Yes, t’s harder to dazzle us, but easier to move us – but only if you know where to aim.
We’ve outgrown just the fireworks. Now, the bar for “impressed” sits somewhere between seen it and not buying it. But inspiration? That still resonates.
Now: We’re BetterEDITORS.
We have a few years and many many experiences under our belts now. We are a lot more in tune with ourselves, our desires and what we are now wanting. So it was only a matter of time that we became much better at knowing what truly impresses us – and what’s all for show.
We’ve always been our own ‘editor’ but now – we’ve sharpened our senses to a point that we know how to actually edit life differently.
The bar might be higher, but the joy we crave is deeper.
A NEWThreshold.
Lately I’ve realised my threshold for being “impressed” keeps climbing. But inspired? That can happen in a second – when someone keeps a promise, when something goes from ideation to action, when something moves me. I’ve outgrown things that are just ‘spectacles’ for the sake of it. We see through the BS much quicker now – it’s not being cynical, it’s just knowing in your gut and your head – and trusting it. I want resonance -the kind you feel in your chest. That’s what holds my interest now. That’s what I find inspiring.
So is being hard to impress a bad thing? Absolutely not. It’s discerning. It’s real.
“I like when things give me goosebumps. It means it’s really struck a chord with me. It’s captured not only my attention, but I am intrigued. I feel a flicker of inspiration. I love being inspired more than anything – it creates a certain energy. It’s where my curiosity get’s to roam freely.”
creator of maison 1973, Nic
What inspires you now and
what gives you goosebumps?
Continue to explore our mood boards for inspiration
“I’m definitely not fearless. But I am courageous. It’s not something I wake up with – I have to choose it. Somedays, more often than others. But I learnt long ago, fear doesn’t go away – I just had to find the courage to keep going in the face of grief, doubt, reinvention.”
creator of maison 1973, Nic Tierney
Courage Is Not The ABSENCE Of Fear.
I’ve felt varying degrees of fear in all sorts of situations – airports, boardrooms, hospitals. I’ve felt it in my bones. I’ve felt it before sending the text, the email. Making the call. Starting again. Walking away. Small things, big things – all sorts of things. Over time, I have been fearful of many things – I am human.
And I’ve felt fear when things were good, too. When life was full and love was all around and it scared me because…what if I lost it?
So no – I’m not ‘fearless’. But I try not to let fear ever take over and stop me from doing what I need – or want to do. I also don’t live in a state of fear – something I am incredibly grateful for.
Fear – it visits me.
The word, the context, the emotion and the meaning behind it, truly fascinates me – as often it is just thrown around very one dimensionally without thought or care for what it actually means to some people.
Like you, I have to face things I fear all the time. How do I do that? By finding courage.
I’ve just stopped pretending that ‘fearlessness’ is the goal. But courage? That’s real. That’s lived. And that’s what midlife is asking of us now as we embark on our next chapter.
Fear Doesn’t Mean You’re WEAK.
We’re told from a young age to be brave. To stand tall. To not cry. And often, when we learned how to find the courage and face a fear – we grew as a result. Fear can be one of our greatest teachers. I am not ashamed at all to admit that I have many fears – some I have faced and some that I still have, and continue to face as they arise. There is absolutely no shame or weakness in that whatsoever. In fact, it’s probably saved me in some situations.
Nowadays, however, that messaging has gotten slicker. More forceful.
Be fearless. Be unstoppable. Be more.
It all seems motivational on the surface. And often, for some (and in the right context) – it can be. But quietly, sometimes it can make us feel like we’re somehow lacking if fear still visits us – if we still second-guess ourselves at 45, or 51, or 62.
If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve lived through a few lifetimes within your life.
You’ve done brave things. You’ve done hard things.
You’ve achieved wonderful things. You’ve endured times of heartbreak, change, reinvention, caregiving, letting go.
You’ve had hope and you more than likely, have felt fear – in varying degrees.
You’ve needed to find and trust your courage – quiet, imperfect, evolving – and that it is more than enough.
Because it is.
What COURAGE Has Looked Like in My Life
It didn’t always look bold. And sometimes it did. Most of the time though, I was vulnerable and had no idea what to do.
Somedays it looked like crying in the car, pulling it together, and walking into the meeting anyway.
Other times it was hearing news that you never want to hear and facing something that was indescribable, but there was no other option but to deal with it. Often, it looked like saying “I’m not sure yet.” Or “I’m sorry, I was wrong.”
Sometimes, it looked like silence. And sometimes, it looked like speaking the truth that made my voice shake. None of that was fearless.
Point was – I felt the fear and then had to find the courage to face it. Time after time.
The Courageous MIDDLE
We’re not in a season of proving. We’re in a season of choosing. And that, takes courage.
It can be messy and quiet. Hard and rewarding. It’s where we:
Reclaim our voice.
Make peace with our body.
Stop apologising for our ambition – or our rest.
Let go of roles – and people – that no longer fit with our life.
Begin again, even when it’s not guaranteed to work.
Learn to be vulnerable in life, in relationships and in leadership.
I believe, one of the great shifts that happens as we age, is the ‘shedding’ of the need of ‘performance’. We’re far more interested in being true.
And fearlessness? Often, nowadays that’s become a performance. Just a bunch of words thrown at us to make us pretend we are something we are not. Some of the most incredibly strong, courageous people I know – who have faced insane adversities in life – still openly admit that they have fears, to this day. But they lived through it with courage and bravery – and continue to do so.
Courage is a choice and a practice. It’s often deeply private. It’s often unseen. And it doesn’t demand (or require), applause.
So now more than ever, I consciously choose to just be present in life. And that means welcoming in the full range of emotions – including fear.
But it doesn’t sit in the drivers seat – it’s just a passenger in my car of life.
Rippling waves create a soothing rhythm as the sun dips low on the horizon, casting warm hues over the water’s surface in a captivating display of nature’s artistry.
Acknowledge the fear. Walk anyway.
maison 1973
Courage doesn’t have to be loud. Just real.
Continue to explore our mood boards for inspiration
Just because you said it, doesn’t mean you’re right.
“This is a fascinating topic to me. I feel that dogma is when opinion gets so loud, it forgets how to listen. It’s the moment belief becomes a rulebook, and curiosity gets kicked out of the room. It’s the end of the conversation – not the beginning of one. There is a time and a place for everything. And not everything is dogma. And not every opinion is fact. The art of dialogue is crucial in our everyday lives.”
creator of maison 1973, Nic Tierney
Agree to disagree? Is that even a thing anymore?
Welcome to the age of the mic drop. Where certainty on everything and everyone – is now our currency, and anyone who dares to disagree is instantly dismissed, dissected, or digitally obliterated. We seem to not want to really talk anymore? Instead, it feels as if everything is a declaration. And if you’re not clapping, you’re clearly the enemy.
Somewhere along the way, we lost the art of respectful disagreement. We lost our appetite for nuance. We became afraid – or even allergic? – to not being right.
What does this mean and what is going on? Let’s explore.
It’s Everywhere Now
It lives in social captions and podcast rants. It masquerades as moral superiority. It seems to punish curiosity and curious people?
Dogma says, “I’m right. You’re wrong. End of story.” Dialogue, on the other hand, says, “Here’s what I think. What about you?”
As Gen X women, we remember a different kind of conversation. One where people could sit across from each other with totally opposing views and still share dessert. We weren’t so threatened by contradiction. We knew that opinions didn’t define the person – or at least, they didn’t have to.
But now? Opinions are treated as identities. And any challenge to your viewpoint is seen as a threat to your entire sense of self.
But here’s a truth: just because you make a point, doesn’t necessarily make it right. And just because someone doesn’t agree with you, doesn’t make them wrong. It’s a harsh truth for some, but it is a truth nevertheless.
