Month: June 2025

Most problems need to be addressed at some point, yet this is one I have somehow side-stepped for years. And I must admit that, of all the problems I have experienced in my life, this is one of the least serious.

It has to do with the management of three little letters. No, not the IRS. Nor the FBI. Nor RIP. Not anything as serious as all that.

The letters in question are PhD. And if you have acquired one of these, what do you do?

Getting a PhD

Doing a doctorate is probably one of the more joyless experiences on which we embark voluntarily during the course of our lives. You do it because it is there, a qualification which will make you more, er, qualified for the work you want to do, usually an academic post. 

Actually, I didn’t do a PhD for this reason. Doing it was free (at the time, a perk of being a university wife), and although I wasn’t quite sure where I was going, I thought it might help in some vague way.

And I liked the idea that if anyone phoned our house and asked for Dr. Richardson, I could say, “Which one?” This was long before mobile phones got the caller to the right person first time.

(Neither of these are particularly good reasons to do a PhD, but they didn’t make it any easier to do the work. Indeed, for complicated reasons, I had two concurrent supervisors who together put me through a lot of hoops. And once I had the qualification, when people phoned, I found it a bit embarrassing to ask, “Which one?”)

When you start a PhD, you probably don’t know how joyless it will be. I certainly didn’t.

But leaving aside the coursework (which wasn’t part of the deal in my time – mid 1970s UK), you spend all your time learning more and more about less and less. You are ‘deep into the weeds’, to use the current cliché, and you are there alone. With luck, you find it fascinating, but not everyone does.

It takes so long, it is hard not to get a bit fed up along the way. No one else is interested, although your supervisor may pretend to be, as needed. Your family and friends are very quickly bored with the subject and will begin to yawn at the first suggestion that you are about to launch into a discussion of some finer points.

But finally, and I do mean finally, you finish the darn thing, hand it in, get tested on it and are told you have been successful. You have a PhD. Congratulations all round.

Those Three Pesky Letters

But what do you do with it? Do you rush about and change every place where your name is listed, such as your driving licence or your Visa card? I have a feeling that is what people do now.

Perhaps surprisingly, it isn’t what I did then. My husband was an academic and he said that since everyone had a PhD, it was rather infra-dig to make much of it. And not wanting to be seen as flash, I didn’t make a big deal. My friends and family knew I had passed the hurdle, but that was about that.

I decided I didn’t want to move into academia. What I had been doing was social research (both beforehand and during the period of study) and I continued to do so, but I didn’t suddenly sign myself with the word ‘Dr’ nor put PhD after my name. I was known to the relevant authorities to be a reliable and thoughtful researcher, and I really didn’t think they would consider me any better if I added my new qualification.

I did keep an eye on what other people did and had some surprises. Some people who published books put their name on the cover (of course, we all do that), followed by PhD, i.e., Mary Smith, PhD. Some people went further and showed their qualification at both ends: Dr Mary Smith, PhD. Definitely overkill. I published books and never mentioned the qualification. I didn’t think it made my books any better.

But some 10 years later, I revisited the issue and thought here I am with a PhD and not even telling anyone – and perhaps that is a bit silly. So, I changed my professional name to Dr. Ann Richardson on official letters or when meeting people for work. Nothing much changed as a result.

I never changed my Visa card or my passport or anything else to do with me as a person. I remain Mrs. Ann Richardson. Who cares?

But I will admit it comes in handy when I want to write to anyone in authority with a complaint. I am definitely Dr. Richardson in such circumstances. I have no idea if it helps, but I did recently get a quick response to a letter to my local Council, whereas a neighbour did not.

Honorary PhD

And what does one do with an Honorary PhD? By some freak of fate, I was awarded one of these years ago by Mt Holyoke College, although I never learned why. So, I officially have a Doctorate in Humane Letters (a wonderful title which sounds both kindly and literate at the same time). This is shown on my CV (resume) as D.HL (Hon). 

I have never ever used it anywhere, although I did write about receiving it in my recent book. It will go down in the historical listing of ‘things no one ever knew’.

I don’t know what other people do. I have no reason to be looking at many CVs of important or semi-important people. If they are self-important, I could make a good guess.

Is a PhD Worth the Trouble?

Of course it is. If you need the qualification. It is essential.

And in my case, I would say it was, too, but for completely different reasons. It gave a huge boost to my confidence. It wasn’t being called ‘Doctor Richardson’ – it was the fact of having climbed that mountain and learned a lot along the way.

One supervisor said, “You will never be daunted at the prospect of writing a book.” And he was right. I never am. 

And I can always throw in those letters if the situation warrants it. 

I earned them.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Do you have a degree? Where do you write it and for what occasions? What did it take for you to earn it?

In honor of my father, who died in 2020 at the age of 93, I’m opening a conversation about men and boys. My father was typical of his time, showing love for our family by working hard and providing for us. He often did not have much time for his children.

We became close after my mother died in 2000, until his death. By then, he enjoyed spending time with me and, for the first time, expressed pride in my accomplishments. With one grandson and another on the way, I began to explore the topic of what is happening with boys and men.

