The Advanced Style Project celebrates elaborate ladies and gentlemen who dress to prove a purpose that age means almost nothing. From looking at the images of women I have found, it seems like the more their clothes clash, the more they like it.

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From head to toe in print with bright blue or orange hair to the latest accessories teenagers would go crazy for, every single look is desired.


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The Advanced Style Project was started by Ari Seth Cohen in 2008 just after his late grandmother passed away which then started the outwardly end- less project inspired by her as she was the lady who introduced him to the concept of style.

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“She would let me play in my grandfather’s closet and I would try on his ‘50s and ‘60s suits, Hawaiian shirts and Stetson and Fishermen’s hats.”

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From looking into this, I wanted to find someone myself from around the Bridgend area who follows The Advanced Style Project. I came across Mrs Janice Jones from working in the Sandvile, she has remarkable style and charisma, she agreed to let me follow her for the day, taking images of her in some of her favourite outfits around her home and garden. I also asked Mrs Jones if I could ask her a few questions…

 

BG: Hello Janice, have you ever heard of The Advanced Style Project?

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JJ: Hello. Yes, I have heard a lot about it.

 

BG: "When did you first hear about it?

 

JJ: Oh, I just read about it in The Guardian and I’m sure it was around 2014. I was getting a bit unsure about my clothes, not knowing what
to do and what was right. After reading about it I felt more comfortable about my clothes and what different things I could do with my clothes and realised what I was wearing is new for older people and to express themselves freely. I realised that I shouldn’t be intimidated or care about other people think

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BG: Where were you when you first heard about it?

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JJ: I was at home with my husband, who loved me to look good and always encouraged me to buy things that I liked and loved to wear, we talked about it a lot.

 

BG: Do you feel that it represents you and your way of life? If so, how?

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JJ: Yes, most definitely. Um, well it actually helped me get through a very difficult time in my life. I had breast cancer and having to go through radium treatment and chemo therapy which left me with no hair, I felt really down and didn’t feel very good about myself. I went to a well-being clinic which helped me feel good about my- self. They taught me how to do my makeup and different ways to put scarfs of my hair to stay warm until my hair grew back.

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I then felt I had to make a statement, I would always wear plenty of colour and different scarfs to change up my style and feel important and to brighten myself up. And with my bandanas, I would start to add massive bows to give myself more jewellery.

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BG: What would you say style is?

 

JJ: I think style is to show who you are, and to express yourself, how you feel good and what you feel comfortable in. It’s not just about your dress or how you dress, it’s about the way you present yourself and the way you talk and move your body.

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BG: How would you describe your style?

 

JJ: I like classical and timeless clothes which can be dressed up and brought back into fashion at any time. I have items in my wardrobe that are over 20 years old and I still wear them. I even like to make my own clothes. My husband and I would love to travel around the world, so I have been very lucky to pick up some wonderful materials. I also have a thing about capes and colourful jackets and coats.

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BG: How has style changed for you over the years?

 

JJ: “Well, I no longer dress to look younger, but I still like to look my best and admire what I am wearing. When I go out I always like to look good, it’s not just about pending money, there are plenty of things in charity shops you could even put with your expensive clothes. And things that will last.

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BG: “Would you say your style has changed more since hearing about he Advanced Style Project?”

 

JJ: Yes, I feel as though what I am doing now is right for me and I am accepting it more.

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BG: And finally, what tips would you give to women that struggle with style?

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JJ: To take their time and find out what suits her and what different colours suit her. Don’t be afraid of putting colours together, adding scarfs and jewellery. There is so much you can do with and so such little today.

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I enjoy watching programmes like Fabulous Fashionistas and Absolutely Fabulous and I also find tips in Saga magazines. There are lots of different things which are good and that can help you.

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BG: Thank you so much for your time, it’s been wonderful.

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JJ: You're very welcome, thank you.