LEATHER POWER
As you probably know, I’ve been on a crusade to abolish the idea that mature women need to dress in an “age appropriate” way. It’s ageist nonsense, and something that we really no longer need to adhere to. As mature women, we have earned the right to make our own rules. Why should we follow someone else’s idea about what we should and should not be wearing? Fashion has changed. There used to be a very specific rule book that outlined which styles were “in” and “out” each season. That has disappeared to a great extent. Trends still come and go, but they have ceased to be the “fashion gospel” that they once were. The rules outlined every season by Vogue no longer dictate what everyone is wearing. We incorporate trends into our wardrobes, or we don’t, but the rise of individualism has changed fashion, and opened the door for a more individual form of self-expression. I think it’s fantastic and mature fashionistas should embrace that change.
So. Leather! That has been an item at the very top of the no-no list for older women for as long as I can remember. However, that was then and this is now. Let me assure you that leather is timeless and can be worn by absolutely everyone! Iris Apfel, age 93, wore a stunning pair of red, studded leather trousers to an opening last season, and the fashion world went cuckoo over them. They were that cool and she wore them impeccably. So, if we needed proof that leather is not reserved exclusively for the young, there you have it!
I think the secret to wearing leather in a sophisticated way is being aware of the cut and styling it with a bit of restraint. Perhaps at a certain point, we should consider trading in the black leather motorcycle jacket for a fitted jacket, trench coat or blazer. Instead of the leather micro mini skirt, investing in an elegant leather trouser or pencil skirt. Certain styles in leather have the potential to look cheap and unsophisticated once one has reached the age of 30, so I think t’s best to leave those really trendy looks to the kids. It’s important to remember that leather is an edgy look, so keeping it simple is always going to be the most elegant way to style it. Less is more….unless you are jumping on your Harley for the day. Then, go head to toe, ladies!
~ Dorrie
Senior Style Bible
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those boots, that bag, the skirt (et al)…………….. all wow! brilliant styling
Thanks Eiemer. I’ve had those boots for about 10 years and they just keep on “kicking it”.
Hot, I say….you look hot!! Funny you bring up this leather thing, my mom’s actually making my step mom a leather skirt so we can do a blog series on them!! jodie
http://www.jtouchofstyle.com
Great! Can’t wait to see it Jodi . Oh, how I wish I had the talent to make clothes….can’t sew a button on properly or even thread the needle.
I love leather. Just a few years ago, at 56, I bought a moto jacket. I love it, and wear it dressed up and dressed down. I have a few other leather pieces, but don’t wear them as much.
What other leather pieces do you have Linda? Leather skirts and pants are making a big comeback this year.
I have a pair of leather trousers–they were gifted to me by a co-worker who bought them at an on-line consignment site for herself, but found them too small for her; they fit me like a glove, happily. I haven’t worn them a ton partly because they feel more dressy than my average daily style, and partly because they are so warm that down here in Arizona, it is not often cool enough all day to wear them!
About a year ago, I found a vintage (80’s) pencil skirt on Etsy. It feels a little too racy for my work as a school pedagogical administrator, but I have worn it to work once, I think, and I believe I can style it a bit more conservatively and get more wear out of it in the next few months. Not the easiest to move in–that’s a consideration.
If I were looking for more leather, I would love having a pleated leather skirt, and/or some leather leggings. Both would suit my style a bit more than the two pieces I’ve described above!
Thanks for asking!
Ooooooh! SEXAY!
That’s what I’m aiming for!
You rock this look. The outfit is modern, sophisticated and ageless. Great advice but as always, the look you created speaks for itself.
What a lovely compliment. Thanks Rebecca
You look A-MAzing! My only quibble is that I do wear moto jackets and do not consider them cheap-looking or too young. Perhaps it depends on the jacket and how exactly one wears it?
Keep up the good work! You’re an inspiration!
I’m inclined to save them for a cycle ride but if you love it and it makes you feel happy, just wear it with an attitude and play down the rest of the outfit.
Dorrie, you always look so elegant!
Thanks Fran “Elegant”, such a lovely word.
Such an awesome look, Dorrie! I couldn’t find a single reason, why that fabulous look couldn’t be worn at any age. You definitely rock it.
xx
Annette | Lady of Style
Thanks Annettte. That is a high compliment coming from you!
Traveling with GK for holiday..packed black leather and suede pants, tops and boots…worked perfectly for every occasion. . I don’t think age has any place in if you wear leather . ..styles do, you have it down beautifully . And according to family so do I!
Smashing outfit. The boots and the bag add such a pizzazz to the outfit which on its own is already awesome. I have a black wrap pencil skirt which hits me just below the knee. Very useful. A thing for life.
Greetje
A perfect example of how striking sleek lines can be.