We’ve confused having a platform with having the last word. We’ve mistaken confidence for correctness. We’ve equated volume with value.
Here’s a thought to ponder – if your belief system can’t handle being questioned, maybe it’s not a belief system – it’s a performance?
It takes strength to hold space for views that challenge your own. It takes grace to say, “I see it differently – but I still respect you.” It takes maturity to let the moment pass without needing to win it.
This is happening everywhere: families divided over dinner, 24/7 with virtual strangers online, some people are just opting out of conversation altogether because it’s just not worth the backlash. People’s general interest in just simply seeking to understand – being stifled by those with louder opinions.
But silence isn’t the answer. And neither is shouting louder.
So What is?
It’s curiosity. It’s emotional maturity. It’s being okay with not being right. It’s knowing when to walk away, not to prove a point but to preserve your peace. It’s understanding that some things in life hold a lot of uncertainty and with that, there needs to be some understanding.
It’s becoming so rare (particularly online) to find and meet people where you feel completely at ease with sharing a thought, an opinion, a viewpoint, a question – and you know that it will be met with a considered response, not a defensive one. A dialogue. We can remember a time, where this was how we just functioned in life – what happened?
At maison 1973, we believe in deeper conversations, challenging the ‘status quo’, asking and really listening. There will always be discomfort in our paths to growth – always. We never stop growing and evolving – regardless of our age. We believe you can disagree with someone and still love or respect them (or both). We like to learn and embrace change. And with change comes uncertainty – and that’s part of life. We’ve lived through many decades, we know that change is inevitable.
You don’t need to shout to be sure of what you believe. You don’t need to be right to be worthy. And you don’t need everyone to agree with you to lead with confidence.
Let’s bring back nuance. Let’s bring back listening. Let’s bring back the beauty of I see it differently, and that’s okay.
Because disagreement doesn’t need to mean the end of the conversation. Sometimes, it’s where the real one begins.
THE maison 1973 Takeaway
Not every differing opinion is an attack. Sometimes it’s just… another point of view.
Not every opinion needs a rebuttal. Not every point needs a mic drop. Sometimes the most powerful thing you can say is simply: “I hear you.”
What do you think?
Certainty is trending. But curiosity? That’s timeless.
maison 1973
Your curiosity is waiting.
Continue to explore our mood boards for inspiration
photograph of wild horses running in the steppe, brown and white, grainy film filter, minimalist, kodak portra film, cinematic, in the style of Monia Merlo –ar 35:57 Job ID: e2b26c11-f31f-41a8-87e0-4d6d6ce7c07a
The POWER We All Have
There’s something magical that starts to happen in midlife.
You realise you’ve spent decades collecting insight — facts, patterns, frameworks, evidence, experiences. And just as suddenly, your instinct starts to get louder. Not louder in volume. Louder in clarity.
The gut pulls that once felt like noise now feel like knowing. The flashes of intuition that once felt inconvenient now feel undeniable.
And somewhere along the way, we realise that we don’t have to choose one over the other.
The new power? It comes from learning to hold and use, both.
Insight: The MUSCLE You Built
Let’s be clear. You didn’t get here by winging it. You worked hard. You analysed. You listened. You endured. You lived. You learned the difference between hype and reality. Between story and substance. Between what’s nonsense BS and what actually matters.
You can read a room, a brief, a person. You can anticipate outcomes. You know what happens when people talk too fast, promise too much, sell too early. We have honed these skills over four or more decades now.
That’s our insight. It’s not just intellect — it’s pattern recognition. It’s lived experience. It’s data you carry in your bones.
But insight is only one side of the story.
Instinct: The VOICE That Was Always There
Instinct doesn’t shout. It nudges us. It tugs at us. It stirs somewhere in our gut that we can’t quite put our finger on.
It’s the “something’s off” before you know why. It’s the moment you’re about to sign, and your body says no. It’s the moment you are not so sure about someone or something, but you can’t explain why.
Instinct isn’t always rational. But it’s deeply intelligent. It’s our subconscious pulling on thousands of micro-data points before our brain can catch up.
In your 20s, you possibly ignored it. You doubted it. Now? We’d be fools not to listen.
Why Midlife Women Are the ULTIMATEBalancers of Both
Because we’ve had to be. Quite simple really.
We’ve spent years in boardrooms, bedrooms, hospitals, offices, schools. We’ve seen what happens when people follow logic without heart. And we’ve seen what happens when people follow vibes without vision.
Midlife isn’t about becoming more cautious or more impulsive. It’s about becoming fluent in both of these languages and learning to balance them more than ever before.
“Insight for me, has always been about trying to rationalise with fact and experience. Intuition on the other hand, just hits me when I least expect it. I find nowadays, I listen to my gut more than ever before.”
creator of maison 1973, Nic
When Insight Gets in the WAY
Sometimes we’re too smart. We overthink. We talk ourselves out of a yes because we can’t justify it on paper. We stay where it’s safe, because the data says it’s stable.
But the truth is: stability isn’t always success. And sometimes insight can paralyse you with options. Analysis paralysis – we’ve all been in many (business) situations where this is strongly evident!
We forget that not every decision needs a business case. Some just need a feeling.
When INSTINCT Is the Only Thing You Have
And then there are the moments when insight fails you. The job offer looks perfect. The partnership is textbook ideal. The timing seems “right.”
And yet…You feel that flicker. That unease. And you walk away. Or you say yes. Or you shift the entire plan based on a gut pull you couldn’t explain.
And later, you realise: your body knew what your mind couldn’t articulate. That’s instinct. That’s trusting your gut.
How Do We HONOURBoth?
We all find ourselves in this position, day in day out. Sometimes the decisions we face are enormous and life changing, others are just everyday situations. Here’s how we tend to tackle it:
Pause before the plan. Give instinct a seat at your table before you logic it to death.
Validate the feeling. Ask yourself: is this a real no, or just fear?
Cross-check with insight. Gut says go? Great. Now give it some structure.
Decide with your whole self. Not just your brain. Not just your body. All of you.
Midlife truly is the age of integration. We are not just thinkers. We are feelers, knowers, deciders – all encompassing now.
We don’t need to prove we’re smart. We don’t need to explain why we know what we know. We just get to trust that the years have sharpened every part of us.
Close up photo of a white marble sculpture in the corner of a minimal Paris apartment, a classical Greek style head and shoulders figure in the style of Greek sculptures, minimalist aesthetic with cream walls. –ar 35:47 –style raw Job ID: 47388394-56bb-44dd-b72d-487d78a3456a
Insight is our compass.
Instinct is our wind.
Trust both.
Continue to explore our mood boards for inspiration
What midlife teaches us about strategy, sacrifice, and finally playing by your own rules.
“If you know (or learning) chess, you will really get where I am coming from here. It’s such a complex ‘game’, yet life is sort of no different. It all depends on the player and the circumstances we find ourselves in. One thing it has definitely taught me – patience!”
creator of maison 1973, Nic
STRATEGY And Sacrifice
There’s a moment somewhere in midlife when the ‘board’ comes into focus. Not just the ‘pieces’ in play, but the patterns. The moves we keep making. The strategies that no longer serve us. The times we gave up the ‘queen’ to keep the peace.
Chess is a metaphor for life, that’s for sure.
Sometimes life is a journey, sometimes a game. Not in a trivial sense. But in the way that every move matters. That nothing is random? That timing is everything? And that, at some point, we get to choose whether we keep reacting or start directing.
So is life a chess game? Maybe. But we’re no longer playing by someone else’s rules.
So let’s play.
Opening MOVES: The Game We Didn’t Know We Were In
In your twenties, you’re the pawn. You move forward because that’s what you were told to do. Get the job. Date the person. Be agreeable. Stay small. Fit in.
