As I have transitioned into my 40s, I find myself amidst a sea of teenagers and young adults, and I am increasingly exasperated by the unsolicited advice from millennials and Gen Z online about how I should conduct myself.
Recently, I encountered yet another article titled “Things Women Should Avoid After Turning 30,” which included the absurd suggestion to stop wearing large hoop earrings. My immediate reaction was to dismiss it with a strong gesture. Seriously, who are you to tell me what I can wear? My affection for hoop earrings has been longstanding, and I just acquired a stunning pair of oversized silver hoops. My inner free spirit thrives on the idea of wearing them, alongside bangles that would make any gypsy proud.
Yet, here comes a young adult who thinks they have the authority to dictate my fashion choices because I’ve reached a certain age? Absolutely not. I’m done listening to the opinions of those who have yet to experience the full spectrum of life.
In truth, it is perhaps because I am “older” that I have begun to shed societal expectations regarding what I can or cannot wear. I embraced body art for the first time at 40, and this year, I dyed my hair a vibrant teal. It looks fabulous. My most cherished footwear? My Doc Martens boots. I challenge anyone younger than my favorite pair of undergarments to tell me I can no longer wear them.
If there’s one thing women should avoid past the age of 30, it’s allowing others to dictate their choices. We need to resist the societal pressures imposed by those who have yet to navigate life’s complexities. How can we encourage our daughters to pursue their dreams if we succumb to the whims of internet “experts” telling us we shouldn’t wear hoop earrings after we hit 30?
I categorically reject any standards that dictate how women over 30 should dress, behave, or express themselves. I was never one to conform to peer pressure, not in my younger years, and certainly not now.
Listen, young ones, the reality is this: You’re simply too inexperienced to tell me how to live my life. Survive the trials of adulthood, and then you can set your own rules. Meanwhile, I’ll continue to wear any skirt I choose paired with my beloved Converse sneakers.
Interestingly, the individuals who often compliment my teal hair the most? Young women under 30. Even they recognize the absurdity of the expectations being imposed on us.
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In summary, age should never dictate one’s self-expression. We must encourage individuality and reject the limitations imposed by the less experienced. Embrace who you are, regardless of societal expectations.
Keyphrase: Age and Self-Expression
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