So as is my usual course of action, once I get my anger off my chest, usually through the vehicle of a rant (poor Calvin), I generally figure out a pragmatic or creative way to respond. What came to me is that we need to articulate and find ways to represent the inner state of getting older in all of its fluid possibilities. Because society or the media, has not yet chosen to tell that story, this can be viewed as a creative challenge for my generation rather than oppression. I say this because based on your eloquent comments these possibilities can minimally be conveyed with words but also in what we chose to wear and why.
After writing my rant, I moved on and met with two groups of students from Parsons School of Design. The first, a duo interested in textiles, was looking for some guidance and inspiration as they were interested in not just the new but preserving the old, In other words, artisan traditions of textile making. They were being, according to them, discouraged from pursuing anything except something “innovative and new”. This led to a discussion of what we mean by innovation. I asked them to pull out their phones and look up the dictionary definition of “innovation” which includes the phrase, “can refer to something new or to a change made to an existing product, idea, or field“. In my own view, nothing is ever completely new; there is always a seed from the past. So I encouraged the students to think of what their professor told them with a nod to this different perspective. This made me remember how much I love thinking with students and how they make me think too. They told me these types of conversations where they could do some integration, think about what they are learning and be asked questions that trigger imagination, are often missing and they asked me if we could meet again.
Later in the week, it was back to Parsons, this time a team of four students who had the assignment to make a collection for “seniors”. They had asked me for an interview. They’d been around to senior centers asking what older people wanted in their clothing. The students were somewhat discouraged as answers came more around issues of fit, comfort, and coverage of signs of age. Though these variables are important, the students seemed to want an aesthetic of age that could inspire them to go beyond the now. I directed them to read your comments from last week and gave them some research on “perceived age”. Sure enough the issue of the fluid internal nature of age, the memories and experiences held and the desire to evoke them in what we wear were things they became animated and excited about, as did I. Transparent fabrics, layering, and a multitude of other imaginings sprang into the room and I have been invited to work with them on this collection.
Both of these experiences were not monetized ones but gave me pleasure, joy, and inspiration. They filled some of the loss I feel about not teaching anymore. And as always happens a number of amazing paid opportunities came my way the day after when I was no longer thinking about money or being literal about content. It’s like finally being at peace with being by yourself after trying to find a good relationship and you can’t. Once you are fine about being alone you meet the person of your dreams.
Speaking of the person of your dreams, Calvin and I were walking around Harlem taking photos and came upon what I believe is the only remaining Kangol Hat Store in the world. I’m not a hat person at all but I did have a Kangol beret I used to wear backward with overalls and a velvet shirt silkscreened with Our Lady of Guadelupe in the late ’80s, early ’90s when I was exploring my creative self. I was also coming to terms with the idea that I was really, really okay living and being by myself. The Our Lady of Guadelupe shirt was a nod to my preoccupation with Frida Kahlo, growing up Catholic and Latin dancing which I was learning and practicing every weekend. But I digress. The point here is when I walked into that store, there I was back in that time. I heard the music, remembered the galleries I went to and the books I read. So as I tried to explain to the second group of students, it’s not that I need to wear exactly what I wore then but rather clothes that evoke the feelings and memories I felt at the time. The outfit I am wearing here, with my brand new Kangol hat, is from a modern brand and is fairly new. Yet, more than the ’70s, ’80s and ’90s clones that pervade fashion today, an approach to style that comes from inside and our unique identities can convey a sense of time and place far more eloquently than a time period copy placed on a hanger or a body. An article of clothing or an accessory, like a Kangol cap contains history and is a device that can tell a story, one that is as different as the people who put it on. As my age peer managing the Kangol store said, “rappers, hipsters, nerds and church ladies all wear Kangol caps”.
Our young friends are curious about how we came to be empowered to wear what we want, resist trends, use clothes as devices to tell our personal stories and see style as being unique to each of us. What stories and words of wisdom can you share to assist them?
I am 73 and retired from a professional position 4 yrs ago…i am now reinventing my personal style…i have sold off or given away about 40% of my wardrobe retaining those pieces that are still fashionable and usable in a more relaxed but somewhat ‘out there’ personal style – i wear few conventional pieces; much that is one-off; and lots of scarves, shawls and interesting outerwear and jewelry. Age appropriate is important without being dowdy or too conventional. Finding these pieces is a challenge…..lots of ‘old lady’ clothes around – not much that is interesting or engaging.
I have been through so much angst as to what to wear since I reached fifty. I had a young daughter who insisted I don’t dress old. Boy have I made some purchasing mistakes. Being a high school teacher added to my confusion as I met Moms who maybe like me tried the younger style and gave the impression they wanted to dress like their daughters.
I am in my late 60’s now teaching at a university and I’m finally comfortable in my choices. I may wear a tee with Queen blazing on it with jeans and leather bomber jacket, but again I may wear a dress with boots. I am comfortable and I feel stylish while I also acknowledge and love my professor and Gramma titles at the same time. Life is less confusing and good.
As always you look wonderful I love your sweater,pants and hat !! You look great in hats !! I will turn 72 next month and consider myself a textile addict. I have 40 years of career clothes and keep saying I will start selling them off. But just can’t bring myself to do it. The industry tries to out us all in the same category old. While I don’t ware the clothes I wore when I was a younger woman I keep up with fashion and ware what works for me. Recently spent 6 wks in Paris and took many pictures of windows and fashion. Everything comes back raglan sleeves and suits with jackets and shorts owned 2 in the late 60 ‘s. I believe as an older woman I want to be comfortable but stylish. My style hasn’t changed that much I have never been into bare skin believing what you can not see is more interesting than what you see. There is no age limit when it comes to being stylish. We are only limited by our body type and courage. When my grandson was receiving an academic award he asked me to ware a purple hat with a black feather. So I found several purple suits in my closet shopped for the hat and found a beautiful scarf that tied in all the colors including orange. So pot on my orange sude mules and off I went. He loved it and many women stopped me to let me know they loved my outfit. Again style does not stop as we get older. Hope this helps but I am pretty passionate about this topic
Bravo for pushing back against age stereotyping
You are a national treasure.
Loved this piece. So insightful. Even though I’m rather conservative in what I wear, and as I get older I wear only what I like or love regardless of trends.
I feel so lucky that I got to first learn about social work from you and now You are teaching me more about life. Thank you!
Pure and simple….I wear what makes ME happy regardless of whether or not it’s on trend. Typically it is on trend because I have always had a passion for fashion and makeup (and fitness). I think of my age and what my mom wore at my age, and I don’t dress anything like her. I believe if it makes you feel fabulous — wear it!!
Hi,
I am 62 years old. And I find myself feeling that all my best years are behind me. Even as I say it I know people will challenge me on this, yet I cannot help how I feel. I like following you because you have great style without looking like you are wearing a costume (which seems to be what the public expects of us). Keep up the good work.
