What seems like a lifetime ago, I remember being asked to do a guest post on a blog about dressing age-appropriately. I struggled with the post a bit because I am not sure my style of dress is age appropriate, to be honest. I think most of the time it is, but there are other times, especially in the hot summer months, when I wear really short shorts or rompers that may be better suited for a 20-something-year-old. But when I think about it, my style just is what it is.
In this case, it’s pushing the line with a cropped top that just shows a peek of skin. And to be honest, the picture below is more representative of the amount of midriff this shirt shows, not the picture above. I really do not feel comfortable with much of my midsection, scarred as it is from two surgeries (one minor, one pretty major) over the past two years. The scar from my appendectomy last March is so deep and jarring that I can actually see the deep divot through certain clothing — a down-turned mouth of a scar that seems to be permanent. But whatever. I survived the affliction that killed Houdini, so there’s that good news. The point is, the parts of my body that I feel most proud of are my strongest parts. The parts that show how hard I’ve been working over the past year — a continued love of aerial arts and bar method, the culmination of the realization that the most physically-active me is the happiest, most mentally-healthy version of myself.
So no, it may not be “age appropriate,” this crop top thing. But I’m embracing it because it feels good to be healthy, to be active, to have faith and pride in my body and how hard it works for me. And because being a mama, like I’ve said before, does not erase my desire to be me.
I hope you are having a lovely Christmas Eve, and enjoy your day tomorrow if you celebrate Christmas. I am looking forward to the moment our boys come downstairs tomorrow morning — to see their faces light up with joy is the best feeling in the world!
I’ll be taking a little blogging break to spend time with family and friends, unplug and do some serious reading by the fire. See you back here in a bit!
This looks great, love the crop top. I think the thirties are where I finally feel most comfortable in my body and know what I like and dislike when it comes to fashion. This little bit of skin looks awesome and not in a bit inappropriate for your age! Keep doing what you’re doing, I love your style!
Marry Christmas to your family and a Happy New Year!
As always, I love seeing your style and what you choose to outfit on your beautiful body! I think finding clothes can be an artistic and comforting way to expression, and you are doing it YOUR way. If there were a ‘right’ way, then it would be inevitably not anyone.
LOVE the Christmas card! Hope yall had a very merry merry Christmas!