Influencers, Cool Girls, On Trend do we Care?
I have to be honest this was the post that wasn’t supposed to happen.I had an entirely different post planned for today, but a few phrases have been rattling around in my head—and frankly, they’ve been driving me a little crazy for some time. So, I thought we’d have a lighthearted chat about them. Let’s start with “influencer.” Apparently, I am one. Who knew? Personally, I’ve never loved the term. It sounds more like a virus than a vocation. And then there’s “cool girls”—doesn’t that sound like something straight out of middle school? Who exactly are these cool girls, and where is their secret clubhouse?. And we can’t forget “on trend.” At a certain point in life, isn’t it more about owning our own style than what’s trending? So today, let’s talk about these buzzwords—Influencers, Cool Girls, On Trend do we Care?
The Term Influencers Supposedly those who Influence Others (not to be confused with the flu)
FYI we have all been influencing people our whole life, our kids, our friends, and our co-workers haven’t we? Now it is just more public and frankly doesn’t mean a thing. I guess I am one, but I don’t have to like the term. I didn’t get a badge or a medal, it just happened. The internet says so. Is “influence” the goal, or is sharing what works for me and what I personally love more authentic? I hope so!
Overuse of the Word “On Trend”
Are 22 year old Instagram and Tik Toker’s authorities? Trendy vs. Timeless: the latest crop top vs a beautifully styled blazer—you know who wins. At this stage, we wear what flatters, what feels good, and what doesn’t require a YouTube tutorial to get into. I don’t have the patience for a YouTube video unless I am desperately trying to fix something that is above my pay grade (which is often). I like to keep abreast of trends ( I don’t want to dress like I did in high school), but I don’t want to be a slave to wear whatever the “it girls of the moment are wearing” either. Ditch the bags monogrammed with someone else’s initials and carry one that actually knows your name.
I scooped up this Hannoh Wessel dress (no longer available) on a super sale a few years ago at a local boutique (sadly no longer here) It was splurge, but let’s call it strategic. I’ve worn it on repeat and it’s a perfect example of why I’m committed to buying better and thinking in terms of cost per wear (CPW)—a fancy way of justifying that price tag with math. You can find the no longer available much loved mersea linen travel wrap on eBay here.
EDITORS NOTE: JUST FOUND THE HANNOH DRESS ON SUPER SALE ON THEIR WEBSITE HERE
Get the Hannoh Wessel Look
Cool Girls?
Whenever I hear another “influencer” tout buying something because all of the “cool girls” are wearing it, I cringe. When was the last time you wanted to sit at the “cool girl” table, middle school? Can I surmise even if you did it wasn’t all that great? Was there a secret code or handshake to belong to one of the “cool girls” clubs?
Do We Care?
Not in the way we used to—thankfully. After 50, style becomes a celebration of confidence. With age comes wisdom (and the ability to spot a trend that will be gone by Tuesday). Most of us have graduated from chasing what’s “in” to confidently owning our own personal style in our wardrobes and our home. And let’s be real—that’s way cooler than being “Insta-cool,” isn’t it? Follow people who inspire you, who help you refine your style—not someone trying to reinvent you, or make you “cool”.
And while we’re on the subject of buzzwords, here’s one that really gets under my (tasteful, age-appropriate) skin: “How to be modern.” If you hear that phrase, run—don’t walk—straight to a look you love. No one under 50 says it, and those over 50 think they’re being kind. It’s code for, “You seem a little outdated.” The only way to be “modern” so to speak is to completely embrace your own personal style. We aren’t a herd of cattle. Choose a signature piece that doesn’t scream modern (whatever the heck that is)—but maybe whispers owning your own style instead.
I would have to say the CP Shades Lily skirt (currently coveting the blue) is one of my signature pieces. They currently only have blue on their website but you can find many here on eBay, as well as here on Poshmark. My blazer is by Cara Brown.
