Aging Beautifully: Daphne Selfe

Have you heard of this 80+ year old beauty? Daphne Selfe was born in the UK and got her Big Break in a newspaper modeling competition. In the 50's she was modeling bathing suits and furs, although she described herself as too short and "too sturdy" to be a model.

Modeling in her youth. A classic 50's beauty.

She's been working ever since, having signed a major contract in 1999 after appearing in Marie Claire (not a magazine geared to the over-60 set!). Daphne gets paid top dollar to pose for Moschino and Dolce & Gabbana, among others, and retains a cool elegance and confidence that transcends age.

She denies any surgical interventions, and says her long silver hair makes her stand out. “I’ve never had anything done to my face,” Selfe told the Daily Mail. “Not that poison, not a face-lift. I think it’s a waste of money. Anyway, I couldn’t afford it!” I rather doubt the can't-afford-it part, but bravo for the choice to age gracefully and naturally.

Age has also brought serenity, and increased self confidence. Daphne told a journalist for The Economist :  “You’ve got to take rejection. I go to lots of auditions, and you only get one out of several, that’s how it is. . . . That’s quite difficult for young girls to get used to. But I’m old and sensible—or insensible now—so I don’t worry about it, and on to the next one.”

And she has a simple philosophy about getting older: "It's going to happen, so why worry? My generation got on with it. I do find people are always complaining these days. I try to remain cheerful, not grumpy." Rock on, Daphne Selfe, vital and beautiful at 83!

I love, love this picture - so stunning and confident at 83.

Being prepped for a photo shoot. Photo via The Economist.

Have a brilliant Saturday, and don't forget, Monday, September 10th is Visible Monday! Everyone is welcome to participate!