“My condolences to all the women who are trying on their summer shorts...” Women over 55 facebook page.
I think this sentiment is something most women can relate to. Whether its shorts, slacks, tops or even yes, the dreaded bathing suit; summer represents a time of dismay for many.
As we look blissfully in our closets, wondering what new item to add this coming season, we are also reminded of the clothes that have not seen the light of day for some time. Armed with new-found confidence, and more than a little self preservation, I go though my closets setting things aside that I would never wear again. (And many that I have never worn…what was I thinking?) Of course this is only part efficiency. I never have to try, or attempt to try, these clothes on ever again and face the reality that they, and my body size, have moved on.
There are those items, the ones you purchased and loved from the moment you saw them, and that everyone mentioned how great you looked in them, that may support keeping them way back in the closet.
For me it is my bathing suit Big Blue. You may recall my writing about this many years ago. It still is my best purchase ever. It was the first suit I spent considerable dollars on and that needed the most precise care. Hand wash, lay flattish to dry, store in its own drawer as not to crush. Many years, and bathing suits later, Big Blue is still the one I try to replicate.
It’s not because there aren’t options out there. Bathing suits come in all sizes, even two pieces that I have considered, only to put them quickly back in the rack before there were witnesses. There are even an abundance of designs and colours, so really we are spoiled for choice. Yet, I can’t seem to find one that is just right. I know it’s because the thought of replicating my favourite, in my new, less svelte size, could be the realization that I am now over 60 (okay well over) and perhaps yesterday’s outfits aren’t in sync with today’s reality.
I mean at my age it is so rare that anyone gives you a compliment that my response is lacking any grace. I usually meet such commentary with bulging eyes and mouth wide open. Not very flattering and I am certain makes the person rethink their original sentiment.
I can now move through most crowded areas and go unnoticed. This is something many women have also expressed. Maybe that’s why we wear the brightest colours and designs, cause even through a sea of people, hot pink can’t be ignored, even though it may be more a question of my taste.
So yes it is summer, and that means a time of renewal. My closet is a testament to this. Even if, way way back in a corner, all quiet and stored with the greatest care, is Big Blue, with all its wonderful memories of an earlier day.
Happy summer everyone.