Get the Lily Skirt Look
Further Reading on Owning your Own Style:
Here’s How you can Own your Own Style After 50 with Confidence
Older and Bolder-Don’t be Afraid to Add Color to your Wardrobe
How to Rock Sleeveless Styles in your 50’s and Beyond
British Vogue-Alison Bornstein’s Three Word Method
Let’s Hear Your Take
Influencers, Cool Girls, On Trend do we Care? Am I overreacting? Maybe. Am I showing my age? Quite possibly. Perhaps it’s time I embrace the term “influencer” and wear it with pride—rather than cringing every time I hear it. Who knows, maybe I’m the one who needs to grow up and take my place at the cool girls table, if they will let me.
I must agree with these comments – yes you influence us. Your influence has inspired me to trust my own instincts and find what works for me. Your encouragement to embrace our age, style and homes has influenced us. You’ve brought a variety of topics that inspire conversations. I buy more thoughtfully, make selections that bring me happiness rather than what may be the ‘it’ thing at the moment. Your honesty and hard work is so appreciated – look at the community you have created!
Thank you Barb so much. I do my best. This is my job, but it is much more than that because of all you ladies that I learn from every day. We all need to buy more thoughtfully…me included!!
Cindy,
I am not sure what happened to my comment.
We have all been influenced for years, by magazines, friends, etc. That said, the term influencer in this day and age rubs me the wrong way. I sort of feel as if “influencers” are snake oil salesmen. NOT YOU! But many others that I have followed for years.
I find it disingenuous that many are “selling” for instance a purple tea that has helped them loose 25-50lbs and then later you find out they use Ozempic(nothing wrong with that but be honest).
Or the influencers that have huge Amazon hauls and other try on videos and then return all of the items. In fact I listened to an interview with the #1 earner on LTK and she said that she employed 12 people, one was hired just to open packages, steam clothes and then return them.
Or the wealthy, successful influencers from the old days who are sharing AMAZON hauls when on their blog they post their outfits of the day and they are dressed head to toe in designer outfits. It is disingenuous and disheartening.
Influencers in this day and age all look the same, wear the same clothing, carry the same Stanley, live in a version of the same house with the same decor.
You however are different. You are honest and stay true to your values. You acknowledge when something is gifted or sponsored, unlike many but you also seem to only promote things you like, wear and believe in. THAT is rare.
I have been a blogger for a long time and individuality is something that seems to have faded away. That is why I love your blog and always have. You share your collected style and home which by the way is beautiful and unique.
YOU are an influencer for those who are smart enough to know what works for them, their style, their pocketbook and their life.
Keep sharing and continuing to be the fabulous you that you are!
Hi Eliz
I feel exactly the same way about you…you are one in a million..We all need to stay true to ourselves above all else. Of course this is a job, but we don’t want to be “snake oil salesman as you stated”.
Cindy, I’d sit at your table anytime! Great thoughts!
Hi Karen
Wouldn’t it be fun if we all could sit at a table together…ahhh the conversation!
Haha – you’re so right Cindy! I only let myself be influenced in the direction I want to go already, anyway! And I certainly have never cared about being cool – even less so now that I’m older. I’m glad you show your age. If people could only know how much more peaceful and happy they could be if they stopped caring about what’s supposed to be cool. I much prefer “Sharing” to “Influencing,” and that’s why I’m here – to learn, get ideas, and be part of a wonderul supportive community. I love what you share, whatever title anybody gives you! Thanks for doing it and for writing this post!
Hi Barbara
This is a “wonderful, supportive community” and I am so grateful to play a small part in that.
Cindy,
I too hate the term influencer because I think for some “influencers” it is all about the money. I find many “influencers” change their wardrobe, make-up, decor based upon whatever is trending and pays the most commission. Now every house, garden, decor and wardrobe looks the same.
YOU are an influencer to many to buy quality, not quantity. To stick to what works for you, to add collections and antiques to your home, to use what you have and not to spend beyond your means.
