Age is more than just a number. From a fashion point of view, it is about classic style that stands the test of time.

But dressing to impress in your 40s and beyond isn't about trying to look half your age, although cleavage-flaunting Hollywood doyennes like Goldie Hawn and Jane Fonda would beg to differ.

It's about an age-appropriate wardrobe that doesn't resemble that of your teenage daughter.

French fashion designer Coco Chanel once said: "A style does not go out of style as long as it adapts itself to its period. When there is an incompatibility between the style and a certain state of mind, it is never the style that triumphs."

So golden girls, arm yourself with Urban's beauty and fashion guide on this page and next to set your appearance in sync with your vibrant inner self.

Retired teacher Rosalind Lee, 60 goes back to school - fashion school, that is - with style lessons from Urban's sartorial experts.

What she says: When I was working as a teacher, I used to spend more time dressing up.

But now I am retired, I wear plain blouses and pants in solid colours. I also don't like clothes that are too revealing.

What fashion stylist Steven Kong suggests: Older women do not accessorise enough. Pick signature pieces like a coloured belt to spice up an outfit, or fashionable jewellery like modern chunky pieces by Italian label Marni.

Also, some are afraid to age gracefully. They wear flashy clothing with tacky sequins or loud prints.

Worse, they try to show too much skin and look sexy even when bits are starting to sag. You can be sexy without revealing too much with classic styles like a knee-length pencil skirt.

Trends are fine, but choose variations that flatter your figure. For example, empire-line tunics are in vogue but women with a flabby mid-section can opt for silky fabrics that are more fluid and skim the body instead of hugging bulges. Rosalind has an enviably petite frame so the biggest focus is to avoid accentuating the tummy.

Before (above): Looking dull in monochrome tones. After (above): A look perfect for the day. Women over 40 look more polished in well-cut jackets, says Kong. He picked a linen short-sleeved jacket so Rosalind's skin can still feel cool even in humid weather. Jackets also look great with jeans and a pair of ballerina flats - an outfit that's fresh but appropriate for all ages. Although the skirt has a print, a muted colour makes sure that it's stylish and doesn't look tacky. After (above): A look for evening functions. A little black dress (LBD) is a must-have for any woman. It's an investment which could last decades if it fits well. Just add pieces like a sash to add definition to the waist, a light cardigan for coverage without adding bulk and pearls for a classic night look that's still modern and stylish.

MAKE-UP TIPS FOR OLDER WOMEN
Make Up For Ever trainer Liza Haron says:

Keep it clean

Prevent skin from ageing by making sure that make-up is removed thoroughly. Use an eye make-up remover like Sens' Eyes & Face Makeup Remover that is moisturising - from www.sephora.com - because skin from the mid-40s is often dry.

Eat cake, not wear it

Toss out that two-way cake foundation because it dries out the skin and makes wrinkles visible. Pick a foundation, such as Liquid Lift Foundation, that has lifting effects for sagging skin and avoid piling on the concealer which just results in cakiness.

Flawless canvas

A make-up base is crucial. It fills out lines and creates a smooth base for
colours.

Fresh face forward

Older women tend to have tired-looking skin. Try Mist & Fix, an alcohol-free spritz that is enriched with chitosan - a marine algae extract - to revitalise skin and protect against damage caused by possible irritants. To do quick make-up touch-ups, spray mist and pat your face gently with a thick tissue to refresh your make-up. Then apply a veil of compact powder to give your complexion a velvety texture for the evening.