Maria
Oh Maria
Don’t say that – please dont say that. Our best years are not behind us they are still all around us and coming. Who can define their best years. Each decade is so different, we just need to change our mind set – sort of alter the sails a bit. It’s sad we are not as young and agile ( I am same age as you) and I dont like sagggy skin on my arms and neck but hey we are more confident. Settled and amusing. Life is as good as you make it and whilst this aims a ruddy cliche it really is true. For the first time in my yers I am without a man and do yo know what – its bloody empowering
Don’t give up Maria. Just change your course
Excellent advice.
I am 58 – so although I resist the definition of senior I am happy to wear it temporarily for this conversation. In response to your request for stories/words of wisdom the first reaction was to the assumption that I am ’empowered to wear what we want, resist trends, use clothes as devices to tell our personal stories and see style as being unique to each of us’. I am not sure that is necessarily more true for me than for anyone else. There are many times I am lazy and act disempowered around what I wear – read sweat pants & baggy sweaters. The wisdom I have to share is about consciousness which we all have access to – when I choose to be conscious to my essence then I turn up as true and that is reflected in my clothes which will be an expression of my truth – that may be smart or casual, quirky or conventional, angry, sad or happy, I may resist/embrace trends none of that is relevant. What is relevant is that I am being true to me and I guess if age has anything to do with it I have learnt that is more important to me than making an impression, displaying my status, or my specialness or power or resolving any insecurity I might have.
I am totally with you about not wanting to be senior. In age I am but in my mind I am not ready for chair gym yet. I join Distortion events ( electronic street parties) , launch of new cocktails etc
it is down to (other) peoples perception of what age is I am really against. So for now I am a `hipster granny!
Aaaaa, what a wonderful text!!! It is so inspiring that I can hardly restrain myself from writing a story of my own adventure with fashion past, my youth. However, I would like to mention Clara, my amazing and wonderful friend who was a fashion expert herself, writing a column about menswear!!! The stories she told, her wit and style were amazing. And she was about my mom’s age! I’m just grateful for the above text that brought to mind so many fond memories.
I am so thankful you brought this up and are working as an advocate for those who love fashion but are challenged by the options available to graceful aging. I would encourage them to notice that seniors come in all sizes and shapes and abilities. We are just as varied as the general public. I am a cyclist and ride with several 60 plus women. We are physically strong and fit, yet our options are often so limited. We do desire quality, creativity and not the dated and tried floral patterns that personally make me gag. I have even thought it would be fun to gather my friends and be dressed by new designers. I have had to resort to much online investigation to find clothes that are not too young, nor ones that are often tasteless or drab. Again, I want to express appreciation for this venture, I believe we are redefining aging and would love it reflected in our attire.
My personal style has always been referred to as “quirky” or “eccentric” because throughout my life I’ve chosen to wear what suits me. We moved a lot while I was growing up but never lived in a fashion forward city or state and my parents weren’t wealthy. With four daughters to clothe, house and educate – there wasn’t much left for expensive clothes. I can say that I made do with what was available and affordable and created my style. Yes, I wore skirts, jackets and blouses with ties on them in the ’80s while working in the corporate world and continued to wear suits through out my corporate career. But, I added accessories that suited my personal style whenever possible. I resisted when I could and called up on the carpet more than once for dressing outside the norm.
Once I left corporate America, I felt free to explore my personal fashion sense and brand. Now that I’m 66 years old, I only wear what suits me. I wear Chuck Taylor’s from spring to fall for every occasion, including with cocktail dresses and gowns. My glasses are round purple frames from Philly Eyewear (Innervision) A local photographer, Lorraine Dailey, just published a photo shoot of me in her portfolio where I served as my own stylist.
The moral is that you don’t have to wait until you are older to resist trends and tell your story. Like anything else, it might be painful at times but being authentic is the best gift you can give yourself.
I would LOVE to see some “old” pictures of some of the looks you recall…….
Really relish the inspiration I get from reading your blog, as I too age & look forward to developing my style as I change & express myself with more freedom than I’ve ever felt before……
I’m 72. I like the fruit salad color look: tangerine, grape, lime… Young people are “required” to wear black and gray. We need to cheer them up.
I would love to wear women’s clothes – dresses! A-line, 3/4 length sleeves and hems just below the knee.
I just turned 62 and over the last 11 years, since my divorce after 31 years of marriage, I’m discovering what it means to be authentic. Voicing my honest opinion, respectfully, decorating my home with my loves and tastes in fabrics and colors, and also in my clothing. I think of how my mom and other moms dressed when I was growing up. Not like I do, that’s for sure. My clothing loves, at the moment, are soft flowy fabrics, long sweaters, cashmere or linen scarves. I don’t like clothing that is restrictive, but, I don’t do over sized clothing either. I love color. Purples, pinks, sage green, soft grey, and black are my current favorites, mostly because it’s fall, my favorite season. It is very freeing to finally be my true self, the person I was meant to be without caving into other’s expectations of me. One sure way to get me to wear something is to tell me that women my age shouldn’t dress like that. It’s also good to feel like I’m still learning and growing, which also affects my clothing choices for the day or event. Tell your young friends that all women, no matter our age or size, want to feel beautiful, whatever that means to each of us. Love and light to you and your friends.
I was told by my born-in-Bergdorf’s sister that, “If you wore it the first time, you can’t wear it the second time”. Death before gracelessness! Safe, but not sound … for me.
The students sound so earnest. There is another space between hotpants and hipboots; and pull-up pants and tunics.
Thank you for this site and the breath of fresh air around growing forward in this life.
As an artist (portrait) I have always loved colour and yet spent most of my life hiding in the black of shadows. Now in my 60s and a second time mum and wife, I have found a new lease of colour. My 8 year old twins are horrified at my randomly coloured hair, but accept that it is just what artists do. My clothes now reflect and embrace whatever colour I chose for my hair (currently magenta) and I still wear the clothes that I feel suit me rather than fashion. I work hard to keep my figure and ultimately keep my wardrobe! Being married to a younger man means I am very well aware of my ageing, and I fight it, but not of my age – that will always just be a number.
“Words of wisdom”? I am 64 and when it comes to what I wear, my subconscious mantra is “I am not my mother.” Born in 1926, her generation grew old before their time … or at least my mother did. I am not ready to “be old.” Whilst trying not to look ridiculous, I wear what I love and am comfortable in, both physically and realistically. Heading out the door, I hear myself asking my husband “Does this look OK on me?” and then I wonder if I am actually asking permission to wear what I do. How did that happen? And WHEN did that happen?
Our choice of clothes does tell a part of our story and I am enjoying my current chapter.
As for the students working on “senior” clothing, make the collection beautiful, a little edgy, with softer colors, using quality soft materials, with items that can be layered (or not). And remember that many of us in the current version of seniors grew up in the 40’s, 50’s, and 60’s. My favorite shirt in the heat of summer has Led Zeppelin on it. A bit of nostalgia can be a good thing! And NO sweat pants, please!
By the way, I love your pale blue sweater!
PS
I have even taken some fashion cues from “Grace And Frankie” AKA Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin.
You say you’re not a teacher but I learn something every time I read your posts.