There are so many things I love about you but one is that you seem to be the same person now that you were when you started blogging. I also LOVE that you are honest, unlike many influencers about the products that you receive for free or in collaboration. And you do not do “haul” videos and then return all of the clothing.
I personally have never followed the trends, I have always been an old soul and wear “preppy” traditional clothes mixed with comfy cosy clothing. I love dresses and skirts and prefer not to wear jeans or pants because it is hard to find some that find.
I went to Catholic schools and wore uniforms from K-12 so my style reflects that, with the occasional wild print lol.
Hi Eliz
Your first comment did show up! Thanks for weighing in. Your comments are always so well thought out. Maybe one day we will meet and you can teach me to bake ha ha!!
You nailed this topic. With age comes confidence that the best way to look and feel good where fashion is concerned is to be who you are. I’m most comfortable when I wear clothes that are a style I enjoy wearing, whether it’s “trending” or not. I’m happy the internet recognized you as someone most of us look to for ideas where fashion is concerned.
Karen B.
I am 70 years old, have always loved clothes and frankly have never looked to someone to tell me how I should dress. I am short, boobs, but great legs and good arms. I know what works for my body and what I can “show off”! Most of the influencers (not you Cindy) seem to be trying to sell me something. I avoid those.
Blogs are what magazines used to be, something entertaining to peruse. If I get an idea, great. If I dont, I still enjoy looking at them.
I miss magazines.
Hi Becky
Absolutely focus on your assets! Occassionally I will try something “that everyone else is wearing”, and it never works. I have recently resubscribed to some of my favorite magazines. I just wish we had the option of both digital and paper. I often like to share photos with you all and I can’t with the paper version. If I only subscribe to the digital version I forget about it!!
Do We Care? NO
I was so glad when I discovered your blog Cindy. To me, you are the antithesis of an Influencer (which is a good thing). You have embraced ageing (as best as anyone can), radiate happiness and a have a fantastic sense of style women can aspire and relate to. I love your recipes and how you generously feature other female bloggers on your website. As for trends, it is exhausting and expensive trying to keep up with them. In a less than generous spirit on my part, an Influencer conjures up in my mind, a young, rather narcissistic female (usually a WAG) obsessed with luxury items, Botox, fillers (both of which I do, lol), but absolutely no joy whatsoever. Please keep what you are doing Cindy – you rock
Hi Susan
I guess your description of an “influencer” is what haunts me about the word! It is just a word. I need to get over it. I use botox too for the deep lines in the forehead!
I am 64 and do love a certain initial on my clothes ‘RL’ Ralph Lauren to me is a style on to itself. I gravitate to this style deeply in fashion and especially in my home styling. I don’t wear bc it’s Ralph Lauren I wear it bc it has a preppy aesthetic, of which this is my style. I don’t feel influenced, but inspired.
I Sherry I never mind the pony either! It is subtle and tasteful. Ralph Lauren in my opinion is classically American, and I love everything he does!
What a great column and right on point. Thank you! I love color and textiles and the fun I have when creating an outfit. On the one hand, I do care about being “on trend” because it’s still fun to watch fashion evolve. On the other, not so much. Very few “having a moment” items find their way into my closet. I’ve worked over the past five years to reduce my wardrobe from 300 items to 60, and I love it. To keep this control, I operate on a one-in-one-out basis. Another personal guideline which has served me well, is that when I try on a new silhouette (barrel pants or super wide trousers, for example) if my first reaction is to laugh, this is a definite pass for me (though they may look wonderful on someone else). I love your style, and I appreciate your inspiration. You are a world-class “inspirer.”
Hi Susan
Great point! I have yet to buy a pair of those wide leg giant cuff jeans for that very reason. I feel this is a look that will become dated quickly, although they look great on others. I have not succumbed to the barrel leg either, though I think they are very flattering on others.
