Anna meets...Philonena

It's been a while since I've run this feature, but I'd say it's been worth the wait as today I meet Philonena who was visiting the island during the Cider Festival in June. Her partner organised the music for the weekend. He was so pleased that I wanted to interview Philonena as he's very proud of her taking such care over her appearance and stepping out in style.


Anna: What brings you to this tiny island?

Philonena: My partner, Mike arranges gigs for the 59 Ford Band in the West Country.They play here at the Inn every year, mostly 50's/60's music as well as rock 'n' roll led by the singer, Phil who is a friend of ours.  This is my first visit to the Isles of Scilly and it's been lovely out here by the sea - it's very different to a normal gig. 


Anna: Do you like to dance?

Philonena: Yes, I love to dance. Mike and I like to jive and dance to rock 'n' roll as well as any kind of good music. 


Anna: Do you have a style icon who has influenced you?

Philonena: Audrey Hepburn. 



Anna: Would you like to tell my readers how old you are?

Philonena: I'm 67.


Anna: You have amazing skin for a woman of your age. What's your secret?

Philonena: I use oil on my skin rather than cream, but think my Mediterranean genes play a part too.



Anna: Where's home for you?

Philonena: I'm half Maltese, but have lived in Bristol since I was 15. I was born in Yorkshire and have lived in Cornwall amongst other places. 



Anna: Do you dress like this every day?

Philonena: Yes, I love 1950's dresses and wear them every day.




Anna: You've recently had a tattoo. Tell me about it.

Philonena: It's a very unique image, and not one I want to share as it's a one-off. It's based on me in a Union Jack dress in a 1950's style. I had it done on the inside of my arm so that it's not on show, but is there for me to see and enjoy. The tattooist had to use a extremely fine needle to achieve such a delicate image. 





Anna: What keeps you young?

Philonena: Music and dancing with my special partner keeps me young. We love going out and having holidays together.

Thank you Phee, it was an absolute pleasure to meet you!

One other thing that Philonena and I chatted about was her motivation for dressing as she does. She was keen to get across the fact that she doesn't dress for anyone else, but herself. This is who she is, not who she's trying to be, and I understand that completely. She is quite shy and reserved and is keen for me to see that she doesn't dress like this as a way of showing off. Philonena has a strong sense of self that's not reliant on society's approval - that's a great message for women of all ages, don't you agree?


Anna x

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16 comments

  1. I absolutely agree!! Philonena seems like a very authentic person and one who has interesting stories to share. These 50's styles are quite flattering and she wears them well!

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    1. You're so right about 50's dresses suiting her. I think that's the beauty of knowing what works and sticking with it - you can't improve on perfection, can you?

      Anna x

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  2. What a fabulous interview! I'm delighted you introduced us to such a fascinating person Anna.

    1950's is a favourite era of mine both for fashion and music.

    I'm very envious that at the age of 67 Philonena is able to wear such incredible shoes.

    She is a wonderful example of someone ensuring they squeeze as much joy into their lives as possible. A life well lived is the best all of us can hope for.

    Loved this post!

    bisous
    Suzanne

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    1. Thanks so much Suzanne. I'm sure that Phee has many a story to tell about her life, and yet, as I said she's quite reserved too.

      Every day she wore these amazing dresses and yes, those very high heeled shoes and looked the picture of elegance.

      Anna x

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  3. Great questions, and what an intriguing and inspiring person! I love that Philonena is just doing her own thing - she is truly owning it and being who she is. Love it!

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    1. Philonena exuded a quiet air of confidence which did indeed lend an air of intrigue to her too. It was such a treat to see her every day dressed up to the nines.

      Anna x

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  4. Wow! What a beautiful lady! That style is so elegant, and you can see it is really her!Very lovely to read this interview.

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    1. Thanks so much Nancy. I'm sure she causes a stir wherever she goes!

      Anna x

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  5. She looks gorgeous, I love her style and her personality seems very appealing
    https://lookingfabulousat50.blogspot.com.au

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    1. Philonena was as charming as she was elegant with old fashioned manners to compliment that bygone era. And yes, she does look gorgeous!

      Anna x

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  6. Such an interesting interview, and such an interesting woman!, she looks glamourous, intelligent and charming! and I love her style and attitude!
    Very inspiring!
    besos

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    1. It was so lovely to have the chance to meet her and chat about her life. Such style and attitude as you say Monica!

      Anna x

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  7. What a lovely interview, and you both look super gorgeous. x Jacqui
    www.mummabstylish.com

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  8. Lovely interview, lovely woman. And what a great skin. I am so envious.
    Greetje

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    1. Greetje, I'm so envious of her skin too - it's quite luminous, amazing!

      Anna x

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