataliamiles7109]

@@caroloshea7830 Hi Carol, Let's strive to keep elegance alive and represent it each day. We will channel Miss Hepburn's grace and elegance through our efforts.

[@melilifabulosa5505]

Let's elevate Queensland together!!!

[@nataliamiles7109]

@@melilifabulosa5505 Glad that you have a partner to help you elevate Queensland. Anyone out there who wants to help elevate Utah? The peasant/Little house on the Prairie dresses reign supreme here: the Frump Factor.

[@g.970]

Love this video. In high school I was voted ‘best dressed’. At the time I made all my clothes myself, started at age 8. The local shoe store said his sales went down dramatically when I moved away for college. Guess I was an influencer before social media ( class of 1967!). I still dress up when I am leaving the house. I get compliments on my style all the time. It’s never really changed: classic clothes rule my closet. Shoes are my guilty pleasure . But I buy items that are not trendy but classic styling that is always ‘in style’. People I don’t know put my age at mid 50. That in itself makes me feel good. Inside I feel 35. I’m visiting London and Paris his year and I know I will not scream tourist. I’m even brushing up on my rusty French which will never pass for French from a local but I feel it’s respectful to try to fit in. Thanks for your channel.

[@theauntithesis4536]

Dressing in a classic yet simple style has increased my confidence and feeling of self-worth. Thank you so much Marie-Anne, for your style wisdom and inspiration! I live on a tropical, rural island in the middle of the the pacific (Kauai) where most people dress extremely causally, so I appreciate feeling unique. I actually spend 6 weeks in Spain and Portugal a couple of months ago. And on 4 separate occasions people assumed I was French because of how I was dressed! I was flattered, to be sure.

[@nataliamiles7109]

I applaud your dedication to elegance and refinement. I feel the same way and dress for elegance each and every day, right down to my beautiful, classic 3- or 4-4-inch heels. I am the only woman I have seen in Pleasant Grove, Utah in the past month--since I moved here--in suits and high heels. I refuse to lower my standards. Why look my worst when I can look my best every day?

[@herecomesthesun21]

This is wonderful! I think being assumed French is one the best style compliments you can get.

[@renzo6490]

If your confidence and feelings of self worth depend on what you WEAR, and you feel like a sad loser when you take them off then you HAVE no confidence. You HAVE no real esteem for yourself.

[@nataliamiles7109]

@@renzo6490 Renzo, Elegant outfits can REINFORCE one's feelings--not VALIDATE them. There's a difference. Dressing with class and refinement reveals an extension of the mindset and attitude, conveying self-respect, as well as respect toward others. Numerous peer-reviewed studies in professional journals reveal that standing taller (back straight, no slumping) AND making an effort to wear a presentable outfit helps men and women during times of depression: their moods improve, and they can then recover faster. For those who rely on their material goods (clothing, jewelry, vehicles, houses, etc.) to VALIDATE their existence, then yes, this is pathetic. In fact, this is a very common phenomenon in America. Look at the preacher Joel Osteen with his expensive bespoke suits, his fleet of Ferraris, and multi-million dollar houses. His ostentatious display of wealth screams insecurity and low self-esteem, as well as a competitive spirt. In contrast, there is the well-known pastor of Saddleback Church in Orange County, California, Rick Warren (famous author of The Purpose Driven Life) who wears old, plain clothes and drives an old pick-up truck. He does not VALIDATE his existence and self-worth by purchasing expensive, flashy material goods. Conspicuous consumption? No, not Pastor Warren.

[@renzo6490]

@@nataliamiles7109 I accept everything you wrote.

[@sherrycatanese4312]

Marie-Anne…hooray! So pleased you addressed the ladies who’ve given up! I’m 70 now I have 7 grown children, I didn’t work outside the home after I had them, so I didn’t have a work wardrobe I dressed to please me & to look my role as a mother & very importantly as a wife! My dear husband often compliments me & he also works at keeping up his looks & style. Now as a grandmother of 15 , I also need to look at my role in life & dress accordingly. Being stylish is having respect for yourself first of all & as you said for those around us. People do notice. Many clothes are of nice fabric and are very comfortable these days. Let’s be feminine & look feminine & be proud of it, and feel happy!

[@hollydewbean3248]

You are absolutely right. I am surrounded by frumpy sloppy people. I refuse to walk around looking like that. I'm almost always the one people consider to be "dressed up". I do not fit in and I don't care. I'm comfortable in my clothes and I'm not frumpy or sloppy. 👍😊

[@alexandraeverafter1015]

Moi aussi! Ugh! It’s depressing to see sloppily dressed people. I have decided I don’t want to look like them. I refuse to do as the people in my hometown do, so I don’t care if I don’t fit in either and stick out like a sore thumb (in a good way, of course) at my church choir, for example. (People dress too casually at my church these days! Give me a break!) Proud to look presentable.

[@marieleemcgill5011]

Me too They call me miss prissy, I wear it with honor.

[@carolalvarez3925]

Me too. Love fashion and looking nice.

[@alexandraeverafter1015]

@@marieleemcgill5011 I will gladly take prissy but never frumpy or sloppy!