Starting a Dialogue

Recently, a dialogue opened up about boys and men following the release of the fictional Netflix series Adolescence, featuring a 13-year-old boy who is alienated and murders a female schoolmate. The investigation uncovers internet bullying and his increasingly misogynistic attitudes promulgated by online influencers who promoted the “manosphere.”

The series seems to have hit a nerve. British Prime Minister Starmer and government officials plan to propose showing the series in every secondary school in the UK as a wake-up call. Meanwhile, the American Institute for Boys and Men (AIMB) criticizes the idea because they feel Adolescence exaggerates the risks of social media influencing young boys. Yet, whether or not you agree, the AIMB presents some dramatic statistics.

Men Are Suffering

Fifteen percent of young men today say they don’t have a close friend – a five-fold increase since 1990. This loneliness, combined with societal pressures, has resulted in a mental health crisis for American boys and men. Today, men are four times more likely than women to die by suicide, yet 10 percentage points less likely than women to access mental health care.

Having fought for women’s rights since the 70s, I’ve experienced the meteoric advances for women in the last 50 years. Women are outscoring men and have become the majority in universities, entering a wide array of fields and assuming leadership roles. We’ve worked hard for our gains, but we have a long way to go: men still hold the majority of top positions of power. Sexual harassment and domestic violence are far from eradicated.

Yet, it is in all our interests to address what is happening to men and boys.

Not a Zero-Sum Game

Men don’t have to suffer because women are doing better. We are not in a zero-sum game.

A podcast featuring Richard Reeves, who studies gender inequality, stating that men and boys are in “really bad shape” according to research in the areas of health, education, income, happiness, friendship, and more. Although some on social media blame feminism for this, Reeves explains that there is much more to it:

Economics plays a significant role in the problem, particularly with the shift away from manufacturing. Today, two out of three jobs require postsecondary education and training, while three out of four jobs in the 1970s required a high school diploma or less.

Girls mature faster and do better in the education system, which is not geared to the needs of boys. Reeves suggests we consider starting boys a year later than girls to level the playing field.

We don’t have effective support systems to help men adapt, find new roles, and navigate the changes that accompany them.

We lack male role models – fewer men work as teachers, and divorces often leave boys without positive male influences. It’s in all our interests to pay attention.

Qualities to Cultivate in Children

So, I began creating a universal list of qualities to cultivate in all children, regardless of their gender:

1. Responsibility and accountability with integrity, acknowledging and learning from mistakes.
2. Emotional intelligence and maturity with a capacity to manage emotions, respect the feelings of others, and make wise choices.
3. Courage, physical and emotional strength, and a willingness to speak up and stand up for themselves and others.
4. Respect, kindness, and compassion with skills for building strong relationships with people of all backgrounds.
5. Nurturing, helping, and caring for others.

Regardless of Gender

We also need to consider what all people need to let go of: dominance-oriented bravado and self-centered egotism, physical toughness and aggression, emotional stoicism, trying to act invulnerable, and suppressing emotions. Additionally, we need to let go of know-it-all behavior, including manipulating others, capitulating, and allowing others to dominate us.

On a practical level, all people need to negotiate their lives together, including household tasks and child-rearing. Parents need to be a team to manage finances, provide for their families, and create a safe and protective environment.

Society Plays a Role as Well

We need to open a dialogue on these issues and find collaborative solutions. We should teach young people self-regulation and communication skills, tailoring our approach to meet each child’s unique needs. We must critically analyze social media and mitigate its negative impacts.

Most of all, we need to pay attention when a young person is lonely, isolated, bullied, or unhappy and provide support systems with caring leaders. Each of us can be a role model, as a mother, father, grandparent, teacher, or friend. This Father’s Day, let’s open a conversation with people to work together for a better world.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

What do you know about boys’ and men’s health in today’s world? Have you mentored boys? How was it different from mentoring girls?

Everyone’s fangirling over their chemistry.

Do you like wrap dresses? I definitely do. They are ultra-feminine, look great in all lengths, and are flattering on every body shape.

Wrap garments have been around for a long time – think Japanese kimonos and Chinese robes dating back several centuries. Women’s wrap dresses were first introduced to Europe and the Americas and became fashionable garments in the 1930s by designer Elsa Schiaparelli and then Claire McCardell in the 1940s.

Designer Diane von Fürstenberg brought the wrap dress to the top of its popularity in the early 1970s by designing collections of brightly printed knit wrap dresses.

Best wrap dresses for women over 50.

1. Abigail Silk Jersey Midi Wrap Dress – A classic Diane Von Furstenberg wrap dress in a black & white pattern
2. Sheath Dress with 3/4 Sleeves & Cascade Ruffle Skirt – Pretty satin cocktail dress from Alex Evenings.
3. Cap-Sleeve Faux-Wrap Dress – Another Amazon find that comes in many trendy colors.
4. Anne Klein Plus Size Classic Wrap Dress – This classic dress is designed to flatter the plus-size figure, featuring a wrap silhouette that conceals and reveals in all the right places.
5. I.N.C. International Concepts Floral-Print Wrap Dress, Exclusively at Macy’s – This elegant dress offers a polished look with its crisp cotton fabric and tailored silhouette.

