Maturity means knowing when to say when

My post on looks on the red carpet at the MTV Movie Awards led to a couple of questions from readers about options for more mature women.
My answer: moderation.
Certainly, some of the starlet looks from the MTV Movie Awards would be perfectly fine for a woman in her 40s or 50s. Take a look at Jessica Alba's dress, for example.
But in general, the rule is the hemlines come down a tad (to the knee), while the necklines go up (showing a little cleavage is fine) and are often more of a scoop neck instead of a plunging V.
It doesn't mean you can't be sexy, but it does mean you don't try to look like you're a teenager or a college girl. Remember, a hint or suggestion is usually sexier than revealing all.
Here's a look at some women who know how to pull of the cocktail dress look with grown up panache.


Anna Wintour, Monday night at the CFDA Awards.



Ellen Barkin, Monday night at the CFDA Awards. Actually, I think this dress is a tad too long.