You think you’re making progress, but you’re just following the board. You’re not taught to see the game. You’re taught to play your part.
And then one day something breaks. A job. A relationship. A belief. And you start to ask:
We give up comfort to protect our ambition. We give up softness to survive in male-dominated rooms. We give up time with people we love, to prove ourselves.
We’ve played defensively. We’ve waited. We’ve overthought the next move. We’ve stayed still because risk felt reckless.
But the longer you’ve been on the board, the more you start to see: The only way to win is to play your own game.
And maybe to redefine what “winning” even is.
Endgame Energy: When You STOP Playing to Be Liked
Midlife is the endgame energy you didn’t know you needed. You stop trying to charm your way through. You don’t wait for permission to move. You’re not trying to be the knight or the queen or the bishop – you’re the damn board now.
You’re not here to prove anything. You’re here to move with intention.
You’re not scrambling for checkmate.
You’re playing for peace.
“In business and in life, you’re not always the queen. Sometimes you’re the pawn. What matters is how well you know the board.”
creator of maison 1973, Nic
The Rules You Were GIVEN vs. The Rules You Now Write
Remember when the goal was to make it to the other side? To climb the ladder. To get the title. To own the house. To tick the box.
No one told you the game keeps resetting. That you can win by quitting. That you can gain by letting go. That you can love the game and still choose not to play it like everyone else.
Midlife gives you the luxury of rewriting your rules:
You can opt out of performance for performance sake.
You can prioritise presence over perception.
You can stop moving just because everyone else is.
You can take your time and still get to where you want to be.
You can move left, when everyone else moves right.
You can start a new game all over again.
You can analyse all the moves you’ve made so far and decide which direction to take next.
You can become better than you’ve ever been.
You can play the long game. Or a quick one. You choose.
You can set up the board yourself – you don’t need to wait for someone else to do it.
What They Never TOLD You About the Game
They told you it was about being smart. But they never said wisdom would come from mistakes.
They told you it was about staying ten steps ahead. But they never said stillness could be a strategy.
They told you to be tactical. But they never said intuition could be your most powerful move.
They never said you could change the board entirely. That you could burn it down and build something better. That you could play in a way that honours your energy, your values, your version of a good life.
But now you know.
THE maison 1973 Takeaway
Maybe life is a chess game. But at midlife, we stop playing to win by their definition. We start playing with joy, with clarity, and with the full awareness of every move we’ve made to get here.
And that changes everything.
You’re not just another piece on the board. You are the player. The strategist. The whole damn table.
Play wisely. Play freely. And above all, play your game.
Now let’s play.
Get on the board.
Continue to explore our mood boards for inspiration
Creativity is oxygen. You might be holding your breath?
“I wasn’t exhausted. I was underfed — creatively, emotionally, spiritually. It took me a litle while to realise the difference.”
creator of maison 1973, Nic Tierney
Where Has Our CREATIVITY Gone?
There’s a particular kind of fatigue that doesn’t come from overwork. It comes from underfeeling. Underimagining. Undercreating.
And if you’re a Gen X woman waking up each day wondering why the spark is gone, wondering why a full night’s sleep still leaves you feeling flat—you might not be burnt out. We spend so much of our time reading, talking thinking and worrying about navigating through all of our midlife hormonal and ‘life shifts’ – but sometimes it’s not about any of that.
You might just be creatively underfed.
Let’s dive into this interesting space a little more.
The Myth of BURNOUT (And Why It’s Not Always True)
We’ve been sold the idea that burnout means we’ve worked too hard, too long, for too little reward. And sure—that’s part of it. But many women in midlife are doing less than they did ten years ago, and yet feel more emotionally depleted than ever.
We’re not broken. Our inner world is hungry. We know the feeling all too well.
“Midlife didn’t dull my ambition. It just redirected it. Now I crave doing what I do best – creating. Not busyness.”
creator of maison 1973, Nic Tierney
Competence Isn’tCREATIVITY
If you’re a Gen X woman, you were more than likely raised on grit, efficiency, and survival. You’ve spent decades holding everything together, knowing what to do, and doing it well. You’re probably damn good at your job, your calendar, your life…and everything in between.
But somewhere along the way, being competent became the enemy of being curious. Of being lit up. Of not knowing, and playing anyway.
And here’s the kicker: a life full of function without imagination becomes… beige. Not bad. Just blunted.
This isn’t about quitting your job to become an artist (or absolutely it could be if that’s what lights your fire). This is about asking yourself: Where am I letting the spark go dim, because I’ve convinced myself I don’t have time to feel it?
Whatever it is—your spark can re-ignite.
maison 1973
How to Tell if You’re Creatively UNDERFED
You might not be aware it’s happening. But here are some signs:
You’re consuming more than you’re creating (even if creating just means journaling or arranging flowers).
You feel uninspired by the things that used to excite you.
If any of these sound familiar, you’re not alone. And you’re not failing. You’re just a little creatively underfed.
What Creative NOURISHMENTActually Looks Like
Let’s be clear: this isn’t about being productive. This isn’t about monetising your hobby or learning to paint so you can open an Etsy shop.
Creative nourishment is about doing something for the sheer joy of it. It’s doing something you don’t need to be good at. It’s about creating energy, not output.
Here’s what that might look like:
Putting on music and dancing alone in the kitchen.
Re-reading a novel you loved at 22.
Drawing.
Doodling
Art – in all forms. Admiring it.
Start a blog
Take beautiful pictures
Wander without intent.
Daydreaming.
Making something – anything.
Cooking something new. Or something old and comforting.
Wandering in nature.
Writing a letter
Creating a mood board
Playing – with a guitar, an instrument, a new gadget.
Rearranging your shelves by colour.
Lighting a candle at 3pm, just because.
Creativity isn’t always grand. Sometimes it’s just giving yourself permission to care and be playful and letting your mind just wander. Get lost in our thoughts.
Why Midlife Is a Creative PORTAL
Most people think of creativity as youthful: the domain of 20-somethings and start-ups. But midlife? Midlife is actually one of the richest, most potent portals for creative reinvention—if we choose to walk through it.
And creative expression is the exact antidote to the ‘grey fog’ of modern life.
THE maison 1973 Takeaway
This isn’t about doing more. It’s about doing different.
At maison 1973, we believe:
Creativity isn’t a luxury—it’s a life source.
Midlife isn’t a crisis—it’s a privilege.
You don’t need to be good. You just need to be willing.
Just start – do, change, repeat
And when we create (whether it’s a dish, a sentence, a feeling, or a space), we re-enter our world with fresh eyes.
If you feel like you’re stuck in beige… If you can’t remember the last time something lit you up… If you’re craving something more, but unsure what…
This is a call back to your creative self.
It’s not always ‘burnout’ – maybe you just need to feed your inner creative. Sometimes it’s not about the five-year plan. You just need a spark. And maybe it starts with a messy doodle, a walk without your phone, or a playlist you haven’t heard since 1996.
Whatever it is, let’s find it. Because it’s wonderful.
Midlife isn’t an ending- it’s an invitation. You in?
maison 1973
Your creativity is waiting.
Continue to explore our mood boards for inspiration
Because wanting the same things as everyone else was never the point was it?
“Some of my wants arrived quietly. Some took their time. The important part I’ve now learnt at this stage in my life – is just letting them belong—without needing to make sense to anyone else.”
creator of maison 1973, Nic Tierney
What We Had To AskOURSELVES
There’s a quiet question that can change everything in midlife:
What do you actually want?
Not what you were told to want. Not what looks good on paper. Not what other women seem to be chasing.
But you—here, now.
What do you want?
We ask this not as a throwaway prompt, but as a radical act. Because to want differently in a world of sameness is to reclaim your agency, your intuition, your truth. And we have done it and continue to do it.
