November is one of my favorite months. The days turn brisk and cold and it’s the start of the holidays. In a few days, I’ll celebrate my 54th birthday and still say that it’s never too late to overcome one’s fear of trying new things…

Like getting my hair cut short…

… and wearing 2-piece swimsuits

I’m having so much fun learning about and trying new fashion. For starters, after years of tunics, I started wearing crop tops after being in Smart Glamour’s #InYourSize campaign

So I just had to get 2 tops from Ashley Nell Tipton’s collection for JC Penney’s Boutique+ line.. I love the festive details like the flowers on the ivory sweater which I paired with the Lace Circle Skirt from Christian Sirano’s collection for Lane Bryant and the pearls on the light heather grey sweater . The adorable Pekingese is my neighbor’s pooch, Cookie, who has her own Instagram page. Isn’t she cute?!!

Also from Boutique+ is the Long-Sleeve Lace-Up Dress in a gorgeous ruby color which I had avoided for years after “well-meaning” family members teased me about looking like the local taxi service’s red cars.

I still love Avenue for dresses like the Assymetrical Skater and Tribal Handkerchief Wrap

Then there’s all the wonderful people I met, some of whom I’m now happy to call friends.

So here’s to year 55. I forward to new experiences, more opportunities and lots of fun fashion so I look as great on the outside as I feel on the inside.

(Disclaimer: With the exception of the of the Asymmetrical Skater Dress which was sent for me to review, I purchased all the outfits and am otherwise not compensated for this post. My opinions are honest.)