Sunday, August 7, 2016

Mature Fashion: Weight, Self Image, and Fashion

Almost every woman CAN look magnificent; she may also look beautiful, healthy, toned, or at least, attractive no matter her weight (and many times, with her physical deformities).  How she accomplishes this is mostly within her own control, especially the weight factor.

I have seen quite of bit of social and published media lately that really disturbs me. The latest was a woman in a swim suit that was totally inappropriate for her body mass and type. Her text bemoaned her insecurity when swimming with her children because her neighbor lady had a figure like a model.  One of the comments listed under her published picture encouraged her to "love her body"  even though overweight and stated that her children would not care if she was fat, but would remember the good times in the pool.

Firstly, anyone who was truly insecure with her figure would never wear a string bikini in a "look at me" print and publish it on Facebook!...especially, if she was obese and afraid of her body exposure!!  Secondly, obesity is most importantly a HEALTH issue, not just an appearance issue.  My advice to the woman would have been to lose the 50+ pounds (or more) necessary to preserve her health.  It is certainly my belief that her ability to swim and have fun with her children and/or grandchildren is much more effective with weight loss than her appearance in a swim suit.  Advising anyone to "accept" themselves in this condition is a dis-service, at best. (Now, before anyone brings up the fact that "some people can't help it, etc." please remember that is less than 1 % of those who are overweight! -over 40% of the American public is OBESE, not just "overweight")

From a fashion point of view, swimwear for every figure is available in today's market.  We have all seen women who are very much over their ideal weight; Oprah Queen Latifah, and other public personalities who always look wonderful.  I am seventy three, have wrinkles, veins, etc. that often accompany aging; I am also still overweight, but within a healthy range.  To prove the point that any woman CAN find something that can allow her to play with children, grand-children, or even great-grandchildren, I am publishing my picture in a suit that is appropriate for my body type and particular figure challenges.  BTW, you don't have to have an in-house chef or a high priced fashion stylist or spend a ton of money on a swimsuit; the suit above is "Lands End" purchased at Sears with an accompanying over wrap; both purchased on sale for a little less than $100.00.

This is the only post that I am publishing on both the "Rockmyages" blog and the "RockmyFitness" blog because I do have some different readership on each site and because I think the issue of weight control is so very important to "Rock Our Age".  It is also important from the fashion view point to always remember that no matter the figure challenge, fashion can be used to project a desirable image....been there, done that!!  Fashion can be your best pal when you just can't get off all the weight...or, while you're tryin'....

2 comments:

  1. Applause for you !!! I fully agree although I know how hard it is to stop something you are addicted to. Some people just have very little self control. (I am very disciplined. My luck.)
    And I think your swimsuit is so flattering. Must remember this.
    Greetje

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    Replies
    1. Hello Greetje;

      I am thrilled to hear from you because I respect your blog so very much; I'm sure you have seen a reference or two recommending your blog to my readers.

      While reviewing this post, I reflect that I came down a little "hard" on the weight issue, however, I really am tired of the "fat girl in a skinny world" references in this country where roughly half the population is dangerously overweight. I also dislike the fact that so many people ACTIVELY discourage other women from taking care of their bodies and overall health. I find it hard to be as disciplined as I would like, but there is a difference between indulgence and over-indulgence. The health issue is really my biggest concern as so many of my acquaintance suffer the consequences of lack of prudent exercise and reasonable diet. I am also disturbed by the lack of prevention rather than addressing the afflictions with more and more medicines. That is why I started the blog "Rockmyfitness.blogspot.com"; I really do believe that it is difficult to want to "look good" if you don't "feel good".

      I love the pictures of the walks and jaunts you take; a delightful way to exercise.

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