[@marieleemcgill5011]

@@alexandraeverafter1015 me too

[@greeneyedcat717]

You are so inspirational Marie-Anne! I have been putting together a summer wardrobe (I am in Australia so it's still winter) so I can make this summer feel special & fun everyday, and enjoy the lovely things in my wardrobe rather than limit them to a small number of events or special occasions. As a 56 year old I think I can claim the right to 'elevate' my personal environment & enjoy style with freedom & joy. I LOVE your "Dump the frump" advice & your videos make me smile!!!!!! Thank you!

[@kathyntexas1350]

Listening to you is so much fun! I too have now developed the “what would Marie-Anne think of this?” I have also been working on my closet. I have found that I can now see things put together differently. I actually had some nice pieces but I wasn’t putting together my overall look. Today I walked into a business meeting and an English lady next to me asked “How do you manage to look so classy in this Texas heat?” Made my day.

[@shereeholland172]

Yes Marie! I wholeheartedly agree with your recommendations. I'm 60, and I go to the shops and hardly see anything really stylish to wear. Too many cheap looking shapeless outfits or dowdy colours for older ladies. I much prefer vintage tailored jackets and vintage jeans and jewellery. Oh, and scarves ... lots of them! They can really elevate an outfit. I also like polka dots but used sparingly. Definitely not too much leopard print either!!! Hi from Australia!

[@Ellsped10]

I agree with you and have found that I’d rather shop at the clearance section of high end stores than elsewhere! First of all they bring better quality clothes a and their styles are much better!

[@LindaPerry_337]

What do you think of the what do you call them? Umbrella dresses that a lit of people are wearing at the moment? The hem is on the knee or mid-thigh. Some people look so funny in them. One has to be very slim to wear these things I'm talking about.

[@delythdavies4907]

It is so wonderful to have somebody speak up for style. I am rarely tempted to buy clothes these days as most of what is in the fashion stores are really awful. As you said, shapeless tiered maxi dresses, wide cropped pants, and horrid bulky sandals. I would rather wear what I have in my wardrobe. Can you imagine future generations looking back at the present fashion? They will have a real laugh. Love your videos, Marie-Anne.

[@alexandraeverafter1015]

I agree! I recently went to Macy’s and came home empty-handed because I didn’t like anything, including chunky shoes, shapeless dresses, and wide cropped pants. (I am petite, so they all look horrible on me.) I didn’t even find anything at my most recent trip to Nordstrom either. I like the current wardrobe on me. I agree people in future generations will have a good laugh at the current fashion trends.

[@melaniemaloney5857]

I'm old enough to remember the 70's. I can already look back and laugh.

[@ivanahanus5101]

@@alexandraeverafter1015 I live in South Africa and here too the shops have horrible frumpy clothes at the moment. I walked out very disappointed. I am also petite and find it difficult to get nice clothes this year.

[@sarahrosen4985]

It isn't just us women over 50. My daughters, 25 & 27, are already having trouble with the current footwear. We went shopping last week for flat, black, leather, strappy sandals which can look professional enough for an office job and comfortable and low key enough for walking outside on cobblestones all day in 38C heat. In short, something they can put on in the morning and be ready for everything the day brings. They couldn't find anything. They asked, "Where are the good shoes?!" They don't want to be stuck with Havianas.

[@daphnepearce9411]

@@melaniemaloney5857 Me too! But I look back and absolutely cringe, remember disco??

[@astorytoldhere]

This is gold! All the style "mistakes" you covered here completely describe our current American fashion culture...& I have just not been able to get on board with any of them! Thank you for calling these out & explaining why, in your characteristic professional, yet humorous, way!

[@heatherinparis]

Hi Marie-Anne.....as an extremely overweight over 70 woman I AM shapeless so some of the loose flowy things that look so bad on young shapely girls do look good on me. A nipped in waist on someone without a waist looks far worse than loose and flowy But even I wouldn't go with the tiered flowy dresses so comon today. And cropped pants are just a horror on anybody. Pick a length, full length or knee length or even shorts ladies. Mid-calf wide pants don't do anything for anybody IMO.

[@americafirst9144]

I think you can create an optical illusion that creates a waist. Wear a belt under a cardigan or use peplums.

[@yourfrenchteacher6406]

As my Mum used to say “never give up!” Marianne’s advice is always very clever and never complicated. Always invest in quality! That reduces our carbon print and maximizes the chic

[@fuzzy7766]

When I was working as an engineer and would go to a new program, I noticed within a few months all the other ladies in the department would be much more stylish. They were emulating me, I was so happy! Don’t copy frumpy, let frumpy copy you. Marie-Anne in the baby onesie - ROTFL!!! Just bought your two books and style journal. Can’t wait. Already I have greatly improved my retirement style, which had me baffled for a few years, just from following you on KZbin and eliminating bad examples. Thank you so much. You are very motivating.

[@nataliamiles7109]

Fuzzy, I love your mantra: "Don't copy frumpy; let frumpy copy you." I feel the same way. I love to dress in an elegant manner at age 64 and wear 3- or 4-inch heels each day, easily and with a quick step. Let others elevate their style. I am not going to shrink myself so that they feel less intimidated; this is not enlightening.