Speaking of “Influencer,” I have just started listening to a podcast about Elizabeth Taylor called “Elizabeth The First” (narrated by Katy Perry). The first episode talks about how Elizabeth was the “Original Influencer” by standing up for what she believed in and not backing down from important issues. In doing so, she influenced others. You might have a different view of “Influencer” after listening to the podcast. I’m looking forward to the next episode.
Hi Mary
I will have to listen. I have many “influencers” that I admire, that are great friends. I am not sure if they feel the same as I about the actual word influencer and some of the verage that goes along with it.
Food for thought, Cindy. I suppose we are all influenced in some way or other through life. For example on Substack, I subscribe to two chefs who tell stories – the food is almost secondary and it’s genuinely lovely home food that speaks of inner contentment and memories. Are they influencing me? My soul and my taste buds say yes. Then there is the Buddhist psychologist who explains kindness and karma in words I can readily absorb. Is he influencing me? Of course he is.
I subscribe to a Canadian writer who frequently talks about the Rule of Five and the danger of fast fashion. Does she influence me? Yes indeed – I care about my environment, I don’t really want to shop unless I NEED to and she’s the master of reinvention.
I follow an Australian stylist because she does influence me to shake up my colour palette.
I follow you because I love the ease with which you put things together. Do you influence me? In glasses, hats, sneakers, storytelling within the home and the odd denim dress/coat or so, yes.
I hate obvious branding and would prefer plain accessories. That said, my most favourite scarf is a Gucci with G’s emblazoned in squares with shoes, oranges, butterflies, fish and more – the colourway and design spoke to me the minute I saw it and my husband gave it to me for my 70th birthday. So I guess you could say I’m a bit of a hypocrite. But then I’m not trying to influence anyone beyond being calm and hopeful. It’ll do…
Hi Prue
You have such a way with words. We are all influenced hopefullty in a good way as you have so eloquently stated.
I love your style or whatever it’s called. I wear what I like on me…trendy comes and goes. Keep up your great blogging inspiration.
Hi Nancy
Thank you so much for weighing in. I so appreciate you ladies. You “influence” me every day!
I spend a lot of my days helping on my brother’s farm in Indiana and taking care of my mother who is over 100 years old. Neither of these occupations require “on trend” or “cool” apparel, I don’t need an influencer to figure out how to dress for these occasions. But I do have a place that I call home that I want to look comfortable and inviting to me, my friends and family and I want to be able to show a side of me on occasion that lets people know that I am a little more complicated and maybe a little more interesting than it sometimes looks on the surface. I love knowing that there are other people with different lives and styles and they do influence me to stay creative when developing my own style. It’s encouraging to see that I can stretch a little bit at home and in my clothing choices. Some of that includes keeping the old stuff and being a little creative when buying new. I look forward to reading your columns and those of others like you. Maybe more than an influencer you’re an encourager?? Is that a word?
Hi Nancy
You know I am a fellow hoosier, right? You made my day. I will choose encourager any day of the week. Bravo to you for taking care of your 100 year old mom. I have been there many times over. My dad made it to 95 and it was a pleasure caring for him.
Inspiring, creative and so resourceful….those are the reason you influence!
I always love your honesty (still marveling at your courage in posting about your facelift!). Your fashion posts often show creative ways to include various things in your outfit from styling resale expensive clothing to wearing a table runner. I LOVE that!
You give us a plethora of ideas to inspire all of us to get brave and creative in our own style. My only wish is that I had more social engagements that required all my creative wardrobe ideas instead of yoga pants! 🤣
Hi Old Friend!
I live in yoga pants most days as well!! Thank you for your kind comment!
I love your style so yes, you do influence me but in a good way – as with a good friend who will be honest about what looks terrific on you and what you ought to say “no” to. I wish I could find someone with style similar to yours who lives in a cold climate. While I love almost all of the clothes you wear, many of them just won’t work in my colder northern Idaho climate. I did sort-of-copy one of your billowy skirt ideas this last winter and just added tights and boots under it – turned out pretty cute. Keep your “influence” coming!
