The topic of women, in particular women over the age of 30 wearing what they want can be a very sensitive topic to talk about. People can be quick to judge, and I'm sure everyone at least one point in their life can admit they have been a bit too quick to judge someone else on their fashion choices. However, when it comes to over 30s being able to wear what they want, when they want, then there is a split in peoples opinions.
Everyone has heard the phrase 'Like a mutton dressed as a lamb' but has anyone actually took the time to think about what it actually means and what they are actually getting at with it? Why should women over the age of 30 be expected to stop having fun with fashion, and blend in like every other woman over 30? This is the age when a woman is just starting to feel comfortable in her own skin and realise that they should make the most of how they look, not have to fit in and look a certain way because of the way society has made everyone else think.
Although society is changing, as well as peoples opinions on this topic-there are still many people out there that see issues with women over 30 being able to wear what they want. Speaking to student Grace Hayes, she said:
"I totally agree with the fact women over 30 should wear what they want and be able to express their own fashion sense freely, but I do think there should still be a line drawn. I mean, if my mum was to walk out of the house wearing a leather mini skirt and crop top I would be absolutely affronted."
I ran a poll on my Twitter page to try and catch a grasp of people's thoughts on the topic, and this was the results:
The results of the poll were very refreshing to see. With only 19.6% voting for an age limit on specific clothing, it shows peoples mindsets towards over 30s being able to wear what they want are changing, and so they should be, it is about time.
Another common misconception with woman over 30s choosing to wear whatever they want is peoples opinion that believe you should 'act your age.' How boring would the world be if everyone just 'acted their age?' People need to start changing their train of thought when it comes to seeing a woman, over 30, dressed in something a bit more different and out there. Instead of thinking "oh my god, she is too old to be wearing that!" we should be thinking "oh my god, she is rocking that, how refreshing!"
What's to say a woman at age 29 can express her style freely with no boundaries whilst a woman aged 30 has to follow strict rules and limit her sense of style? After all, they are only a year apart. It's like there is a new set of rules that should be followed after turning 30 that simply say instead of choosing clothes that make you feel good, you should now choose clothes that make you invisible. Where's the fun in that? Fashion is not only for the young, it's for everyone and it is a way of expressing yourself.
Life is short. So why spend it worrying about what others think about you and your fashion sense. The correct answer to how old you should be before wearing specific clothing is whenever you stop feeling comfortable wearing it, not when society tells you to. Although there is of course boundaries when it comes to specific events and dress codes, (such as wearing joggers to a meeting or a swimsuit to a wedding) as long as you are following these and your clothes don't offend anyone, then it is your choice to wear whatever you feel comfortable in and what you want.
You don't define or limit yourself based on weight, gender or colour of skin, therefore you should not define or limit yourself or anyone else based on age either. This is a societal issue that has to be amended. People have to start applauding woman over 30 stepping out their comfort zone and expressing their own style and fashion sense how they want to, not shaming them. It's all about confidence, and if your confident enough, wear that short dress and wear those embellished diamante jeans, and don't let anyone tell you otherwise. Fashion has no age limit.