[@elfriedeschmidt4033]

I am loving all your “no frump” videos. I often feel conflicted about what to wear. I like to look nice but as a long time retired grandmother, there aren’t many opportunities and when there are, I struggle wanting to look nice but not overdressed around others who are always very casual. It’s a real struggle! The world just doesn’t “see” women in their 70s as needing to bother (I’ve actually heard this said) and it goes without saying that the pandemic just made things more challenging. Nonetheless, you are so inspiring - thank you for sharing so much thought-provoking information. Merci! 🇨🇦

[@c80lan]

Marie-Anne, I have to admit that I have two of those loose maxi/midi dresses, but I never wear them without a belt to give my waist shape and definition. I just like them because they are casual but look a bit nicer than wearing a pair of shorts or jeans on a hot day.

[@nataliamiles7109]

Yes, maxi dresses can look so alluring and gorgeous with a defined waist and interesting shoes, as well as a beautiful summer hat.

[@PARoth2011]

I have never watched a style video until today, I didn’t know they existed. As I listened to your message my eyes had tears. I always dressed nicely and put on some makeup my entire life then I became ill and was often in bed off and on for the last 10 years. I would still wear a skirt and look nice to do groceries etc but I noticed I started dumbing down my clothing choices lately. I think turning 67 and gaining a few pounds caused me to not care. I am decluttering my closet right now and will be looking at my clothing choices with a fresh eye. I am going to watch more of your videos, you shifted my perception and now I want to learn more. Merci beaucoup 😍

[@susanfakhouri1950]

Marie-Anne, I love your fashion advice for women over 50, and your wonderful sense of humour. Thank you for your great videos, and I always look forward to seeing the new ones.

[@michellekelly2937]

I must admit, I'm one of those who feels as though they've "given up." Most of the time I'm just going out for groceries, so I don't feel inspired to get dressed up. I still do my makeup, but my outfit is always VERY casual. That being said, when I do make an effort to get more dressed up, I feel so much better about myself. How you dress really does affect how you feel inside and how you carry yourself. This video has inspired me to try and make more of an effort to wear outfits that will make me feel good about how I look rather than just ho-hum. Thank you so much Marie-Anne! ♥

[@lintej]

Thanks Marie-Anne! I just love how you say it like it is! No holding back! I couldn't agree with you more. So many of the so-called "fashions" I see in the stores today are anything but fashion. I'm older and I remember when going out to dinner was a dress-up occasion. When church was a dress-up occasion. I'm afraid I've reverted back to better fashion times with no apologies!

[@ritastutler1470]

I agree. I still like to dress for church..it feels respectful. People say why do you wear dresses..I think they are a one and done fashion and I feel put together. Thank You.

[@virginiachapman3302]

I so agree with you and love that you said 'Style elevates those around you!'. I feel so much better when I 'make an effort'! I am 73 years old! I have been married 50 years! My husband so appreciates my EFFORT! He feels younger and happier when I have 'tried' to look pulled together and chic! I wish I was 10 pounds thinner, but my oh, I see how 'trying' to stay a bit trim, I feel better and my clothes fit better. IT IS WORTH THE EFFORT! Encourage others with your effort! Your children and grandchildren will be proud of you also!!! I love your channel Marie Anne! Sincerely Gigi

[@minkyann8132]

Anytime I want a new outfit, I always say to myself "will Marie Anne approve this outfit?". Definitely, I don't want to look frumpy. I'm 4.11 in height and I choose outfits that would flatter me. Thanks for the new video!

[@lorilagerstrom4123]

YES! Marie-Anne - Why should we copy “low standards”?? We want to be the BEST we can be!!!👌😁❤️. Thank you for helping us RAISE our standards!!❤️

[@manonsinclairladyofblairad9675]

My mother and I tried wide leg, cropped pants last summer. When we got out of the dressing rooms, we both laughed! It was horrible, made us look big, wide and shorter than we already are! 😂

[@manonsinclairladyofblairad9675]

@@MarieAnneLecoeur it definitely was not for us. 😁

[@thereseclark797]

They don't flatter anyone!

[@altitudeiseverything3163]

I loathe cropped pants! Full length has been so hard to find that, even though I’m only 4’11”, I’ve purchased several pants in regular size, rather than my usual ‘petite,’ so they’d be full length on me. 🙄 Depending on your height, ‘tall’ sizing may do the same for you.

[@annem3354]

Same. I’m 5’1” and can safely buy cropped pants in a regular size knowing they will be full length on me!

[@eileensilverstein5819]

I don't think that wide-leg, cropped pants flatter anyone, regardless of age or body shape. It is so hideous!

[@CoffeeQueen36]

Marie-Anne, ever since I first heard you say the sentence: ‚If it‘s not a wow, it‘s a non‘, this phrase accompanies me with almost every piece of clothing that I buy and my wardrobe has improved significantly 😊 - Thank you!!

[@clairewillow6475]

I agree about the tiered dresses. It was a big trend last summer and seems to still be in fashion this summer but I doubt it will look fresh for much longer

[@Watsurq12]

Marie-Anne, I so respect that you are always candid and stick to what you believe. I think dressing causally results in behaving causally that I don’t care about. I value classy and elegant behaviors and standards. I refuse to be dumb down in this causal society and have been dressed in a way I like and don’t care how others look at me. I want to be feminine and classy and he way I dress shows it. Thank you for sharing your tips and advice with us.

