For Us Women in Our 30s: Navigating the Ever-Changing
Landscape of Style Eras
Written by: Marina Townsend
One thing that seems to be a common opinion, aside from the typical life expectations that come with turning 30, is the perception of how we should dress. Apparently, turning 30 means entering a realm of maturity endorsed by an Olivia Pope-like attire. This entails ditching crop tops in favour of basic vests, well-tailored separates, monochrome outfits, and clean, simple nails to complement that higher-priced bag, made from the same luxurious leather as the bags already in your collection.
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Of course, entertainers living in their 30s are the exception to this rule. Take Rihanna, for example; she dresses based on who she is and how she feels, which doesn't come down to two numbers combined, but how far different numbers go in her bank account. Her fashion choices revolve around what she sees as fashionably correct, from statement outfits to everyday attire. The judgment is predominantly positive, but there is some negativity. Nevertheless, Rihanna remains free to explore her choices for what it means to be 35 and fashionably free.
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The fashion expectations for us regular folks are influenced by the societal notions that come with marriage, kids, and a solidified career choice in the public sector. The prevailing opinion is that a person should dress as described above. We can occasionally push the boundaries and add some spice for special occasions, but in our daily lives, we tend to conform to what is dictated to us.
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Being a 30-something woman, like all age groups, comes with both aggressive and subtle rules. Fashion is something that some might say isn't important, while others insist on adhering to specific rules on either end of the spectrum. However, we all know that anyone who looks well-kept, from their hair strands to their choice of footwear, is judged accordingly. This battle of old and new money is now interpreted through silhouettes, colour tones, and fabric choices, and being 30-something means we should be accomplished in that realm. So, how do we attain a standard set by society?
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The answer is simple: we don't! Our personal style naturally evolves with age, experience, salary, the latest trends, and the extra pounds lost or gained. Let's be honest, most of us in our 30s still look and feel around 25, especially those with that shining melanin. Our careers may progress, and we may be fully immersed in adult life, but the way we dress is primarily based on how we feel first and foremost.
Much like the typical attire of an oversized hoodie or sweatpants, oversized everything provides comfort on a rainy day, during that time of the month, while running errands, or when lounging. Think of it as a costume; you can wear whatever you want to present to the world who you are or who you choose to be that day.
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You're a 30-something woman navigating through life the best way you can, with expectations flying in from society and internal and external thoughts intruding on your daily choices. Have fun with clothing, experiment, evaluate, and find your comfort zone. Also, explore your out-of-the-box zone, and then find the middle ground. There, you have it—the three variations of your chosen style. You can wear each as separate entities or combine them to showcase the different versions of yourself. Whatever you choose, focus on what makes you tick, and no one else."