FLY at any age!

Welcome to the first dose of Monday Musings from the Fly! Now that we're settling into our new digs and reopened for Mondays, the goal is to kick off each with an anecdote or update to relieve any case of the "Mondays" that might be out there and to keep everyone's creative fashion juices flowing... This week I've got a lil story that I hope will warm your hearts despite the chilly temps that have descended on Boston. Enjoy!

Last week, one of our new neighbors came in to check us out and I immediately thought to myself, “What a FLY elderly lady?!”

She was dressed in a chic ensemble that was absolutely on point – a layered look in a neutral color palette of ecru and cream that was both age and weather appropriate. She oozed sophisticated in her perfectly tailored blazer, adorned with a great rhinestone broach (and you know how much we love broaches around here - see examlpes below), and subtly textured gauchos.

I quickly introduced myself, feeling that this was a special woman. Francesca, now 90 years old, I learned, was born and raised right here in the North End and was full of great stories. When she spotted one of our fave vintage clutches, a gold mesh fold-over (see below), she started telling me the history behind some of the treasures she has in her own personal collection.

Since her teenage years, in the late 1930s, Francesca’s mother always told her “If you’ve got a piece of clothing that cannot be repaired, you may as well make it a rag, but if there’s nothing wrong with it, you KEEP it!” Preach it, mama! Francesca took the message to heart and the rule of thumb stuck with her…

The pieces Francesca has kept for years include the handbag she brought on her honeymoon, the mink stole she wore to the theater, and sequined & bejeweled tops that made her a standout at cocktail parties (one of which she recently broke out for her birthday party!). As she described the details of her own - now vintage - items, I found myself wishing I could raid her closet!

Her sage advice is right on the money; she spoke of integrating treasured, fabulous pieces into a signature style that evolves over time and helps you age gracefully. Remember her gauchos? Those were originally long trousers that, after a few years, she decided just weren’t right for her and “They just HAD to be altered… Now they fit my lifestyle the way they should and I wear them all the time.” Francesca proves that women can be FLY at any age! We should all aspire to follow Francesca words of wisdom!

So, hang on to the pieces that define your style and can stand the test of time. And, if your collection could use some more highlights, modern or vintage, come visit us in our new location!

Peace & Love, Naomi