HELLO LOVELY SUBSCRIBERS!
TODAY IS THE DAY CINDY AND I FEATURE OURSELVES FOR THE AGELESS STYLE SERIES!
WE HAVE BEEN DOING THIS NOW ONCE A MONTH FOR FOUR YEARS!
NEITHER ONE OF US CAN BELIEVE IT’s BEEN THAT LONG!
I REMEMBER CINDY HAD TO PLEAD WITH ME TO DO IT AND I SAID,” I WOULD THINK ABOUT IT!”
IT WAS HER IDEA AND BOY, OH BOY WAS IT A GOOD ONE!
WE BOTH HAVE ENJOYED FINDING THE WOMEN AROUND SOCIAL MEDIA AND POSTING THEIR ANSWERS TO OUR QUESTIONS!
CINDY has recently moved from a large home to a smaller home and will REVEAL HER NEW DIGS WITHIN TIME!
SHE IS A FUN LADY TO FOLLOW REGARDING DECOR,GARDENING,CLOTHING FOR US OVER 50, entertaining TIPS with delicious recipes TOO!
SHE COVERS IT ALL……….where I usually just talk about MYSELF!
ENJOY THE INTERVIEW BELOW AND DO LEAVE A COMMENT AFTER THE SUBSCRIPTION BOX…………
WE ARE ALWAYS HAPPY TO HEAR FEEDBACK AND MAYBE YOU KNOW SOMEONE WHO SHOULD BE FEATURED HERE?
SEIZE THE DAY AND MOST IMPORTANTLY ENJOY IT!!
NOW HERE IS MY DEAR FRIEND CINDY!
WHAT IS THE DEFINITION OF AGELESS STYLE TO YOU?
Someone who is not concerned with their age or the latest trends. They embrace who they are and have the knowledge, self esteem and confidence to work with what they have in creating their own unique style.
WHAT TWO WORDS BEST DESCRIBE YOUR WAY TO DRESS?
CLASSIC
BOHEMIAN
PREPPY
HIP~ GRANNY
ELEGANT
Cindy says: “Perhaps a combination of Classic and Bohemian.”
YOU DEFINITELY HAVE A GOOD LOOK HAVE YOU ALWAYS HAD A SENSE OF STYLE OR DID IT EVOLVE OVER THE YEARS?
Oh who knows. I have been interested in both fashion and interiors since I was a child. My father built track homes. He let me pick out finishes when I was a teenager.I am sure there were some awful combinations. Let’s just say I was always interested and attempted to be stylish!
WHAT TRENDS DO YOU SEE TODAY THAT AN OLDER WOMAN CAN CARRY OFF?
I think the midi and maxi are flattering to women our age. I also think the wide leg pant can be very flattering.
DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE SHOE BRAND?
ARTEMIS for interesting fun shoes
For comfort, korkease, olukai, birdies and many others.
At my age shoes have to be comfortable or I know I will not wear them.
HOW DO YOU SHOP FOR YOUR CLOSET?
DO YOU THINK ABOUT WHAT YOU NEED OR ARE YOU MORE IMPULSIVE?
HOW OFTEN WOULD YOU SAY YOU DO A DEEP CLEAN OF THE CLOSET?
I am not impulsive at all.
I overthink everything to a fault.
I try to have a lot of items that can be interchanged for different looks.
I love accessories and like to change up my looks that way.
Deep cleaning my closet?
I just sent four boxes to Thred Up.
Downsizing forced me to deep clean.
Now if I can keep it that way!
WHAT KIND OF SKIN DO YOU HAVE AND CAN YOU SHARE THE PRODUCTS THAT WORK FOR YOU?
My skin has always been oily. I still get a pimple on occasion. I still cannot wear moisturizer or anything with an oil base. I use Retin A, vitamin C serum (timeless currently) and a hyaluronic acid serum (Vichy right now). I love Elta MD for sunscreen. It does not clog your pores like some. Currently I am using bare minerals foundation
CAN YOU THINK OF TWO PEOPLE WHO MIGHT HAVE INFLUENCED YOU AS A YOUNG ADULT?
The woman who influenced me the most was my darling Aunt Dodo.
She wasn’t particularly stylish, that wasn’t her thing.
She worked in the inner city as a nurse and was a champion for women’s rights back when no one was talking about it.
As far as stylish women, I would say there were two.
One was my best high school friend’s mom and another was a very fashionable older friend who let her hair go gray early.