I’m in the process of a move to another city and deciding several times a day what to keep and not. Recently I realized why some things I just can’t part with. For example, I may never wear those Ann Demeulemeester boots again but every time I look at them I am flooded with memories of when I did.
On second thought, maybe I will wear them again… sooner than later.
As they say in the movies, every story has been written just new twists. True innovation can occur but much is built on the past. And as a soon to be 60 year old Instagrammer… do agree with the lack of popular influencers and promoted … we are an untapped market opportunity Congrats for your success as you are very talented and creative and great role model for all! Ages!
I am 52 and just now finding my personal style. I have wanted to wear tutus and combat boots in the past but was afraid of societies funny looks. I do not worry about that anymore, but I do try and find a theme or purpose for what I am wearing. If you have seen the “Disneybounding” wardrobe ideas you will see where I get some inspiration, it is from fav characters or books. I just love how wearing something that may not mean anything to anyone else can really make me feel good!
I start dressing by feeling a color — I’m a painter, and I have lots of emotions around pure color. I often wear black or a jewel tone around my face because I am very fair and I like the contrast. Black and jewel tones also set off my jewelry — I wear lots of silver, especially old Mexican silver which is often heavy, geometric and beautifully made. I am “busty” so I detest anything loose, baggy or boxy. I loathe conservative business clothing. Since I have worked out for many years, I like clothing that is close to the body and a little edgy. A well cut blazer with sharp shoulders with jeans is a look I like. I do like comfort, but there is no reason a person can’t be comfortable and edgy, rather than “mumsy/frumpy.” My 97 year old aunt is my style icon, she is still beautifully dressed, tailored and put together. I like who I see in the mirror.
As years passed I gradually and finally began accepting, embracing and loving MYSELF. This lead me to express myself more with my outer shell(clothing). As I did so, people tried to label me, for instance “cowgirl hippy” was one label. I didn’t really see that but if people needed a label for me, well ok, it was their label, not mine. I enjoy clothing. Now days it must be comfortable. As well as comfortable, it must fit what I believe is “my style.” That is pretty hard to define but I know it when it see it.
I always love what you write…brilliant discussion of blending old, new and everything in between.
But, you’ve mentioned Calvin, a couple of times over the last few months.
who is Calvin?
My experience is that I am buying now at my age (61) some good pieces to make my own statement, and that accessories are very important to create a personal look. Shoes are very important, whatever you wear the shoe will complete the outfit and give a personal touch, you can wear a classic dress, coat, skirt… but when you wear some trendy shoes under it will give a completely different new look! I don’t like boring clothes when I see some woman on the street of my age I think sometimes oh, no, I don’t want to be a part of them, they look so old fashioned, they don’t care of there self and so on, I don’t understand it! It’s about time that this will change!
So much of our ever evolving self begins to take shape when we are students. As the years go by we come to recognize that we get to decide who and how we want to be in the world. From then until now at 68 and likely forever there’s themes to what I wear that show both the continuity and the evolution to what I find to be age appropriate for me, not what anyone else is dictating. I’ll always have black tights and skirts as well as pants, more low boots now, heels are saved for special occasions. I like clothes with zippers, I like roughly finished edges. My now almost white hair, a nice surprise when I finally let it all out after retiring, opened up a new look that’s fun for new ideas.
Big sweaters because I live in a cold climate, interesting glasses, more coats than I really need but again…the climate.
No more botox because I don’t need to wipe the character from my face.
I’m lucky to be predisposed to a positive outlook on life despite life’s inevitable setbacks & transitions that can be uncomfortable while they’re happening. Somehow by the way I present myself in the world, the positive outlook shines through. It sets me back on my feet, it deepens me, and makes me grateful.
I’m long single again and don’t have kids but a rich social life with good friends & sisters.
Dare to be yourself! That is my advice… LOVE what you are in and never be afraid to be yourself…fashion is your own personal style with suggestions each year of what others will follow… if it happens to be a year for pastels, and you are a bold jewel color person, wear your own styles and colors and never be afraid to look different that anyone else… your hair, makeup and clothing need to always be a statement of your individuality…
This weekend I bought a lovely cashmere sweater at Nordstrom Rack (Eileen Fisher). I am 66 and large, and finding clothes that are well made, interesting, and a pleasure to wear is challenging. I yearn for quality, color, patterns, fit, and comfort. A good cashmere sweater does the job. I buy one or two a year and wear them until they have holes in the elbows.
How do I resist trends and embrace style….I get out to see what’s out there… I buy few items, am able to pay relatively high prices, and I am honest with myself about what will never, ever work on ME.
To designers: age is not the problem for older consumers – quality, creativity, freshness, fit, versatility – these are the fuel for style.
You are right – our past fashion discoveries weren’t about trends, the latest whatever or even the need to conform because many of us didn’t. Please congratulate your student friends for even LISTENING and BEING INTERESTED. They are 50% of the way there already. I agree that ‘fashion’ choices are more about exploring a feeling, a visceral response to who we were and who we now are. Yes, comfort is a BIG THING because we no longer want to be uncomfortable (who does?) but with that comfort comes a physical feeling of freedom of movement: to sit how you like (unladylike?), to stomp around how you like (too expressive?) and to lounge how you like (no point in any clothes if you can’t lounge in them). For me the music wakes up my senses and produces a strut, a swagger and the footwear sets the tone for the physical response. I love tight jeans, a biker leather jacket and a pair of Doctor Martens or bare feet with silky hippy harem pants, layers of wafting kaftan with yards of beads and enormous earrings, a paint covered boiler suit and a pair of wellingtons. I am myself in all of these but not all at the same time! (age 66 as if that matters)
Light fabrics. I see “old lady” clothes in the stores of heavy sweatshirt cottons with embroidery, and pants that are too stiff even for knits, and I like to layer and wear comfortable knits. My favourite outfit was a double-knit jacket with a set in elastic waist in the back 3/4 that gave extra shape and ease, in a print (tone on tone) that coordinated with the solid tone slacks. Worn to work, to chase a friend’s rocket experiments in a farmer’s field, and to relax in. Not a stiff Norfolk jacket but a soft version of it that one could wear open or buttoned. I love subtle texture and colour. I’d rather wear a handkerchief linen loose shirt on a hot day than a tank top no matter the heat.
Love your blog.
Enjoyed your blog and look forward to seeing the students’ creations and how they interpret clothes for “seniors.” I also loved learning about Kangol hats. It was a label I missed. We work with senior living communities geared for people desiring independent, assisted and memory care communities so seniors are our business. Some are very stylish while others opt for comfort and practicality. I don’t think that came with age. They were always like that.
I think I just grew a set of confidence balls as I turned “oldish”. And I want what I wear to convey that confidence without looking like a cookie cutter of anyone else. I am newly 61 and when I turned the clock on 50 I had this strong desire to start wearing dresses. Maybe that came from being a young student of the 1960’s and not being allowed to wear pants to school. We rebelled and staged a district wide walkout from school…..we won! So forever more, I never want to be dictated to about what I choose to wear. The beautiful turn of events when I started to wear a dress to my job everyday, is that my female co-workers were suddenly donning dresses too! I love being a woman…and I’m that first before I am….gasp…..old. Thanks for your gallant insight and keep the fire burning in your belly!
