Darlene Fadem has made thrifted fashion synonymous with chic styling.  Not only does she make thrifting for high-end, covetable pieces look easy, her welcoming and cheeky view of life is refreshing. We had an opportunity to interview the thrift guru. Enjoy!

Can you tell us a little bit more about yourself?

I’m a high-end thrifted fashion blogger who recently moved to an active adult community in fabulous Las Vegas!!

White Dress Print Jacket | 40plusstyle.com

As a point of reference, which age group do you belong to or perhaps you are willing to share your age?

I JUST had a birthday and am now 54 years old. I’m one year shy of qualifying for the senior discount at the thrift store. Needless to say, I’m REALLY looking forward to turning 55!

Horse Print Top | 40plusstyle.com

Can you tell us a bit more about your blog whosaprettygirl and why you created it?

I noticed that the majority of fashion bloggers out there were in their 20’s. I loved their style but it wasn’t appropriate for someone in their 50’s. I’ve always loved fashion and had a closet full of clothes, so when my husband bought me a computer for Christmas three years ago, my blog was born! The name? Well, that’s what I say to my rescue dog, Miss Oreo. Who’s a pretty girl? She is!

Leopard Print Top | 40plusstyle.com

How would you describe your own personal style?

Thrifted! At least one component of my outfit each day comes from the thrift store.

Animal Print Jacket Black Dress | 40plusstyle.com

What would you consider the most important components of your style?

That all the clothes I thrift are high-end.

Blue White Print Dress | 40plusstyle.com

How does living in Nevada influence your style?

Oh…my gosh! I am missing out on wearing all the cute chunky knit sweaters and blanket scarves that all the other bloggers are wearing right now because it’s too warm here! I can’t believe I just said that because I really don’t like cold weather…lol. My MIL saw all the cold weather boots that I brought with me and said “You won’t need any of those. We have maybe two cold days the entire winter.” She’s right! On the other hand, It is extremely hot here in the summer, so it’s sleeveless tops and golf skorts for me 24/7…and no, I’m not a golfer. lol

Basic Tee Golf Skort | 40plusstyle.com

Do you feel you have a signature style?

I would say that my style is very classic…and thrifted, of course!

Denim Jacket Floral Print Straight Skirt | 40plusstyle.com

What inspires your outfit choices the most?

My latest find at the thrift store. I’m always on the hunt for something unique to style for my readers.
Red Cardigan Maxi Skirt | 40plusstyle.com

Do you take things like color profiling or body type into account when you dress?

I’m always trying to find ways to conceal my dreaded muffin top. Sigh…

Tunic | 40plusstyle.com

Has your style changed at all after turning 40?

In my 40’s I discovered the boutique: White House Black Market. I love their clothes! Just the right amount of sparkle. Then, in my 50’s I discovered thrift stores and all the amazing high-end designer clothing they have. Dolce and Gabbana, Escada, Versace…the list goes on and on.

Black Wrap Jacket White Pants | 40plusstyle.com

Do you believe in dressing “age appropriately” and what does it mean to you?

Yes, for the most part. I just got rid of all of the shorter skirts in my closet. Well, ALMOST all of them. 😉

Sleeveless Jacket Black Pants | 40plusstyle.com

Would you say that at this stage of your life you are now more, or less interested in fashion, style and the way you look?

Definitely more interested, especially since I became a fashion blogger.

Tan Jacket Oxford Sneakers | 40plusstyle.com

Why is the way you look important to you?

When I take the time to look my best, I have more confidence. It’s as simple as that.

Black maxi skirt striped top| 40plusstyle.com

Do you follow trends? And if yes, which trends excite you at the moment?

Yes. I did a whole thrifted series on Spring/Summer trends in 2015. Currently, I’m OBSESSED with plaid!

Leopard Print Plaid Top Mixed | 40plusstyle.com

Do you have any fashion and style tips for women over 40?

Don’t be afraid to go out of your comfort zone and try something new whether it’s a new style, or just a color you’ve never worn before!

Black Dress Sheer Lace Sleeves | 40plusstyle.com

What are your plans for your blog and how do you see it developing over the coming years?

I’m not very ‘tech savvy’, so I need to work on those skills to help grow my blog. I would like to start using periscope and do live feeds from the thrift store!

Purple Dress Boots | 40plusstyle.com

Anything further you would like to add?

If you’re ever in Vegas and would like to go thrifting, I’m your girl!!!

Black Jacket Yellow Top Merlot Flats | 40plusstyle.com

Ready to get inspired by Darlene’s incredible thrift finds? Follow her thrifted fashion adventures on her instagram. Thanks, Darlene!

Which of Darlene’s outfits is your favorite?

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A style interview With Darlene | 40plusstyle.com

Sylvia

Sylvia is 40+style’s editor-in-chief and has been helping women find their unique style since 2011. An alumni of the School of Color and Design, she is devoted to empowering women of any age to look and feel their best. Read more about Sylvia and 40+style on this page.

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