[@nataliamiles7109]

Thank you, Marie-Anne, for these tips on how to avoid looking frumpy, shapeless, and unattractive. Why look our worst when we can look our best? That is my mantra. If it not a wow, it is a bow wow (dog). That is my other mantra. Looking elegant elevates our confidence, self-esteem, and moods, and it affects the way we treat others.

[@AndreaGerakSinger]

Marie-Anne, I think this is not only your very best video so far, but probably the best of all the style videos I have seen froom other channels, too. I agree 1000% with everything here: the style principles, the negative and the positive examples (you found gorgeous ones). In the most elegant shopping streets of Budapest, every day I see many women from all over the world, mostly tourists who want to show off how fashionable they are - but they go after these frumpy trends!!! Horrible. Don't they FEEL frumpy??? I think frumpiness has a certain feeling - at least I do feel a difference whether I am elegant or frumpy when I put on a skirt or a dress, even if I can't see myself in the mirror. It's really a different energy, different vibes, isn't it? As for myself, I am guilty of having a tendency to not dress up for myself when I am at home alone, but I am improving: the era of old T-shirts is passé and now I have a few very simple and comfortable but pretty dresses for home. Also, I tend to "give up" on make-up even when I am out of the house, for my everyday look I only wear something very basic on my eyes like mascara or an eye liner/pencil, maybe eyebrow pencil, plus tinted lip balm. On my skin only concealer to cover the most necessary spots or areas. My excuse is practical: I bicycle everywhere, so my face will get sweaty all the time, no amount of powder and such would help that.

[@designlady1732]

Love this!! The ladies at my old job used to stop me every morning to tell me it wasn't necessary to "dress up" for work. I was wearing the SAME wash-n-wear black boot cuts, a blouse and flats at least 3x a week. It was all I owned! They wore jeans, sneakers and tees. I finally told them that I wasn't going to spend money for jeans and tees just to wear them to the office. That shut them up. BTW- Love your blouse! Is it available?

[@nataliamiles7109]

I love your retort, Design Lady! I cannot stand it when people ask me why I am so dressed up and then sneer. Why look our worst when we can look our best? Let them elevate their style; I am not going to shrink myself so that they feel less intimidated.

[@weebizzom1495]

Yes, this! I worked as a secretary in offices where I had to wear a suit, then I moved to a job where everyone wore more casual clothes. They spent more on their sports-style trousers and t-shirts than I could afford, so I went on wearing my suits, and I was “accused” of being too posh. Like you, it was all I had! I would rather be too well-dressed than not well-dressed enough.

[@nataliamiles7109]

@@weebizzom1495 Yes, let us not shrink ourselves so that others do not feel as intimidated; this is not enlightening. Let them elevate themselves.

[@designlady1732]

@@MarieAnneLecoeur It looks great on you! Appreciate the tips!

[@aprilgrant1957]

@@nataliamiles7109, those comments are definitely "a thing." When I was in my 30s, I would get asked why I always looked like I was going "out?" Boot cut jeans, button down white shirt, white keds and light make up??? Boy, did I get the side-eye from some Moms.

[@thethoughtfulpeanut6662]

This channel is worth watching just for Marie's humorous commentary.

[@musicmom614]

Wonderful video. I remember that my mother and grandmother, as they got to a certain age, stopped trying to look their best. Consequently, they would turn down offers for family gatherings because it was too much work. They lost how to get ready for an event. I vowed that I would do my best to look my best everyday and not lose practice. Cultivate a wardrobe that would be well quality and classic. Sometimes a little fun thrown in. I can't tell you how many women in the area where I live in the US, don't even try. Sometimes I feel overdressed just because they don't. I like your advice on who do I follow in fashion, YOU. By doing so my outfits are elevated and not frumpy. Have a wonderful weekend Marie-Anne

[@nataliamiles7109]

Cyndi, How sad. I am more energetic, vibrant, and healthy at 64 than my younger years! Getting older does not mean that we slow down and stop pursuing interests. I just earned my third MA degree at age 64. I will be embarking on a brand new career at age 64! I run and speed-walk 5 MILES (1.5 HOURS) each and every night, no excuses, no pain, no swelling, complete flexibility and high energy. Being older means I am wiser, more compassionate, kinder, and make far better decisions. Life can get better as you age!! I am living proof.

[@Song-Stories-and-Stars]

I have just discovered you. I am 55 (the pic is me in 2020 to promote my music). Not only have you lifted my spirits, (& made me laugh), but I am now going to go upstairs and give my wardrobe a good talking to! Thank you, Marie-Anne, from Caroline in England.

[@carolthomas8528]

Marie-Anne is so right about the link between clothing style and general trends in society of behaviour, manners and even diet . In Western countries , be they American, Australian, or European one can see this dumbing down in every form of culture which will have a knock on effect with our general standing in the rest of the world . Even during WW2 women made a huge effort to maintain a smart appearance and maintain standards which, in turn kept morale higher . In these times, when easier living is taken for granted by most people, I look about me and see people who are badly dressed , overweight and rude . I strike a harsher note than Marie - Anne but it’s true .

