With our ‘Free Of Rules’ series, we’re here to bust age-old fashion myths related to age, size, height and many more criteria that tend to dictate what women should wear. It’s 2022, and it’s high time we break free from unnecessary fashion rules.
As per the 2001 Census Report, women between the ages of 45 and 64 form about 13.5 per cent of the entire female population in India. While the age group may not make for a majority, it still is substantial.
For a long time now, fashion has come with a set of rules that women all over the world try to follow. These rules tend to create unnecessary pressure, especially on women who don’t fit into the model-like description of beauty that society deems ideal. But the truth is, fashion is not meant just for a particular age or size, it’s for everyone and is meant to be an expression of yourself. We’re here to bust some unnecessary myths about fashion and age.
Rule To Ditch #1: Loose Clothes For Higher Ages And Fitted Ones For Younger Ages
One of the most common things you will hear as a woman is that you must bid goodbye to more fitted clothes as you turn older and embrace the loose fit irrespective of what you wear. On the flip side, younger women are often told to opt for fitted silhouettes. But not only is that a biased opinion towards what women should wear but also a bunch of bad advice. The better thing to do is to always make sure your clothes fit well. So make sure you don’t unnecessarily go a size up or down for any of your clothes, especially Indian wear blouses, trousers, jeans, as well as shirts.
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Rule To Ditch #2: Opt For Muted Colours If You’re Older
Yes, the pastel colour palette is super soothing and stylish, but that doesn’t mean those are the only colours you’re allowed to wear. Older or younger, don’t be afraid to opt for a bright hue to spice up your outfit. Bright colours like red, fuchsia, blue and yellow tend to add a fresh look to any outfit. Use these in the form of clothes as well as accessories to complement or upgrade a basic look.
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Rule To Ditch #3: Avoid Short and Sleeveless Silhouettes After Your 30s
While this is something women of all age groups have been told to do at some point, it’s even more under scrutiny for mature women. But as long as you’re comfortable, feel free to opt for that sleeveless top or short skirt. If you’re not sure of how you will feel or look in something like that, balance it with a staple. For example, a sleeveless top with a well-fitted pair of trousers, or a short skirt with a staple t-shirt can be great picks. You can also start with mid-length hemlines to ease your way into these styles, like wearing a midi skirt and then graduating to a shorter one, as per your comfort level.
Rule To Ditch #4: Follow Denim Rules
Much like all other clothes, wearing anything apart from a straight-fit pair of denim is frowned upon if you’re of a certain age. And much like other clothes, it’s quite alright to wear pretty much any fit of denim as long as you feel good. The key is to find one that fits you well. Whether it’s a wide leg pair, a mom fit, a flared one or the classic skinny jeans, It’s the fit at the waist and hips that matters most. While the pair should not be loose, an extremely tight pair that looks like it's clinging to your body also makes for a bad fit, not to mention uncomfortable as well.
Rule To Ditch #5: Western Clothes Are Not For Older Women
As Indian women, we’ve often seen our moms shy away from wearing western clothes and often tend to follow suit. But it’s hardly the time and age to let society and fashion rules dictate what you wear. While Indian wear is absolutely beautiful and unmatched, sometimes you just need a dress or a lounge set to keep things easy. To make things easier, opt for silhouettes similar to Indian wear. For example, a shirt dress or straight-fit dress that fits like your favourite kurta or a pair of trousers that fall like your palazzos can be great alternatives.
Rule To Ditch #6: You Have To Be On Top Of All The Trends If You’re Young
Not only is this a very age-biased rule, but it’s also really unsustainable advice. Trends, especially micro trends, which you’re often expected to follow, are collectively one of the reasons for overconsumption and high fashion waste. While some trends may work for you even in the long term, paying more attention to value and silhouettes as opposed to what’s momentarily trending will not only prevent you from embracing your personal style but will also increase your carbon footprint.
Image Source: Pinterest/Carla Martinez