I’ve accrued clothing across the decades of my life— and also my mother’s, father’s mother-in-law’s and grandparents’. (Some deconstructed items go back even further— they are in patchworks, exquisite doll clothes and tea towels, however those items are no longer technically clothing they’ve informed how I perceive and consider my garments.). Because right up into my childhood, every well brought up girl (in my family at least) could sew, knit, crochet, do needlework and paint china— although my parents also made certain I could pitch a tent, reroof a shed, run a power saw, change a tire and the oil— many of these textiles were made by family. As I’ve accrued life and experience and some financial means, I’ve discovered that while mass fashion producers find it so much easier to try to pigeon hole me, I’ve no patience with them doing so and even less tolerance for such dictates. It’s frustrating that my postmenopausal tummy and bum aren’t accommodated by many mass commercial producers, so while I look for and frequent those who do (Hi Eileen Fisher!), I’m happy seeking and finding local makers in the cities we live in or visit. I add pieces to what I’ve got and if not already clear, I keep them. I’ve still lovely vintage items I’ve found in shops and while there’s much to do and time is tight, I absolutely knit and make items for myself. So to young makers, when you look at someone my age, please don’t exclusively think ‘Mother of the Bride-Church Lady’ or some such. While I’m not built like Penelope Cruz at this point and while I’ve never felt the need to scream for visual attention, I’ve also no interest or inclination to disappear into the scenery. I want to be comfortable and I want to look great as presenting myself I understand me.
Color, color color!
Texture that comforts. Texture that makes combining pieces more interesting and artful. Accessories that are provocative and unpredictable but dazzling
to behold for a reasonable price.
Juicy tribal patterns that are bright neutral and both and world market products that earn crafts people a fair wage.
Yes, comfort and coverage are VERY important when our memories of our bodies don’t correspond with reality. I am 78 and loving it. I live in the perpetual summer in Arizona. I love the Free People concept but I also need coverage and have shrunk to 5’2″. I want casual fashion. I want to look put together but not boxed in. I spent a fortune on designer clothes in my 40s and 50s. I tapered off in my 60s and now I have no need of them. However, I still want to look unique. Unique, elegant, bohemian and classy. Is that too much to put together?
I love this post. Reading your brain makes me wish I had a mentor like you when I was in art school, and right now I wish I lived in New York, so I could at least ask to meet up with you for coffee! I am a young 46 (with a 34 year old husband) who, with your help (thank you), has managed to shirk the feeling of guilt creeping on regarding my continued obsession with clothing, jewelry, fashion and self-expression through daily costuming as I feel the pressure to “optimize” my wardrobe and routines to give more attention to “other (more adult?) things”, but dressing true to how I’m feeling and how I intend to face the day makes me feel more true to myself, and therefore a better version of myself. It is like a meditation. Only, one that requires ample closet space.
I love experimenting with color, proportion, and nods various decades / scenes from my life or imagination. In art school in the 90’s I was also discouraged from creating more historical forms of jewelry (my major concentration) for modern experimentation. Now, I’m teaching myself bead weaving and am refreshingly obsessed again! Before I felt snobby about how “fine” the materials needed to be for my jewelry, but my favorite bracelets have been made of simple seed beads! Beads are amazingly fun, and have historically been traded for millennia, so mixing cultural references in one piece (as well as colors and textures) is so perfectly supported by the media. And there are so many cultural traditions to draw from as well.
OK, back to my day job for me. This has been fun!
I align with the bohemian/ hippie styles of the 1970’s. I adored the spirit of this clothing. I’m 69,Australian and I love wearing a brand of pants called Boom Shankar./guru pants. They are colourful, cotton and with a loose flowing feel. I love colour, patterning, freedom. I choose to wear bright stretchy head bands and colourful jewellery. I like comfort dressing but I want to celebrate life and have a little cheeky fun.
Hi Dear,
I’ve always looked to you older baby boomers as my guides in life. I love where you have taken us. From being at Haitt & Ashbury in ’67, mesmerized with the Hippies, to the 70’s environmental awareness, to now, coming into our own. I’m new to Social Media but am loving it. Blogging a bit on IG, and just purchased a domain and in the process of learning how to set that up to blog there. Because I always have a lot to share, to write about and inspire others about.
As do you. I currently live in NM, an escaped LA’lien, and also adore Frida Latifah. She continues to inspire the artist here as they take the old and make it new.
Wasn’t it picasso that said a good artist copies others and makes it his (her) own.?Isn’t that what your students are doing? What we are doing?
Thank you for being here and sharing. I adore you. ?
I love this! I have noticed that I absolutely love the prints and fabrics from different periods of my life. For example, the rose prints from the 80s. I don’t necessarily need or even want the same exact styles, but seeing and wearing fabrics that I remember from the 80s brings me so much joy.
I’m 70. I dance tango. I dress with appropriate sensuality. When not dancing I like a uniform of skinny black jeans or a pencil skirt and white shirts. A leather moto jacket or a jean jacket are staples. Over size scarves, cotton in the summer, cashmere in the winter (or pashmina knockoffs) add flair. I like a good hat. A smaller brim straw jaunty fedora in summer, and a wider brim felt wool hat in winter or sometimes a newsboy cap. Great sunglasses add a lot of style. I can still wear heels, and I also like great looking sports shoes, sandals, and boots.
I deplore the trend that promotes advanced style as having to be dressed in wild clownish outfits. I’m no stick in the mud. I have a stylish blue bob hairdo. But it breaks my heart to see older women resort to outre costumes to gain visibility and attention. It’s also unfortunate when oversized sacks are considered as fashion choices for older women.
Tell the students to design clothes for seniors that they themselves would wear. Good design is ageless.
Agree with you on the garish/clownish look: it can feel patronising in my opinion. Like elders being called ‘cute’ – ghastly.
I love
I like your post , your I wonderful person. Your comment I love , I live in El Paso texas I’m 55 years old
I love color, and every morning, I look in the mirror and see a blank canvas waiting to be painted. At 76, the road map of my life is in the wrinkles on my face. Rather than be discouraged, I see an opportunity to celebrate me!
I dress to reflect what I feel, and I dress in order to feel.
You have articulated so beautifully something I know but did not have the words to express it. This is a statement we should address at greater length in a subsequent post.
I dress to reflect what I feel, and I dress in order to feel.
I’m an artist and I’m in a band…at 61!!!!
https://www.facebook.com/zillioxband/
http://www.marienoorani.com
I still have my unique personality as I slide and slither into my sixth decade and I would like that to be reflected in my choice of clothing. I remember my teenage years when I was a trend setter, going to Biba in London, having Twiggy and Mary Quant as icons, it was all so exciting and novel. We lucked upon the traces and boundaries. I want to still FO that. I’d like fluid fabrics, subtle colours and beautiful texture, pattern and soft form. I can but dream!