[@nataliamiles7109]

Hello Carol, Yes, I completely agree with you. Men and women in America dress in a slovenly manner and are actually offended to see people who dress elegantly. If you do dress in an upscale manner here, be prepared to hear snide comments and see rolling eyes from others. However, I refuse to dress like the masses of the Great Unwashed and maintain my elegant appearance. Yes, there has been a dumbing down effect in America; one great book about it is called Class, written in the 1980s. I have earned 3 MA degrees and 1 BA degree, and I have met people who are offended by these achievements: they cannot stand to be "upstaged" and pout like sullen children about it. In job interviews, I have heard insulting remarks about my higher education; they are so intimidated and jealous. Yet, they refuse to put in the hard work that it takes to be accepted at the best universities in America: the UC system in California, Stanford, etc. As for rudeness, I cannot stand to fly anymore, since many travelers are so pushy, obnoxious and rude--some are even violent. I would rather drive my car for days then take a shorter plane ride to my destination. As for how people dress on planes, good grief. Back in the day, we all dressed in our finest apparel and displayed our best manners. The overweight epidemic in America is growing (no pun intended). Ads in magazines and on the Internet attempt to depict an overweight body as beautiful, but that is dangerous: we all know that being overweight is not healthy; rather, it increases risks of cancer, stroke, heart attacks, and other terminal diseases. Thanks for bringing up these issues. Natalia Utah: Land of the Prairie/Peasant Dress

[@sallyjackson6183]

A person can be badly dressed and rude without being overweight just as one can be overweight, stylish, and polite.

[@mstwelvedeadlycyns]

Very true

[@avarysse5782]

This started happening to me in 2020 - being locked at my house, I got LAZY but over time started getting back to normal. I'd still love to wear jammies to the store but I wasn't raised that way & feel it's a siin lol

[@misst.e.a.187]

Overweight does not equal obese

[@turnbacktime65]

Marie-Anne, I have now watched 20, yes!, 20 of your videos. Thank you for the education, the reminder not to give up and for reinforcing fashion sense. I feel more like myself when I indulge my lifelong love of fashion.

[@MarieAnneLecoeur]

You are very welcome 🤗 I am vary happy my channel resonates with you - your passion will keep your style journey alive and well 😘

[@mariaceciliagoncalves4272]

Hi Marie-Anne, l agree with you except for the cropped wide pants . I confess that l really feel very well when l wear them. Love the way you present your ideas. 😘

[@4MDH]

I agree! I wear cropped linen wide leg pants with wedges and a tucked in fitted shirt and it looks very nice. Of course, since I'm petite, the cropped pants are not very cropped on me; more like ankle length!

[@nataliamiles7109]

Hi Maria, I would think that the wide, cropped pants allow air to circulate--very welcoming on a sweltering hot day! I love to wear body-conscious, fitted capri pants, just below the knees with high-heeled shoes (3 to 4-inches).

[@kathleenhall6346]

I have never seen cropped pants that flatter any woman. Looks like you’re standing in a hole. Excellent advice Marie-Anne

[@he2548]

Oh, Marie-Anne! There are SO many KZbin channels out there... yet stick with you for your solid advice I respect your views as they are timeless and they make sense! You are a voice of reason in a jungle of social media.

[@nataliamiles7109]

As a teen growing up in rural Northern California, I longed for the beautiful outfits that I saw in the Sears, Wards, and Spiegel catalogs, but at that time, we could not afford new outfits. As a lover of beauty, style, and aesthetics, I longed to look stylish and elegant. Now, as a grown woman earning her own living, I am able to look the way I longed to look: classic, refined with quality clothing in natural fibers, flattering, and absolutely beautiful. Every day I get to live my style dream, and it feels amazing!

[@genxx2724]

I remember the Spiegel catalog and not being able to afford a single thing. Sadly, I’m not good at finding clothes. I gave good taste and want to look great, but have no interest or skill finding things.

[@florichahal7668]

Chic and quality clothes are way more expensive, and often not affordable in everyone's budget. And decent looking chic clothes in plus sizes are hard to find.

[@nataliamiles7109]

@@florichahal7668 Because of the expense of designer clothing, I turned to thrift shops as a young adult; there were plenty in Northern California in the 1970s and even more now. I was able to look chic on a tiny budget. Now, I love to purchase used elegant clothing online in America. What a savings with Talbots, White House Black Market, Tahari, and other brands that I love!

[@florichahal7668]

@@nataliamiles7109 I have never checked out any thrift stores.

[@nataliamiles7109]

@@florichahal7668 Hi Flori, there are so many thrift shops in America. Do you live here? I love using ThredUp, since the items are mailed to me, and they are wrapped in lovely white and blue tissue paper with a gold seal. Most of the items, even though they are used, look new, and I have been so happy with them. Thrift shops are fun! It's like a scavenger hunt; you never know what you will find at very low prices! If you do decide to venture into one, I would love to hear about your experience. By the way, your name, "Flori" is so lovely--very unique.

[@antoniaz]

I bought a beautiful white tiered midi dress, fine organic cotton, delicate print. I added a wide belt. Bam. It's spectacular.

