Breaking the Boundaries: Why It's Time to Redefine Age and Style on Your Terms
Solita C. Roberts
Speaker & Corporate Trainer| Closing the Image Confidence Gap | Elevating Leadership Brand & Visibility for Women Who Refuse to Be Overlooked |?? LinkedIn Top Voice
Let’s have a little heart-to-heart, shall we?
When it comes to age and style, we’ve been fed a diet of societal expectations that no longer serve us. You know the ones: “You can’t wear that at your age,” or “That’s too youthful for you.”
And these “rules” only apply to women.
The Myth of “Age-Appropriate” Dressing
For too long, society has dictated what it means to “dress your age.” But let’s be real for a second: what does that even mean? Who decided that, after a certain birthday, women have to pack away their vibrant colors and daring cuts in favor of bland, forgettable clothing??
That’s like telling someone to stop living their life fully just because the calendar says they should.
It's Time to Embrace a New Narrative
These are the easiest pounds you can lose immediately. It's time to drop the dead weight of these limiting beliefs and embrace a new narrative—one that celebrates individuality and personal style, regardless of age.
Embrace Your Unique Journey
Instead of conforming to arbitrary age-based rules, let’s shift the focus to what truly resonates with you. Each decade brings its own wisdom, experiences, and yes, even a fabulous wardrobe. What pieces make you feel confident? What colors light you up? By embracing your unique journey, you can curate a style that reflects who you are—past, present, and future.?
Your style is a fierce declaration of who you are, not a sad checklist based on how many birthdays you’ve celebrated.
Authenticity Over Approval
Here’s a truth bomb: too many of us dress for the approval of others.
Let me say that again: too many of us dress for the approval of others.
We aim to fit into neat little boxes for our jobs, our families, and even complete strangers on the internet.?
But what if we flipped the script? Instead of shrinking ourselves to fit in, what if we dared to take up space?
That’s the essence of Dare to Wear—embracing your authentic personal style, no apologies.?
Your style should be a celebration of who you are. If that means slipping into a bold dress, rocking killer heels, or mixing unexpected pieces, then go for it!?
There are no rules here—just the freedom to express yourself in ways that empower you. The key is to focus on what you love and what makes you feel alive.
The Power of Choice
At the end of the day, fashion is all about choice—your choice.?
It’s about discovering what makes you feel powerful, whether it’s a tailored suit, a daring dress, or that beloved pair of sneakers that gives you the confidence to conquer the world.?
When someone tries to box you in with, “You can’t wear that at your age,” I challenge you to respond with, “Why not?”
Creating Your Personal Style Manifesto
Now, let’s get proactive. Grab a journal and jot down what style means to you. Consider questions like:
What do I love to wear, regardless of trends?
?? How do I want my clothes to make me feel?
?? What boundaries am I ready to break in my wardrobe?
?? What do I want my personal style and image to say about me?
Use this manifesto as your guiding light. Refer to it when shopping, getting dressed, or contemplating a bold new look. This is your chance to make fashion a fun and empowering journey!
Style Icons Through the Years
As you embark on this journey, look around and you’ll find countless style icons who have broken the mold. From the iconic Iris Apfel, who dazzled into her 100s, to the ever-chic former First Lady Michelle Obama, who defies age norms with grace and flair, armless silhouette, and jaw-dropping fashion moments.?
These women exemplify that style knows no limits. They embrace their unique identities and inspire others to do the same. Let them be your inspiration as you carve out your own style path!
The Bottom Line
In a world that often tries to box us in, it’s time to break free.?
Your age is just a number; it’s your spirit that defines your style. So, go ahead—redefine the boundaries of age and style on your terms.
Wear what you love, express who you are, and let your confidence shine.
Because when you step into your authentic style, you’re not just breaking rules—you’re breaking down barriers and dismantling stereotypes.
That’s style power that transcends any age.
Ready to take the stress out of getting dressed?
*Start with a Style Shift session: This is a 45-minute session to discuss your style goals, uncover your mindset blockers, and craft your style plan so that you can gain the confidence to show up boldly in your career and life.
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4 个月Love this perspective, Solita! ?? What's in this issue?
Providing training, tools, and a roadmap for organizations globally to advance the PRACTICE of humanized leadership.
4 个月Well said!
Chief Happiness Officer // Keynote Speaker // Hook Up Your Happy ?? Workplace Happiness Consultant // Positive Psychology Specialist // ?? Life Coach// Operate From A Place of Peace & Harmony
4 个月I absolutely love this! When you said, ‘it’s your spirit that defines your style,’ that resonated with me deeply! I agree that we need to allow our preferences and our personality guide our style and not anything or anyone else!
Academic LifeStyle Coach - ElevatED Learning Experiences for Teens + Young Adults | Mental Health Advocate | College: SAT/ACT Prep | Global Speaker + Trainer | Featured in Essence | LinkedIn News Editor's Pick |
4 个月As a 50+ woman, I fully get this. I'm in renewal mode with my health (again) and feel so youthful. I want to empty the majority of my closet and start over. I definitely have some old lady clothes from my late 40s when I thought I should dress "more my age." Goodwill here they come!
Thank you for sharing such an empowering message.