I studied the two of them!
FAVORITE MAGAZINE TODAY FOR FASHION OR A WEBSITE?
I honestly do not read fashion magazines.
I tend to read articles online that focus on women our age.
WILL YOU SHARE A COUPLE OF OLDER WOMENS INSTAGRAM SITES THAT YOU FOLLOW
AND HAVE NOT SHARED BEFORE?
PERHAPS WITH GREY HAIR?
Oh sure! Of course Sandra Sallin, recent Ageless features Debra Darling and Kerry Lou Henson.
A recent find I think you will love ichoosegray and gograydame .
Sandra Sallin
Debra Darling
Kerry Lou Henson.
DO YOU THINK YOU DRESS LIKE YOUR HOME?
Somewhat. I am not a huge pattern lover. I tend to favor texture over pattern. I prefer natural fabrics for my home and my body. I am not carrying any sort of banner. I just like the way they look and feel. I am a huge fan of linen (in case you haven’t noticed).
WHAT DO YOU HAVE TO SAY ABOUT SOCIAL MEDIA AND HOW WE HAVE ALL FOUND EACH OTHER?
There are things I love about it and there are things that I don’t love about it.
I love the women I have met and the friendships that I have made through blogging.
I can’t say enough about that part of it.
WITH ONE WORD DESCRIBE WHAT BLOGGING MEANS TO YOU?
Community.
I absolutely adore the women who read my blog.
They are vibrant, interesting, and I learn from them everyday.
DID YOU STUDY INTERIOR DESIGN IN SCHOOL?
Martha foss says
Cindy, I have always loved your style in both your home and your fashion. In fact, because of one of your blog posts I now own 2 CP shades long Lily skirts! ( I found one on eBay, and one on PoshMark due to your suggestion!) I love the way that social media introduces us to new people, and I hope that we can meet in person soon!! In fact Elizabeth and I have been Trying to plan a Bay area meeting!
As usual, another great post by the Contessa!
cindy says
Thank you so much Martha. Don’t you love the Lily Skirt? We must meet in person soon!!
kim says
Elizabeth,
This was wonderful. I love Cindy’s style and home so much. She’s very self-effacing for a person with so much style and good taste. She has done so much with interiors and her blog! She doesn’t give herself enough credit. To me she is hugely inspiring and I love everything she does! I especially love the photo of her at her desk. I do love this series so much and I hope you keep doing it. I have enjoyed every one. I can’t wait to read yours now! Popping over there now!! Love you both. xo Kim
LA CONTESSA says
I AGREE WITH YOU EVERYTHING YOU SAY!
XOX
cindy says
Thank you pal! You know I feel exactly the same way about you!!
Kimberly says
Love seeing all the wonderful women you both feature. Cindy’s style and home are wonderful! She inspires us all!
You both are fabulous gals and I enjoy following you both so much.
XOXO,
Kimberly
cindy says
Hi Kimberly
Thank you so much. I so appreciate your sweet comment! Eliz and I are so appreciative of all of you!
home before dark says
Mystery solved! I have so wondered about your college major. Would never have guessed political science, but I love that! I majored in journalism and English but have always been a news junkie! So agree that art was not our answer!!! Being self taught with boundless energy and great research skills has served you well. So looking forward to seeing your special imprint on your Salinas cottage. In the picture of you and Steve, Beau is looking straight to the camera and saying, “hurry up, I can smell this wine already and they are gonna’ love it!” So admire your style, your honesty and talent.
cindy says
Hi Patricia
I have so enjoyed getting to know you via the blog. I know we would be fast friends if we lived closer! Thank you for always being so supportive.
Kathy Meyers says
You and Cindy both definitely have Ageless Sense of Style and seem very comfortable in your own skin.
Enjoy this monthly feature very much!
cindy says
Hi Kathy
Thank you so much. I am so glad you enjoy the series.
cindy says
I so forgot that I had to goad you into doing Ageless Style. I can’t tell you how much I have enjoyed doing this series. It has been wonderful having you as a friend and confidante and so rewarding to have had the pleasure of interviewing so many wonderful women. Here’s to many more years of inspiring interviews and good friendship!
LA CONTESSA says
GOAD IS THE CORRECT WORD!!!
ONWARDS…………….I ALREADY HAVE MY JULY GAL PICKED OUT!