[@daCubanaqt]

Definitely feel the belt gives that dress some shape. A lot of people don’t even bother with a belt!

[@catherinelai30]

Hello Marie-Anne, I am from Hong Kong. I turn 71 today. Thank you for all your advice on do's and don'ts for women over 50. We need to look our best even we are aging. It help to lift your spirit and give you a sense of purpose.

[@genxx2724]

Elders uphold standards.

[@Portuguesepierogi]

Just found your videos. Could not agree more with everything you say. So glad to have found you 😊

[@MarieAnneLecoeur]

Merci 😘 and a Big French Chic Welcome to you 🤗

[@FavoritesPersonal]

Wonderful advice! Thank you for reminding us that we not only dress for ourselves, but for those around us.

[@irenehaugen6143]

Merci beaucoup Marie-Anne! At 75 I still make the effort to look as good as I can when leaving the house. I simply never buy frumpy clothes, that way it makes it easy to reach for an outfit and know it will suit me. When alone at home, I don't dress up nor do I wear makeup. But if an unexpected guest knocks at the door, at least I know I am presentable in my "at home" style.

[@Venus77x]

I really enjoyed this video Marie Anne. I feel very sorry for people who 'give up' it's one of two things, very low self esteem which I do think needs addressing or which may be seen as laziness, but is in fact a different issue closely linked to habit formed negative views of oneself, or even health issues at certain times in life, which also needs addressing as usually there are underlying psychological reasons or even physical causes, where if we don't 'feel' good we don't make the best of ourselves. I do think you make a very good mentor, because you motivate people to get up, get going and show up by making the best of themselves. We should always make an effort because it lifts our spirits and lifts those around us too and you're a great example of this Xx

[@nataliamiles7109]

Hi Venus, You bring up a great point: our emotions can dictate our style decisions. Depression robs us of any joy in dressing. It is hard enough getting out of bed, let alone trying to figure out an elegant outfit. With depression, too, comes the belief that we do not deserve to wear attractive outfits. And yes, health problems can bring on depression. Natalia Utah

[@triciadasko7156]

Marie-anne you are hilarious in this video. Loved it! Keep up the good work and thank you!

[@MarieAnneLecoeur]

Glad you enjoyed it Tricia x

[@kimberlyperrotis8962]

Why not give up? Because feeling beautiful and stylish is one of the best gifts a woman can give herself. Nothing boosts seem-esteem more! My simple tip to look long longer, leaner, better-proportioned, and younger: tuck in those tops! Don’t buy any more long ones, ending below the hip bone, I had to give up on all those mature brands for this reason. About 20 years ago, I analyzed why I never felt good in most of my outfits, the one thing they had in common was the long tops, they make legs look stumpy. Don’t worry about a round tummy, we al, have those, tuck tops in anyway. Tops hanging over a tummy only emphasize the tummy.

[@herecomesthesun21]

I agree! I Have come to same conclusion. Even if you have a round tummy, the overall look still usually looks better tucked in. Lately I've accepted my tummy more and done that & felt much better. We are women and very few women have a flat tummy from their 40's onwards. 😊

[@nataliamiles7109]

I have accepted that at age 64, I have control over my body, and I got rid of my tummy by daily 5-mile runs/speed-walks and 30 minutes of floor exercises including 100 push-ups. No more tummy. Is the two hours of working out worth it? Yes! Cutting down on abdominal fat also decreases our risk of heart attack. Plus, I love looking trim and fit. I don't miss the gut.

[@urszulaniebo5807]

Marie-Anne, Today I’ve just found your channel on YT, and I am amazed! I ‘ve watched several vídeos one by one:) and decided to declutter my wardrobe as soon as possible. But there is one thing I don’t know. My legs aren’t nice, I have bold ankles and clumsy legs - what length of skirts I shoul wear. For the very long time I didn’t wear skirts at all. Your advices for women over 60 are priceless. Thank you very much! Greetings from Poland😊

[@MarieAnneLecoeur]

Bonjour Urszula and welcome 🤗 decluttering will really boost your style 😃👍 and has so many benefits. I have a video here that could help kzbin.info/www/bejne/aX-TZJmkqq6Er9k 😘

[@tonyadevos9189]

This was great. Thanks Marie-Anne. You’re such an inspiration for us over 50 women to put in the effort to be our best without going for perfection. You’re a breath of fresh air.

[@pollychurcher8362]

Merci Marie-Anne - you reminded me of something my father used to say to me when I was in my early teenage years. ‘Don’t follow the fashion, set the fashion’. 😊

[@gorgo1945]

Every word of advice you gave us today is a true gem! Holding ourselves to a higher standard - daily - yes please! xx

[@roxannesteed4675]

wow- so true!!! I'm trying to find a dress that suits my wider middle, so difficult! I never used to have to worry about fit and size...but menopause middle has really hit and made that aspect difficult for me. It's like the holy grail to find a fitted dress (with a waist-line) that I can wear. I'd love a video with more of this for those of us that have wider middles. Thanks for your humor and advice! 😀

[@roxannesteed4675]

@@MarieAnneLecoeur ah yes!!! I'll try to find it! Merci!! 😀

[@lisayerace5578]

The “shacket” reminds me of what deer hunters wear on a cool day in the woods. 😂 And that’s where they belong! Great video! LOVE your option for wide leg trousers. I need a pair! SO flattering!

