I listen to National Public Radio most afternoons while I am working. On Tuesday, the 23rd, while listening to a show I really enjoy called MarketPlace, I learned that the Gap clothing chain will launch a new store called Forth & Towne that will cater to 35 – 40 year old women.
OH COME ON!
I feel like the whole mall already caters to 35 – 40 year old women! Well, OK, I take that back. One-third of the mall caters to babies and pre-teens, one-third to teens and the last third to women 35+. What about the 25 to 35 year old woman?
The 25 – 35 year old woman is truly the neglected group in the clothing department. I find myself wandering the Junior’s department where everything seems a little too young and trendy, then I meander up to the Women’s department where everything looks like something my Mom would wear. And, when I bump into Grandma filing through the same rack as me… I am outta there!
I am a professional, so I need business attire, but I don’t need to look like an attorney. I also don’t need to look like I am 45. I don’t want a blouse with pearly buttons and a scarfy-bow at the neckline. I don’t want wild, tweed plaids and bright floral prints. I want plain, professional looking clothes with clean lines that are timeless and classy.
I also like to have fun and feel youthful and go out to clubs, but I don’t need to look like a slutty 30 year old crammed into an outfit meant for a 20 year old. I don’t need the lace and the bohemian, tie-dyed trendiness. I don’t need a pair of jeans that shows my navel or my ass crack or everything in between.
Why can’t I find a one piece bathing suit that wasn’t designed for a 50 year old? I am a fair skinned gal, and just not the bikini type. What is with all the zany prints and buckles and sashes on swim suits? Why can’t I just find a simple, plain, one-piece suit that is flattering to a 30 year old woman?
Why can’t I find dresses or shoes or even a freakin’ handbag that is my style?
Average Betty as a brand of clothing, maybe? I’d buy it…