Hi Cynthia
I wear tights and boots here in the winter. It gets pretty chilly even though we do not get any snow. It just doesn’t last long…jan-march!
I love your blog and feel that we would be friends IRL but I bet all your readers feel that way. My colors and style preferences are quite different than yours ( colorful boho girl here) and yet I always get inspiration from what you share. Thank you!
Hi Penelope
We would be friends! I actually do like color…check out my colorful post that I linked to. I just don’t wear a lot of pattern, and I prefer a neutral palette while traveling for simplicity!
While I believe that you do influence us, it is more that you show us how to put together an outfit that will look good together, something I am not the best at. And you show how to wear, like your white dress above, something in SO many different ways. I love your style.
Hi Karen
Thank you…I guess I should not dislike the word…it always makes me think of a used car salesman!!
I follow your blog with enthusiasm because of your unique personal style , especially with your use of accessories, which are always such a great addition to what you wear…so I suppose you “influence” me, Cindy, in such a positive way. I put together outfits that speak to my shape and style that I see on your blog.
As for company names on clothing… I have a couple of Fossil handbags, because I love the style and fact that they are made of leather, and the key is their logo. Recently , in the consignment shop where I bring clothing and go away with some cash , I spied a small olive green Fossil cross body bag. On the reverse were stamped, discreetly in gold letters, “SW”… I bought it immediately, not just due to the previous description, but SW are the initials of my Mum! Meant to be.
Just back from NL and Belgium, and finding that it’s taking me a bit longer to get up to speed this time. But that’s why a short afternoon nap is helpful. Taking it all in stride in my mid 70’s …and realizing the cataract surgeries definitely required, and booked , before I left. A much clearer vision soon. What with a left hearing aid and sore feet from walking for hours over cobblestones, I am definitely showing signs of wear and tear ! Pilates is on my calendar for sure!
I met a blogger in Haarlem, who I also follow enthusiastically and enjoy her take on style.
“ No Fear of Fashion” might be the first clue about Greetje. We got along very well over the two days I visited Haarlem , exploring the car free “Golden” shopping streets together. On March 29, after I left for the Uniworld river cruise, she featured , among other items, our enjoyable visit. Halfway through there is a photo of me enjoying our coffee and cake at Metzo ( must have cake!) and you might understand why your style appeals to me, Cindy. Accessories are always packed for my travels…especially scarves. I love locally sourced pieces , from here on Vancouver Island, including the necklace I found for Greetje at a local art gallery . Keep on doing what you do so well, Cindy.
Hi Cath!
I follow Greetje and I am so glad you got to meet her! I need to feature her on Ageless Style. I will contact her! Now I know the sweet face behind the kind voice!! So good to see you in person!
Thanks for that, Cindy.❤️ You know, maybe in a few years, when I am looking southward for a trip that no longer involves 9+ hour flights, and hoping to visiting parts of California again, perhaps we can also meet up in person. Wouldn’t that be fun ! And you could show me your favourite places around where you live. In the meantime, we must take good care of ourselves…living our best lives…in our own unique ways. Cheers!
Hi Cath!
I would love that!
Reimagine your classics. I’ll take that Pendleton!
Hello Cindy – Enjoyed your post today.
In one of your photos you are wearing a light blue linen top with side ties over a white skirt. Can you let me know whose top? It’s great.
Thanks again for doing what you do:)
Hi Kellie
It is linked below in the widget titled get the hannoh wessel look. If you click on the arrows it will take you there. It is Eileen Fisher but it only comes in white now. I love that top..it is so versitile!
Just must comment. Love your blog. Like others have stated here, you enlighten and inspire. My first read in the morning. You give me valuable guidance. But, what is the saying, a rose by any other name? Thank you
I just finished a closet clean-out and have to say, 100% of what I donated or am selling was because some influencer influenced me. I needed to take a hard look at who I am and what I like before allowing myself to be influenced again. Lesson hopefully learned!