[@lisayerace5578]

😂 Right? Ordered the linen blend wide leg trousers in white! Can’t wait to try!

[@nataliamiles7109]

@@MarieAnneLecoeur Too funny!

[@margaretexposto132]

Thank you for putting yourself out there. You say things that I think so very often about people believing that to be comfortable they must look frumpy. We all should remember how we effect others around us. We can only ask others to care how they look, by caring ourselves. I am so glad to come across your channel, you are stylish, confident and a true voice of reason.

[@diannekantor3581]

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[@yvonnesibbald848]

Ah, this made me laugh. Great advice delivered with humour and sparkle. I could have done with seeing this last year. I bought one of those layered shapeless dresses and only wore it once. All that fabric overwhelmed me. I also have the cropped trousers and realised they were a mistake. Many thanks, as always.

[@nataliamiles7109]

With clothes that had beautiful fabric but looked awful on me, I cut them up and made beautiful decorative pillows!

[@patricialscalzo8483]

What a wonderful video Marie-Anne! Exceptional style and life advice. How sad it is when women want to give up as Jo said. I too am over sixty, been married to my husband more than 40 years and have two adorable little grandsons. But I want my husband, my children, and my grandchildren to always think of me as a classic and stylish woman! As well as a loving wife, mother and grandmere.

[@patricialscalzo8483]

Thank you so very much!

[@allthingswavy6420]

This was one of my favorite videos of yours ❤️ Thank you for the humor and the strong message of "You are WORTH IT!" At age 61 I am excited to finally be expressing my authentic (stylish!) self. I am so excited to dress every day and I finally love my closet-of-tailored -and- mostly-neutrals Thank you for what you do Marie Anne--you help a LOT of women with your videos!!

[@dinasabet6760]

Thank you so much very helpful your advice

[@MarieAnneLecoeur]

You are very welcome Dina x

[@jenn8179]

I feel like it's easier than it's ever been to stay away from frumpy. So much information online about body types, styles and flattering colors. So much good information out there, Ladies! Don't give up! 🤩

[@lisaostrowski1516]

I love how you speak. "If you don't know, I'm delighted". lol I agree with you completely ... I find that people who say they don't care anymore or whatever their reasons are, are not people that generally feel very good about themselves either.

[@lindseykipp9175]

I am 5'10" and cropped pants make me look like I outgrew my clothing! Thanks for your perfect advice.🌞🙏

[@kimredmond7500]

Hi Marie-Anne hope all is well with you. My name is Kim-Anne and I just wanted to tell you that you are a breath of fresh air when it comes to fashion. From signature classic looks to basic and essential styling for women pass 35. Thank you for your time, and for your french/chic expertise. Your "keep it simple" motif helps me with putting together an ensemble and saves me on time each day! My fashion motif is "if it looks good on a hanger, it will look good on you"! I used it when designing fashion windows for retail stores. In closing, body type, colors and under garments are just as important as well when it comes to both motif(s). Have a beautiful rest of 2024!

[@MarieAnneLecoeur]

Bonjour Kim 😃 I am very happy my channel resonates with you 🤗 window dressing is a wonderful art 😃

[@bernadetteobrien9296]

Marie-Anne, thank you for the motivation to look our best. It is an important message that I wish more would hear. It is difficult today with the super casual trends and way of thinking. It gets tiring to hear the comment that "you dressed up" when I wear something other than frumpy, super casual clothes. I almost feel shamed for trying to look my best? I am retired, but I don't want to look like I have given up. Merci beaucoup.

[@nataliamiles7109]

HI Bernadette, Yes, there are souls who try to shame you if you dress in an elegant manner. They are intimidated, insecure, judgmental, and jealous. Do not allow them to undermine your spirit. Do not shrink yourself to appease them; shrinking yourself so that others are not intimidated is not enlightening nor is it emotionally healthy. Stand tall and keep being elegant! Natalia Utah: Home of the Ubiquitous Prairie/Peasant Dresses (Ugh)

[@sparklie962]

"If it's not a wow, it's a non!" is great advice if you're on a budget, short on closet space and/or concerned about the impact of fast fashion on climate change etc. I'm on a budget and also have little storage space and I've adopted this mantra for the past 2 years or so. I have a fraction of the pieces my friends and co-workers do, but every piece fits properly, flatters me and is good enough quality to last me for some years to come. Seems like a win to me :-)

[@vassilikiyiannou728]

Excellent pieces of advice, Marie Anne! I hardly understand why our society has given up chic and elegant way of looking and accepts too much casualty! We, who follow you, should keep the effort of "elevate our surroundings" by being classy!

[@marysmith9109]

Oh my, you are telling truth!! I put away frump ans am choosing style and comfort. Not most expensive nor laiden with jewlery, but simple, flattering to my shape, and feeling my value as a woman of experience and life skills. Thankyou for making this first point in this vid. God bless you.