Bravo Nancye !! I am 65 and wear what I want, even as a young teen and woman, I never followed the trend. My attire as well as hair, and make-up was me, on occasion I would get the inquisitive or raised eyebrow glare, but I didn’t care. I say be yourself, if your not you who are you going to be?
Please tell your students that, at 68, I feel more stylish now than I ever did before. I feel happier now and love my choices in clothing. I look at fabric softness, structure and details (cutwork, embellishments, etc).
First I am thrilled to be 68, still working and free to express my personal style. I love that my office has ages that range from 19 to 70, mostly women and each and every one of us has our own individual style. I live in a state that is cold and snowy about 6 months of the year. I like clothes that are beautiful, soft, comfortable and warm. Clothes that transition from the office to the mountain. Clothes with a little bit of quirkiness, made of real fabrics, like cotton and wool. Functional and stylish. Wearing clothes like this makes me feel young and energetic!
Love that hat and it really pops with the glasses. You’ve inspired me again! What originally empowered me was playing with costumes as a kid. My Mom encouraged us to do that and joined in the fun. My Grandmother was a good seamstress. She made us some wonderful clothes and costumes. Mom and Nana took us to the city twice a year for clothes, taught us how to take care of our clothes so they would last and discussed fashion with us. They made dressing up important, even though we weren’t wealthy or gorgeous women. There’s a sense of theatricality about wearing my fashion that requires bravery. I’m plumpish and need structure. That structure can be a fabulous corset. Showing skin when you are 65 requires bravery. Drag queens inspire me. Having an exciting place to go, like the opera, encourages me to take the time to put together great hair, makeup, jewelry and fashion. Since I don’t have friends like the queens seem to, I rely heavily on your blog (great to see you in Manrepeller, btw) for confidence.
Love your article…layering is the answer to fresh, creative style…We have a store in Canada called Toni Plus that caters to women in Plus size category…the styles are so beautiful and free flowing but frustrating because they only cater to plus sizes…they also carry beautiful accessories …usually the story is reversed whereas plus sized people have difficulty finding well constructed and designed clothing with great style….
I’m so glad I discovered your Blog. I do not belong to any social media and rely on fashion inspiration from magazines and websites (and you!). I turned 57 in August (looking forward to 58), and my greatest fear, sometimes, is feeling like I am not dressing “age appropriate”. Then, I wipe that thought right out of my head. Who cares, truly, I can wear what I want and wear what makes me happy. Last year, my new twenty-something hairdresser, told my husband (who is also a patron), “your wife has the best fashion style. We love seeing her come in every six weeks, just to see what she’s wearing”. It was a validation, I have to admit, and it did make me smile. Lately, I love wearing hats! I just purchased a black engineer cap, and when I wear my hats, I notice more ‘attention’ (I am a Leo). It makes me feel like doing the John Travolta strut from ‘Saturday Night Fever’ and all those fashion insecurities go away!
I am 71 and have always dressed anyway I chose, especially when I was in the music business back in the 70s/80s. I was a slave to fashion. Silk suits for business meetings but turquoise boots, cargo pants and spiked hair for music biz gatherings. My hair also changed color, style and lengths repeatedly. While that lifestyle has been gone for three decades I still dress for myself although my hair is no longer thick enough to abuse. Your are such an inspiration. Thank you!
I started following you by “accident” and I truly like your style, the way you face aging, the stories behind the costumes. I am 50 and feel great about my gray hair. You are my inspiration for my future years when it comes to clothing. I love the way you dispose it, the way you combine colors and textures. And above all I love the way I feel when I see your posts: completely empowered!
What a terrific project: a lovely opportunity for Parson’s student artisans to learn from seasoned stylists—and veteran fashion lovers to pick up cues from the next generation.
For me, dressing is not so much about feeling “empowered to resist” trends. It’s more about understanding trends’ cyclical nature—and choosing to wear the latest iteration. Or not.
Example: today’s high-waisted, wide-legged trousers that some editors cite as 70s inspired—but which was are a recycling of an earlier beach trousers trend worn by Riviera habitués in the 1930s.
Search Pinterest for “1930s Riviera trousers” and see what comes up: Very current looks.
When you study fashion history—in design school or by living through a few decades of ever-changing silhouettes—clothing develops a layered history.
I wear a lot of vintage from my magpie grandmother—born in the Edwardian era—and my hippie mother.
Between the two of them, I have enough bespoke bourgeois and back-to-the-earth artisanal clothing to last a lifetime.
The personal provenance of these pieces is strangely comforting and confidence-inspiring to me. And I feel that same personality and living history in great thrift-shop finds or the rare purchase of a heritage—i.e., “luxury” piece.
The other thing that means a lot to me: quality. Like today’s luxury clothing, vintage RTW is made of beautifully milled wool, cashmere, silk, linen and cotton. It was carefully crafted by skilled workers. I feel a palpable human connection to these pieces–much more so than to fast fashion. I am loathe to part with these old, handsome friends, so I take good care of them, tuck them away–sometimes for decades–and take them out to wear again with a sense of newness.
Fine textiles and skillfully sewn, knit and cobbled pieces are also a pleasure to the senses, a joy to see, touch, feel, hear—the rustle of taffeta—and smell—the lanolin scent of a damp Shetland sweater.
60 here, and not quite absorbing how that happened. I don’t want to be hemmed in by a concept of ‘appropriate’ wear and I always dressed modestly anyway. I am resisting loose, flowing clothes, in part because I am barely 5 feet tall, but I’m also curvy and I feel like I’m hiding something. A more fitted style is my way of making a statement about still being in some sort of shape. Still, that large top profile seems to be the thing, so I’m going with it. What I adore about this blog is that you give permission to your audience to look at our sartorial choices through an emotional lens and your adventurous style gives me license to be bold with my choices. Thanks you!
Thank you for your comments. Shoes that are comfy, low heeled and stylish are extremely hard to find. Some years ago Anne Klein made a cute ankle strap with a 1 inch heel. It is made of fialle. I keep Anne Klein is still making shoes. Why not reissue this One?
I believe that we, as society, have reached a tipping point in the fashion choices. I do see more and more women looking for unique garments which represent where are they in their own life journey as oppose to going for trendy, cookie cutter, often cheap looking garments. I am so excited to see that the young designers are looking back not only to find inspiration but also to find timeless value.
I am on my way to turn 61 and my sense of style and aesthetic was instilled by my mother. She was an elementary school teacher who would wear to school mostly a pencil skirt and a pretty blouse, with a cashmere cardigan over in winter time. It wasn’t anything extraordinary, just good quality fabrics, colors that were pretty without being ostentatious and impeccably tailored garments. However, she would throw over a quality, well tailored camel coat with a large shawl collar and a hat and she just looked amazing, like a million bucks. I use to gasp just looking at her. She didn’t have a truckload of clothes, just 3-4 skirts, few blouses and few dresses, but all of them were fitting her like a glove.
