London - In an age when youthful celebrities dominate our screens and magazines, you might think the older generations would be the least confident about their bodies.
But in fact women in their fifties are not only the most self-assured age group, but also the most happy and content, according to a study.
After a lifetime of diets and doubts about their body, three-quarters of women surveyed feel better about themselves and their image in their fifties than they did in their twenties.
Indeed, a third of those in their fifties are happier than ever with their looks, and one in seven feels fitter and sexier than ever.
Almost half, 47 percent, love their body more now than they did in their twenties. The research, of 40- to 74-year-olds by clothing firm Cotton Traders, found women in their fifties are less likely to calorie count and more inclined to exercise to stay in shape.
Many have started to work out more since hitting the milestone and 15 percent are feeling more energised as a result.
Meanwhile, 45 percent ditched diets for good upon turning 50.
Celebrities such as Nigella Lawson, Christie Brinkley and Demi Moore would appear to agree with the women surveyed. And Jo Wood, 58, former wife of Rolling Stones guitarist Ronnie Wood, said: “It’s all about attitude. I’m still wearing leather trousers and don’t intend to stop. I don’t know what else to wear – it’s my thing!”
According to the survey, two-thirds of women spend less time and money on personal grooming once they hit 50.
Social worker Elizabeth Chivers, 52, from Nantwich, Cheshire, said: “Reaching the grand age of 50 means I can finally be who I really am without any concerns or worries.
“Turning 50 has given me a whole new approach to my style and taught me to love my body and live life to the full.”
But it’s not just their bodies that 50-somethings are learning to love – 55 percent said they’re now in their most satisfying relationship.
A further two-thirds revealed their finances are in their best ever shape and 41 percent said life gets less stressful with age.
DIAZ: LET US GROW OLD GRACEFULLY
Cameron Diaz has railed against the obsession with youth, claiming women are made to feel they have “failed” if they look old.
The 41-year-old actress said it was “crazy” how women are under pressure to look like they are 25 even when they are more mature.
She said women “don’t give ourselves permission to age gracefully” and are constantly told they have to “defy nature”.
She has previously admitted having Botox but said she regretted it. - Daily Mail