If you follow this site, you know aging is a topic of interest to me. Frankly, we’re all aging, but at 51, I am at the time when it becomes visibly noticeable–your neck doesn’t look the same, the lines in your forehead start to feel permanent, and there are times when who you are and what you see in the mirror don’t always sync.
This week, two magazines–Vogue Mexico and WSJ. Magazine, both run by long-time friends of mine, are showing women (ok gorgeous super models Christy Turlington and Amber Valletta), the way they really look, wrinkles and all (I am not suggesting there is no retouching, but definitely no wrinkles erased). It makes me so happy, thrilled in fact, that we finally seem to be moving into an era where older women can be seen as sexy and strong, like they are in say, France.
I was having a conversation with an upcoming podcast interviewee (stay tuned, the podcast debut is really soon!), who like myself, is open on social media about her age. For all the steps forward we are taking, it still seems rare. I have written about Owning Your Age, and honestly think the more women who are willing to step forward and open up, the better off we will be. I also think as women, we need to give ourselves permission to know that aging doesn’t have to mean the end of being sexy, adventurous in spirit and dress, and (if it’s your thing) the center of attention. Far from it. It is always the confident women who are the most seductive.
Sure we don’t all have the genes the women shown here were blessed with, and I am not even suggesting that I am anti-Botox, fillers, etc. A little here and there, if it makes you feel better, is your prerogative. But if you’re on a costly, never-ending journey to reverse the signs of aging, good luck with that. Getting older is inevitable. Doing it well, and with grace, is a choice.
Thank you for raising this important topic! It’s a difficult conversation and one we absolutely must have. I am excited about the podcast and would love to see a whole series on this!
Thank you. A most important topic and one I am quite interested in. Having recently turned 65, I feel vibrant and healthy and ready for life’s next adventure. Many years of self care, eating well, daily movement, wearing sunscreen and being open to/about enhancements are proving worthwhile. Just keep it as natural as possible!
I’m turning 70 years old–yes, not 70 years young–and this is a topic that I am informally researching: Women and Aging. I enjoyed this article very much and am looking forward to the podcast and “Owing Your Age.” Much thanks for the enjoyable and informative read!