Think about it honestly. How often have you caught yourself worrying about aging recently? Have you ever compared yourself to a trendy person born in the eighties and felt annoyed? I’m not just talking about new grey hairs or deepening wrinkles; I’m talking about the relentless anxiety over time slipping away and moving further from the beauty of youth. Ageism, to me, is more troubling than many other injustices because, unlike other aspects like body size that can be influenced by health choices, we can’t control aging.
Fighting Aging
Dealing with aging is a battle women tend to face more intensely. According to a recent survey by Allure Magazine, 87% of women feel they face more pressure to look young compared to men. Conversely, 66% of men don’t worry as much about aging. We already juggle so many worries—kids, mortgages, relationships, work—yet, we often add the fear of aging to the list, which can overshadow all other concerns. Instead of fixating on age, let’s focus on how we can grow our sense of style as we mature.
Evolving Your Style
First off, don’t let anyone tell you that aging limits you. Sure, there are tips on how to dress appropriately for your age, but if they sound like they’re scolding you, ignore them. Rules can squash your creative expression. As you get older, yes, you might need to put more thought into your appearance. Things like wearing lipstick and managing your hairstyle become more important. It’s about finding a balance—what worked in your twenties might need tweaking, but it doesn’t mean you should lose your fashion sense. Revisit trends you loved before, but refine them for your current self.
Staying True to Your Style
If you’ve always had a great sense of style, it’s likely to stick with you as you age. Use this time to highlight your fashion flair even more. Look for inspiration from stylish individuals, whether they’re celebrities, bloggers, or friends. Confidence is key; don’t let the notion of being older make you feel less than anyone younger.
Mixing things up in your wardrobe is also essential. While you might have favorite brands for basics, exploring new designers keeps your style fresh. This is easier and often more personal than chasing random trends. A mix of styles and colors can prevent your look from becoming too predictable.
If you’re considering cosmetic surgery, look into natural alternatives first. It’s easy to go too far and end up with results you didn’t anticipate. For example, remember how different Courtney Cox looks now compared to her days on Friends? Fashion and style should be about enhancing your natural beauty, not masking it.
So, does your age ever bother you? How do you stay true to your style after 40?
Barbara De Mul, born in 1975, believes the best way to handle turning 40 is to embrace it. Inspired by family and friends of all ages, she maintains that your spirit can remain youthful no matter how old you are. As a freelance writer with a background in various countries, she’s constantly looking forward to her next adventure.