And that, maison woman – is a kind of freedom most people are too busy to notice.
Let’s explore this further.
The MYTH of the “Right” Want
We’ve been subtly taught that there’s a hierarchy of wants:
A successful career (but not too much success).
A beautiful home (but don’t flaunt it).
A partner, kids, travel, glowing skin, a side hustle, toned arms, a purpose, a plan…oh geez the list goes on.
But so much of that was performance.
What happens when the applause dies down and the to-do list is done? When you finally have the space to sit with your own mind—unfiltered, unscrolled, unprompted?
Wanting differently begins there.
Not with the noise, but with the noticing. Not with the next thing, but with the stillness between things.
“Not everything has to be big. Some of the most important wants barely make a sound.”
creator of maison 1973, Nic Tierney
Wanting WithoutSHAME
The problem with wanting in midlife isn’t desire. It’s judgement.
We’ve been conditioned to judge our own cravings:
Too much.
Too late.
Too selfish.
Too frivolous.
So we dial it down. Make it smaller. Tuck it away.
But Maison isn’t here for small wants. It’s here for honest ones. Expansive ones. Strange, wild, brave ones.
The want to start over. The want to disappear for a while. The want to take up painting. Or silence. Or space.
The want to live less urgently—and more deliberately.
It’s where clarity lives. Where self-trust is built. Where your voice gets loud enough to hear again.
But it’s also a tender space. Because when you start clearing away the external noise, you might find a gap—a space where you’re not sure what you want yet.
That doesn’t mean you’re lost. It means you’re listening.
You don’t owe anyone an explanation for your longing. You don’t need to wrap it in strategy or make it Instagrammable.
It’s enough to know what pulls at your soul.
And to trust that that’s worth following.
But What If It’s NOTBig?
Wanting differently isn’t always dramatic. Sometimes, it’s subtle. We’ve learnt this over the years and we’re sure you have too.
Wanting:
More mornings without noise.
More books. Less buzz.
A different rhythm.
A deeper friendship.
Time away from urgency. Time closer to the ocean. Time with family.
Just simple thing
There’s nothing wrong with wanting less. There’s something very right about wanting real.
Some wants whisper. Others stir quietly for years before surfacing. Both matter. Both count.
The Role of CURIOSITY
Wanting differently also invites a shift in how we relate to our own desire.
Instead of chasing answers, we start asking better questions:
What am I drawn to lately?
What have I stopped pretending to enjoy?
What would feel like relief—not just reward?
These aren’t checklist questions. They’re invitation questions—open-ended, evolving, and generous. We’ve become so accustomed to hacks and tips and everything being in bite size, that we have almost become afraid to seek insight, ask questions, let the answers sit with us awhile. In midlife this becomes more powerful than ever before.
Sometimes, just asking is the breakthrough. Being curious is such a lost art nowadays.
We created this space because we saw it: the women quietly craving more—but also craving differently.
Not louder. Not shinier. Not faster.
Just…truer.
Maison 1973 is for the woman who wants with intention. Who’s ready to tune out the noise. Who trusts that her path may look different—because it should.
Because insight is more powerful than instruction.
THE maison 1973 Takeaway
Start by asking yourself: What do I want now? What no longer fits? What have I been scared to say out loud?
And then give yourself permission to want differently.
Because when the wanting is real, it’s already enough.
For women who’ve stopped performing—and started becoming.
maison 1973
Let’s ask the questions.
Continue to explore our mood boards for inspiration
Before Streaming, Scrolling, And Skipping — We LIVED Life Like A Mixtape: On INSTINCT.
Gen X isn’t a single soundtrack — it’s a whole collection of Side As and Side Bs. Some of us were teens in the thick of the ‘80s, rewinding tapes in our bedrooms and dancing in nightclubs before the internet had a name. Others were still riding bikes at sunset, making friendship bracelets, and growing up just in time for the rise of grunge, girl power, and the late-night music video marathon. We came of age in different ways, at different times — but we all felt it.
We took photos and waited for the pics to get developed – then we meticulously arranged them in albums. We collected albums like we collected mix tapes – and we knew what every single one meant.
Because no matter when you were born in that 1965–1980 window, you didn’t just live the culture…you recorded it. And it’s still playing.
Long live the mixtape of life. Let’s go on a trip down memory lane…
“When I started writing this, I realised the mixtape isn’t just a memory — it’s a metaphor for Gen X life. We recorded things as they happened, rewound the bits we didn’t quite get, and somehow made chaos feel special, regardless of how simple it was. It wasn’t always pretty, but it was ours.”
founder of maison 1973, Nic Tierney
Life Was SIMPLE And We Loved It
It’s the late 80’s. Your knees are grazed from riding bikes without helmets, your hair smells like Impulse Illusions, and your fingers are covered in melted Paddle Pop. You’re lying on your bedroom floor, rewinding a cassette with a pencil and willing your older sibling to stay off the phone so you can tape the top 10 off the radio.
Sound familiar? Haha, that’s cause it was our life – our simple, chaotic, crazy Gen X life.
Welcome to the wild, weird, and wonderful world of growing up Gen X — whether you were dancing at a uni bar or decorating your locker. We all grew up in this special era that only we know all about.
When phones were attached to walls and they had cords and could be left at home. The original ‘do not disturb’ was simply just leaving it off the hook.
Cars had no air conditioning – just big windows with hard as hell handles to turn. We drove stick shift, grinding gears and reverse parking like a boss. Nothing was complicated, it was a time that things were built for use. They were necessary and they were useful.
Playing handball on the road after school, jumping on the trampoline without safety rails or nets.
This wasn’t just a childhood. It was a mixtape. Recorded in real time. Messy. Curated. Emotional. Full of skips, edits, and songs that made no sense — until they did.
It was a time of just being yourself and the only thing we were obsessed with recording was music. Not ourselves, no selfies, no idea of what else was going on around us except what was happening in our neighbourhoods, in our friendship groups.
The Soundtrack of US
Depending on where you grew up, your soundtrack had its own flavour:
In Australia, we had Countdown, Rage, Recovery, and the unforgettable Triple J Hottest 100. We knew the pub-rock glory of Cold Chisel and the dream-pop drama of Icehouse. INXS felt like global royalty — but ours.
In New Zealand, we tuned into RTR Countdown and the magic of Radio With Pictures. Dave Dobbyn, Crowded House, and Shona Laing weren’t just names — they were national treasure status.
In the UK, it was Top of the Pops, John Peel, Smash Hits, and the explosion of Britpop. We danced in our bedrooms to Bananarama, The Human League, and later, Blur and Oasis, long before the headlines caught up.
In the US, it was MTV’s golden age — TRL, Yo! MTV Raps, 120 Minutes. Grunge was rising from the garage, hip hop was taking shape, and girl groups like En Vogue were giving us harmony and power.
And no matter where you were — we all remember hitting ‘record’ and praying no one spoke over the intro.
Our music wasn’t algorithm-fed. It was handed to us by friends, posters, rage clips, and gut instinct. We stood in record stores debating between Alanis and The Cure. We slow-danced to Roxette and lost our minds at Big Day Out. We screamed lyrics from the backseat with the windows down.
We felt every word.
The MIXTAPE As A Metaphor
We weren’t a playlist. We were a mixtape.
Side A was the ambition, the firsts, the fire in us. Side B was the softness, the reinvention, the stuff we got emotional to and told no one about.
Some chapters we fast-forwarded through. Others we wore out from replaying.
There were hidden tracks — the unspoken parts of growing up. There were unplanned overdubs — the noise we didn’t mean to record but still lives in the background.
Some things were taped over. Some stayed scratched, imperfect, real.
And yet, we kept recording and listening.
Every mixtape told a story in biro and smudges. So did we. They were so sacred to us.