When going out, she had a darling black silk velvet dress with short sleeves and a wide v neck that she would wear it with black suede pumps and black silk stockings. That was it, whether she would go to a wedding, opera or party. I’m still looking for a dress like that, I haven’t found it yet.
She was elegant and presentable and one could tell that inside she felt beautiful and confident just by looking at the spark in her eyes. To this day ( she’ll be 89 yo in December) she has kept the same style, it’s just part of who she is.
I don’t think that there should be clothes designated to “seniors” but rather focus on bringing back the quality of fabrics ( let’s get rid of most of that polyester, slub cotton blends,etc shall we?) and the good tailoring. Let’s put a little sleeve on those dresses rather than making them all sleeveless. Let’s use the classic patterns in a more innovative ways. Rather than having a full dress in a single pattern, let’s brake the monotony by adding a band at the hem in a contrasting color or pattern or a silk printed scarf attached to wool dress – something unique that anyone would love to wear. I found the so called “business dress code” even when it’s called “smart” quite conservative and uninspired. I hear some people talking about wearing a uniform every day and I can’t help myself but wonder why?
I believe fashion industry has lost her way. Rather than focusing on creating good quality garments that are wearable by almost anybody, it started to set up boxes where one is supposed to fit.People though can’t be put in certain boxes because they are individuals, with very specific taste, body types and preferences. And that has very little to do with age.
Rather than focusing on age, why wouldn’t we want to focus on creating an aesthetic sense that is easy on the eye and speaks for itself rather than shocking ? Why wouldn’t we want to be surrounded by beauty and good quality garments and stylish people and set aside everything that is vulgar, un-tasteful and desperate for attention grabbing. Let’s create fewer but better designed garments.
A good pair of jeans with a well fitted blazer and a silk blouse will always look good on anybody, whether is young, old or in between. So is a well tailored dress that comes with a coat and can be worn for lunch or dinner. Or a cashmere sweater and a dashing pair of wide leg pants ( like the ones you’re wearing that I just adore). It really doesn’t have to be so complicated. However, the focus should be on quality and fit.
I encourage your students to watch the series Grace and Frankie. I believe they’ll have a better understanding of what style for seniors may look like, from artsy bohemian to preppy classic. Love that show!
I was thinking about a dress I had is 1973, in high school. Of course it was a mini-dress, and that isn’t happening again to this 63-year-old. However, that dress might explain why I love tunics so much — because they swish at about the same place as the mini-dress used to swish. Anything that brings back a feeling is welcome, which is why I love saddle shoes in some form or other and pleated pants.
I really enjoyed reading this. Thank You ! For me it is about embracing the different stages of my life and being comfortable in my own skin no matter what my current size. When I go to town (I live 8 miles from the city on 55 acres) most of the time I do make an effort to be put together – light make up, earrings, booties, nice jeans and nice sweater or a wrap. It makes me feel good. Although I had a woman make some comments about my attire last Saturday that took me aback and I did not respond to her statements but did speak to her. She did not compliment me – she was trying to put me down for being put together in turquoise and gray. Yes, matching jeans, booties , knee length wool light coat and scarf. Essentially she said she should go back home and re-dress herself because I looked so fine. I babbled about the 70% off clearance stuff in the entry of Michaels saying I needed just to walk past and not buy stuff I don’t need. It was interesting. And has still left me shaking my head. I for one dress for myself and I enjoy looking at other women and how they dress. I find it humorous that hip hugger bell bottom jeans are all the rage – but I tell people ” I wore those in 8th grade and we wore them with bodysuits at snapped at the crotch.
I am 76 years and have never felt freer to dress to please myself. I love fashion and different fabrics, and I have a very ethnic feel in the fabrics I choose, and the jewelry I wear.
I love loose linens, and natural fabrics, and adore African beads and chunky brace
Bracelets, combined with silver earrings. However, I try to shop in my closet, and have decided that my new purchases will be only at my special places, once or twice a year. And, when something comes in, something must go out!! I enjoy your posts so much, thank you!
I wear what I want. I get stopped often by people having comments about my outfits. I feel eyes following me up and down checking out my clothing and accessories. Clothing is an opportunity to carry art with me daily and I feel better in my skin as a result. I am 60 and have no concern for age with most things, especially clothing and personal style. For your students, I would say be open to all generations without judgment. We all learn from each other. I love your outfit, great look. I think it’s your attitude too, it comes through on the page. Right on.
Lovely Article Thanks for sharing…
Great hat. I wasn’t aware that Kangol made hats like that. I think of them as beret styles or buckets or some sorta caps. I was compelled to go to the website to check out your hat. Looks like a trilby I’m guessing.
I am truly thrilled to bits with this post! I’m a young 75, 5’2″ and in reasonably good shape. Grace and Frankie have inspired me too as I’m somewhat schizophrenic… I’m an artist (Frankie) and promote other artists (Grace) which means hippy and business – but obviously not at the same time. I’m also very impressed with the eloquence of your followers – goodness what joy to read good writing! Oh, I’m also a writer…
Love the hat! And the trousers!!
I am 62 and feel that I have been waiting to be this age my whole life. No longer having to conform to the acceptable face of business, or what I’m expected to wear for any given occasion is so liberating. Being who I want to be, expressed through what I wear makes me smile and feel happy. That extends to hair and makeup, skin care and clothes and accessories. However, I have been affected by what you are been saying about there being nothing new….and reusing what we have to make something new. I’m up for that challenge and trying to reign in my purchasing to restyle things I have in my wardrobe to suit me as I am and not who I used to think I ought to be. Phew! No more pressure!
I’m looking forward to more of your blog, thank you for including us and giving us the chance to share our thoughts .
I read an important observation. Saying goodbye to your professional life is something to deal with. It is an almost weekly grief for me. I can still design (being an architect) but new tools – is altogether another matter and a side comment. What I miss is the “sense of being useful” as my 91 year old friend expresses it.
Can that be translated into the way we dress?
I am a happy follower of your blogg turning 69 at the end of this month. Living in the Nordics in Europe. I love strong vibrant colors, but are mostly wearing black or White. Colors can do magic to how you look, skintone, eyes etc. I am avoiding all ageism when it comes to What I wear, but want to look elegant in a relaxed way. Dries van Norten (IF I could afford to buy) and Bitte Kai Rand which more affordable are the designs I chose. Dr Martens on my feets or different kinds of sandals, depending on temperatures outside.
Words of wisdom? On the bus to work! 61 and here’s the outfit. Knit dress. Cropped sweater I knit. Suede tote I made. Shawl collar wrap coat I made. Top shop white cowboy – ish boots. I was always in fashion and at 55 wound up in legal admin(?). No background in it whatsoever. I feel my mortality, which is good because it guides me every day in what I do (or maybe more importantly don’t do). I actually have more fun with younger people than my age group who seem to be kind of in a self depreciating mindset. I am in a place where I am more able to be my authentic self, no apologies. Style is a way for me to express it.
You look great in that and I love the ensemble. I actually bought some bell bottom jeans for my Halloween costume, going as a Hippy! Also making the protest sign “Make Love not War”. The pants are actually flattering so I wore them not as a costume and got so many compliments.
