I chose ‘Flower Power’ as this month’s ‘Style Not Age’ challenge. WHY? Because the shops are full of floral patterns on tops, jackets, skirts and dresses. You could say that floral prints are having a moment. In truth, they have been back on trend for a few years now.
But where did the term ‘Flower Power’ begin? Usually we associate it with the late ‘60s and early ‘70s fashion. But did you know that it was actually a slogan used as a symbol of passive resistance and non-violence ideology.
The expression was coined by the American poet Allen Ginsberg in 1965 as a means to transform war protests into peaceful affirmative spectacles. Peace-loving hippies embraced the symbolism by dressing in colourful clothes with floral patterns or embroidered flowers. They also distributed flowers to the public as a sign of peaceful protest.
Embroidery is also very much in vogue again in the fashion arena, so if you want to update an item of clothing, you know what to do.
WELCOME BACK GAIL
We have a new addition to our ‘Style Not Age’ gang. Well, not new exactly; Gail was one of the original ladies in the 5-Over-50 group and had to take a break for work reasons. But she returns now to our ‘new’ group, much to our delight. So, four becomes five.
Gail (Is This Mutton)
Gail is feeling rather blue. It must be the weather! Would you believe that her jacket and top are not from the same label? And where did she find those amazing boots? All will be revealed in her post on Is This Mutton. Head over there.
Anna (Anna’s Island Style)
Anna is also blue and even found the perfect background to showcase her outfit. The dress and white boots are so ’70s-inspired. Head over to annasislandstyle to find out more.
Emma (The Style Splash)
Emma looks very dramatic, even femme fatale, in her black-based dress with large pink flowers. The pink faux-fur wrap and black hat add to the mystery. More details over on the Style Splash.
Jacqui (Mummabstylish)
How pretty and girly does Jacqui look in her floral dress and I love how she accentuates the tiny pink flowers with her pink accessories. You will have to head over to her post on mummabstylish to find out more.
MY OUTFIT
I have had a real problem getting photos taken for this challenge. I did take some in Kilkea Castle last weekend, but we were in the middle of Storm Dennis, so I look windswept and frozen outside.
The dress is a few years old from Zara and has a bit of a ‘70s vibe. I love the frill detail around the shoulder as well as the print. I paired it with wide boots from M&S (last year). When outside, I added a faux-fur gilet (years old from French Connection) and a yellow bag which was a recent sale purchase from Parfois.
And the photos taken indoors do not show you the colours in the dress.
So, I took some more photos over the weekend which give you a better idea of the print.
Are you a lover of floral prints? Maybe we have given you some inspiration to either dig out your florals or go looking for some in the shops.
Fabulous dress Hilda! I love the patterned tights and faux fur gilet! I discovered Parfois in Madeira – I didn’t know they had shops in Ireland too.
Emma xxx
http://www.style-splash.com
Thanks Emma .Yes they have several outlets and Parfois is popular here for affordable accessories. xx
I usually wear solids but I do love florals in the spring. Such a terrific group of women with amazing style! I love all these options. 🌺
Thanks Phyllis xxx
I like your styling a lot! I love that you often wear different styles.
Thanks Nancy. I am trying not to get stuck in a style rut!
Thanks for the warm welcome back Hilda! I love seeing all the different interpretations. Love your 70s vibe, and I’d actually forgotten that Flower Power also had a political message! Your styling brings the 70s bang up to date with some contemporary touches.
I love this look on you Hilda, you look young and very trendy. Your boots really make the outfit and I’m wanting a similar pair! Great challenge my friend and god call. x
Thanks Jacqui. Try M&S. They might do a similiar pair next year if they all gone.
I love your whole look, the dress is great, I always underestimate what you can find at Zara’s, also love Emma’s scarf!!! I do like floral prints although they don’t always like me but you have given me new inspiration…
Sherri thank you so much for reading and commenting. Yes Emma’s faux fur scarf is fab xx
This is a perfect rendition of flower power Hilda! I particularly love the furry gilet over your mini dress – it’s so very 60’s! Didn’t we have fun with this one xxx
We certainly did. Thanks Anna. xx
I love 💕 the vibe of your floral dress!
Very “Mod”:with your boots!
Rosemary
Thanks Rosemary xxx
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All of you looking great here Hilda. I love the 70’s vibe that your outfit has
Thanks Laurie. I am in love with it myself. I reckon I will get a lot of wear out of it. It was the boots that made the difference. It has been sitting unworn in my wardrobe for years…