Everyone has a viewpoint, yet we often overlook that it’s sometimes better to keep it to ourselves.
A 76-year-old fashion influencer recently posted a picture of herself in a sleeveless midi dress, and while the comments section was bustling, not all feedback was positive.
“This isn’t the first time I’ve faced this, but this instance caught me off guard,” Candace Cima shared with TODAY. “People cling to such outdated ideas about what’s suitable for different ages in fashion, and that really needs to evolve.”
Cima, who is a grandmother to 11 grandchildren, showcased a brown knit sleeveless dress along with a sweater.
While many praised the pro-aging influencer’s fashion sense, a significant number of commenters chose to criticize her appearance.
“From the side and back, this dress doesn’t do you any favors. A form-fitting style below the waist isn’t ideal for you. Embrace all the wonderful aspects of your body!” one individual shared on Facebook.
“I prefer the sweater; the dress isn’t my favorite,” another person remarked.
“It’s not flattering whatsoever. I would never wear it by itself. I’m too old to be revealing that much skin,” another user boldly expressed.
“Having wrinkled skin at 76 is completely normal, and I embrace it,” Cima expressed. “At times, I feel like saying, ‘Should I hide my face as well, just because I have wrinkles there?’”
Cima launched her fashion blog in 2019 after recognizing a gap for older women in the industry.
“I noticed a chance to discuss how to dress as we age. Women have been taught to believe they should hide their bodies, just like their mothers and grandmothers did.”
“It’s time to change our perspective on age. We shouldn’t feel obligated to follow these outdated notions in today’s world.”
Despite the numerous rude comments, Cima chose to ignore them and instead provided guidance to some of her newest and younger followers.
“Aging is wonderful. All the knowledge you’ve accumulated throughout your life is now at your disposal. You are now the wisest you will ever be. Embrace it and take pride in it.”