A question of age
As I prepare to bid farewell to my 50s, I find myself reflecting on the journey that has brought me to this moment. Fasten your seatbelts; I’m about to embark on a whirlwind of changes, emotions, and revelations as I step into this significant year that culminates in a milestone I never thought would arrive so quickly—60.
The next 12 months will fly by in the blink of an eye. As I prepare to bid farewell to my fifties, I can't help but reflect on this decade. It hasn’t been the smoothest journey; it has been defined by significant loss—loss in my career and the heartbreak of saying goodbye to so many. While there are a few shining moments and achievements to cherish, I recall waking up in Paris on my 50th birthday, filled with dreams and hopes for more.
Life’s simple pleasures—enjoying a rich coffee, relishing a decadent sundae, laughing with friends, or strolling through autumn leaves—become more meaningful as time passes. With each passing year, our priorities shift, and our reflections change, marked by strands of grey and the need to lean in to hear. Yet this journey is also defined by how others perceive us. When someone offers me a seat on the bus or refers to me as "the old lady upstairs," I’m reminded that these moments are part of life’s beautiful cycle.
The joy of shopping is no longer a priority for me; I simply have no room left in my closet. While I still enjoy treating myself and keeping up with trends, the days of wearing 4-inch heels and staying out until the early hours are long gone. I continue to visit Portobello Market every week, but it’s filled with young people, and I feel invisible, as if I'm no longer seen as a potential buyer. Fortunately, there’s always Selfridges, which treats me like an older client.
I find immense joy in blogging and discovering new brands, as it brings a profound sense of purpose to my life. With an unwavering curiosity, I continue to engage with the world around me, although I do tend to be selective in my choices. I've come to appreciate the importance of valuing myself and prioritising my health, tuning into my body's needs, and embracing the art of slowing down.
As I’ve grown older, I’ve realised that I can be more self-indulgent and selfish with my time. I know what I want and what I like, and this applies to my wardrobe as well. I’ve let go of ill-fitting outfits and no longer chase after fleeting fashion trends. Instead, I’ve chosen to keep things simple, classy, and elegant.
The day after my 59th birthday, I find myself sitting alone, savouring the moment as I wait for my coffee. With no particular plans in mind, I have only a magazine I’m excited to dive into and an old noir film that begins at 2 PM to look forward to. Free from the distractions of my phone or iPad, I relish the peace of this quiet moment, sipping my coffee slowly. Perhaps I’ll indulge in a chocolate muffin as well—what the heck.
Life is too short