Screens That SHAPEDUs
Then there were the movies and TV – a rite of passage.
We grew up with The Breakfast Club, Reality Bites, My So-Called Life, and Muriel’s Wedding. We saw ourselves in awkward teens, chaotic women, and girls who were a bit too much (but in the best way).
There was the all time release of Dirty Dancing and our obsession with Patrick Swayze began. Going to the drive in to watch a movie. Buying actual tickets to things. Keeping them as souvenirs.
Kirk Cameron and Growing Pains, the original crushes – Michael J Fox, John Stamos, River Phoenix, Rob Lowe, Kurt Cobain, Axl Rose – the list was endless.
Friday nights meant lining up at Video Ezy or Civic Video. You knew exactly what aisle Empire Records lived in and you always tried to get the last of the new releases – only to be disappointed as they were all gone. You rewound the tape out of respect – and you tried to get it back on time to avoid the fine (oh those fines lol).
We memorised lines like scripture:
“How do you like them apples?” (Good Will Hunting, 1997)
We didn’t stream. We stayed up to watch it and feel it happen in real time. We didn’t scroll. We rewound and replayed. Over and over.
And that’s the difference. We just kept living in the moment of life. We weren’t too bothered about anything else. Gosh, how incredible.
“Writing this has been such a joy. The list of nuances and memories has been endless. I could keep writing for days and still not capture it all. This is just the tip of the iceberg as a Gen X growing up. This will be the first of many mix tape moments”
THEFeels
We didn’t have Pinterest. We had glue sticks and magazine tear-outs. We decorated diaries with Lisa Frank stickers and wrote our crushes’ names in glitter pen. We shopped at Granny Mays, collected erasers and scratch and sniff stickers.
We made friendship bracelets and mood boards. We roller-skated in bubble skirts, wore cinch belts with Supre singlets, and proudly spritzed ‘CK One‘ before heading out.
Our icons weren’t influencers. They were Kate Moss, Elle Macpherson, Linda, Christy, Naomi, Madonna, Pat Benatar, Whitney Houston, Belinda Carlisle, Tina Turner — untouchable and magnetic. They weren’t selling to us. They were just being. And we watched, and we learned. We poured through magazines just to see the latest in their lives.
We played Snake on Nokia phones. We sat on the grass waiting for the Mr Whippy van to play its jingle. We had to be home to catch our favourite show. If you were lucky you had a VHS – if not, too bad. You missed it and you had to wait for next week.
And the food?
Apricot chicken. Devilled sausages. Party pies.
BBQ Shapes and Toobs
Zooper Doopers and Sunnyboys
Milo piled four spoons deep in a mug
Cheese and lettuce sandwiches
The list is endless. So good. So good in fact, we’ll dedicate a whole other blog to it at another time.
Why It Still LIVES In Us
We may live in a digital world now, but our hearts beat analog.
We remember because these moments weren’t just trends. They were imprints. They taught us rhythm, rebellion, expression, release. We loved every angst ridden moment of it all.
That’s why certain songs still hit. That’s why certain films still feel like home. That’s why we get goosebumps when the Mr Whippy music plays or Smells Like Teen Spirit starts when you’re stuck in traffic. It’s instinctual to get those windows down and turn that music up full blast. We feel it in our core. It never, ever leaves us. Nor do we want it to.
We’re not stuck in the past. We just know a good memory is like a great song — it grows with you.
And like any good mixtape — we’re still curating. Still evolving. Still adding tracks.
“I grew up rewinding tapes with pencils, eating BBQ Shapes after school, talking on the phone in the kitchen and figuring things out without Google or group chats. It was chaotic, unfiltered, kind of magic — and somehow, we all just made it work. Gen X didn’t just live through it. We recorded it, our way.”
maison 1973 founder, Nic Tierney.
The Maison 1973 Takeaway:
For the rhythm, the memory, and the woman you still are.
Gen X For Life.
Continue to explore our mood boards for inspiration
There’s a moment—sometimes gradual, sometimes all at once—when you realise that you no longer have the energy for what doesn’t matter. The endless proving, the striving, the worrying about things that once seemed so urgent but now feel insignificant.
Midlife is not about fading into the background, we like to think it’s about stepping forward with clarity, purpose, and an unshakable sense of self.
The maison 1973 woman has lived enough to know what truly matters. And, more importantly, what doesn’t.
She is no longer chasing approval or trends, and she has outgrown the need to justify her choices. Instead, she is focused on
depth over distraction, quality over quantity, and confidence over comparison.
But in a world that is constantly pushing for more, faster, louder—it takes intention to slow down, to define success on your own terms, and to prioritise what genuinely brings fulfilment.
Let’s explore.
“At the end of the day, it’s pretty simple for me. It’s the love and care I have for the people who matter most, the unwavering companionship of my dog, my health, purpose in my work and being surrounded by nature. Everything else? Nice to have, but not essential now. When I focus on these things, I feel rich.”
creator of maison 1973, Nic Tierney.
Living WithPURPOSE
At this stage in life, we are done with doing things just because we should. Purpose is no longer about checking boxes or climbing ladders—we believe it’s about aligning our time, energy, and talents with what feels meaningful.
For some of us, that might mean pivoting in a career that no longer inspires them. For others, it’s about carving out more time for creativity, for projects that light them up, for work that feels expansive instead of draining.
WeAsk Ourselves:Does how I spend my time reflect what truly matters to me? If so, wonderful. If not, how can we adjust it? It’s an ongoing dialogue we have. Keeps us focussed on the important things in our lives.
We Like To Make It Actionable: Just start small. Carve out even 10 minutes a day for something that brings you joy—writing, painting, reading, learning. The key is to just start.
Who Inspires This? Women all over the world and from all walks of life inspire us daily. Women who redefine success on their own terms, at every stage of life. We take our hats off to them. It’s incredibly wonderful to see.
We’llLeave You With This Thought: Purpose isn’t always about what you do—it’s about why you do it.
Cultivating PRESENCE
With life feeling fuller than ever—career, family, relationships, responsibilities—it’s easy to move through days on autopilot. But being present is a choice, and it’s one that deeply impacts our sense of fulfilment.
Presence is about slowing down enough to actually experience life instead of rushing through it.
It’s about truly listening when someone speaks. It’s about engaging with our surroundings instead of always planning the next thing.
WeAsk Ourselves:Am I truly here, or just going through the motions?
We Like To Make It Actionable: Create small daily rituals—whether it’s making coffee slowly, journaling for five minutes, or simply taking a deep breath before responding to an email. It’s ok to be still and silent – when did we start to believe it wasn’t?
We’llLeave You With This Thought: A full life isn’t about doing more—it’s about being fully present for what you’re already doing.
CONFIDENCE In Style & Self
One of the most freeing things about midlife? You dress for yourself now. You’re no longer chasing trends or dressing to be seen—you’re dressing because it feels right.
WeAsk Ourselves:Am I dressing for myself or for external validation?
We Like To Make It Actionable: Clear out anything from your wardrobe that doesn’t feel like you anymore. Build a collection of timeless, beautifully made pieces that bring ease to your everyday life.
We’llLeave You With This Thought: True style isn’t about what you wear—it’s about how you wear it.
Taking CARE (WithoutGuilt)
We’ve spent years taking care of others—our families, our teams, our communities. But what about us?
At this stage, prioritising our health and wellbeing is no longer a luxury—it’s essential. And yet, many of us still struggle with the guilt of putting ourselves first. It’s time to let that go.
WeAsk Ourselves:Am I treating my body with the same care I give to others?
We Like To Make It Actionable: Prioritise movement, sleep, and nourishment—not as punishment, but as a form of self-respect. Find what feels good, not what feels forced.
