As a 35-year-old woman, my wardrobe consists of an assortment of sizes ranging from 4 to 14. The reality of aging is undeniable; my body has changed significantly. Areas that once felt firm now carry a little extra weight, while varicose veins map the backs of my legs. Low-rise jeans reveal more than I’d like, and low-cut tops showcase stretch marks that resemble crepe paper. Fortunately, I’ve shifted from lamenting my “mom bod” to discovering ways to enhance, accommodate, and artfully flatter my figure. After all, it’s essential to appreciate what I have now, as it’s unlikely to improve. I proudly wear WOMEN’S-sized jeans, and I refuse to waste time seeking a return to junior sizes.
Despite having the wisdom that comes with age, navigating clothing stores remains perplexing. I step into a store, orient myself, and head to the designated section—definitely not juniors—and then the confusion begins. The options seem either overly matronly or tacky, often reminiscent of styles I’ve already worn in middle school (seriously, stonewashed jeans are back?), high school (flannel should have stayed in the ’90s), or college (hello, midriff tops).
After searching through racks, I manage to gather a few pieces that seem promising and make my way to the fitting room. Few places are as humbling as these small spaces. I’ve wrestled with countless dresses and swimsuits, experiencing both disappointment and pleasure at my reflections. However, nothing prepared me for the moment when I stood before a three-way mirror, questioning, “Is this a shirt? No, too long. Is it a dress? No, too short. Could it be a tunic? Is it bohemian or just trashy? What is this?!”
That’s when the feeling of age struck me.
Nevertheless, I liked the item, whatever it was, and decided to purchase it. As I approached the register, two young women in their twenties greeted me with cheerful smiles.
“What do you think this is supposed to be?” I asked them.
They exchanged glances, clearly puzzled.
“Is this a shirt or a dress?”
“Oh, it’s a dress,” they replied.
“Are you certain? It seems a bit short,” I countered.
One of them nodded vigorously. “It’s definitely a dress. I guess you could wear jeggings underneath if you wanted to… but I wouldn’t.”
At that moment, my true age became apparent to them. While I might dress and act like I’m still in my twenties, I draw the line at exposing too much. Who would feel comfortable in a dress that could easily be mistaken for a shirt? How could they not understand my discomfort?
“Absolutely, I feel uncomfortable! My backside would be on full display if I bent over. I’ll just pretend it’s a shirt and buy it because I think it’s cute,” I said with a forced smile.
A moment of silence followed.
“I’m old,” I admitted.
Silence lingered again.
“I’m 35 and I have three kids at home.”
The realization dawned on them. “Oh, wow,” they said. “You look great for having three kids!”
“Thanks?” I replied, feeling a mix of pride and disbelief.
“Here’s your receipt, ma’am. Have a great day!” they said, their polite smiles underscoring the finality of my age.
They called me “ma’am.”
Damn, I’m old.
If you find yourself grappling with similar feelings or experiences, consider exploring additional resources on pregnancy and home insemination. For instance, this blog post on Intracervical Insemination offers valuable insights. Additionally, for those seeking guidance on the topic, Make A Mom is an authority on at-home insemination kits, providing essential information. For comprehensive support regarding infertility, Mount Sinai’s resources are an excellent choice.
In summary, navigating the complexities of aging while maintaining a sense of style can be challenging. Embracing one’s body and making thoughtful fashion choices are vital in celebrating the beauty of motherhood and self-acceptance.