More peacock than brown mouse – a style interview with Susanne

Today I interview Susanne a copywriter and fashion columnist from the Munich countryside who enjoys bold, personal and strong style. Let’s discover her style secrets!

Can you tell us a little bit more about yourself?

My name is Susanne (“Susi”) Ackstaller. I live with my husband, three children and two cats in the countryside near Munich. I’m a freelance copywriter, blogger and fashion columnist.

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

Sure I’ll tell you my age – no reason not to! I’m 51 and my blog targets my age group, 50s and a bit younger.

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

I’ve been writing about business and finance for many years as a professional copywriter. In early 2009, I launched Texterella as a kind of antidote to these very factual and sober topics. I wanted to write about beautiful things, stuff that’s just plain fun.

How would you describe your own personal style?

Colorful, personal, bold. More peacock than brown mouse. I enjoy being noticed! I don’t want to hide, even as I grow older. I like styles with a bit of bravado and tongue-in-cheek attitude.

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

Strong, bold colors, clear silhouettes and striking details. I believe in “less is more” but with that kind of “less” that really makes a splash.

Where do you live and how does that influence your style?

I live in the country with my husband, three children, cats and a large garden. My office is right here in my home, that’s very convenient. As a result, my everyday style is pretty casual: jeans, shirt and loafers. Light makeup. Though I always enjoy wearing jewelry.

Do you feel you have a signature style?

Yes, I think so.

What inspires your outfit choices the most?

That’s hard to pin down exactly. There are lots of influences, of course: media, trends, fashion and outfits I see somewhere. But in the end, my own style comes from within.

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

Not consciously, no. Maybe intuitively.

What is your current body type and height and what are your best tips for dressing for these?

Oh, boy. Giving style advice really isn’t my forte. I myself just follow my intuition, which can be pretty off at times. But I strongly believe that the best-looking outfits are the ones that make you feel confident and comfortable in your own skin.

Do you have any favorite brands?

You mean besides Prada, Gucci, and Hermès? Just kidding! No, no favorite brands. My wardrobe is a big mix of everything: from high-end to High Street, vintage to new. Vintage is my true passion, so I’m always a bit on the prowl.

Has your style changed at all after turning 40?

Yes, for the better! 🙂 I’ve grown bolder and more colorful.

Do you believe in dressing ‘age appropriately’ and what does it mean to you?

Absolutely not. I believe in feeling good about oneself and having fun – at any age.

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?

I don’t know if it is because of Texterella but I do feel more strongly about fashion and style now than when I was younger. Maybe it’s just because I do not want to fade away and become invisible, as many women my age or older seem to do.

Why is the way you look important to you?

Mainly because I want to like what I see in the mirror. That makes me feel good and lifts my spirit.

What is your beauty routine and what are your favorite beauty products?

I get a lot of free products and switch pretty often. My routine is pretty basic, though: cleanser, a serum and some nourishing facial cream – that’s all I need. Plus sunscreen during the day. My favorite skincare brand at the moment is Martina Gebhardt – a small, demeter-certified organic beauty brand from Germany. I use sunscreens from Highdroxy or Eucerin.

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

If they suit me – why not? Right now, I love those statement-making ruffled blouses and pants. All in good measure, of course. It can easily get too much if you’re tall and curvy like me.

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

Have fun and don’t take yourself too seriously. It’s just fashion, not world politics. ☺ Most importantly, ignore all those helpful tips on age-appropriate style! They’ll just suck all the fun out of fashion.

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

Well, I’d love to grow Texterella and reach even more wonderful readers (can’t have too many of those!) ;-). I’m also hoping for even more exciting collaborations that match my blog and my audience – and for many more years of fun blogging.

Anything further you would like to add?

Thanks for having me! I’m really honored.

Visit Susanne at Texterella as well as @Textells for more of her chic outfits!

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