Models are getting older. As in the over 60 set. That’s right, if you have yet to see Helen Mirren in her latest role as the face of L’Oreal you truly are missing out.

While super models of the ’80s are now in their 40s and early 50s, there is a new set of model on the scene. And they are the over 60 set.

The gorgeous Helen Mirren is the new brand ambassador for L’Oreal Paris. In a video for the brand, in which she proudly proclaims “our perfect age is now”, she not only suits up in leather and red lipstick, but persuades us to grow another year bolder.

Yep, a real life 69 year old woman publically singing the praises of growing old gracefully. Not exactly an everyday occurrence. But it may be soon enough.

With everyone from movie stars to Bravo Housewives to real housewives getting injected, plumped, and pulled regularly, looking your age has not been at the forefront of pop culture. But are we getting over the eternal youth syndrome and headed toward aging gracefully?

Hopefully, yes. Mirren is not the only older woman to step up to the designer marketing plate. Jessica Lange is doing ads for Marc Jacobs Beauty at 64. American author Joan Didion is the new face of Celine at 80!

And all three look au naturel, their lines and grey hair proudly on display. And why not? They are not 30. Why try to look it?

Even those 40-something models are beginning to show off their real age. Cindy Crawford’s latest lingerie pic to go viral was the real deal, no touch ups. There were even some noticeable wrinkles on the red carpet at this year’s Oscars. Not all sleek foreheads and cupie doll cheeks.

In our youth-obsessed culture we’ve been trying so hard to look as young as possible. The new beauty movement seems to be headed in the direction of looking as great as you can for your age. This means happy and healthy. Sure, it may sound cliché, but what woman with a healthy glow who looks truly comfortable with herself doesn’t look beautiful? Think maintenance rather than reversal. Keep what you have healthy and looking great.

This means steering clear of too much salt and sugar, eating a balanced diet, getting adequate rest and exercise, and reducing stress. Meditation is a helpful tool in raising your PMA.

Using healthy beauty products is also better for skin and health. There are many natural anti-aging ingredients that support the skin. And don’t forget the sunscreen. UV damage is the leading cause of prematurely wrinkled skin and spots. Try a tinted moisturizer with mineral SPF like Marion Cotillard wore to the Oscars.

We seem to be at a beauty crossroads. Will we keep fighting the inevitable or revel in the natural flow?

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Image of Helen Mirren via Shutterstock

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Gretchen Jones channels Haight Ashbury and pom pom flower power for a stunning Spring/Summer 13 collection.

It’s no secret we’re Gretchen Jones fans here at EcoSalon so catching up with her post GenArt Fresh Faces show this past Sunday was like sitting down with an old friend. Known on Project Runway Season 8 as one of the few designers to tout her love of sustainable fashion and design, Jones’ approach has since changed some.

We got her to sit still for a minute to answer some questions about her Spring/Summer 13 collection called “Any Day Now.”

Here’s what she had to say.

Your collections always have a meaningful name. What’s this one all about?

My collections are inspired by a piece of literature and the album I listen to most/what’s connected to the literature. Joan Didion’s essay “Where the Kissing Never Stops,” about Joan Baez’s early years organically found me and was meant to be. I started listening to Joan Baez’s album Any Day Now [which is the collection’s name] which was recorded around the time of Didion’s essay…its seemed like the Universe found my inspiration for me this year.

Though you’re not promoting it this time around, rumor has it this collection is your most sustainable to date.

Around 70% of the collection is made from ethical materials. I’ve incorporated organic cottons, worked with an amazing company called Indigo Handloom who works with off the grid weavers in India for my batik and The shiny boucle and and a few other hand woven silks, My custom prints are still digitally printed to reduce water waste and I continue to support domestic/local production.

What have you learned as a designer about promoting sustainability?
I’m a fashion designer, not an ethically focused designer and I think there is a difference. My ethical choices are honestly for me and my chosen path in supporting my personal need to be thoughtful about how I source and where I create my work. But I don’t think my customer is only a sustainable shopper…and to be quite frank, I believe the real way to continue to move ethical choices into the way we all live is to create strong enough work that stands on its own and can compete in a very competitive industry because it’s just good.

Your favorite piece?
The Short Suit and the Pant Suit for sure.

What’s the deal/inspiration for the cool headpieces?
AMAZING Ban.Do Black Label collaboration! I have been a fan of theirs for years and wanted to create some custom pompom headpieces with them for spring. It just seemed like the perfect collection to pair Ban.do with. They created these custom pieces by incorporating most of my fabrics from the collection. I really adore these pieces and totally feel like they quite literally “topped” off my looks!

I also used Shoes of Prey and created my first custom GJNYC shoes for the season and painted custom belts and jewelry.

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