Dressing your age

A leather skirt is a sophisticated purchase, and there are many ways to wear it and avoid resembling a rock 'n' roll groupie. Leather is a lush fabric, so complement it with other luxurious "adult" pieces such as a silk blouse, a nubbly tweed blazer, a belted cardigan or even a classic turtleneck. As long as you keep what's on top age-appropriate, your leather skirt will follow suit.

Jersey is a stretchy, figure-flattering knit fabric that resists wrinkling. It's perfect for when you want to be comfortable yet still look put together. You can find basic and trendy jersey tops and bottoms from Lida Baday . Her jersey collection comes in a variety of stretch, matte and wool options. A jersey pant worn around the house with a T-shirt looks just as chic with a fitted blazer when you need to step out for lunch.

You're in luck! Since the invitation calls for semi-formal, choose from a selection of this season's popular empire waist dresses. Many come in pretty prints and floaty fabrics that will flatter your growing figure. Laundry by Shelli Segal and ABS by Allen Schwartz offer a variety of sweet semi-formal dresses. You can also try stores such as ABS Formes or Old Navy maternity for more casual options.

Just because you're 40 doesn't mean you can't follow current fashion styles. The feminine look was popular in 2004. Pass on the girly ruffled skirts and camisole tops and opt for a velvet-ribbon tie jacket to wear with your beloved jeans instead.

Just because you're 40 doesn't mean you can't follow current fashion styles. The feminine look was popular in 2004. Pass on the girly ruffled skirts and camisole tops and opt for a velvet-ribbon tie jacket to wear with your beloved jeans instead.

Just because you're 40 doesn't mean you can't follow current fashion styles. The feminine look was popular in 2004. Pass on the girly ruffled skirts and camisole tops and opt for a velvet-ribbon tie jacket to wear with your beloved jeans instead.

Come back next Monday for another fashion problem solved.