XXX
Lorna says
I love Cindy’s style a LOT and I love linen too. I always hesitate with maxi skirts or dresses as I always think they’re for the very young. But Cindy carries them off well.
LA CONTESSA says
YOU WOULD LOOK GREAT IN A LONG DRESS FOR DAYTIME LORNA!
TRY IT AND IT WOULD BE COOL FOR MALTA!
XXX
cindy says
Hi Lorna
I think we ladies of a certain age can wear a maxi. I bet you can too!! Thanks for the sweet comment.
Sarah says
I find Cindy a great inspiration. We’re the same age, and I love that she is so comfortable in her own skin–literally–with all the normal imperfections that come from having invested 67 years on this planet. Because of her (and, well, Covid) I let my perpetual “this is all I can do with my hair” bob grow into a lob, stopped coloring it, and love the results. I lean more toward classic than boho, but I still find a lot to admire and emulate in what she wears and how she presents herself.
And you, Contessa, are simply fabuloso!
LA CONTESSA says
WILL LET CINDY ANSWER……..just saying GRAZIE!!!!
XXX
cindy says
Hi Sarah
Thank you so much for your comment. You made my day. It is because of people like you that we enjoy what we do. We feel very fortunate to have such invested, inspiring women reading our blogs.
Heidi says
Hi Elizabeth,
It’s great getting more of the inside scoop about Cindy and her life! I admire her style so much and have been influenced by her personal style as well! I can’t wait to see what she’s done with her new home, the former was so wonderful and every detail perfectly chosen.
I’m so happy I got to meet Cindy through you, first through her blog which I somehow stumbled upon from your blog, and then in person at your birthday luncheon. It’s great when our online lives intersect with our actual lives! I’m looking forward to getting to know her better.
Lovely post Elizabeth!
Xo Heidi
LA CONTESSA says
HAPPY I COULD INTRODUCE YOU ALL…………..TO MORE MEET UPS!!
I hear you and I have one in AUGUST!!!
XXX
cindy says
Hi Heidi
Thank you to Elizabeth for introducing you to all of us. Elizabeth is the ultimate people person! Haven’t we all had fun getting to know each other better!
Carole Klopschinski says
Elizabeth.. another great one..I follow Cindy and adore her blog, as I do yours. I recently received your beautiful note card, such a treat, thank you so much for sending me one…Hope you are finding better health, you have had some challenges..take care and keep writing!! Carole
LA CONTESSA says
THANKS CAROLE………….I think I have stumbled on to a BIG PART of the HEALTH PROBLEM THIS WEEK!
TO SAY I AM FLYING HIGH IS AN UNDERSTATEMENT!
NEED MORE INFO AS I HAVE BEEN DOWN THAT PATH BEFORE A COUPLE OF TIMES!
THANKS FOR READING!
XX
cindy says
Hi Carole
Thank you so much for supporting our blogs and Ageless Style. We have the BEST readers!
Dee Black says
Well the entire interview I enjoyed. However, the very first answer to the first question was spot on Cindy. This is indeed the very definition of ageless style. I feel exactly the same way. You’ve got it in spades. Fav outfit… red top and jeans with those shoes. Love
Mary Ann Pickett says
Cindy is a constant inspiration to me. Love her style and her grounded, down to earth kindness and sensibility. So fun you shared her!
Nancy says
What a beautiful photos! That’s the best about blogging isn’t it, the community!
LA CONTESSA says
YES INDEED!
XXX
cindy says
Hi Nancy
t sure is! Especially when we are lucky enough to have readers like you!
D. A. Squires says
There should be some kind of award for this series… it is fabulous, just like Cindy and you. I feel so fortunate to have found you both…when your posts arrive it feels like a little present, wrapped up in pretty paper and a bow, has landed in my inbox : ) And it is so much fun to unwrap and read each one: ) There are few sanctuaries of peacefulness, positivity, beauty, and shared knowledge in this world. Thank you both for creating a secret garden called Ageless Style, it is a joy. xo
LA CONTESSA says
DEBBIE!!!
YOUR COMMENTS MAKE MY DAY!THANK YOU THANK YOU!!!
XOX
cindy says
D.A you made our day! Thank you so much for your generous support! We so appreciate it!
cindy says
D.A
Thank you so much for reading and supporting us. We so appreciate it!!
judith says
Yet another great edition of Agless Style! Observations: What an adorable photo of Sandra Sallin. I like Cindy’s straw hat, among other things. Her husband is very handsome. Surely Debra Darling is the mother of Megan Rapinoe.
cindy says
Judith I will tell my husband your kind compliment. He will love it!!
judith says
He is a dreamboat!!!
