Out with Old... In with the Young?

    ‘Age is just a number’…that “old” adage.  When it comes to fashion, should we just “dress our age?” Or is 2022 the year that we will truly embrace a “coming of age” when it comes to fashion?
    As I creep nearer and nearer to middle age, I find myself asking “Does this look too young for me?” 
     I remember being a 20 something who didn’t give a second thought about my age when it came to fashion.  Now when I see a new fad, I stop to assess whether it is really worth my time or even flattering to my body?  
    I’ve been watching several new television shows and loving some of the fashion.  One, in particular, Emily in Paris, doesn’t just dress up the young heroine, it also dresses the 50 something female executive.  Both get to wear spectacular ensembles reminiscent of classic Audrey Hepburn, and this season several age groups even sported bikinis!  
    Then there are the old, favorite shows like Sex in the City that disappeared, but are back, reimagined into a new format.  One only has to scroll social media to see the backlash and complaints about the title characters.  Right now it is confined to commentary about storylines and plastic surgery, but most certainly, fashion will eventually be caught in the crossfire.  I can hear it now, “Are some of the main characters dressing too young, or even too old?!”
    As I skimmed the comments, I noticed that generally there seemed to be two camps of women, those who embraced the idea of “live and let live” and those that challenge the women to “embrace their age” and avoid plastic surgery.  Some believe that women should do whatever makes them happy, be it plastic surgery or going without any enhancements.
    It gave me pause to think about my own notions of beauty, fashion, and ageism.  At one time, I might have jumped on one bandwagon or another.  Now, I stop and weigh the merits of each argument.  
    What do I conclude?  The answer is really unique for each woman.  
Isn’t it honestly best for each woman to decide what the best answer is for herself?
    Let’s not get caught up in the “beauty” trap.  Instead, ask what makes you feel your personal best?
     I personally believe that what makes us feel confident often inspires self-respect and makes us feel the most beautiful.  It is better to embrace our true selves, rather than measuring ourselves with someone else’s yardstick.
    There will always be fashion guidelines for what may be the most flattering garment, hairstyle, or makeup.  My advice is, when it comes to being your best, remember to make yourself happy.  

    Cheers, to a wonderful new year of being you! 
    -The Elegant Okie

written by Sharen Smith