Some of your comments made me think of the ball in her shoes by Jennifer Weiner (later made into a movie which I have not seen). The character Maggie ends up starting a business while she’s living with her grandmother in a retirement home in Florida. Excellent shopper she begins shopping for her mothers friends when they have clothing needs for particular events. She has them describe moments from some of your comments made me think of the ball in her shoes by Jennifer Weiner (later made into a movie which I have not seen). The character Maggie ends up starting a business while she’s living with her grandmother in a retirement home in Florida. Excellent shopper she begins shopping for her mothers friends when they have clothing needs for particular events. She has them describe moments from When they were younger where they felt wonderful and loved what they were wearing. For example one of them was the woman’s going away outfit when she got married. She has some describe the outfit and how it made them feel. And then she find outfits that they can wear now That would give them that same feeling.
Lyn,
You are absolutely the best. I met you in LA some time back when we were on a panel at UCLA regarding influencers, with Gaby Fresh and Minh Ha T. Pham. I liked you then and I like you even better now. Having just passed my 55th birthday, and feeling grumpy about it, I find your words a comfort and an inspiration as I struggle with that ‘If you wore it the first time around, you can’t wear it now’ rule. Plus I absolutely love your sweater and wish I could find one just like it. It’s also really great to hear that you are getting back into the classroom. Teaching is a vitalizing force, and you obviously love it, so it’s so nice to hear that you are getting to do it, but on your own terms. Keep on rocking! And add me to the list of your die hard fans!
65..just last week.
To your students…I will never be ready for beige,bland, or conservative…my style has changed, and actually I rarely wear what I would have worn at other times in my life. I strive to feel good in what I’m wearing right now.
When I was younger I worked for organisations where it seemed important to fit in and I wore a lot of black, though even then I accessorised with unusual jewellry so as not to feel like a sheep.
I was ready for comfort and style in my 40s…nothing has changed.
I still regularly kick out the kitten heels for an occasion and damn the sore knees for a couple of days afterwards.
I love the texture and depth of velvet, the style of merino and the cut of a great jacket.
My everyday wardrobe speaks of utility…with flare…look at Toast, Brora, Plumo, Baukjen and the UK John Lewis brands Kin and Modern Rarity…all except Toast most recently use tall willowy, young models for their collections.
Thank you Toast for realising that the grey pound(or dollar in your case) counts.
My winter footwear is a collection, in most colours of Fly London boots, so I generally buy one pair a year to replace the pair most worn. Summer Birkenstock toe post sandals…most colours. I also love two pairs of leather high tops for spring and autumn from Moda in Pelle.
I don’t have a great deal of money to spend on clothes, so I unashamedly wait for sale time..and pounce!
I buy second hand in charity shops to mix and match and still regularly weed my wardrobe, being lucky enough to have a great second hand clothes shop in my town, where I can recycle, alongside some great charity shops.
Today I am wearing second hand wide leg jeans,massively turned up, with a navy long sleeve T (Uniqlo…I have plenty of these with matching vests and leggings which provide my base for winter) and a long, wide wine coloured sweater dress with wine Fly London boots, wine jewellry and a big wine and navy scarf. I also have my make up on.
I may go out, I might not as I have a lot of work to do for an upcoming art fair at the end of October.
I most certainly won’t be seeing anyone other than my husband today, but I dress to please myself, with a sense of aesthetic pleasure every single day of my life…and hope to continue to do that until the day I die.
Most of my friends are not very interested in clothes, only two long standing friends in particular and we often talk ‘wardrobes’.
What a complete pleasure to read your blog and also to feel free to write about what is in my own life, a passion.
I have often felt that this is a frivolous and unnecessary cost and time consuming activity, but how I present myself in the world, whether anyone sees me or not, feels strangely important.
Wishing you well with the next chapter and to the students, how fortunate you are for having come into contact with Ms Accidental Icon.
I love being an INDIVIDUAL – I do not try to mimic a teenager nor my 20 or 30-something former self but I like to wear what I like. It may be hats and scarves and even a short dress or two ( I am told I still have great legs – show them off) SO I HAVE! I like to mix textures and colors – people may think me eccentric but I cannot help their views! Life is too short not to have some fun and often your clothing is the very thing you can shake up! I started wearing hats and scarves before any of my peers did and now they have seen how much fun one can have mixing things up with these accessories. I like some of the vintage 40’s & 50’s styles – have a few items I mix in with other items and it looks great! My ideal treasure is to find a stash of gently used vintage hats, bags and gloves at a tag sale! What a way to add charm and grace to an outfit!
You are a true inspiration to me on many levels, as a fellow professor and woman. I appreciate your writings and feel that they are so relevant for what our generation is facing in society. You are a beautiful lady inside and out. I look forward to your posts. God Bless.
Your question is fascinating on many levels. What is an appropriate capsule wardrobe for seniors?
I am a senior – retired elementary teacher. My working wardrobe did not include designer fashions, and tended to practical pieces which could be washed. I did own “Dress-up” pieces for church and social occasions. Also, I live in a cold climate, so warmth is a real issue for many months of the year.
I am not surprised that your students are somewhat discouraged at this assignment, as there are many questions to be answered. I think “value for money spent” is an important consideration for seniors – in addition to comfort, fit and care of the fabrics. My suggestion would be to begin with a pattern – whether a top or jacket/cardigan and to build co-ordinating pieces from there.
Also – some seniors love skirts, while others are from the Katherine Hepburn school of fashion.
I would love to see what they decide!
I , now at the age of 71 , want to look sophisticated & well put together but with an edge. That’s exactly how I dress. I love Eileen Fisher clothes , Lafayette 148 , but I wear them with a bold piece of jewelry or scarf. I love a good statement piece ( jewelry or shawl) on a fabulous “canvas “ outfit . I have actually dressed using these parameters for many years. So, it has little to do with age & more to do with ATTITUDE!!!
I’m trying to figure out what my style is. For quite a while it was natural fabrics that were comfortable and flowing. Now it seems like that is what everyone is wearing. So I must find something new. It will still be natural fabrics. I generally buy used clothing and have no idea what the current style is or what is selling in stores. If it is color or colors I like, if it is soft, natural fabric I like, if it feels good when I put it on, I buy it. It makes no difference to me if it in style. I love having lots of clothes and combining colors and patterns. I am a painter/mixed media artist and think of my clothes as another expression of creativity, color, pattern and texture. I see no reason to be boring and cautious at 62. Well at no age, for that matter.
What I would like to say to your students – which everyone else is saying more or less- is that they ought to re consider their definition of “senior”; in fact, obliterate this word from their lexicon!!! Some of us are part of what is commonly known as the ‘Baby boomers’, and as such, we define a generation of young people who made it possible for the first time to question conventional norms and with it, came the possibility and acceptance to express oneself as an individual. We have not lost that! In my quest to continue this, I am – with many more sisters – paving the way for future generations, in the hope that one day ‘ageism’ will be a thing of the past. It galls me when I peruse look books and see every ethic group and minority represented but, no one over the age of 35 years old. I write them polite letters and get polite replies, but they don’t get it! I have just received a pair of bell bottom jeans from a website called Doen; a company whose collection harps back to the nostalgia. I wear the same size as I did in the 70s and I love them just as much! At the age of 63 I will continue to buck what are seen as conventional norms, I just wish my younger sisters would help!!