Pat says
Great post, Elizabeth. I adore Cindy’s sense of style. And that smile…who wouldn’t want to be friends with a woman whose smile is so warm and vibrant. I’ve only occasionally gone over to her blog after reading yours (I know…I should listen to you), but I’ve just subscribed. I may need to reread her post about you…who knows what other Contessa secrets I might uncover…but first, I have to check out Artemis shoes!
cindy says
Hi Pat
I am so pleased that you are a new subscriber. I hope I do not disappoint!
Kathy L says
Cindy has style galore! I’m not surprised that she started out studying interior design in school. I especially like how she knots shirts at the waist – an interesting twist to an outfit.
cindy says
Hi Kathy
Thank you so much for the kind words. My waist is the only small thing on me these days so I have to emphasize!
Juliet says
This is so fun! Interviewing each other. I’m a huge fan of Cindy, her blog, social media, design aesthetic and her STYLE. All the pictures you included really show how versatile she is in her wardrobe and she looks good in everything. The skirt in the first photo … where did you get that, Cindy?! Like Cindy, I have oily skin and I’m writing down all the products she’s using. I love this series so much. Congrats on an amazing 4 years of partnership. Now I’m off to Cindy’s blog to learn more about YOU! xo
cindy says
Hi Leslie
The skirt is from J Crew. It is linked on my blog but I know there are very few if any left. As one of my readers told me. Once I feature it you need to jump on it or it is gone! It comes in black and white. https://rstyle.me/+qwWtsMBgAKIcCW89Rk1-6w. Good Luck and thank you so much for reading.
Leslie Lord says
Fabulous post on Cindy! I love her style. Cannot wait to see her new home reveal! Enjoy your weekend Elizabeth. We are having a heat wave here in Victoria! Will try and stay hydrated ourselves and we will be watering our roses so they don’t wilt.
XO
1010ParkPlace says
Thanks for featuring Cindy! Her smile lights up the page, and I adore her fashion and decor style. I’m right there with her about no pattern and my love of natural fabric although I only love linen on the hangar. Once I sit down in linen I don’t like the slept in look. xoxox, Brenda
cindy says
Hi Brenda! I have grown to love the slept-in look! I feel like certain linens (like the CP shades line) is meant to be worn wrinkled or natural which I like.
Hilda Smith says
Loved getting to know Cindy a little better. I have been following her for a while now and she too is a wonderful stylish woman. Thank you for this series as I have followed some wonderful accounts because of you. Now to find time to read them…
cindy says
Hi Hilda
I am so glad you enjoy the series. We always enjoy hearing from you!
Anita says
My goodness,
I absolutely love Cindy’s style !!!
Colour, lots of colour……..fantastico.
I think my favourite outfit is in the first pic.
Those pants……love….love…..love!!!
Grazie Mille Bella
La tua amica
Anita xxxx
LA CONTESSA says
LOOK AT YOU GO WITH THE ITALIANO!!!!
YES,THOSE PANTS ARE VERY ME!!!
XXX
cindy says
Hi Anita
Thank you so much! Those pants are from Farm Rio a new to me line that I love for it’s unique colors and design! Thank you so much for reading!!
Jo Floyd says
Great interview, I love Cindy’s taste and style in clothing and interior design.
Thankyou for that ! X
Brenda says
Love both your styles! Btw is that a mole on Cindy’s ankle? If it is tell her to check it out! I showed a mole to several doctors who told me it’s nothing. Turned out to be Squamish cell carcinoma, two inches wide and one inch deep.
Ouch! Just concerned not meant to scare her. Hope you are doing ok hang in there -prayers and good energy headed your way.
cindy says
Hi Brenda
Interesting you would ask. I was badly burned as a child. That spot is where I received one of many transfusions. I have had it since the age of two, so not to worry about that one. I do keep an eye out and have regular visits with the derm as I spent way too much time worshipping the sun as a child. Thanks for your concern.
Miche says
Another terrific interview. I enjoy everything about your blog and your monthly Ageless Style interviews. Thank you, I have learned so much from you and your interviewees.
LA CONTESSA says
GOOD TO HEAR MICHE!
THANK YOU FOR LETTING CINDY & I KNOW!
