Advanced Style

Every fashion enthusiast knows that cliché Yves Saint Laurent quote, "Fashions fade, style is eternal." As I watched the colorful, lively trailer for the Advanced Style documentary on a gloomy Saturday morning, Laurent's wisdom rang in the back of my mind. The film features a plethora of fashion inspiration via New York City's chicest senior citizens. These women, many of whom are in their late 80's and 90's, are not defined by any single decade of trends or styles. In fact, all of their personal styles are a sum of multiple decades of elegance, infused with whimsical details and lots of personality. I found the women in the video to be incredibly refreshing amidst the all-too-similar faux fur, flannel, and boyfriend jean clad fashion bloggers of this season. 

These elderly icons are not slaves to trends but dress for themselves; their outfits driven by an overwhelming sense of self and happiness. I think we can learn more than fashion wisdom from women like Iris Apfel and Ilona Royce Smithkin, two stars of the film. While their styles inspire many, it's their self-confidence and loving devotion to elegance that enlighten us all to the true creative spirit of fashion. 

Watch the beautiful trailer here.