Dress Code
by Lee Patterson
(Canada)
I find myself somewhat puzzled by the term 'appropriate for her age'. It seems to me to be confusing, sexist, and ageist. What is appropriate? Who are the garment gurus elected (not by me), to pass down the clothing commandments to 'women of a certain age"?
Some things are obvious. Gravity exists. A time comes when bikinis,mini-skirts, crop tops, and going bra less no longer enhance a woman's appearance. Firmness fades with time. All well and good, but does that mean that because I am 63, I must hide my feminine sensuality under a shroud of long sleeves, baggy clothes, and short hair?
I am no longer able to wear heels for hours at a time but still subscribe to the motto,'so many shoes, so little time'! I have no intention of inhabiting a desperate fantasy wherein I never age. No Dorianna Gray for me. But, by the same token, I reserve the right to be the arbiter of my own fashion sense. For as long as this body remains slim and petite, I will wear form fitting clothes. I disappear otherwise.
I love bright colors, and ethnic clothes, in particular the bright, embroidered suits worn so elegantly by ladies of Indian and Pakistani origin.
Some concessions to age are inevitable. The days of extreme fashion and makeup have passed. At this point, the goth look would likely ensure my immediate arrival at the nearest mortuary. Yet, I reserve the right to paint my nails any shade I so desire, and my son informs me that the nose stud piercing I have still rocks. Ditto, my hair.
I have no intention of being a white-haired old lady, even if untreated it produces streaks of a platinum white. This lady prefers to maintain (with help, of course, thank you Preference), the same shade of copper hair, that nature gave me. I also refuse to have a bob. I am blessed with long, curly, thick hair--hip length at the back. Why would I cut it?
Many women have complimented me on my appearance, stating that they, too did not wish to'dress old'. The Appropriate Police, usually individuals almost half my age, are, of course, entitled to their opinion. I continue to celebrate my life in the manner which suits me. In the end, anyone else's opinion of me is none of my business.
Strut proudly, ladies!