Agreed to obliterate is the operative word!
I turned 70 in June…which used to sound so old to me! About 20 years ago, after getting divorced, I decided to purge my wardrobe. Since I was getting ‘old’ I thought about what would be ‘appropriate’ for me going forward. I wasn’t sure where to start so I started trying on things. What I soon realized is that some clothes made me feel happy and some didn’t. I listed criteria of those pieces that felt good (flowing, colorful, stylish without being over the top etc.). Before Marie Condo I discovered the joy of wearing what felt great and purging what brought my mood down. Now I say ‘The heck with what is age appropriate!” I allow my feelings and criteria to lead me to new and used purchases.
Please remind the students you’re advising that we seniors appreciate quality in our fashion. I notice that I tend to shop less often than I did in my 20s, and things I like, and feel good wearing stay active in my closet longer now. I don’t mind paying a bit more for quality, but I really hate having poorly made clothes.
Ah, all so inspiring. Thank you for this. I gladly use the terms “retired” and “senior”. I am now the senior class. Cool. These are good days. I like to relax into my clothes. Stretch, Comfort, Style, Color, Ease. These are my words I now use to describe dressing. It’s freeing to be able to just dress for me these days.
I so love your writing – the style, the insightful thinking, the challenges. It’s encouraging me to reflect on what drives how I dress – always a little edgy although sometimes overly grey, navy and black. Since retiring more colour is emerging.
I have a lot to say about the subject but so much has already been expressed in the interesting comments that you have already posted. I am 70 now and still a contract instructor at an Art School and a Fashion school teaching a few subjects and continuing to inspire and be inspired by the students. When I read your latest blog post I sensed that perhaps you are not quite ready to leave the world of Education and you might consider doing what I do, teaching a few classes here and there for short term courses….. The other project I am working on is what I consider my ” legacy .” It’s an educational inspirational website that shares techniques and inspirational tips on how to adapt to our uncertain changeable times. My friend Simon Chang who is a well known Canadian designer encouraged me to share my wisdom and experience with the younger generation in a way that felt right for me. His legacy is setting up scholarships with a variety of Post Secondary Institutions. He has other legacy projects happening as well. Just thought I would share…. No need to post this.
I can’t wait to see this website! Thanks, I have definitely come to the place where I an indeed going to explore teaching.
As they pass through decades of fashion trends, tell them to save several items from each period, even when certain they’ll never ever wear said items again. Then when things return, as they do, they can reach deep into their closets and pull out, say, a perfect pair of Levi bellbottoms c1968, patched, with frayed hems, like those presently selling on ebay for $250.00.
I’d also tell them to ask for their mother’s clothing. My great grandmother, a single divorcee, kinda scandalous in 1920, owned a fashionable dress shop in a big city. When she died, my grandmother took some of her designer clothes. My mother did the same when my grandmother died. Eight years ago, my mother passed away, which is how I came to own a vintage black Chanel jacket, utterly timeless and as valuable as diamonds. Its true value however, is that when I wear it, I am in their triple embrace.
Love this wise advice so much!
I only want to support u, your article is different, unique, inspiring, letting me think, about clothes, fashion, and life. It is not easy to see such thoughts conveyed to people among so huge info sea when most of the info is useless.
My mom taught me how to sew. A good thing, as I grew to a fabulous 6′ 3″ young woman. With age, I have lost 1/2″ and LOVE my height. Yes, I wear wedges and heels! I was able to take my sewing skills and LOVE of fabrics to a career as a clothing designer, pattern maker, sales director and more. At 62, I feel my next best chapter is ahead of me. I am on a new path, direction and point of view.
I think of the time my niece and I were discussing age, though I don’t remember how we got on that topic. I mentioned that I was a year older than her mom, and to my surprise, she said yes, but you have “cool hair”. I laugh about that today and I still have “cool hair”. I try new clothing styles, always with an eye for proportion and it needs to speak to my point of view and must be of good quality. I have a great “library” of accessories and love to were. My signature.
I have not lost my love for fashion on MY terms since I was a teenager continuing to today.
Your posts are wonderful and thankful for your voice, your visuals and a place to share all.
I’m 54 years old – 5’0″ tall and a size 2 Petite. I have to hem Petite jeans and pants and often have to shorten sleeves. Even when I buy Petite clothes.
My shopping destination is J.Crew online and Banana Republic. I also fancy Anthropologie.
My dilemma is being able to buy fashion-forward items of clothing that will fit my tiny frame.
Even though I’m older I don’t want to fade into the woodwork in a sartorial way.
I dress chic and whimsical. Pink and rose, blues of all shades, green, purple, and gray, taupe and black.
The ethic is not dressing totally Avant Garde and not dressing in a Traditional way either.
Clothes with a subtle deviation that I can feel confident in.
This is hard when you’re a size 2 Petite who refuses to shop in a national chain store like JC Penney.
Nor have I seen an eco-conscious online vendor whose clothes I would fit into as a tiny person.
I’m committed to doing the best I can with my fashion consumption given these internal roadblocks and the external limits of the fashion industry in terms of style and environment.
It has occurred to me since I’ve lost weight, that I love shopping for clothes. I particularly love being able to wear clothes from most any department. As an example, I wear a 12/14 in ladies which fir me means not only can I wear clothes from the ladies section but also juniors and women’s. I am 53 and really enjoy many different styles to include the 20s to 40s and 70s to 90s, I love that all styles, as you said “have seeds of the past” and as someone else pointed out, as we age comfort is an issue. Comfort without frumpy! There is something to be said for elastic waste or a pull on trousers/pants. I’ve always dressed for my mood and as my body changes (thank you menopause) my choices are dwindling.
Super cool woman!
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Reason of my comment is only to support you, the motivation you spread in such an age is incredible. Love going through your blog!
Age is just a number. You proved it!
I am 78 and honestly, I have never thought of myself as an age. I like to be thought of by the things I have done in this life, the things I enjoy, and a way of being. I have not worn bras for a long time. I am not big breasted, so it is not anything that makes me feel uncomfortable. I dress for how I feel on any given day. When I go to an appt. at the Oncologist, I like to wear something funky and bright that makes me feel happy, and I love to walk in and pick out a woman who looks really sad and complement her on some piece of clothing. One day as I was walking out, I turned around and suddenly said out loud, “Everyone smile,” and suddenly every face in the room lit up and people all started feeling good. It made me really happy because no matter what our life is at any given moment, we are always free to feel good and be happy. I want to spend all the days I might have left in my account this way, just being happy and doing what feels right. If I want to run around nude, and I have done that, making paint prints of my boobs and using them in my art, then I will do that. Life is forever too short to worry about what anyone else thinks.