Corey Lynn Calter Loves Advanced Style

Last Spring I met designer Corey Lynn Calter and team, for lunch in the West Village, and an idea was born. They were inspired by the style and spirit of ladies, like Ilona Royce Smithkin(above), and thought it would be great fun to have them self style the CLC collection for a small shoot. We called up 91 year old artist and performer, Ilona Royce Smithkin, and she thought this sounded like a grand idea.

[Video by Lina Plioplyte]

After Mary,one of Advanced Style's chicest ladies, agreed as well, we started planning two exciting days of shooting.Mary was a real sport, shooting in over 100 degree weather, but keeping her cool the whole time. Ilona and Mary had a wonderful time making the clothes their own. They added their signature accessories,mixed and matched pieces to their liking,and used their years of fashion experience to style magnificent outfits.Check out the video of Ilona, above, explaining why Corey's designs can be worn by women of all ages.

Advanced Style:Last Night's Party

(Photos via Metromix New York and Guest of a Guest)

I found these great photos from last night's Advanced Style celebration at the Ace Hotel.Thanks to everyone who came, waited in line, and celebrated with us last night. The night exceeded all my expectations and I'm sorry to anyone who couldn't get in. We will have some more great photos and video to share in the upcoming weeks. I'm off to Milan for an ANCI shoe conference and blogger award event where I hope to see some great Advanced Style.

Advanced Style Takes Over Fashion Week

Lynn and Linda Fargo
Lynn with my mom!

Yesterday, Advanced Style's resident, "Countess of Glamour", Lynn Dell and I visited Lincoln Center, to check out some shows for fashion week. My parents are in town for the big party I am throwing with Tavi Gevinson at The Ace Hotel, so I wanted to show them all of the excitement going on around town. It was refreshing and inspiring to see crowds of people rush up to Lynn Dell wanting to take her photograph. At 79 years old, she is an inspiration to us all! Lynn ran into another silver haired beauty, Bergdorf's SVP , Linda Fargo, looking as smashing as ever. I'm off to prepare for tomorrow, expect some great pictures from our big event!

On The Way Home

I ran into this gorgeous lady on her way home from pilates class.Ladies like her and our old friend, 100 year old Ruth,(featured previously) are reason enough to sign up for classes right away. These wonderful ladies are proof that keeping active is one of the keys to aging gracefully.How have the Advanced Style ladies inspired you?

Elaine Stritch on Madison Ave

Last night, I was walking by The Carlyle hotel, when I spotted a poster of Elaine Stritch in the

window. I have always wanted to take her photo, but have never had the chance. I walked a few

blocks down Madison Ave and all of the sudden I saw Ms. Stritch walking towards me. I knew this was my chance to finally take her photo.I went up to her and told her that I was working on a book about style and she quickly replied with a smile, " Oh that's wonderful good luck." I asked if I could take her photo, but she kindly refused. A few moments later she turned around and said, " Okay go ahead." I had only a few seconds to get a shot,but I will forever remember my interaction with this 86 year old legend.

Alice Carey in Vintage Bill Blass

I met up with Alice Carey again, to get a few more shots for my book. Each time we meet, she brings out another amazing outfit, and shares even more wonderful stories about her life.Alice finds most of her things at thrift stores, including this striped dress is by her favorite designer, Bill Blass. To learn more about her Carey, check out her book on amazon HERE.

Think Pink

Debra Rapoport has taught me that dressing should be fun.Every time I see her she is wearing a wonderful combination of clothes that she has either thrifted or has been gifted. At 66, she dresses for herself and doesn't worry about what other people think.Check out her amazing accessories,mostly made from recycled materials!

A Dior Suit Paired With a Parasol

I saw this woman walking down Madison Avenue in her gorgeous Dior suit and wonderful parasol. When I told her that I was taking photos for an upcoming style book, she was delighted and wished me the best of luck. Check out her beautiful bag and the detail on her pant suit!

Summer Yellow With Vintage Kenneth Jay Lane Frog Brooch

This lady looked gorgeous in "all vintage" when I stopped her for a photo by Madison Avenue. Check out her Kenneth Jay Lane Frog Brooch and great yellow dress.

Advanced Style Goes Live at the Ace Hotel For New York Fashion Week:Hosted by Ari Seth Cohen and Tavi Gevinson

Yes its true,Tavi Gevinson of The Style Rookie and I are hosting an Advanced Style extravaganza with the Ace Hotel.The invite only affair will be a celebration of age and style for New York Fashion Week Spring 2011.Stay Tuned for more details...

99 Year Old Rose Wearing Her Hermes Studded Belt

Rose is the best dressed 99 year old on the Upper East Side.I am inspired by her passion for life and style. Rose always has the best advice and style tips. Read some of her wonderful words of wisdom HERE, including how Belts and Beats can really make an outfit.

Black and White

[Maryann in Chanel and  Givenchy]

Maryann always looks meticulously coordinated in her wonderful outfits and great accessories. Watch the video below for some more style inspiration.

Advanced Style presents: Maryann from teenage peanut video productions on Vimeo.

Turbans and Gold

I met up with Lynn Dell this weekend to shoot a small segment for Norwegian TV. In the process, I couldn't help photographing her amazing outfit. Lynn is one of the most stylish and spirited women I know. At 78, she believes that everyday should be a celebration and that we should dress for the theater of our lives. Check out the video below to hear more about The Countess of Glamour.

A Little Red Lipstick Goes a Long Way

I was heading uptown on Madison Avenue when I noticed this gorgeous woman walk by. I saw a flash of red lipstick, and knew I had to turn around and ask if I could take her photo. The Advanced Style ladies always tell me that a bright shade of  red lipstick is the best accessory. I think this woman is proof of that theory, don't you?

Lucy Jarvis on Madison Ave

Yesterday, I ran into Lucy Jarvis outside the Gagosian on Madison Avenue. She had just purchased a wonderful robot ring, designed by Mia Fonssagrives-Solow. At 94 years old, Lucy is one of my favorite stylish ladies to spot around town. Read more about her, including her incredible career in television HERE. I think I may have to pick up one these rings myself.

Summer Elegance

This woman looks perfectly elegant for a hot summer's stroll down Madison Ave.

Christina in Jeremy Scott For Linda Farrow Sunglasses

Christina is one of the most stylish and creative dressers I know. She told that the older she gets, the less she cares what other people think.This is a great lesson for all of us to learn. If you like her shades you can find them HERE.

Beatrix Ost: "In your body is a good place to be."

I recently interviewed writer and artist Beatrix Ost for my upcoming book. I won't give away all her secrets just yet, but I wanted to share one her favorite quotes. Beatrix believes that style begins with food.For her, eating well is key in maintaining a creative life. As she likes to say, "In your body is a good place to be."