They’re not feeling seen while strutting their stuff on the scene.
Invisibility — it’s the curse of being a wannabe glamor gal in her mid-30s or older, per a new study that found the fashion world makes women feel “invisible” by age 36.
“This research sheds light on the challenges many women face as they age, including feeling overlooked in various areas of life,” Simon Barnett, director of age-inclusive clothes retailer Klass, said in a statement.
The UK-based imprint commissioned a survey via OnePoll to find that 75% of women feel mainstream designers and outlets prioritize younger demographics, leaving older ladies feeling underserved, overlooked and unacknowledged.
“It’s clear that societal attitudes toward aging — particularly for women — play a significant role in these experiences,” said Barnett.
“It’s a shame to see that a recent phenomenon called ‘Invisible Women Syndrome’ does seem to exist.”
It’s a phenomenon whereby women of a certain age are “dismissed or devalued in some way,” says psychologist Kirstin Bouse.
And Gen Z girls as young as 18 are already beginning to dread the age-related snub, fearing that society will automatically deem them “unattractive hags” by their 30th birthdays.
But the not-so-hot shunning inspired New York couturier Batsheva Hay, 42, to debut a clothing line geared towards celebrating the members of her gender in all phases of life.
“I feel like as I’m growing and evolving, the fashion industry isn’t necessarily loving women who are aging,” she previously told The Post, adding that being shut out by style tastemakers gave her the space to create her own lane.
“One of the things about being forgotten or invisible is that you can also just do whatever you want,” said Hay, who only cast models over age 40, including actress Molly Ringwald, in her 2024 New York Fashion Week show last February. “And, so, it’s kind of fun, actually.”
Unfortunately, the average belle over age 35 seems to find it hard to find the fun in being ignored, per the Klass poll.
A staggering 45% of women admitted to feeling unnoticed in social settings, while 24% and 23% said they were disregarded due to their ages at work and by the healthcare system, respectively.
Approximately 39% copped to feeling invisible after struggling to find clothing that caters to them as they get older, and 37% attribute that exclusion to changes in their appearance.
A majority (62%) of survey respondents agreed that societal beauty standards are to blame for making women feel invisible, with 57% blasting the media for failing to spotlight the sex appeal of millennials and up.
And in the workplace, 29% of those aged 40 and over said they’ve felt less visible since entering this decade, and 60% believe their opinions are often dismissed due to age.
“The findings highlight the need for greater inclusivity in fashion and beyond,” said Lynne McKenna, a celebrity stylist and Klass ambassador. “Women want to feel confident and represented, no matter their age or life stage.”
“Women in this period of their lives should feel at the height of their fabulousness and confidence, not invisible,” she said, advising seasoned smoke-shows to wear, “what makes you happy and avoid the pressures of dancing to the drum beat of trends.”
McKenna’s tips for looking and feeling good — regardless of your birth year:
- Confidence is key: The most important style tip is to wear what’s comfortable and makes you feel good about yourself.
- Invest in quality: Well-made clothes will last longer and make you feel more polished.
- Be colorful: A pop of color can instantly brighten your look and make you feel more vibrant.
- Invest in fit: Select styles that suit and fit you well over chasing the latest fashion trends. It will help you emulate confidence.
- Accessorise: Be rebellious with everything from jewelry to scarves and handbags. They add mystique to any outfit.
- Update your hairstyle: Who said you can’t go peroxide blond? A fresh cut and color can do wonders.
- Pay attention to details: A well-tailored jacket or a perfectly ironed shirt can make a big difference.
- Have fun: Remember, style is an expression of your personality. Enjoy celebrating “you.”