PS. You don’t explicitly mention it, but I associate influencers with people who are being paid to market certain items. It’s a job. Influencers are sales associates, several generations removed. There’s nothing wrong with it, as long as we understand it’s just marketing by another name.
Bette, you are spot on! When an “influencer” shills for Amazon, run!
Hi Liz
We all have many options on where to spend our money fortunately.
Hi Bette
This blog started out as a hobby but evolved to a “job” that I love. I have been blogging since 2012 or before. It is not possible to “blog” anymore without being paid. I work 12 hour days 5 days a week to produce content for three blog posts. A great deal of that time is spent researching topics.That may be what sets my blog apart? At some point, I will no longer be willing to spend that amount of time. That is why so many people have given up blogging to just “influence” on social channels. All of the women I admire in this business work very hard and are extremely dedicated to their audience.
I must post. I am always flattered when someone tells me I am classy. I believe that you should wear what you love , as long as it’s classy. For instance a mini skirt on an older women no, unless stylish with leggings or a low cut shirt on an older women with the girls half showing, ridiculous, even somewhat on younger. You can look good but Classy at any age. Not trashy or always following the so called trends, which go away and come back most of time, anyway. I’ve always loved fashion and design but worrying about trends and social media direction can be a downer and life is to short. Just my two cents!
I don’t think of you as my influencer. You are an inspirer! No one can “influence” me to buy something I can’t afford, or wear a style or color that I don’t like. On the other hand, you regularly serve as “inspiration” to combine colors in new ways, avoid being invisible after 60, and embrace unapologetically my own sense of self. I look forward to hearing from you every morning
My favorite compliment came from a sweet, much younger Cuban coworker. She said in her pretty accent, “You are fashion, but not ridiculous.” I like to look current, vs trendy, which might only be a distinction to me, wearing only what I think suits me and makes me feel good.
After realizing my parents had aged and that I was next, I remember thinking that I needed to keep in mind that just because that Pendleton Wool still looked nice, it might need to be retired. Ageism is real. Maybe being somewhat conscious of the times (and trends,) is helpful if you don’t want to be dismissed as women of a certain age commonly are.
I am absolutely influenced by you, but what looks good on you isn’t usually right for my body type. I tend to love the accessories and adapt the clothing in a way that works for me. Influenced? Inspired? Whatever you call it, thanks for helping me feel classy, current, and excited to get dressed.
I agree that ageism is real and incorporating trends telegraphs that you are cognizant of societal and cultural shifts and not stuck in the past. I sure wouldn’t wear teenage-trendy outfits, but I like to incorporate a few trendy items into my mostly classic wardrobe. My nods to trends have been Sambas with a dress, retiring my skinny jeans, little huggie hoops, and a delicate gold necklace, which I was delighted to bring out of retirement.
What I like about (some) influencers is their ability to make me see things new ways. I’d say these are the real tastemakers who are helping to drive trends, not just recirculate them. I so agree, Cindy, that there’s a lot of ick in the way many influencers promote thoughtless consumption. I respect that you lean into your classics and promote better over more.
Hi Cindy,
I confess that outside influences swayed me in my younger years until I embraced my body type and found my personal style. These days, when I want to refresh my wardrobe, I look for posts that focus on current market trends and feature ladies with similar tastes.
Rosemary
“On trend” – the idea drives me crazy! Would much rather purchase a beautiful, well tailored piece that fits and flatters my body than the latest “trend”. Was in Banana Republic (long a go-to for me) the other day, and all the tops were way too short. And, Nordstrom has gone so far into trendiness that it is increasingly hard to find gorgeous, classic pieces – sad! I don’t want to dress like I did in high school either, but I want to find a new twist on quality items that fit well, flatter and last for seasons.
Hello
I enjoyed your post. Although I like to be aware of what is in style I never want to be a slave to the current trends. Case in point yesterday I was buying jeans, and although wide leg are in they do nothing for me so I purchased what suits my shape. I love your posts and what I do like is that you do”inspire me and help me to refine my style” . For that I thankyou.
