Better with Age?

A couple of Saturdays ago I was involved in one of my favorite pastimes. Thrifting.

The sale was fabulous; consciously curated, rather intimate, and super friendly. Plus, the cause it supports does extremely important work in the community

So, there I am, living my best life, going through the racks of pants, tops, and billowing blouses, while paying special attention to the summer dresses. My eye spots a really cute, heavily embroidered blush pink, street length frock with a deep v, sleeveless. Breathlessly, I look at the size, it’s my size! I’m so excited as I add it to my growing pile of bathroom try ons (no dressing rooms.)

“That’s a real beauty,” she said, as her eyes followed my newest pride and joy.

“Oh yeah, it’s great, isn’t it? And then I added, it’s just my style.

She responded casually, while still keeping her eye on the racks, “yes, it’s a wonderful style that stays attractive and current as we age.”

I looked at her and said sincerely, “yes, I never thought of it that way, but you’re absolutely right.”

Later, as I left the sale, over the moon with my purchases, I thought about that shopper. And it got me thinking about the clothing styles that have stayed tried and true as I’ve aged. And which ones, (like my royal blue suede hot pants,) were fun, but only important for a season or two.

As my mind wandered, I then thought of the habits, the relationships, the passions that have stayed with me as I’ve aged and those that are long forgotten. The short list: still LOVE to bake, still love to dance, still curious, still love gospel music.

Of course, I passed all of this on to my pal (and sister) Beth.

She immediately said what has served her over time is her love of the classics; nicely tailored pants, jackets, beautiful dresses, nothing too trendy. She also mentioned, what has stopped working is really (really) bright colors. She says there was a time the brights really made her happy. Not so much anymore – she doesn’t seem to need it. And beyond fashion, she shared her lifelong love of both art and crafts, growing plants and happily, she still believes in kindness.

And of course, we both love conversations! So, we’d love to hear from you. Share with us what’s still working, and what did you leave in the past?