Is this the age of the Golden Girl?
I’ve been noticing more and more older women being featured in fashion and beauty ads in the last few years. Most recently the timeless Joni Mitchell lent her soulful gaze to Saint Laurent.
Then the fashion world was graced with Joan Didion’s too cool for school mug rocking a pair of Céline shades.
Let’s also not forget the adorable Iris Apfel for Kate Spade staying true to the brand’s image in a colorful and fun spring ensemble.
So is 70 the new 30?
I certainly love that women of all ages are being celebrated in high fashion ads. These women are artists and creative spirits that have inspired many of us for decades. Of course that is also part of the reason they are such hot models as well. They are aspirational role models for women of all ages. Who wouldn’t want to be as chic as Iris Apfel in her golden years right? So part of the reason older women are so chic now is because of their cross sectional appeal. They aren’t necessarily going to be the main sartorial inspiration for fellow octogenarians, but they will be examined closely by women just starting out professionally and looking to make a mark. Similarly, they are also admired by middle aged women who heartily embrace their age and are seeking new heroes beyond the current pop stars.
It is still great to see older women celebrated in fashion, even if it is a marketing move. It’s a first step for celebrating different kinds of women. This article also reminded me that there is more to be done here. Let’s celebrate older role models of color like Toni Morrison or Amy Tan. It will be a great reminder that “It” girls are inspirational women of every age.
I’d like to see all women celebrated really, old, young, of colour…everyone! I think magazines are so un-balanced of representing people and it’s bizarre as to why when you look at the world and how diverse it is. One type of person doesn’t represent everyone…we need lots of different faces and ages and sizes on these magazines because that is who we all are and what we and younger generations should see!! It shouldn’t be just a ‘Highlight’ for these groups of faces…but an every day thing…because we are all every day people!! Love Iris though…she’s a hoot, ha!! Happy day doll xx
You said it so beautifully Kizzy! Celebrating women of all ages and colors should just be an everyday thing right? Once we look at ads and don’t blink when we see more everyday people, we know we’ve made it. Iris is totally awesome – 93 and still rocking her style!
i totally agree with there being more golden girls. how refreshing!
I absolutely adore Iris!
xx
I just love that ALL ages are celebrated. Every stage in life is so beautiful. This was fabulous.
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