What’s On My Mind: The Case of the Woman that Wouldn’t Dress Her Age
I’m a big fan of Perry Mason. Heck, I’m a fan of most shows that involve the adrenaline rush of litigation. It’s so…dramatic yet cerebral.
One side pitted against another, good versus bad, right versus wrong. And then of course there’s the well choreographed closing argument where an attorney gets to really show off their story telling chops.
As intrigued as I am by all that, what I loved most about Perry Mason is how he would cleverly get the guilty party to admit their crime right there on the stand. To this day, no other big or small screen court room drama compares…
The other day, I couldn’t help but wonder how Perry would try the case of the woman who wouldn’t dress her age.
Essentially, that woman is me. A woman well over 40 who doesn’t dress according to society’s rules and who doesn’t follow outdated how-to style manuals.
Think about it…if you are a woman that society considers “of a certain age” (aren’t we all of a certain age?) then you are by the numbers alone expected to look, act and behave in a particular manner.
For instance, no shimmer shadows after 40. But what if you have beautiful eyes, great lid space and no wrinkles or lines to speak of?
Or how about this one…no long hair after 40. Really? So if you’re over 40 you should what…sport a chin length bob?!
Let me present Exhibit A: Jennifer Lopez (a Loréal ambassador and spokesmodel) features her caramel colored locks for the EverSleek line…she’s 40.
And Exhibit B: Andie MacDowell, who is also a spokesmodel, has lush, thick, beautiful hair past her shoulders. She is 52.
If even the hard-nosed beauty industry recognizes that 40+ looks very different than it did when our mothers were 40, then why can’t everyday men and women cut one another a break and keep their rules to themselves?
The term age appropriate (in fashion and beauty) is relative. What is appropriate for you is not necessarily appropriate for me.
I love color, 4” heels and skinny jeans. And I do not shy away from shimmer and glitter simply because I’m over 40.
Instead, I wear what looks good on me at this moment in my life and I would encourage you to do the same…
You know that saying don’t judge a book by it’s cover? Well in the case of too old versus too young, I suggest you judge a book by it’s cover, not its age. Better yet, don’t judge at all.
I might be too young for the senior citizen discount but I’m too old to live by the limitations set by others.
About the Author: At this writing, the author is lounging on her zebra striped chaise, toes painted with Dior St. Tropez polish. She is casually dressed in wide leg jeans, off the shoulder sheer top and 4” Vera Wang platforms. With hair pulled back in a low, wavy pony she smiles sheepishly showing off the shimmery glisten of MAC Innocence Beware lipstick as she reaches for her pink grapefruit sparkling ice…complete with hot pink straw.
❤Liz
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Sassy pants !
Hi Karen!
Sometimes a gal needs to spew a little sass
xoLiz
Hi Liz,
I’ve just recently found your blog and I really enjoy reading back.
)
I’m 38 and I have no intent to “dress my age”. I love make-up and I wear it every day to work, sporting a smoky eye if that’s what I feel fit my mood that day. Most women coworkers don’t wear make-up but it’s what I like and what I can express myself with.
I think those who don’t let us are jealous and afraid. I’m sorry, I’m not giving in!
Many thanks for this article and the rest of your blog! Will come back!
-angel
Hi Angel!
I’m so happy you found my blog and that you’re enjoying it
Like you, I’m not giving in either!!
xoLiz