Vera Wang, 74 today, explains how she stays young: “I avoid the sun”

The remarkable aging of certain celebrities is captivating, and the online world is fixated on uncovering their secrets for maintaining youthful vitality and embracing aging with elegance.

Vera Wang, the iconic fashion designer renowned for her breathtaking bridal creations adored by celebrities across the globe, marked her 74th birthday on June 27 while maintaining an astonishing appearance. During a recent interview with People magazine in April, she shared several simple tips and techniques contributing to her enduring allure. Surprisingly, her approach is refreshingly uncomplicated, something accessible to everyone. However, Wang also disclosed to Elle magazine in March that she has never fixated on the concept of aging.

British comedy writer Ariane Sherine, the author of ‘How to Live to 100,’ shared her insights with Bored Panda regarding the fascination with celebrities’ age-defying appearances and strategies for leading fulfilling, lengthy lives. These insights await you as you continue reading.

Vera Wang’s social media posts command considerable attention, often prompting internet users to comment on her impeccable style and ageless looks.

Wang’s appearance has long captivated internet users, propelling her to viral status multiple times through her social media posts. In May 2020, a picture of her in an orange crop top and white shorts ignited a frenzy. More recently, she graced the red carpet at the BAFTAs in London, adorned in an elegant white gown and a black bandeau. However, the New York-born designer remains bemused by the widespread fascination with her youthful appearance, emphasizing that aging gracefully is not her primary concern.

“I’m honored that people believe I’ve aged gracefully, but it was never my intention. I enjoy vodka, prioritize sleep, and avoid excessive sun exposure. Yet, my true passion lies in my work. I yearn for versatility,” Wang shared with Elle’s Claire Stern in a March interview. She expressed concern about her aging narrative overshadowing her creative achievements, shedding light on ageism and her desire to transcend categorization.

Wang values her friendships and acknowledges that her peers also radiate vibrancy with age. She believes the current attention on aging could inspire women to embrace their uniqueness and cultivate confidence in their diverse definitions of womanhood.

Her regimen for sustaining her youthfulness is refreshingly straightforward. Alongside ample sleep, she advocates for hard work, skin protection, and the occasional indulgence in a cocktail. Wang disclosed, “It may sound unlikely, but working keeps you youthful. It nurtures a youthful mind and spirit, which undoubtedly influence your physical state. Adequate sleep, sun protection, and favorable lighting are equally crucial!” She shared these insights with People’s Jackie Fields.

Wang initiated her venture at 40, considering herself fortunate to do so despite never aspiring to establish a company. From a young age, she immersed herself in figure skating, participating ardently in US championships. However, her transition to fashion transpired when she didn’t qualify for the US Olympics team.

With an art history degree, Wang embarked on a career with Vogue, where she spent 17 years before joining Ralph Lauren in 1987. After a brief stint, she embarked on her journey as an independent bridal wear designer. Her illustrious career centers on crafting exquisite wedding gowns. Notable clients include Hayley Williams, Ariana Grande, Chelsea Clinton, and even former First Lady Michelle Obama, who adorned Wang’s evening wear.

Wang’s creative genius also extended to designing costumes for US Olympic figure skaters and uniforms for the Philadelphia Eagles Cheerleaders. She established boutiques in New York, London, Tokyo, and Sydney, gradually diversifying into jewelry, fragrances, shoes, eyewear, and more.

The question of why people harbor a slight obsession with youthful-looking celebrities intrigued Bored Panda enough to consult British writer Ariane Sherine. She posited, “Innately aspirational, witnessing celebrities appear younger than their age ignites hope that we, too, can retain such youthfulness in old age.”

To age gracefully, Sherine suggested adapting one’s style as one grows older, emphasizing that personal style evolves. “As I approach my 43rd birthday next week(!), I’ve accepted that dressing age-appropriately is wise. Crop tops and hot pants are no longer my forte; pencil midi skirts and kitten heels now define my style,” she shared.

Sherine elaborated on Wang’s advice, aligning scientific findings with healthy aging practices. “Scientifically, 7 to 7.5 hours of nightly sleep fosters longevity,” Sherine explained to Bored Panda. She stressed the importance of shielding the skin from sun damage using SPF50 sunscreen, which also guards against skin cancer. Hard work was noted as a longevity catalyst, as the Western world highlights a link between retirement and mortality. Sherine encouraged seeking purpose beyond retirement, such as volunteering.

Sherine generously shared additional longevity tips, which encompassed drinking green tea and coffee, embracing diverse exercises, eating fish regularly, quitting smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, nurturing strong relationships, and connecting frequently with loved ones.