Something Has Been Neglected: The Décolletage

Décolletage and my question – how much to show or not to show?

Let me start by saying as I looked for photographs to enhance our chat today, the answer became quite clear. There were very few women I could find photographed with their chests on show and if they were I didn’t feel the images were flattering enough to showcase.

My instinct has always been less is more when it comes to advancing age. There are always gorgeous olive skinned complexions to contradict my intuition and if I were blessed I would be flashing the flesh with as much abandon as I could muster. I’m pale with a skin tending towards the dry so I am prettier these days with a little less reveal.

I did wonder if I were over sensitive as I noticed the necklines of my clothes rising and becoming more elaborate. I even prefer a tee to sit on my collarbone. In truth there is another reason, apart from the skin cover-up, I prefer to add as much length to the body as I can to streamline the illusion.

My thoughts,

Too much bosom and exposed skin does not become us and leaving thoughts to the imagination works wonders when it comes to sex appeal. How did I become so old-fashioned? I sound like an old dame from another era. I promise, I am not at all prudish but I do feel it’s sexier to “cover up” than show off. Ageing skin with a little sun damage and a descending propensity doesn’t do us any favours. On the other hand, supportive undergarments and a beautiful garment can work miracles and take years off. As can a luxurious pashmina, like the one Helen Mirren wears above.

We should dress the neck and chest and pay it as much attention as we do our legs and thighs. How much time do we spend looking at and worrying about the size of those? I certainly neglect my décolletage in the beauty process and I could probably augment my wardrobe with a few prettier blouses.

Feminine or masculine styles can look wonderful and quite alluring even when buttoned up. My go-to is the tie neck blouse, which can be worn in a variety of ways. Tied in a bow, left undone or sometimes when the fabric is long enough, I make a windsor knot.

There is one disclaimer.

In summer all bets are off and I throw my “cover-up” mentality out the window. It is hot, it is holiday time and the décolletage deserves a little time out. We too deserve time off from serious dressing and focusing on our appearance. Colour, flowing caftans and off the shoulder blouses have their place along side bathers and bikinis. In this case I believe a happy smile and a joyous disposition will make up for any inadequacies we feel about our bodies.

What do you think? Show off or cover up?