Who Embodies This For Us? Off the top of our heads, it’s the likes of Naomi Watts embracing midlife beauty, and Pamela Anderson’s natural self-acceptance. It’s inspiring and it’s refreshing.
We’llLeave You With This Thought: Self-care isn’t selfish—it’s essential.
Deep& REAL Connections
By midlife, we’ve learned that friendships and relationships evolve. Some fade naturally, some require effort, and some deepen in ways we never expected.
What truly matters now isn’t the number of people in our lives, but the quality of the connections we keep.
WeAsk Ourselves:Which relationships bring me energy, and which ones drain me?
We Like To Make It Actionable: Nurture the friendships that feel reciprocal and let go of relationships that no longer align with who you are.
We’llLeave You With This Thought: Friendship in midlife is about quality over quantity. It’s ok to let go.
The Luxury of CHOICE
The greatest luxury in midlife? Choice.
Choosing where our energy goes. Choosing what we consume. Choosing how we define success. Choosing to say no more often.
WeAsk Ourselves:Am I making choices that align with what I truly want?
We Like To Make It Actionable:Say no to things that drain you and yes to things that excite you—even if they scare you.
We’llLeave You With This Thought: True freedom isn’t having it all—it’s choosing what matters most.
The Maison 1973 Takeaway:
Our final thought? The maison 1973 woman isn’t here to live by someone else’s definition of success, beauty, or happiness. She knows what matters—and she builds her life around it.
Not perfectly. Not always effortlessly. But with intention. With clarity. With a deep understanding that this is her time.
Prioritise what matters.
Continue to explore our mood boards for inspiration
The world is getting louder. The news cycle never sleeps, social media never pauses, and there’s always another notification, another headline, another reason for all of us to stay plugged in. We are constantly told to be on—to react, to engage, to keep up. But at what cost?
Stillness has become a luxury, yet it is one of the most powerful things we can cultivate.
In a world addicted to urgency, slowing down is now perceived as a radical act.
The maison 1973 woman knows that true confidence and presence don’t come from being the loudest voice in the room, but from knowing when to tune out the noise. This is about reclaiming quiet—not in a passive way, but as a deliberate choice to protect our mental space, restore our energy, and live with greater depth and intention.
Here’s how we aim to do this everyday.
“Every day, it feels like stillness is getting harder to find. The noise is constant—notifications, opinions, the endless pull of needing to do more. At the end of each day, I often ask myself: Have I taken a deep breath today? Have I sat in silence, even for a moment? Am I choosing calm, or am I just reacting? Finding stillness isn’t effortless, but it’s a choice I try to make—by slowing down, stepping outside, and reminding myself that presence is the greatest luxury of all.”
creator maison 1973, Nic Tierney
Protect Your MentalSPACE Like You Protect Your Skin
We apply SPF religiously to protect ourselves from harmful rays—why don’t we do the same for our minds? We are bombarded with information, opinions, and digital clutter daily, and without boundaries, it drains us.
Curate What You Consume – Not all information is equal. We seek out slow, intentional media over the constant stream of doom scrolling. It really does help to calm us at the end of a busy day.
Set Digital Limits – You don’t need to be constantly updated. When did we all become so obsessed with needing to know everything, at all times! Take social media breaks, unsubscribe from noise, and protect your attention span.
Replace Noise with Intentional Quiet – Spend a morning without your phone, take a walk without a podcast, and enjoy an evening free from news. Decide when and how you connect. This has transformed life at maison 1973; simply enjoying quiet moments is truly wonderful.
Be Selective About Conversations – Not every debate or topic needs your participation. Choose where you invest your emotional energy.
Embrace JOMO (Joy of Missing Out) – You don’t need to be at every event, in every discussion, or aware of every trend to live a full, rich life. It’s ok to just say no thanks, not today.
What we ask ourselves:Am I choosing what enters my mind, or is it being chosen for me?
“Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes, including you.” — Anne Lamott
The Power of Doing ONE Thing at a Time
Multitasking has been glorified for years, but in reality, deep presence is a radical act. Instead of scattering your focus, give these techniques a try:
Single-tasking – Giving your full attention to one thing at a time, whether it’s eating, reading, or simply breathing.
Savouring Small Rituals – The act of making tea, putting on perfume, folding linen with care—these everyday moments become grounding when we approach them with intention.
Practicing Micro-Moments of Stillness – Pausing before answering, sitting with silence, taking a deep breath before reacting.
Create ‘Sacred Spaces’ in Your Home – A reading nook, a candlelit bath, a space free from screens where you can fully unwind.
Reduce Sensory Overload – Opt for soft lighting, neutral tones, and calming textures in your surroundings to create a sense of peace.
What we ask ourselves: When was the last time I did nothing—truly nothing?
“Beware the barrenness of a busy life.” — Socrates
NATURE as the Ultimate Reset Button
We spend more time interacting with screens than with the natural world. But in a world that feels increasingly artificial, nature is the antidote – it’s our tonic. Time is nature truly is magical. It absolutely reminds us of what’s important.
A Daily Touchpoint with Nature – Bare feet on the grass, morning sun on your face, fresh air in your lungs.
Textural Grounding – The softness of linen against your skin, the weight of a ceramic cup in your hands, the feel of paper under pen.
Seasonal Living – Aligning your energy with the rhythms of nature instead of the demands of the digital world.
Slow Travel & Nature Retreats – Instead of fast-paced tourism, consider unplugged weekend escapes where you can reconnect with yourself and the world around you.
What we ask ourselves:How often do I step outside without a destination in mind?
“Adopt the pace of nature: her secret is patience.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson
The Luxury of a QUIET Life
We live in a culture that equates more with better, faster with success, and louder with power. But maison 1973 stands for something different.
Luxury is not filling your calendar to prove your worth.
Luxury is choosing who and what gets your energy.
Luxury is knowing that quiet confidence speaks louder than noise.
Luxury is Time – Time to think, time to dream, time to be.
Luxury is Depth Over Distraction – Instead of consuming more, we enjoy what truly matters.
Luxury is Knowing When to Say No – To commitments, to digital noise, to anything that doesn’t align with your peace.
Stillness isn’t passive—it’s powerful. In a world addicted to urgency, the ability to slow down, focus, and be intentional is the greatest luxury of all.
The Role of Art, Music, and Literature in Cultivating STILLNESS
We like to believe, that stillness isn’t just about the absence of noise—it’s also about what we choose to surround ourselves with. Art, music, and literature can be powerful tools for anchoring ourselves in the present.
What we ask ourselves:What am I surrounding myself with, and how does it make me feel?
“Without great solitude, no serious work is possible.” — Pablo Picasso
the maison 1973 takeaway
We don’t have to subscribe to the belief that success, influence, or relevance require constant motion. The maison 1973 woman chooses stillness—not as an escape, but as a foundation. A way to reclaim her mind, her time, and her energy.
The world will keep moving at full speed. But you? You can choose to slow down.
Luxury isn’t what it used to be. In our 20s and 30s, it might have been about logos, status symbols, or the sheer thrill of an impulsive designer purchase. But by midlife, something shifts.
Luxury is no longer about what we own—it’s about how we live.
For the maison 1973 woman, true luxury isn’t about chasing trends or impressing others. It’s about understated elegance, impeccable craftsmanship, and the intentional choices that make everyday life feel richer. It’s about a slow appreciation of quality, whether that’s the linen sheets you sink into at night, the perfectly tailored blazer that fits like a second skin, or the morning ritual of grinding your coffee beans.
Let’s explore what we believe real luxury means in midlife, how to cultivate it in your own life, and why it has absolutely nothing to do with price tags.
Project
“True luxury is never loud—it’s felt, not flaunted.”
maison 1973 creator, Nic Tierney
QUIETConfidence: The UltimateLUXURY That Comes With Age
There’s a shift that happens in midlife. It’s not loud, but it’s profound. The need to prove ourselves fades, and in its place, something far more valuable emerges: quiet confidence.
