Style Lessons From a 92-Year-Old Woman
11 Style Lessons I Learned From My 92-Year-Old Neighbor
Every so often, my mom will call me over to the kitchen window in our second-story apartment. "Quick," she'll yell in a slightly hushed way, as if someone else might hear her. "You need to see what Mary's wearing!"
Mary is our neighbor who lives across the street, and while she may be 92, she's quite possibly one of the most stylish people I know. Whenever I see her, she's usually dressed in bright tailored slacks, a patterned blazer, standout accessories, and — my personal favorite — kitten heels. And that's just what she wears to garden.
So when the topic of interviewing an older, wiser woman for fashion advice came up in a meeting, I knew just who to call.
I entered Mary's apartment bright and early on a Sunday morning — the only free slot in her busy schedule — and immediately knew she had tons to share. Outfits for the week hung on a door, and every closet was packed to the max with clothes. With my phone set to record, we began. Read on for all the helpful style tips Mary had to share, as I hope to end up exactly like her.
1 Always Have Something Dressy in Your Closet
Product Credit: Nasty Gal dress, Rue Gembon earrings, Edie Parker bag, Banana Republic heels
2 And Definitely Don't Be Afraid to Splurge
Product Credit: Alice + Olivia by Stacey Bendet dress, Theory bag, Gorjana bracelet, Maya Brenner rings
3 Planning Out Your Outfits Is Helpful — but Not Necessary
4 You Should Clean Out Your Closet Often
5 And Get Rid of Clothes That Don't Fit
6 Donate Your Clothes
7 But Not Everything
8 Mary's Opinion on Flared Jeans
Product Credit: Elizabeth and James top, SCHOEN by YU bottom, Valentino shoes, Céline sunglasses
9 Mary's Opinion on Bandanas
10 Mary's Opinion on Celebrity Style
