Turning 64 and gone fishing

Rosalind Russell as Auntie Mame

So: turning 64 next week and what models do I have? Look no further, this is it. I already have the pearls and mart.

I considered other women of substance: Madeline Albright (cannot speak Czech, not enough brooches), Margaret Mead (a little austere), June Callwood (a saint, enough said).

But I settled on a fictional character, upon whom I can project qualities that support the glide into the milestone 65th year: verve, courage, glamour (relative to one's tastes), a tart tongue but a warm heart, and a firm grasp of the importance of fun. As Mame says, "Live! Life's a banquet and most poor suckers are starving to death!"


What do you wear on your 64th?

"Hurry my tray, darling. Your auntie needs fuel."

Why spend the last birthday before Official Senior Status in anything that remotely looks like you'd stick an AARP card in the pocket?

I say, time for a caftan, retro refuge of the formerly svelte. My GF Vicky, who has a couple of years on me, has worn them for decades; she habitually receives dinner guests in canary silk splashed with a handpainted orchid or fuchsia-and-lime embroidered fine cotton, barefoot, wearing a huge emerald cocktail ring (and holding a huge cocktail). Then she serves an almighty cous-cous royale without obvious effort.

Vicky is house-buying Thailand now (talk about a Mame type!) and promises to send one, but, eager and facing 30+C temps here, I might order from East, the British merchant of Asian-influenced designs. I like the colours and price of this blue ikat, £35.

The silk ibis print by Mara Hoffman is splendid. Price, £292 at Matches. With a pair of light pants, striking enough for an afternoon wedding or evening dinner party.

 Pucci, at $1,113 beyond my means, but stunning:

Coming down to budget earth, I've always loved Anokhi's Indian prints, and this kaftan, not too sheer for a dinner table, in their signature fine cotton, is a strong candidate. (Price, $99 at Amazon.com)

À bientôt!

Many diversions beckon for July through August. I'll return to French immersion class, finally sift through a coin collection I inherited, and resurrect my Indonesian pork fondue recipe now that salt is not the demon we were told, and welcome many visitors.

Yes, a retro summer, during which the Passage will close. This is the last post until after Labour Day or sometime beyond.

I'll be thinking of you and anticipate your return. In the meantime, there are many delicious blogs to enjoy with your glass of pink lemonade or a nice restorative mojito.


Toodles, poodles!