You know how sometimes people say you should “dress your age”? Like, there are certain clothes that are only for younger people, or only for older people.
For me, as a transgender woman in my mid 60’s, I think it’s way more important to dress what you’re *able* to wear and what makes you feel good, rather than just following some age rule. It’s all about what makes you feel confident and truly yourself.
When you think about “dressing your age,” it can feel pretty limiting. People change a lot as they get older, right? The person you were in your twenties isn’t the same as who you are in your forties.
So, your clothes should change with you, but not because a calendar tells you to. It should be because your style evolves, or your body changes, or you just feel like trying something new. What really matters is feeling good and confident in what you put on. If you feel good, it totally shows, no matter how old you are.
For me, being a transgender woman, knowing my body type is super important when I pick out clothes. It’s like, some clothes just make you feel amazing because they highlight the parts of your body you love, while others might make you feel a bit off. Feminine clothes often have a way of draping and flowing that can really make certain features stand out.
For example, if I love my hips, a skirt that flows nicely can really make them pop. Or, if I have broader shoulders, a loose linen shirt that’s partly open can look really good and emphasize my neckline. Maybe longer sleeves to hide “the muscles”?
It’s all about finding what makes *my* body feel comfortable and confident, and helps me feel less dysphoric. Sometimes, even getting clothes tailored can make a huge difference, making them fit just right.
Personally, I usually stay away from busy patterns and go for solid colors. Not always though. Sometimes that dress just speaks to me! Gotta have it!!
It’s not just about the fit, though. Colors, fabrics, and even patterns play a big role too. Some colors can make you feel vibrant and bold, while others might be more subtle. Feminine clothing can often be really “out there” and memorable, using bright colors or interesting patterns.
You learn what works for you – what colors make your skin glow, or what fabrics feel nice against your skin and drape well. It’s like a puzzle, putting together pieces that make you feel like the best version of yourself. It’s not about what some fashion rulebook says for a certain age, but what makes *you* feel beautiful and authentic.
So, when it comes down to it, I truly believe that dressing what you’re able to wear – focusing on your body type, comfort, and what makes you feel confident – is much more important than trying to “dress your age.”
Fashion is a personal journey, especially for trans people. It’s about finding your own style, expressing who you are, and feeling amazing in your own skin.
When you wear clothes that truly fit you and make you feel good, that confidence shines through, and that’s the best style statement you can make.
Dr. Gwen Patrone
One Response
gwen,
I feel this is the wonderful part of being transgender we are free to express ourselves in a way we could never experience before .OK I’m in my 70s now and I might be a grandparent but no way am I going to dress like an old grandma , we can still have style and enjoy what we wear . I love bright colours but there are fashionable ones and trashy ones , that is the true art of presenting as a woman . I find dressing is often about moods and that reflects in what I buy , I try and not make mistakes but we must accept most women do at times . Something might be a little too tight or perhaps shorter than we thought but again those problems can be ironed out with the right accessories , a short dress or skirt is more acceptable in opaque tights and possibly knee length boots . A low neckline that shows too many wrinkles can be hidden with a pretty scarf or a standout necklace . I love the change of seasons as we can pull out things afresh and enjoy wearing them again , beating the heat or cold is fun with the right choices , in that way wardrobes can survive many seasons without looking tired or dated . How many times have we pulled out something from the back of the wardrobe and people compliment how great it looks ? In that respect I tend not to buy too fashionable , my budget is important to me I like to get value out of my clothes . I also never shy away from shopping in UK charity shops I have lovely items hanging in my wardrobe which I could never have afforded when new , Italian leather boots , cashmire winter coats , silk and leather skirts .
To a point we must question how we dress for our age and the change in our body shape but more important we must think what is appropriate , perhaps I still overdress slighlty but after a while that is my accepted style , sometimes I’m the only one wearing a skirt or dress in my various groups but I realise now it doesn’t go unnoticed , women sometimes get lazy with dressing and makeup , I feel I give them a nudge to their femininity , it’s noticable how it puts a smile on their faces for feeling good .