Keep reading to explore more wrap dresses in both prints and solids to suit every style.

Wrap dresses can be found in an array of fabrics–from stretchy knit jerseys to thick woven cotton. They look beautiful with or without sleeves, and the natural V-neck that the wrap creates is very flattering.

Helpful tip: Choose how much or how little cleavage you want to show by adding a hidden inside pin or a fitting brooch.

Wrap dresses have become a timeless staple with many brands and designers offering them every season.

Read WHAT ARE THE BEST DRESSES FOR OLDER WOMEN OF EVERY SIZE AND SHAPE?

Also, read 14 BEAUTIFUL SUNDRESSES FOR WOMEN OVER 60.

What Makes Wrap Dresses So Flattering for Women Over 50?

Wrap dresses are flattering because they highlight the waist, elongate the neck with a V-neckline, and create an hourglass silhouette. They offer flexibility in fit, great for weight fluctuations or days you want a little more breathing room. For women over 50, they’re an elegant solution to common fit challenges, especially around the midsection, bust, and hips.

Can You Wear a Wrap Dress If You Have a Tummy?

Yes, and that’s one of the wrap dress’s biggest strengths. Choose styles with a slightly higher waist or empire cut to draw attention away from the tummy. Look for ruching or gathered fabric at the waist for added camouflage. You can also layer a shaping slip underneath for smoother lines and added confidence

10 Best Wrap Dresses

Abigail Silk Jersey Midi Wrap Dress

Let’s start with a Diane von Fürstenberg wrap dress. This wrap dress falls just mid-calf, and the attached waistband cinches the smallest part of your silhouette.

I know designer brands are not accessible to everyone, but I felt my list wouldn’t be complete without a Diane von Fürstenberg dress!

Printed Classic Wrap Dress

Anne Klein is famous for designing beautiful dresses for women of all ages. The wrap dresses that have become regular offerings through the years are always very popular.

Floral Wrap Front Maxi Dress Halogen®

This is a lightweight, rayon-linen blend dress with the flattering wrap design and vivid blue floral print. It features an original surplice V-neckline with buttons, three-quarter sleeves, and a full-length silhouette that’s both breezy and elegant.

Sheath Dress with 3/4 Sleeves & Cascade Ruffle Skirt

Alex Evenings designs evening and special event dresses with mature women in mind. This cocktail wrap dress is made with their signature compression fabric that is figure flattering.

Maggy London Malina

The Malina Faux Wrap Midi Dress by Maggy London features a vibrant floral print and oversized flutter sleeves, offering a breezy yet polished look. Its faux wrap silhouette provides a flattering fit, while the fully lined design ensures comfort. Ideal for spring and summer occasions.

Anne Klein Plus Size Classic Wrap Dress

The Anne Klein Plus Size Classic Wrap Dress is designed to flatter the plus-size figure, featuring a wrap silhouette that conceals and reveals in all the right places. Designed from a polyester and elastane blend, it offers a comfortable fit with a V-neckline and a side tie closure.

I.N.C. International Concepts Floral-Print Wrap Dress, Exclusively at Macy’s

This dress is an excellent piece suitable for both work and evening outings. Made from 100% polyester, it features a V-neckline, side tie closure, and button cuffs, offering a flattering silhouette. With an approximate length of 42.5 inches from the center back neck to hem, this dress combines both style and comfort.

Cap-Sleeve Faux-Wrap Dress

Cute tulip-print wrap dress from Amazon Essentials is priced under $50 and is made with a sustainably sourced rayon blend fabric.

I.N.C. International Concepts Hardware-Trim Cotton Faux-Wrap Dress, Exclusively at Macy’s

This elegant dress offers a polished look with its crisp cotton fabric and tailored silhouette. Featuring a surplice neckline with a spread collar, three-quarter roll-tab sleeves, and a tulip hem, this midi-length dress is accented with a subtle hardware detail at the waist. 

Connected Apparel Long Sleeve Faux Wrap Midi Dress

This faux-wrap dress, available at Nordstrom, features a timeless silhouette with a flattering design that suits various body types. Featuring long sleeves and a midi length, it’s suitable for both daytime and evening events. The dress includes a removable tie belt, allowing for adjustable waist definition. 

What to Look for in a Wrap Dress After 50

• Fabric: Go for breathable, stretchy materials like jersey or modal for everyday wear, and satin or crepe for formal events.
• Fit: Make sure the waist ties at a natural or slightly high waistline for the most flattering effect.
• Length: Midi or knee-length options tend to be the most versatile and flattering.
• Sleeves: Cap, ¾, or long sleeves can offer more coverage and versatility across seasons.

Read 14 BEAUTIFUL SUNDRESSES FOR WOMEN OVER 60.

Also read 10 BEST BOHO DRESSES FOR WOMEN OVER 50.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Do you like wrap dresses? Do you own a wrap dress? Which one is your favorite from our list? Tell us about it in the comments below.

This is quite a change.