In a world where early retirement often seems like the ultimate goal, there are those rare individuals who defy this norm by continuing to work passionately well into their later years. One such remarkable individual is Carmen Dell’Orefice, 93, celebrated as the world’s oldest working model. Let’s dive into her extraordinary journey and the lessons we can learn from her enduring career.
From humbling beginning to Vogue fame.
Carmen Dell’Orefice’s story began when she was discovered at the tender age of 13, in 1944. It’s hard to believe that such a fashion icon could come from such humble beginnings. Growing up, her family faced significant financial struggles. Modeling was just a glimmer of hope in a rather challenging upbringing.
Her first attempt at fashion was far from glamorous. In fact, it was an epic flop. But, as they say, the road to success is often paved with failures.
Just two years after her initial setback, Carmen graced the cover of Vogue at the age of 15. This was a monumental moment, marking the beginning of a legendary career in the fashion industry.
In 2023, Carmen was featured on the cover of Vogue Czechoslovakia, making her the oldest working model in the world. Her timeless beauty and elegance continue to captivate audiences globally.
She faced life’s hurdles, from financial struggles to failed marriages.
Carmen’s early life was fraught with financial difficulties. Her modeling work barely supported her family, so she and her mother also worked as seamstresses to make ends meet. This challenging period taught her resilience and perseverance.
1Her marriage to Bill Miles in the early 1950s added another layer of hardship. Miles exploited her career, collecting her modeling agency checks and giving her a mere $50 from her earnings. Yet, Carmen remained steadfast and continued to rise above these challenges.
Carmen then chose to marry photographer Richard Heimann. However, their marriage was also short-lived. When Carmen stepped away from the modeling industry in 1958, Richard left her.
Facing financial difficulties, Carmen Dell’Orefice made a bold comeback to modeling in 1978. Within just a few years, she was back on the covers of top fashion magazines, showcasing her timeless elegance. Ever since, she has been tirelessly working, featuring in numerous magazines, spearheading advertising campaigns, and strutting down catwalks for prestigious fashion brands.
She shared her secret to timeless beauty and longevity.
One of Carmen’s profound insights into maintaining beauty and longevity is the importance of self-care and self-love. She once said, “Men and women should care for themselves and love themselves. One of the secrets to maintaining beauty is doing what you do for a baby, nurturing and feeding the baby with love. That’s what we should do with ourselves: nurture ourselves, love ourselves, and give that kind of energy to ourselves.”
Carmen embraces aging with grace and dignity. She has never shied away from her age. Instead, she has used it to her advantage, proving that beauty truly knows no age.
Carmen’s unwavering passion for modeling teaches us that retirement is not an obligation but a choice. If you love what you do, there’s no reason to stop, no matter how old you are. Her life is a testament to resilience. Despite numerous challenges, she has continued to thrive, proving that with determination, one can overcome any obstacle.
Another inspiring supermodel is Daphne Selfe, 96, who still makes waves in the fashion industry and hasn’t given any sign of stopping yet. Read her story here.
How Often You Should Really Be Showering…
The Great Shower Debate: Morning vs. Night vs. No Shower
Showering is a daily ritual for many, but opinions vary on the best time to do it and whether it should even be done daily. Let’s explore the different perspectives on showering, its benefits, and factors to consider for optimal skin health.
Morning Showers: A Fresh Start
For some, a morning shower is an essential part of their routine. It serves as a refreshing wake-up call, helping to shake off sleepiness and prepare for the day ahead. The warm water can stimulate circulation and promote alertness, while the act of showering can be a time for mindfulness and setting intentions for the day.
Benefits:
- Boosts energy levels and alertness.
- Helps with mental clarity and focus.
- Can serve as a form of self-care.
Night Showers: Unwinding After a Long Day
On the other hand, many people prefer to shower at night. A warm shower can help relax muscles, soothe tension, and signal to the body that it’s time to wind down. This practice can improve sleep quality by lowering body temperature after stepping out of the shower, which can help cue the body for sleep.
Benefits:
- Promotes relaxation and helps reduce stress.
- Cleanses the skin of dirt and sweat accumulated throughout the day.
- Can improve sleep hygiene.
Skipping Daily Showers: A Skin Health Perspective
Some individuals choose to skip daily showers, believing that frequent washing can lead to dryness and irritation of the skin. This perspective is particularly common among those with sensitive skin or specific skin conditions, like eczema.
Considerations:
- Skin health varies from person to person; some may benefit from less frequent washing.
- Environmental factors (humidity, climate) and personal activity levels play a role in how often one should shower.
- For those who prefer to skip a daily shower, alternative hygiene practices, like washing specific areas or using cleansing wipes, can maintain cleanliness.
Finding Your Balance
Ultimately, the best shower routine varies by individual and should take into account factors like skin type, lifestyle, and personal preferences. It’s essential to listen to your body and adjust your routine to suit your needs.
Whether you prefer morning showers to kickstart your day, night showers to unwind, or occasional skipping to maintain skin health, understanding the benefits and considerations can help you make informed choices. After all, the goal is to feel clean, refreshed, and comfortable in your own skin—no matter when you choose to shower!
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