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Ageless style, mature beauty and what that means to Silverfox model Ruth Caukwell

I feel like I’m contributing to a revolution or rebellion against the old stereotype that being a certain age means you have to fit a certain mould. It’s exciting.

Ruth Anne Caukwell (55), teacher/author/retail assistant, Christchurch

How long have you been working as a model?

In my twenties I did some modelling – mostly catwalk – while I was at university in Brisbane, but at that time I was concentrating on my career rather than the fashion field. I hadn’t done anything since, until last year when I signed with Silverfox. My mum had recently passed on, but prior to her death she’d been encouraging me for a while to take up modelling again. So when I saw on Instagram that Silverfox was advertising for interest in New Zealand, I decided to give it a go.

What do you enjoy most about it?

I love fashion, style and the whole concept of being uniquely you and not conforming to stereotypical norms. My modelling has become an extension of my inspirational writing. I want to be an ambassador for my generation – the ‘ageless generation’ – and to encourage others to feel good about the way they look.

Dress, $499, by Cooper. Earrings, $19, by Gorman. Boots, $369, by Miss Wilson.

What’s your top beauty tip?

Develop a beauty regime that suits you and includes good skincare, lots of water, moderate exercise and lots of hobbies. Accepting who you are and being positive doesn’t hurt either!

What’s your favourite item in your wardrobe?

My camel-coloured, mid-calf Andrea Moore coat. I love winter clothing and, after living in Australia for 30 years, I longed to wear it again. I bought the coat not long after I returned to New Zealand in 2008, and I love it. It’s a timeless classic.

Is being able to represent mature women important to you?

I’m thrilled to be part of what Silverfox represents. I feel like I’m contributing to a revolution or rebellion against the old stereotype that being a certain age means you have to fit a certain mould. It’s exciting.

Does life get better with age?

Yes, yes, yes! I feel like in recent years I’ve found the ‘real’ Ruth. I’ve faced many things, some not so good, and let them go by walking forward with a new confidence in who I am. I realise how important it is to choose to cultivate happiness. My journey in life is continuing and reinvention is a big part of it.

To see the full story, including interviews with our two other mature and modern models, pick up a copy of the new Simply You today.

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