A very big thank you to all who gave me their thoughts on what I should leave behind and/or take on my upcoming cruise.
I listened to all of your comments and this is what I decided. I am not taking dresses 2 (the maroon one) & 3 (the black sparkly one) because they’re too vintage for me. It’s always the same I get seduced by a lovely vintage dress, and at a bargain price, and yet, there’s something about vintage and older women. Yes, I am saying that! It’s because vintage can look fantastic on younger women, but someone of my age has to be careful, because, it can just look as though this particular dress has been at the back my wardrobe for years and the dresses look ‘old’ and consequently, I think they make me look old. And that’s what I think about vintage! I shall sell those two dresses – more about selling stuff in a blog soon.
I’m also not taking dresses 4 (the long red one) & 5 (the black spotty one) because they are both day dresses rather than evening wear, and no I wouldn’t be able to wear them during the day next week as the weather is definitely going to be a bit iffy, rather like the weather will be back home, lots of rain and quite cool so I’ve packed lots of layers for day wear. And neither am I taking dress 7 for all the reasons I said in the last blog.
So where does this leave me? Well, yay and three cheers as I will be taking that first dress with me, the long one I couldn’t get into. I can now. I am so pleased as this has accompanied me to every cruise I’ve been on since 2012. And of course, I am taking that glorious dress#1, dress#6 and dress #8
And I listened to your comments. What about mixing and matching said one of you, and right at the last moment someone suggested the very pale grey/lilac flouncy skirt. Oh yes, I thought, that one! I got it out of the back of my wardrobe and with two variations of tops I shall wear it twice. Plus a pair of black crepe trousers, not worn since the last cruise, also to be worn with one of the lacy black tops. So your comments really, really helped. A big thank you to one and all!
You know it was also quite a challenge to look at my younger self, the one without glasses and that turkey neck, plus the bags under her eyes. But people, this is reality, so you square up to it. And you know what, fitness and health matters more than looks – so true! Still I can scrub up well for some photos.

This is the two of us, Mr F and me, celebrating last week our meeting each other 50 years ago. Yikes, that was such a long time ago! And still together!
We leave for Norway tomorrow so there will be no posts from me for I’d say around 10-14 days. But I will be putting up photos on Instagram. I’m at https://www.instagram.com/frugalfashionshopper/ if you want to join in the fun! Or click on the icon on the side of this if you’re reading on a PC or Mac, or at the end, if you’re on a phone. And forgive me, but I won’t be able to reply to any comments as I still have much to do! Thank you again for your help – I really appreciated it.
Until the next post then, with love, Penny, the Frugalfashionshopper

Well done Penny.. good choices. I particularly love #8. It’s very different and really suits you.
I know what you mean about vintage and getting older.. my husband and I had that exact conversation last week, realising the things you get away with when younger don’t look so good when you’re older. We both dress quite casually but realise smarter casual works better now if that makes sense!?
I know what you mean about reality too.. i’m beginning to grow my hair colour out and noticing more aging changes (my chin 😅) but weirdly it’s only this year that I think I’ve finally realised “I’m actually ok looking” lol. I think that’s the bonus with getting older (I’m finding at least) in place of the smoother skin and glossier hair, my self esteem and confidence are growing.
I think you look great! Hope you both have a wonderful time in Norway.
Jen x
Pen! have a brilliant trip – both of you. Much love xx
Have a marvelous time, Penny!!! 🎉🛳😎🍾🤗🎉
Have a super time and enjoy your evening dressing!
Penny have a fabulous trip. I love reading your blogs. I know what you mean about vintage fashion. I am 71 now & have always loved fashion, particularly vintage clothes. I’ve loved shopping in markets, second hand & charity shops since I was a teenager. But I also came to realize that I had to be careful as a ‘vintage’ women wearing vintage clothes. I have simplified, pared down but still like to have fun. And also I am proud of my age, I don’t want to hide it – I enjoy it.
What a nice photo you both look well. Have a great holiday and forget about blogging.
Have a fabulous time Penny 💙
I so agree about vintage ladies wearing vintage clothes. I think I first realised that when twin sets and pearls were taken up by young things. On ladies of a certsin age they just looked frumpy. We do have to be careful and while I do believe anyone should be able to wear whatever makes them happy, I’m inclined to think if you wore it first time around you should temper or dilute it the next time around. Have a wonderful time!
Have a fab time. You look good in everything so nothing to worry about. Health is the most important thing and something to treasure. Happy holidays to you both.
I think I’ve aged a lot what with Covid restrictions and illness so I’m reviewing my mostly second – hand wardrobe and perhaps trying to be a bit more ‘current’ but not fashionable. I’ll see how it goes!
Have a great holiday!
Just got this on return form my own vacation. I hope you have a wonderful time, and will look forward to hearing all abut it!
Enjoy your Norway cruise and come back with lots of stories. I’m very envious. I hope the weather treats you well and you have a lovely time. Trish S
Hello Penny
I have just found your blog today and it’s a revelation for me. The way you put your clothes together to make a beautiful, frugal outfit is what I need to emulate now. I particularly love your hats which I’ve never been confident enough to wear. Over the last 10 months I have lost 7 stones which has brought me from a size 24 down to a size 12. I really need to find frugal ways to build up a classic wardrobe and I’m looking forward to reading through your previous posts for inspiration.
Such a lovely, inspiring blog.
Kay in Cornwall
Well done Kay, I’m sure you feel much better and will enjoy getting your new wardrobe together. I buy from e-bay a lot but it’s important to ask for measurements as sizes vary so much. Happy hunting!