Keep up the great work.
What an enjoyable and thought provoking post! Influencer is a term that carries a potential amount of negativity. There are other unpleasant connotations as well plus no small amount of coercion to buy a particular product. Who doesn’t remember the “cool girls” at school? Some were nice, but they were the exception and most of them didn’t like each other all that much. The cachet of being part of the “in crowd” was far more important and bound them together vs. genuine friendship so why would we listen to their present day counterparts? Have to laugh at these trend setters that insist that an article of clothing or type of home decor will determine one’s happiness and/or place in the world. The reality is that the style du jour is ephemeral and quickly becomes as passe as a fluorescent green mini skirt. I prefer to think of you as an inspirer. You have generously shared your curated sense of style, how it evolved, and sources if we are interested in procuring an item without the heavy handed pressure. I personally have been inspired by your confidence and affirmations of how important it is to be comfortable in one’s skin. Authenticity is key. “Keep one’s own counsel”, is a personal motto and perfect for this time in our lives. So, Thank you for this and for your many posts on this topic. Always enjoyable and am looking forward to your next post.
Hi Kim
The word inspirer is so much more pleasant isn’t it? I love the term “keep ones own counsel”. I hope you won’t mind if I coin it now and again, that is a keeper.
Would be pleased and honored if you did so. Have enjoyed your blog on so many levels for several years and am pleased to contribute in some small way. While the expression of keeping one’s own counsel is not of my own invention, it’s timeless and has brought me no small amount of comfort. Am reminded of a friend who told his teen-aged daughter to “create your own brand of cool” when facing peer pressure. Same sentiment 🙂 Am enjoying this phase of my life but wish I’d had this level of ease and self acceptance as a young woman. Isn’t it liberating to separate the dross from life and treasure the gold, or silver in our case?
I am going to tell Summer to “create her own brand of cool” love that!!
The current social media term I find completely creepy is “consuming my feed.” Yikes, I can feel the tentacles of influencers and advertisers massaging my mind.
Hi Nancy
Oh dear that is another bad one, isn’t it? Haul is another I am not very fond of either.
I go sleeveless and I am 78. I also wear swimsuits, cute coverups and shorts. We live in a hot climate in Northern California…. So it is imperative that we wear warm weather clothing. I do use styles that aren’t too short or skin baring. I absolutely love your style. Often I don’t go for high prices, but I will try to find your style in my price range. Thank you or giving me ideas on food, clothes and home decorating!!!
Hi Julie
Do you buy on eBay and other resale sites? I highly recommend it. The price points are scary and I fear they will get even scarier… Thank you for your kind words…
Influence, inspire = good positive words. You do inspire and inspired women with self confidence are a powerful bunch.
Keep influencing and inspiring! We all appreciate it and YOU
I enjoyed a good chuckle several times while reading this! But, my favorite statement has to be, “At this stage, we wear what flatters, what feels good, and what doesn’t require a YouTube tutorial to get into.” I’m 63 & so happy when I’m comfortable with my own chosen, intentional style & lifestyle that feels right for my life. Glad I’ve finally gotten here, although I’m always open to a tweak here or there when appropriate, lol!
Hi Gayle
It has taken me years to be comfortable in my own skin, and it is always a work in progress!!
Everything has to have a term now. I think influencer suggests that we don’t have our own ideas so someone must tell us what to wear, think, believe. No thanks. But I do like to see and hear other people’s take on things.
I love seeing your clothing and decor ideas though at 5’9” and living in The Great White North lots of it isn’t really pertinent for me.
Hi Pat
Thanks for weighing in..I try to feature brands that carry talls. I will try and focus more on that moving forward…Why do mens pants come in multiple lengths and womens don’t? I have never understood that one.
You nailed it Cindy. I was taught growing up – and tried to teach my children to not do it just because everyone else was doing it. Remember the ole analogy of if ‘everyone jumped off a bridge would you do it too’?! This whole ‘cool girl’, ‘vibey’ ,’relevant’ phrases need to stop! Why on earth would we want to be termed ‘relevant’ because we wore some particular clothes?? Would that mean we were ‘not relevant’ if we didn’t wear them???