Quiet confidence is the kind of luxury money can’t buy. It’s the deep knowing that you are enough, that your worth isn’t measured by external validation, trends, or the expectations of others. It’s wearing what feels right instead of what’s expected, speaking only when it adds value, and making decisions based on intuition rather than insecurity.
When we were younger, confidence often felt like something to perform. We looked for it in achievements, in approval, in how we were perceived. But real confidence—the kind that becomes magnetic, effortless, and truly luxurious—comes from experience, from making mistakes, from realising that nothing external defines us. It’s the way we carry ourselves, the grace we extend to others, the way we take up space without needing permission.
There are certain brands that have always understood this idea—think of Phoebe Philo’s minimalism, or Totême’s subtle refinement. Their power isn’t in screaming for attention; it’s in the understatement, the precision, the self-assured presence of something that knows exactly what it is.
The maison 1973 woman embodies this same philosophy—her style, her choices, her very existence isn’t about trying to be seen; it’s about being undeniably present.
Because at this stage in life, luxury isn’t just what we wear or own—it’s how we carry ourselves. And nothing is more powerful than a woman who is completely, unapologetically at home in her own skin.
The New Definition of Luxury: INTENTIONAL, Not Excessive
Luxury in midlife is no longer about excess—it’s about intention. It’s about choosing well and choosing wisely, surrounding yourself with things that bring beauty, joy, and ease.
Timeless over trend-driven – Fast fashion and throwaway culture? It’s not for us as it maybe once was. The maison 1973 woman seeks pieces that will last a lifetime, not just a season. Whilst it’s fun to shop on a whim, we are doing so now less and less. Brands like The Row, Jill Sander, Gabriela Hearst, and Totême embody this ethos—quiet, beautifully made, and effortlessly chic.
Simplicity as sophistication – There is a certain confidence in simplicity. Think of a flowy white linen dress, the perfect leather tote, or a pair of handcrafted sandals. The real statement we find now, is actually in the restraint.
Luxury is a feeling, not a thing – The ultimate luxury? Time. Space. The freedom to design your life in a way that feels deeply fulfilling.
The EVERYDAYLuxuries That Matter Most
Forget the idea that luxury is reserved for special occasions. Real luxury is found in the rituals of daily life.
Morning rituals – Drinking coffee from your favourite hand-made ceramic cup, wrapped in a soft linen robe. This has to be one of life’s most simple, wonderful luxuries, no?
Scent and atmosphere – At maison 1973, we understand that these elements are essential to our concept of ‘simple luxury.’ Whether we’re lighting our all-time favourite candle, the Abd El Kader ‘moroccan mint tea‘ from the exceptional French brand Cire Trudon, or using our go-to oil scent, the Beatrice essential oil from Aesop in our diffuser by the desk and in the living room, we expertly transform the mood of our spaces.
Mindful dressing – Choosing clothes that feel good on the body, like a soft cashmere sweater, an oversized white shirt, or well-fitting pants—pieces that are easy to wear and improve over time. Some days it’s just leggings and a comfortable tee that make you feel relaxed yet stylish. Regardless of the choice, these clothes form the new uniform. This mindset not only focuses on practicality but also helps build a personal connection to our clothing, encouraging thoughtful shopping and valuing quality over quantity. By picking items that suit our style and comfort, we create a wardrobe that truly represents us, enabling us to go about our daily lives with confidence.
Slow, intentional travel – Taking the scenic route allows us to truly immerse ourselves in the places we visit, encouraging a deeper connection with the local culture and surroundings. Whilst it may feel that we are spoilt for choice when it comes to where we choose to stay, for the maison 1973 woman it is all about the personal touches and the way it makes us feel. Staying in unique accommodations that feels personal is what we crave now, such as Ett Hem in Stockholm, with its charming atmosphere, or The Calile in Brisbane, Australia – known for its cool, modern elegance and vibrant James St lifestyle precinct on it’s doorstep. They offer a sense of belonging and adventure, as we now savour the journey rather than just focusing on the destination. By taking the time to explore hidden gems, enjoy all of the local cuisine, and engage in meaningful conversations with locals, we can create lasting memories in ways that hurried trips simply cannot replicate.
How To CultivateLUXURY In Your Life (Without Spending A Fortune)
Luxury isn’t about how much money you spend—it’s about how much thought you put into the things you surround yourself with. Here’s how to cultivate a life of simple, quiet luxury:
Buy less, but buy better. Invest in fewer, higher-quality pieces for your wardrobe, your home and your life, that truly serve you.
Create daily rituals. Whether it’s your skincare routine, or how you set your table for breakfast, luxury is found in small, meaningful details.
When did we forget how good simple rituals are? Everything doesn’t need to be grand to be great. And it certainly doesn’t need to be captured on social media for it to be meaningful or proven.
Prioritise experiences over possessions. A beautiful dinner with friends, a solo weekend retreat, time with your beloved fur baby on the couch, an afternoon spent in nature or wandering a museum—these are the luxuries that should matter to us.
THE MAISON 1973 TAKEAWAY
At this stage in life, luxury is about living on your own terms. It’s about surrounding yourself with things, people, and experiences that elevate your daily life. It’s not about proving anything—it’s about feeling everything.
So, what does luxury look like for you today? A morning with no alarms? A perfectly brewed espresso? A long walk? Whatever it is, know this: you deserve it.
Lately, do you find yourself reminiscing more than usual? This is a topic that we have thought about a lot here at maison 1973. Maybe it’s an old song that instantly transports you back to your teenage bedroom, or a scent that reminds you of summer holidays from decades ago. Perhaps it’s the way flipping through an old magazine or watching a 90s rom-com makes you feel comforted, seen, and somehow more yourself.
Yes! Well welcome to the beautiful, complex, and deeply emotional experience of nostalgia.
For the maison 1973 woman, we believe that nostalgia isn’t just about looking back—it’s about reconnecting with the essence of who we are. And in midlife, when so much is shifting, embracing the past can be a powerful way to shape our future, and what lies ahead.
Let’s explore why we crave nostalgia, what it really means, and how we can use it to create a more joyful, intentional life today. We love this topic, we hope you do too…come with us on a little trip down memory lane.
“I like to look back sometimes—not because I want to return, but because it reminds me how far I’ve come. Nostalgia isn’t just about the past; it’s about the pieces of ourselves we carry forward. The songs, the scents, the little moments—they make me smile, not just for what they were, but for how they’ve shaped who I am today. They’re never far from me.”
creator of maison 1973, Nic Tierney.
Why We’re So DRAWN To Nostalgia In Midlife
Nostalgia isn’t just sentimental—it’s psychological. Studies show that as we age, we naturally reflect more on our past. But why does it feel so good?
It’s a Comfort Mechanism – Research from the University of Southampton found that nostalgia helps regulate emotions, reducing stress and making us feel more connected and optimistic about life (Source: Southampton Study).
It Helps Us Find Meaning – In midlife, we start questioning: Who am I now? What really matters? Nostalgia reminds us of the values, dreams, and joys that have shaped us.
It Bridges Our Past & Present – It’s not about “wanting to go back.” It’s about bringing the best parts of our past forward—into how we dress, how we live, and what brings us joy today. Not all of our memories are fond ones, but
Nostalgia is a beautiful thing, but let’s be honest—not every memory is wrapped in a warm glow. Some moments feel heavy, tangled with what-ifs and why-didn’t-Is. Looking back isn’t always about reliving the best days; sometimes, it’s about making peace with the harder ones. But even in those moments—the heartbreaks, the lessons learned—there’s something to honour. They remind us of our resilience, of how much we’ve grown, and of the life we’re choosing to build now. Because nostalgia isn’t just about celebrating the past—it’s about deciding what we carry forward and what we finally set down.
