Women over 40 no longer let anyone dictate how they should dress - and certainly not what supposedly counts as "age-appropriate". Panagiota Petridou (46) made it clear that such boundaries in the wardrobe are outdated at the "Soulmates United" fashion show by Ernsting's family in Hamburg. There, the TV host took a clear stance against age-shaming - and found characteristically direct words.
The occasion was a social media comment about her age, which Petridou confidently countered in an interview: "I think to myself: Yes, thank God I've gotten older. Imagine if someone said: 'Too bad she's dead.' And I feel comfortable at my age." The host, who turns 47 this year, makes it clear: getting older is not a flaw for her, but something that shouldn't be downplayed.
"Simply be who you are"
Petridou also has a clear attitude when it comes to dealing with online criticism: "Whoever likes it shares it with me, and if not, they simply scroll on, and the rest should just shut up." In her opinion, women should not be limited by societal expectations - neither in their clothing nor in their appearance. Her appeal is therefore: "So have the courage for color, courage for individualism, and simply to be who you are."
Petridou describes her own fashion style as an uncomplicated mix of basics and natural casualness: "I have a Jennifer Aniston style. At the end of the day, however, I always look the way I feel like - lots of basics and always kind of outdoorsy." For summer, she likes to wear fringe and flowing fabrics.
Style Knows No Age
Other prominent women also agree with Petridou when it comes to supposed age rules in fashion. Model Franziska Knuppe (51), who celebrates her 30th anniversary in the industry next year, prefers to wear a hoodie, ripped jeans, and a baseball cap in private. Her conclusion is clear: "Quite honestly, I don't care at all. I dress the way I feel comfortable." As long as the fit is right, age is secondary for personal style.
TV host Nina Moghaddam (45) also refuses societal categories. In her view, these often only serve as orientation in a complex world. Her own style changed significantly after the birth of her son: Today, her mood mainly determines whether it will be simple basics or a striking look with red lips. She doesn't let criticism of her clothing style get to her. "I dress the way I like. I think it's wonderful that everything has become so ageless."
Other prominent guests at the Ernsting's family fashion show included Ulrike Frank, Isabell Horn, Eva Imhof, Timur Ülker, and Nadine Menz. Canadian top model Coco Rocha was invited as the star guest. The new Fall/Winter 2026 collection was presented - among others by "GNTM" contestant Marlene Kröger and curvy model Saskia Grimm. Pop singer Loi provided musical highlights.