We can do better! We should do better. This is nothing more than the tacky comments we heard in middle school dressed up on adult women.
This was your best column you have ever written. Please consider sitting down with a camera and filming it for Youtube.
Thank you Cindy for being the adult in the room on this one.
Hi JaLea
My daughter is fiercely independent, and I admire that so much in her. She never felt the need to be in the “cool group” (but managed to do so), but rather sought out those who were independent and interesting. I think little Summer has that same trait. I am glad you brought up relevant that is another phrase I don’t care for…the only way to remain “relevant” is to be authentic in my opinion.
I find that I am “influenced” by the women you showcase who possess a style that is original to them: a bit quirky, a bit classic, but always genuine. To me, a child of the sixties, that kind of style says, “I have watched it all come and go, and I have kept the best that feels right for me, putting my own spin on it along the way.” It is more than having clothes-sense style–it shows an independence of spirit and the joy of presenting one’s self as truly authentic. I believe you certainly fit into that envied category!
Hi Debbie
Love “it shows an independence of spirit and the joy of presenting one’s self as truly authentic”, so much more genuine and interesting than wearing what everyone is wearing…
I always look forward to your blog. It’s informative and inspirational.
Hi Valerie
Thank you so much!!
Your best column yet! Thanks for writing it. You continue to inspire and bring joy.
Thank you for an enlightening post!
Do you wear a slip with the Lily skirt? I see it’s not lined. Is the waist on the tight side where you notice it being uncomfortable at the end of the day?
I also dislike the “influencer” label. I refer to you and the others I follow as “my blogger lady”, lol!
Hi Julie
The white and lighter colors are lined only to the knee. I am wearing an XS, I could actually probably wear a small since I have gained weight. Normally they are not tight at the waist on me! The lily skirt is one of the most comfortable items in my wardrobe. I have several in the cotton silk (I am sure they will be on the website soon) and several in the linen. They are both cool and comfortable in the Summer.
I must admit, I don’t like the term “influencer” either. But you sure do influence us, so you must be one!
The interesting thing to me, is that that term is usually reserved for Instagram or other social media apps. But I feel like your influence (0ver me anyway), is based here on your blog. And it works because it’s completely genuine. You’re not just trying to sell stuff – you’re showing us what you love and how to use/wear it. My blogging goals as well.
Not sure if your huge following migrated from the blog to Instagram, or the other way around, but whatever you have become is really working! It’s to all of our benefit and it’s because you are truly authentic. Bravo!
And you are never “trendy” and always “cool”. ❤️
PS – you’re right – love that blue CP Shades skirt….. 😍
Hi Gray
Thank you so much friend, love you! You are absolutely right those of us that are still blogging, our following mainly comes from our blogs. Most of my followers on IG are unique to IG, as are those on Pinterest. They are all different “animals” so to speak. Many of the newer influencers do not have blogs (it is too much work!). I love my community here too much to ever give it up. It is much more personal than IG.
Ha – that was how I feel some days – but I like to see what is “current”. Then I can laugh about it, think about it, and sometimes buy. But mostly I just know what I like and what I can afford. You always look great – love the long skirts (which are never long enough for me – 5’8″). And your scarves are beautiful. You are an influencer, even if you don’t want to be!
Hi TJ
Your comment made my day! You know your own style and you own it!!
You have a distinct style and I love it on you💕
Hi Nancy
Thank you so much. Sometimes I have to remind myself that certain looks (patterns for the most part, ruffles, and bows) work for others but not on me. I need to stay in my lane.
I wholeheartedly agree with you. I love the idea of building a wardrobe that suits me no matter what the season or what is currently trendy. If I followed the trendy looks I think I would always be searching for the next “it” thing.
Hi Robin
With age comes knowledge & wisdom…