You’re never too old to get fashion sense

YOUR news item on the latest ‘ageing fashion poll’ (July 21) told us more about the ageist attitudes which persist in Ireland than about fashion trends. Who decides you are too old to wear a miniskirt at 28 or a bikini at 48?

Why should men stop wearing tracksuit trousers at 44 and bin their hoodies at 39 (as opposed to 38 or 40)? But, more importantly, on what basis do they make such statements?

Certainly, there may be women who feel their best years for wearing their miniskirt, bikini or tracksuit trousers are behind them. But they may be 25, 35 or 45. In short, you cannot generalise when it comes to age.

The survey found that 52 was old for long hair. Who is going to break the bad news to Sophia Loren or Brigitte Bardot that they should cut their famous locks?

Finally, the other question that sprung to mind reading the article was — why do a survey like this? We know that elements of the fashion industry make big profits selling to older women who have the disposable income for their designs, yet they target younger women in their marketing.

But one of the many benefits of ageing is that you know what you like to wear and what makes you feel good. No survey or opinion poll is going to change that.

Eamon Timmins

Head of Advocacy and

Communications

Age Action

30/31 Lr Camden Street

Dublin 2