Why Style is so important

It may seem superficial, or frivolous even, to worry about defining one’s style, especially when there are so many more important things in the world to be concerned with. But I happen to believe that when we care about how we present ourselves to the world, we become better people, more confident, powerful and capable of changing the world – even if the change in the world starts as small as a simple act of kindness every day.

“Clothes aren’t going to change the world. The women who wear them will.”
Anne Klein

As older (midlife and beyond) women, I believe we’re facing a bit of an identity crisis, and in some ways the world doesn’t give a damn. I see women every day who look as though they’re going along with the notion of “invisibility,” maybe because it feels like too much effort to fight it anymore. Oversized t-shirts and ill-fitting pants say nothing but “ignore me, I’m not worthy, or I give up!”

Maybe we don’t have the youthful glow or figures we used to have. But here’s the deal. If we don’t affirm our selves, own and appreciate our age and the many benefits it reveals daily, then we might be condoning the idea that our best years are behind us and our only option is to fade into the sunset. I’m just not willing to do that, and I don’t think you should either. In my mind, this is where finding our sense of style is an important and telling step. Because to find your true style means you’ve found your own sense of Self again. And THAT is very grounding and empowering.

“Fashion is not something that exists in dresses only. Fashion is in the sky, in the street, fashion has to do with ideas, the way we live, what is happening.”
Coco Chanel

So let’s make a deal with our selves and each other. We don’t have to be fashion plates, but we do need to make an effort. I follow many style blogs for women of a certain age (see the tab Favorite Reads above), and I just have to say “Hooray!” These women are my inspiration, my role models, my people. It’s not easy to put yourself – and especially your photo – out there. They’re doing it for all of us. I, for one, am jumping into the pool with them. Come join me. The water’s fine.

Let’s show the world we’re still here, we’re still “in it,” and we’re ready for what comes next!

Till next time,

Judy