Still Showing Up

01

Style, Wisdom and the Art of Aging on Your Own Terms

At almost 63, I’ve stopped shrinking myself to fit anyone else’s idea of what this age is supposed to look like. Youthfulness isn’t about a number…it’s life force. It’s curiosity, joie de vivre, awe and wonder. It’s the decision to show up fully, dress intentionally, and refuse to let age make you feel small or irrelevant. I’ve worked to take care of myself, and yes, aging happens anyway, but I’m choosing to lean into it rather than fight it. That shift in mindset hasn’t always been easy. Some days I still catch myself wishing for my younger self, mourning something I can’t get back. But the wisdom, confidence and not-giving-a-damn about what other people think is something I wouldn’t trade for the world! Not for a single day of my younger self. That freedom is one of the great gifts of getting older!

That mindset shows up in how I dress. This light blue blouse from Brochu Walker, French-tucked into my Veronica Beard skinny flare jeans feels effortless but put-together. It’s the kind of outfit that says I’m paying attention without trying too hard. My patent Gucci slingbacks (similar here) add just enough polish, and the fabulous Veronica Beard Anchor bag ties everything together beautifully. The blue and white basketweave pattern of the bag is inspired by vintage Parisian bistro chairs and it’s as practical as it is pretty. The whole look feels like me right now… grounded, a little chic, and completely comfortable in my own skin. That’s what I’m going for at every age.

Aging isn’t the end of anything…it’s actually the beginning of something better, if you’re willing to see it that way. I’m still figuring it out and still have hard days now and then…but I’m also choosing to get dressed, show up, and live fully. That’s the whole point. You don’t have to shrink. You don’t have to disappear. You just have to decide, every single day, that your life is still very much worth dressing for.

I’d love to know how you’re still showing up! Leave me a comment and let me know!

~XOXO Suzanne

04

  1. Harriet says:

    Hey Suzanne! I’m 10 years older than you but my mind says I’m your age. Today’s outfit is just the way that I like to dress – casual yet polished! I try hard to keep a positive attitude, stay relevant by connecting with my family and friends, read things that challenge my brain, and exercise to stay fit. I’m not perfect by any stretch of the imagination but I am honest about my feelings, my beliefs, my looks, and staying true to myself. Keep sharing what you love with the world! You don’t realize how many lives you touch!

    • Suzanne Smith says:

      Hi Harriet

      Even though we’ve never met, I somehow already knew these things about you! You are so supportive of me with your words of encouragement and I can’t thank you enough! It’s nice to feel younger than your actual age…I feel the same way…young in spirit and my body feels young too, even though it doesn’t look as young as it once did! That’s okay…I’m glad to be here and live another day on this earth! Grateful for you! Thank you so much!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Shop My Favorites

Over the years, I’ve found pieces I truly love and actually use in my everyday life. Things that feel beautiful, comfortable, and worth bringing home.

Here you’ll find my favorite fashion finds, home pieces, beauty staples, and little luxuries that make life feel more special. Everything I share is something I genuinely love and would recommend to a friend.

shop my favorites

Take a look around and see what’s caught my eye lately.

Welcome to Crazy Blonde Life

Style, soul, and a Southern point of view, delivered to your inbox each week.

Small town, eclectic style, local food, and an open door.