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Women's Group Changing Image Of Fashion And Age

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO)-- There's a group of women in the Twin Cities focused on changing the fashion world. To them, there's no link between how old you are and what you can and can't wear.

They call themselves "Aging But Dangerous" -- better known as the women who take part in the annual Martini Skydive Jump. Instead of a parachute, they're now relying on the runway to get their message across.

"(Women) deserve to feel sexy if they want to feel sexy," says 63-year-old C. Suzanne Bates, from the group.

During an interview with WCCO-TV, Bates was wearing a skirt cut above the knee, see-through leggings and high heels.

"I feel like I'm 35," she said about her outfit. "You read so many articles that say that if you're over a certain age you shouldn't wear leggings or a short skirt."

The group of women -- all over age 50 -- have thrown out the fashion rules when it comes to age.

The group is putting on a fashion show to prove it. The oldest model in the show is 83.

"That's what we're trying to show women 50 and over -- that they can have their attitude," said Jean Ketcham, from Aging But Dangerous. "This fashion show is like a rock concert."

"I think a lot of women (our age) wouldn't wear jeans and boots," said Ketcham.

Armed with a new attitude, they hope to spark a movement.

Bates said, "We are changing the way that society and retailers perceive women our age by changing the way we perceive ourselves."

The fashion show is Thursday at Nicollet Island Pavilion. It starts at 6:30 p.m. and the proceeds will go towards Dress For Success, a national program that provides business suits for low-income women who are headed out on job interviews or starting new jobs.

Tickets are $35 in advance and $40 at the door.

The outfits being featured Thursday are from five shops in the Twin Cities: Larue's, Key North Boutique, Drama Boutique, C'est Chic, and Allee Metro Chic.

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