XXX
lisa thomson says
Cindy, what a beautifully decorated home you’ve made! I think it is so cute that your father let you pick out finishes for his houses when you were a teen. He saw the talent in you, no doubt. Love your style too. So comfortable and chic. Your natural grey hair is beautiful. I’ve let mine go its natural color but it’s a dull brown with silver streaks. I’m tempted to get those dang highlights again! Have restrained myself though to see how long I can stand the natural me. 🙂 Thanks for this wonderful ageless style post, LA CONTESSA! Really enjoyed Cindy’s interview of you, too. I just popped back over here from reading it. Such gorgeous photos of you and Betty. <3
Mithra Ballesteros says
What a warm smile! Cindy has an unstudied casual elegance that is so timeless! Love the sweeping slacks paired with knotted linen shirts. So chic. My new “career” as a farmer is exacting a toll on my skin, so I do appreciate the sharing of beauty products. Can’t wait to see her new digs! Hope that vintage black wicker chair made the cut!
Diana Amato says
I think it has been an absolute gift the way your blog and your ability to create friendships has blossomed into such a supportive and positive environment for all of us here. I have always appreciated that and the ladies I have met through you. I know I was certainly honored when you asked to feature me back in the day! Cindy is the perfect complement to you. Her style and creativity showcase a true knowledge of being just right with herself. I adore that about her! I don’t make a lot of comments on other blogs, but I am certainly very appreciative of all the beautiful women I get to read about here.
Tanti Baci Contessa
Zingara
LA CONTESSA says
MILLIE GRAZIE MY ITALIAN GYSPSY!
I AM SO EXCITED FOR YOU!IT WAS GOOD TO CATCH UP THIS MORNING!
I APPRECIATE YOUR COMMENTS AND YOU JUST BEING HERE!
I THINK WE HAVE A WONDERFUL GROUP OF WOMEN FOLLOWING ALONG AND THOSE THAT DON’T ENJOY IT OR ARE NOT REAdY FOR IT CAN SLIP AWAY SILENTLY………….I SO ENJOY MEETING MY READERS AND FOLLOWERS AND ENJOY THE COMMUNITY AS CINDY SAYS!
I am lucky to have met YOU on a few occasions!!!
XOXO
Annie Diamond says
Elizabeth, I love this series! I adore Cindy’s style and love the way she describes it. I think you both dress like your house and that’s a compliment. You both know your own style and you live and embrace it fully! That’s truly the best!
xo
Annie
LA CONTESSA says
WHAT A BEAUTIFUL COMMENT ANNIE!
THANK YOU!
YOU MUST COME THIS WAY THE NEXT TIME YOU HEAD WEST!!!
XOX
Robin says
So happy you shared Cindy!! She has an Individual style to be sure. I have always loved how she dresses and accessorized! She, and you, are style mavens! Thanks for sharing your love of Italy!! Perhaps one day you will both have a post on true Italian style!!
LA CONTESSA says
IS THAT A HINT?!!
XXX
Stephanie says
Love Ageless Style…please don’t ever stop!
Cindy is a wiz when it comes to all things fashion, garden and interiors! To me the most beautiful thing about her is that gorgeous and genuine smile. Her joie de vivre shines through in every photo. And as far as her love of linen, I couldn’t agree more. Soft, breathable and rakishly wrinkled appeals to me, too.
Off to learn a bit more about YOU Elizabeth!!
xx
Stephanie
aka tendrheart4
LA CONTESSA says
YOU NAILED HER!
I THINK YOU KNOW all about ME!
HOW IS THE ZYPAN WORKING……..?OR MAYBE YOU DIDNOT PURCHASE>Either way I need an update!
XXX
Mary from Life at Bella Terra says
I am so behind as I have been out of town for a bit. I just love both of you! I think, based on Cindy’s influence, I may try more long skirts and wide leg pants. I tend to have more weight down there, and was always hesitant that the larger volumes of fabric would make “it” worse! However, I think Cindy and I are at least the same height..? I love your Ageless Style and I have learned a great deal from both of you. Not sure I’m ready to let my hair go gray, because it is rather on the thin side and I feel like I get more volume with a little color. Thanks for sharing such a great post!
Kimberly Frick says
Adore Cindy! Her love of life, her personal style and her style in the home & garden always inspire me. You two are just gals I wish lived in my neighborhood. Keep on sharing. I LOVE it ALL!
XOXO