Here at Dia&Co, we reject the notion that anyone should have to “dress their age.” Style is unique, it’s personal, and it’s certainly not tied to how old you are. To prove it, we reached out to 6 women ranging in age from their 20s to their 60s to find out what style to means to them—and how age has only deepened their appreciation for a great outfit. *Answers have been edited and condensed for clarity and length.
“My personal style is nice, sophisticated, jazzy, and yet versatile for whatever the occasion calls. Dia&Co has made an impact on my style—I now mix patterns and colors. That thing that was hidden for so long came to a head as I’ve gained confidence on my style journey. I know it’s okay to be me.
My age has made me pay attention to trends and details more. At my age, I only say to myself, ‘How can I embrace this new style?’ Years ago, I would quickly say, ‘That’s not me.’ Fashion is ageless and non-discriminatory.”
Pat B.
Fashion is ageless and non-discriminatory.
“I define my personal style as bohemian with an edge. I love both the floral hippie vibe and punk rock edge. My style has become more sophisticated with time. The two core elements were still there, but my outfits felt more like costumes. With time, I’ve figured out how to style the elements to fit me and not the other way around.
To anyone who tells me to ‘dress my age,’ I say, ‘Why does my body make you uncomfortable?’ The idea that women should cover up more as they age is related to the idea that a woman’s body isn’t worthy if she doesn’t fit the mainstream, young-female ideal. That’s totally false! You should wear what makes you feel good and attractive.”
Lindsay B.
To anyone who tells me to ‘dress my age,’ I say, ‘Why does my body make you uncomfortable?’
“My personal style is comfy, colorful, and shape-flattering. Add in boho mixed with some trendy pieces and you have me! I don’t know that my style has changed as I’ve aged, but the availability of fashion-forward plus-size pieces has made all the difference. I dressed the corporate part when I worked, the mom part when I was raising my kids, and now the ‘just for me’ part. I love that!”
Donna T.
I dressed the corporate part when I worked, the mom part when I was raising my kids, and now the ‘just for me’ part.
“My personal style is a reflection of who I am. I wear the clothing I wear and dress the way I do because I want how I feel on the inside to also be reflected in my fashion choices. Waking up and picking out super cute clothes makes me happy and it’s reflected in my style. I am always the girl wearing the bright pink dress and a smile so bright I can light up a room.
As I’ve gotten older and learned more about my personal style, I now take more risks with fashion. When I was younger, I wanted everything to match. Now that I’m older, I realize that fashion can be anything you want it to be. I am all about mixing patterns, prints, and colors. I make the fashion—the fashion doesn’t make me.
I believe people should be free to dress how they want to dress, love who they want to love, and live freely. So to every woman who has been told to dress their age, I want to tell them to live boldly as their true authentic selves, because there is no one better to be than who you were always destined to be. Dress your best and don’t worry about the rest—you can quote me!”
Shaniqua M.
I believe people should be free to dress how they want to dress, love who they want to love, and live freely.
“When I worked in the corporate world, my style was more sophisticated. Since I left that world behind, I would define my style as casual. I wear what I like. I do think that since finding Dia I have broadened my horizons on what I like to wear.
I wear what I like and don’t really worry about the whole age thing. Age is just a number and doesn’t define who I am or how I choose to dress. I wear what makes me feel confident in who I am in the moment. I only hope that as I get older, I will continue to embrace that same attitude.”
Gloria P.
Age is just a number and doesn’t define who I am or how I choose to dress.
“I’m unabashedly feminine in my approach to dressing. I love dresses, skirts, flowy fabrics, heels, florals, and fun details like ruffles and sparkles. I also love to mix things up with accessories or wear a printed dress with printed shoes.
Like our personality or lifestyle, our style evolves. I used to dress to hide and not be seen, and now I dress to celebrate life. The year that you were born has nothing to do with what is ‘appropriate’ for you. What you do need to consider is who are you today and what you want your clothes (or your hair and makeup) to communicate. I’m no longer the Gen-X girl who went to art school, drooled over skater boys, wore matte purple lipstick, and danced in platform sneakers. In the end, you have to dress in what makes you feel good, brings you joy, and expresses who you are.”
Looking to see how women of all ages showcase their style? Get inspired by the looks posted to our Member Gallery!