[@autumnzellers3855]

Brand new subscriber and I love your ideas and thoughts about fashion. I live in a very casual area and I feel like I stand out often since 95% of the time I like to dress in a tailored, non frumpy style. I was just telling my husband, I dress nicely for me because I enjoy it. He’s also open to fashion advice and we often turn heads when we go out for date nights. I loved your comment about how the French see style. I feel as a woman in her 40’s I want to stay relevant, stylish, and dare say sexy and attractive. I don’t want to fade into the background. The last couple of years with Covid and WFH it took a bit to my style, but now I feel like a butterfly emerging from her cocoon. I’m glad I found your channel and look forward to your content moving forward.

[@amandamorton-king2112]

I so love your forthright opinions and your emphasis on encouraging women not to settle for less than they can be. Practical style advice supports this ethos - a genuinely inspirational site.

[@nataliamiles7109]

Amanda, Yes, do not shrink yourself so that others feel less intimidated. This is not enlightening.

[@lorraineguidetti7602]

Buona sera Marie-Anne you just killed me I loved this video.I laughed out loud.Everything you talked about really is so frumpy.I know at times we have to shake ourselves up but really its worth the effort.Thankyou for your positivity.

[@mariebelanger6286]

Great tips. I often shop alone. Sometimes, after considering a piece in the dressing room I go out into the larger central area and ask the staff or a fellow shopper what they think. If the immediate visceral response is neutral, I reject the piece. However, if my look evokes a "wow, that looks really good", it's a yes. I have also learned to be selective in whom I consult.

[@pascalet346]

Génial et facile à retenir: "If it is not wow, it is no". Merci Marie-Anne pour cette vidéo très amusante et pleine de bons conseils 👍

[@joancavanaugh965]

Saturday night in NJ, just finished watching your video, wonderful as always. Tiptoed around my sleeping husband to go to the closet and quietly remove 3 pairs of black linen elastic/drawstring waist pants. In the pile for the thrift shop. Now to find replacements that have neither of these!

[@nataliamiles7109]

Hooray to you, Joan, for getting rid of those sloppy pants! That takes courage. Have fun hunting for replacements. I love the thrill of the hunt!

[@poochie_connie5200]

Thank you so much marie-anne! Everytime I'm in a crisis how to dress up, I just keep going back to watch your videos! You're my Hero! 😍

[@lorrieorr3753]

Bonjour Marie-Anne, I giggled when I saw you in the baby romper! I liked what you said about taking care in how we present ourselves is a sign of respect for other people, and for ourselves. Frumpy is sad. Your advice really hits the target and everyone should take note. The style principles you talked about apply universally. We are heading out on a 5-week road trip to the Arctic this week, and in my packing, I am being careful to include outfits that coordinate well, fit well, and are not frumpy. There will be hiking and kayaking, as well as touring small towns and attending cultural events, but I'm finding that with the things I've learned from taking a few of your courses, and watching your videos, I am well prepared. So thank you!

[@nataliamiles7109]

I know, that was hilarious!

[@laurahuddleston6285]

"If it's not a wow, it's a non!" has helped me so much with decluttering my closet. It is still a work in progress, but thanks to your videos and your Tidy Closet book, I am getting there much faster than I would have on my own! Thanks so much!

[@nataliamiles7109]

If it's not a wow, then it's a bow wow. That's my mantra!

[@marialively9673]

I'm in my late 30's and my style role models were a few popular French ladies (I prefer not to name them). However I soon realized that most of them have very different body type than me and also show a bit more skin than what I am comfortable with for myself, which doesn't necessarily look cheap for a lady that is thin but with my hourglass body doesn't look modest at all. So, I'm trying to find the right balance between effortless yet stylish and classy/ modest at the same time. Your videos have helped me so much dear Marie-Anne! Thank you! ❤️

[@beanieduchet2928]

Marie-Anne, you asked who our style role models are, for me, Coco Chanel, Catherine Deneuve, Emmanuelle Alt, and now Marie-Anne Lecouer! 💕

[@beanieduchet2928]

je vous en prie, Marie-Anne. 🥰

[@kathyvivian8966]

I was looking for something cool but stylish for the hot weather and was totally dispirited by the clothes in the shops. All those tiered dresses with frills - I came to the conclusion that the current fashion is to appear frumpy! In desperation I decided that I would just have to make a dress for myself. I'm currently sewing a button through shirt dress, but having discovered a new source of fabric this might be the start of more sewing projects.

[@janetlindley4465]

Dear Marie-Anne you are inspirational and always look fabulous. There are many lessons I can learn from this video and I thank you most sincerely. I will definitely be watching this video again and again as a reminder of your advice. God bless you 🥰🥰

[@amma7244]

My stylish grandmother. Lived to 103. Very English did a beautiful blend of casual elegant. Taught me the joy of finding just that perfect white lawn blouse. She would cringe at my “ in the house” big baggy sweatpants but she added a cashmere men’s sweater and somehow it worked ( on me she would never...) highly curated small chic wardrobe. Thanks Marie-Anne for the inspiration I may have given up a bit have the stylish pieces covid made me a bit lazy.

[@nataliamiles7109]

Amma, Your grandmama sounds so stylish! You are lucky to have had her for inspiration. And what a long life she lived! What were her secrets to longevity?