Tired of being told to act or dress your age? You're not alone.

To dispel age-related fashion taboos, the women behind the website Agingbutdangerous.com, Jean Ketcham, 71, and C. Suzanne Bates, 63, are putting on a fashion show.

"We're changing the way society perceives women over 50 by changing the way we perceive ourselves," said Bates.

The duo cast 30 models who can prove that short skirts, leggings and red lipstick don't have an expiration date.

"There are so many rules that they say you can't do over 50 and we're sick of it," said Ketcham. "We want to show how great women over 50 look."

PATTY HANDLER, 81, EDINA

Wearing: Robin Kaplan top and skirt, $755; Teri Jo Summer belt, $330; Susan Green necklace, $715 and earrings, $325. All from Larue's, 3952 Lyndale Av. S., Mpls., 612-827-7317. Model's own boots from J.C. Penney.

Fashion tip: "I don't ever want to dress matronly. My daughters, who are in their 50s, and I share our closets."

Secret to staying young: "Loving life! I'm a competitive ballroom dancer and that keeps me relevant."

RENÉE ELLE SCHISSEL, 52, OF MAPLE GROVE

Wearing: Marie Rebérat cape, $349; Joseph Ribkoff dress, $329; MTM hat, $89; Acrylic bag, $188; and Vincent Pradier gloves, $92. All from C'est Chic, 200 3rd Av. N., Mpls., 612-339-1600. Model's own shoes from Target.

Fashion tip: "A shopping trip to Paris is worth it because the fashion sense is ahead of ours."

Secret to staying young: "I hope to live to 120 and do it in a healthy body. I work out to keep my muscles strong."

DONNA CHICONE, 64, WOODBURY

Wearing: Funktional cardigan, $168; Bella Dahl blouse, $88; and Engels by Design necklace, $36. All from Drama, 4946 France Av. S., Edina, 952-920-0294. Model's own Elle jeggings and boots from Kohl's.

Fashion tip: "You can take something expensive and mix it with something less expensive and pull off a fabulous look."

Secret to staying young: "Live your life 100 percent in the moment."

Aging but Dangerous Fashion show

When: 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Thu.

Where: Nicollet Island Pavillion, 40 Power St., Mpls.

Tickets: $35 online (agingbutdangerous.com) and $40 at the door. Proceeds benefit Dress for Success.

Pick of the Week: A HOLIDAY BAZAAR

7 to 10 p.m. Sat., Ritz Theater, 345 13th Av. NE., Mpls. $24 advance tickets (612-436-1129 and ritzdolls.com) or $27 at the door.

For fans of secondhand shopping, the holiday season is starting early this year. Producer Grant Whittaker and artistic director Myron Johnson will present a fashion show followed by shopping. Featured stores are focused on high-end hand-me-downs, including Fashion Avenue, GH2, June, Rags From Riches, Rodeo Drive and Second Debut.

SALES AND EVENTS

THURSDAY

StyledLife's 5th Anniversary: The accessories and styling boutique will celebrate by hosting designer Zang Toi on Thursday and Friday. Friday through Sunday, there will also be a trunk show featuring handbags by Oryany.

Through Sun., Galleria, Edina, 952-928-8888, www.styledlife.com.

FRIDAY

Cedric's Luxe Collection sample sale: Shop an extensive collection of discounted fur, faux fur, cashmere and alpaca outerwear, clothing and accessories. Stephanie Lake Designs jewelry will 50 percent off on Friday only.

3 to 8 p.m. Fri., 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sat. and Sun., Westin Hotel Edina Galleria.

Wixon Jewelers' Watch Fair: Preview the latest designs from Rolex, Patek Philippe, Panerai, A. Lange and Söhne, Jaeger-leCoultre, IWC and Baume and Mercier.

Through Sat., 9955 Lyndale Av. S., Bloomington, 952-881-8862, wixonjewelers.com.

SATURDAY

All You Need Is Love: During an open house, check out Karin Jacobson Design's jewelry, Jennifer Simonson Photography and Amelia's flower arrangements and bouquets.

1 to 4 p.m., Karin Jacobson Design Studio, 1500 NE. Jackson St., Studio 288, Mpls.

Sara Glassman • sglassman@startribune.com • Follow Glassman on Twitter: @SaraRGlassman