Pattern, print and older model Pam Lucas
How to wear pattern and print is something I’ve been playing around with recently (HERE and HERE). While there are patterns that make perfect sense: paisley, leopard print, camo, all kinds of stripes; I find others set my Frump Alarm off. Show me a blooming, great floral print and I’ll show you a woman filled with chintzy dread.
Attending a conference in Edinburgh recently, the two crease-proof outfits in my suitcase cross-pollinated to good effect. So, the vintage-inspired, floral pyjama top (I’d intended to wear with black pants), joined forces with the posh track pants (I’d planned to wear with a silk blouse). Result. Frump-free florals with a sporty twist.
Independent label The Age of Reason has opted for a bunch of floral sportiness, too. And employed gorgeous, grey-haired model Pam Lucas to showcase it. Founder Ali Mapletoft designs silk bomber jackets, pants and scarves, for women of all ages; all made in the UK. With the punky illustrations and anti-sweatshop ethos, there’s little chance of the Frump Alarm sounding, here. I had a quick chat with Ali from The Age of Reason about working with Pam Lucas:
TNMA: Love the photos of Pam Lucas – is this the first time you have worked with an older model? And what influenced your decision?
AM: ‘My initial reaction to the first question was “What do you mean, she’s not that old!” And if you met Pam you’d see what I mean. She really isn’t. At 68 she’s a dynamic, creative, wonderful, powerful woman with energy.
We haven’t used many models, at all, at Age of Reason – I’ve been very careful about not attaching too many faces to my brand, because faces carry so much meaning. But it feels right with Pam. I’m not looking for a particular age, I’m looking for an energy that reflects the inclusive, feminine power I want to foster in my label. Seasoned women who know themselves are just as interesting as young girls who are bursting into womanhood. Change is exciting; and we all change’.
TNMA: How was working with Pam? What does she bring to your label?
AM: ‘I was drawn to Pam because she has that extra something extra. She’s the woman you can’t stop staring at in a public place – you feel like you know her already, or you’d like to. It’s not just about looks. Even the way she moves is fluid and interesting; I put that down to years of yoga.
I really liked her spirit and the fact that she has strong beliefs. She’s an avid anti-fracking campaigner and she kept her “Say No To Fracking” bracelet on throughout the shoot. We’ve not photoshopped these images at all – she is, as she is, in the campaign.’
Being from Blackpool – one of the places where fracking has been given the go-ahead, I’m in full agreement with Pam Lucas on this. In these turbulent times, we must stand up for what we believe in.
How do you wear prints?
Pam looks incredible in these shots! But a lot (maybe most) over 60s would look ridiculous in these clothes. They don’t have the figures for them. Or the confidence.
It’s a fine line with florals. So Alyson, if Erdem or Dolce & Gabbana sent you one of their wonderful floral frocks you wouldn’t wear it? I think they do very grown up florals and could be worn at any age. But you do need confidence and I have to confess I haven’t worn my very grown up Max Mara floral dress yet….
And I have a family wedding coming up over Christmas. Cannot find anything to wear anywhere! Getting desperate. I don’t like any of the dresses around and I cannot find a velvet trouser suit anywhere! If anyone knows of just the thing, please let me know. Tall, elegant, pared back is my style. Thank you!