Age is Just a Number: Embracing Fashion and Style at 70

Editor’s Note: This excerpt is taken from Lyn Slater’s book “How to Be Old: Lessons in Living Boldly from the Accidental Icon” with permission from Plume, an imprint of Penguin Random House, LLC. Copyright © 2024 by Lyn Slater.

In 2019, I received an email from a group of Parsons Fashion Design and Society MFA students. They were tasked with creating a collection of clothing for seniors as part of their course, which focuses on designing for disabled, plus-size, transgender, and aging individuals. The students were split into four teams, each responsible for finding a muse/collaborator within their assigned category to ensure thorough research and a meaningful outcome. They reached out to me for an interview, hoping I could be their muse.

The students visited senior centers to ask older people about their clothing preferences. The responses mainly focused on fit, comfort, and hiding signs of aging, which was a bit disheartening for the students. They were hoping for a more inspiring aesthetic for old age, aiming to make it a high fashion statement rather than just functional. (I wonder if these stylish young individuals want to create clothes they can envision themselves wearing in their golden years.) However, as we discuss the personal journey of aging, cherished memories, and the desire to reflect them through clothing, the students become more enthusiastic and engaged. Working closely with their mentors, we embark on our collaborative project.

In her memoir, Lyn Slater addresses "how to live boldly at any age," in appearance, attitude and aesthetic.

In her memoir, Lyn Slater addresses "how to live boldly at any age," in appearance, attitude and aesthetic.

Courtesy Calvin Lom/Penguin Random House

I start by selecting pieces from my wardrobe that have special significance to me. For example, the sleeveless A-line dress with pastel green and purple flowers that I wore on the day I received my PhD, or the Yohji Yamamoto suit I wore on my first day as a professor. There's also an oversized burnt-orange coat that makes me feel warm and safe, and a paisley Indian print dress from the 1970s that I wear to the beach. The colors have faded and the fabric is almost transparent from years of wear.

We have many conversations about the memories associated with these pieces of clothing from different stages of my life. We talk about how what I wear now or want to wear can bring back memories from different times. My young friends are interested in how I gained the confidence to dress as I please, to use clothing as a way to share my personal stories, and to view style as something that is unique to each individual.

Andria Lo

I shared with them a story about walking around Harlem with my partner, Calvin, and stumbling upon the last Kangol hat store in the world. Even though I'm not usually a hat person, I used to wear a Kangol beret backwards with overalls and a velvet shirt featuring Our Lady of Guadalupe back in the early 1990s. This was during a time when I was exploring my creative side after leaving my marriage and approaching my 40s. The shirt was a tribute to my admiration for Frida Kahlo, inspired by a trip to Mexico.

Lyn Slater.

When I walked into that store, I was instantly transported back to that time. The music playing reminded me of the galleries I visited, the classes I attended, and the books I read. I always tell my students that it's not about wearing the exact same clothes from the past, but about choosing outfits that bring back those feelings and memories. Our personal style is a reflection of our individual identities and can capture a specific moment in time. Each piece of clothing or accessory holds its own unique history, serving as a tool to share a story that is as diverse as the people who wear it.

The students and I often discuss the concept of aging. Every week, I come in for a fitting of their designs, and the tutors provide feedback. This usually leads to a conversation about how our bodies change as we get older.

During these sessions, the tutors and I noticed that stereotypes and preconceived ideas about old age often creep into the designs. This gave us the chance to challenge these assumptions. For instance, the students' initial designs would completely cover me, not considering that I might still be a sexual being. Typically, clothing for older adults is designed to hide their aging bodies. However, after our discussion, the textiles became more see-through while still maintaining respectfulness.

Lyn Slater walks the runway at the Just In Case fashion show on September 10, 2017 in New York City.

Here are some fascinating photo illustrations featuring images from different sources like CNN, Getty Images, Gamma-Rapho, AP, and Shutterstock. Each image tells a unique story and captures a moment in time that is worth exploring. Let's take a closer look at these captivating visuals.

Fashion icons of the 20th century were known for their stylish and innovative clothing choices. However, when it comes to designing garments for older individuals, there is often a disconnect between what is considered modern and representative. This is because many clothing designers fail to take into consideration the internal experiences of older people and the reality of their aging bodies.

As individuals age, they may still feel youthful and engaged, despite the physical changes that come with getting older. Therefore, it is important for clothing designers to create garments that cater to the needs and preferences of older individuals, while also ensuring that they are stylish and reflective of their personal style. By acknowledging and embracing the diversity of aging bodies, designers can create fashion that is not only fashionable but also inclusive and empowering for older individuals.

This leads to the creation of unique custom textiles, resulting in modern clothing that reflects my sensuality and rebellious nature. Students design a dress with crocheted Paisley prints in oranges and earth tones, a black coat with layers of grey tones and textures, and pants with a tunic featuring green and purple flowers in a spider web knit. These pieces transform memories and aging into something fresh and contemporary, rather than just looking back on a long life.

Lyn Slater walks the runway at the Just In Case fashion show on September 10, 2017 in New York City.

Yuchen Liao/Getty Images \

Each outfit created told a story of a life, revealing secrets about aging gracefully.

For the students, learning about identity development and challenging society's idea of the "perfect" body were valuable lessons. Through their designs, they celebrated memories and meanings, viewing aging as a positive journey to embrace.

The students' designed clothes made me feel understood. It was a great experience working with younger people and solving the problem together. This reminded me of the importance of intergenerational collaboration, deep listening, and mutual respect. Just think, if we can work together so creatively on various issues we face today, we could potentially change the way we perceive age.

Editor's P/S:

The article delves into the intersection of aging, fashion, and personal identity. It highlights the importance of recognizing the unique experiences and preferences of older individuals in the design of clothing that not only meets their functional needs but also reflects their individuality and spirit. The collaboration between Lyn Slater and Parsons students challenges age-related stereotypes and showcases how clothing can be a powerful tool for self-expression and storytelling. By fostering intergenerational dialogue and embracing the diverse realities of aging, designers can create fashion that empowers and celebrates the beauty of all stages of life.

Furthermore, the article emphasizes the transformative power of personal style in reflecting one's journey and memories. Clothing becomes a tangible representation of our past experiences and aspirations, allowing us to share our stories with others. By embracing the narratives embedded within our garments, we can create a fashion landscape that is inclusive and meaningful for individuals of all ages. The students' designs for Lyn Slater not only showcased her unique style but also provided a glimpse into the complexities and richness of her life story, challenging conventional notions of aging and inspiring a more vibrant and multifaceted representation of the elderly in the fashion world.