Wednesday, May 9, 2007
My mom stared down at her feet as I asserted that those solid white dainty sneakers spelled instant “O-L-D.”
“But they’re so comfortable!” she protested.
While our eyes were sorrowfully cast downward, I asked, “Why do older folks insist on wearing their slacks so short that their legs seemed abbreviated and (I was on a roll here) their socks are revealed as they walk?”
Wow. That was a visual she hadn’t bargained for.
We began to discuss how, as many people age, they are basically seeking comfort as the operative goal with whatever they wear and forsake good looks altogether. We’re not even near the vicinity of modern, ageless or youthful style.
To prove my point, I took her shopping. Mom’s short-waisted, as are many ladies, but once she actually tried on slacks and jeans that fit well, the metamorphosis began. With “bootlegged” legs that flared a bit at the bottom, she recognized how fit, shape, and length can make a remarkable difference.
I pinned her new slacks so that they were 1/4-inch off the floor at the back of her new, comfortable classic black flat rubber-soled loafers (the white sneakers are sequestered to the closet for household chores). I pinned the front of the slacks even longer (not straight across) so that they lay on her shoe. Now, when she walks her socks will not be exposed. The long, languid look of her new slacks added inches to her legs.
Gone are the elasic-waisted slacks and jeans with their ample thighs that tapered into narrow ankle widths.
To add to her new youthful loafers, a pair of Nike sneakers are on our “to buy” list. They will work well with simple, straight black workout pants from Nike or Athleta and her new bootlegged, dark navy jeans.
Most importantly, she was still quite comfortable and walking with ease.
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