Realistic Role Models

 

Looking for someone to emulate?  Recent studies show picking a woman who is only one or two steps ahead of you may be best.  Seems that viewing images of superstars, such as a Supreme Court Justice or a national business leader, may be self-deflating.  The NYT article, "Sometimes Second-Best Makes a Better Role Model" by Alina Tugend (8/10/13)  suggests that role models and mentors who are not seen as an exception to the norm are more likely to embolden women to take that next step. 

Suspended Aging

A  Park Avenue dermatologist offers procedures that stop the clock between 45-54.  Her clients are women executives who seek to erase 10 years to help keep their jobs, vs. their men.  45-yr old Dr. Macrene Alexiades-Armenakas helps her clients create an image that says "old enough to command respect, yet fresh enough to remain vital."  (NYT "Seeking a 'Middle-Aged' Look by Karen Schwartz, 8/1/13). 

These women who want to keep their top jobs well into their sixties defy the iconic image above, which can be interpreted as either an old woman ... OR a young lady.  Maybe like the Goldilocks fable, they project a classy image that is "just right." 

Dr. Alexiades-Armenakas does not take out ALL the wrinkles, to maintain an authentic image.  I think Mark Twain would approve.  He said 'wrinkles should merely indicate where the smiles have been."

DVF - Wise Woman

Diane von Furstenberg gave us the wrap dress 40 years ago, and it is making a comeback.  Her career was not a straight trajectory, but she has prevailed as a major force in the game.

In a NYT interview with Andrew Goldman (6/30/13), she reveals a wealth of wisdom about what matters.  Her mother gave birth to her soon after surviving Auschwitz, and Diane's career was inspired by her mom's insights. 

Diane cautions us not to wait for a tragedy to show our strength, which she believes women have in abundance.  So for all of us who wore the wrap dress in the '70s, or are now buying one for the first time, follow Diane's advice --  let adversity fuel the changes we need to make!

Hail, Chef Paula!

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