Episode 26

full
Published on:

29th Apr 2025

From Corduroy to Cashmere: A Lifelong Fashion Journey

In this episode, childhood friends Lucy and Lisette take a nostalgic trip down memory lane, recalling their fashion experiences from the 1950s to the present day.

From the limited wardrobes of their youth to the bold styles of the 60s and 70s, and the professional looks of the 80s and 90s, the conversation explores how fashion has evolved alongside their lives.

Key Highlights

• Childhood memories of their parents' fashion choices and limited clothing options

Both Lisette and Lucy recall having far fewer clothes as children compared to today, often wearing hand-me-downs or clothes made by their mothers. Their parents had a more formal, traditional style of dress.

• The rise of cool fashion in the 60s and 70s

As teenagers in the 1960s and 70s, they both describe getting into the trends of the time, like tight flared jeans, tie-dye shirts, and mini-skirts. They shopped at boutiques and stores like Kensington Market, Biba and Miss Aam, created tie-dye t-shirts, and later embraced the Laura Ashley aesthetic.

• The power-dressing era of the 80s and 90s

In their 20s and 30s, Lucy and Lisette both developed more professional wardrobes, with fitted jackets and shoulder pads, with scrunch-dried hair; and for casual wear, the distinct United Colours of Benetton style and layered looks from brands like Ralph Lauren.

• The personal shopping experiences and relationships with different brands and shops over the years.

As they've aged, both have settled into more minimalist, practical wardrobes, though they still have differing approaches – Lisette prefers quality, expensive pieces while Lucy rebels against spending money on clothes and goes for more affordable options and sales. The shifting perspectives on fashion and the lasting impact of their upbringings on their current sartorial choices.

The friends reminisce about favourite pieces from the past and how their body image and comfort has impacted their fashion choices over time. They explore the emotional and creative aspects of getting dressed and shopping, and how their childhood experiences and class backgrounds continue to influence their clothing choices.

Why You Should Listen

This engaging conversation offers a glimpse into the evolving fashion landscape, as seen through the eyes of two women who have lived through the decades. It's a nostalgic and insightful exploration of how personal style can be shaped by societal trends, personal preferences, and the lasting influence of one's formative years. Whether you're a fashion enthusiast or simply curious about the experiences of those who have witnessed the changing tides of style, this episode is a delightful listen.

Join the Conversation

What were the fashion styles when you were a teenager? What were your favourite shops and items of clothing? Did you dress like your parents or rebel against their tastes? How do you dress today and do you enjoy shopping IRL or do you prefer to stay online?

Watch our full playlist (The Year of Being 70): https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzDmlsx6mhXmqlFJFZEEvaOwytbeAMFCm&si=eb4Q7JI8ZQhD0yi7

If you enjoyed this discussion of an engaging subject, as well as the personal journeys of these old (in every sense) friends, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and tap the bell icon to stay updated on new episodes of The Year of Being 70. Subscribe now and join the journey!

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About the Podcast

The Year of Being 70
Two childhood friends who turned 70 in 2024 look back on their lives, their journey, and their busy lives at 70t
Lucy McCarraher and Lisette Schuitemaker are childhood friends. Born one month apart in 1954, they both hit 70 in 2024. In this podcast they take the long view of their experiences, the changes that have taken place through their 70 years of existence in their own lives, their families, their countries and the world. Lucy is British; Lisette is Dutch. Both are authors, eldest daughters and founders of businesses. Every week they check in on each other, recall their younger selves, discuss an important issue, and laugh a lot.
You'll love this podcast if you enjoy:
* Honest discussions between good friends
* Social history from the 1950s to present day
* Memories of growing up in the 1950s, 1960s, 1970s
* Living and working through the 1980s, 1990s and 2000s
* Hearing about families and relationships
* Entrepreneurship and business
* Writing and reading books
* A bit of politics from a personal point of view
* Women's issues and the changing face of feminism
* What it's like to be 70 in the 2020s

About your host

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Lisette Schuitemaker