The Nostalgia Triggers That Hit Us HARD
Ever wonder why certain things instantly make you feel nostalgic? Here are some of the most powerful triggers:
Music – That first concert you went to, the song that played at your wedding, the mixtape era—we remember moments through sound.
Scents – The perfume your mother wore, the smell of an old bookstore, freshly cut grass in summer—scent is one of the strongest memory triggers.
Fashion – The effortless styles of the 70s, the minimalism of the 90s—nostalgia shows up in how we dress, embracing past aesthetics in modern ways.
Food – A recipe passed down through generations, the way our childhood favourite dish instantly brings us comfort.
Old-School Rituals – Handwritten letters, film photography, flipping through a real magazine—things that felt normal then feel luxurious now.
Nostalgia isn’t about “living in the past.” It’s about reintroducing joy into the present. If something sparks happiness, why not bring it back?
How We Can Use Our Nostalgia To INSPIRE Our Life
Nostalgia isn’t just about reminiscing—it’s about taking what we love from the past and using it to enrich our present and future. Here’s how we try to do it:
Curate a Nostalgic Wardrobe (With a Modern Twist)
Style is personal history. Instead of chasing trends, think about:
What did you love wearing when you felt most confident?
Which silhouettes, colours, or fabrics feel like you?
Can you bring back effortless vintage elements—a silk scarf, a timeless trench, or classic gold hoops?
RomanticiSe Your Daily Rituals
Nostalgia reminds us of a time when life felt more intentional. Before everything became digital and rushed, we savoured experiences.
Try This:
Swap out your phone alarm for a real alarm clock – yes the old fashioned brown and black kind!
Write in a physical journal instead of a note on your phone or iPad
Play some vinyl!
Use the ‘good’ china or glassware on a regular Tuesday—because why not? What are we saving it for? Everyday little luxuries that bring us joy.
Revisit Hobbies That Once Lit You Up
As kids and young adults, we created for the joy of it—not for productivity. Somewhere along the way, we forgot how to do things just for fun.
Loved sketching? Buy a sketchbook. Used to dance? Put on a playlist and move. Miss the days of film photography? Dust off an old camera.
What we have discovered of late, is that our past interests still hold clues to our current joy. We should listen to them and maybe start to follow them.
Make Time for People Who Share Your History
There’s something powerful about reconnecting with friends who knew you before life got complicated. It reminds you of who you’ve always been at your core.
Write a letter (yes, an actual letter) to someone who meant a lot to you.
Reach out to an old friend for a coffee date.
Plan a “nostalgia night” with music, movies, and stories from the past.
“Nostalgia is a gift – if we use it well.”
maison 1973 founder, Nic Tierney.
The Maison 1973 Takeaway:
Our final thought? The maison 1973 woman isn’t looking back because she wants to go back. She’s looking back because she knows her past holds treasures that can enrich her future.
So the next time nostalgia strikes, don’t brush it off. Ask yourself: What is this reminding me of? What can I bring back into my life today? Because sometimes, the key to moving forward is found in the beauty of what came before.
Get nostalgic.
Continue to explore our mood boards for inspiration
“Over the past few years, I’ve felt this quiet restlessness—like something inside me is shifting, even though everything on the outside looks the same. I’m learning that instead of fearing it, I lean in and see where it leads. I actually now enjoy discovering the unknown.” Nic, creator of maison 1973.
It starts subtly. An itch. A feeling of unease. The sense that something is shifting inside you, even if everything on the outside looks exactly the same. You wake up one morning and realise that the things that once felt fulfilling now feel… off. Your job, your routine, even the way you spend your weekends—it’s all fine, but fine isn’t cutting it anymore.
This isn’t burnout. It’s not a midlife crisis (we’re so over that outdated term). It’s something deeper, something most women in midlife experience but rarely put into words. It’s restlessness. And contrary to what we’ve been led to believe, this isn’t something to fear—it’s something to listen to.
Let’s unpack what this feeling really means, why it happens in midlife, and how to harness it into something extraordinary.
“Restlessness is discontent, and discontent is the first necessity of progress…”
infamous innovator, Thomas A. Edison (1847–1931)
What Is MIDLIFERestlessness And Why Is It Happening?
First, let’s get one thing straight: this is normal. In fact, if you’re feeling restless, it’s a good thing. It means you’re waking up to something bigger inside you.
The Science: Research shows that midlife is a period of psychological and emotional reassessment. Studies from the Australian Psychological Society (APS) suggest that women in their 40s and 50s often experience a shift in priorities, values, and desires—which can manifest as restlessness.
The Hormones: Oh, let’s not forget the hormonal rollercoaster. Fluctuating estrogen and progesterone levels affect mood, energy, and motivation. This is why one day we’re content, and the next we’re questioning everything.
The Awakening: For years—decades, really—we’ve been busy building, proving, and doing. Midlife is the first time we pause and ask: Is this actually what I want? And that question alone can shake everything up for us.
The FIVE Signs You’re In A Midlife RESTLESSNESSPhase
If you’re wondering whether this feeling is the thing everyone whispers about but no one explains, here are some telltale signs:
You feel an urge for change—but you don’t know what kind.
You’re suddenly bored with things that once excited you.
You’re questioning your career, your lifestyle, or even your relationships.
You feel a strange mix of excitement and fear—like something big is coming, but you’re unsure what.
You catch yourself thinking: ‘Is this all there is?’
Sound familiar? Good. It means you’re on the edge of something new.
This Isn’t a Crisis – It’s a CALLING
Here’s where society gets it wrong. Women in their 40s and 50s experiencing these feelings are often labeled as being in a “midlife crisis”—as if we’re breaking down.
No, my friend. We are breaking open.
Reframing the Narrative: What if we saw this phase not as losing control, but as finally waking up? What if this restlessness wasn’t a problem to fix, but an invitation to step into a version of ourselves we’ve never met before?
The Japanese Concept of Ikigai: In Japan, there’s a term called Ikigai—it means “reason for being”. It’s the sweet spot where what you love, what you’re good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for all intersect. Many women hit midlife and realise that they’ve been missing one or more of these elements. This is the moment to realign. (Also take a look at: Ken Mogi, “The Little Book of Ikigai”)
What If This Restlessness Was a Compass? Instead of seeing it as an annoyance, what if you saw it as your intuition trying to get your attention? That tug in your gut? That’s your inner wisdom nudging you toward something better.
So How Can We Channel Restlessness Into Something MEANINGFUL?
So what do we do with this feeling? Here are some steps to make it work for you instead of against you:
1. Ask Yourself Bigger Questions Instead of suppressing your restlessness, sit with it. Journal, voice memo yourself, or just reflect on these:
What is this feeling trying to tell me?
Where do I feel most alive?
What have I been ignoring or postponing in my life?
2. Just Try, Don’t Overthink Not sure what you want? Experiment. Take a class, start a hobby, say yes to something different. Movement creates momentum. The best way to get unstuck is to try something—anything.
3. Redefine Success Success in our 20s and 30s was about building. Success in midlife is about alignment. Really ask yourself: What does success look like for me now? The answer might surprise you.
4. Cut the ‘Shoulds’ A lot of restlessness comes from living by outdated rules. I should stay in this job because it’s stable. I should be grateful. I should be past this phase by now.
No. Midlife is about choosing, not just accepting.
5. Surround Yourself with Expanders Find women who are reinventing, evolving, thriving. Listen to their stories, read their books, follow them. The more you see it’s possible, the more possible it becomes for you.
Here’s the truth: Restlessness doesn’t mean something is wrong. It means something is ready to shift. You’re not stuck – you’re shifting.
“That restless feeling? I know it well. It’s what led me to create maison 1973. I could have ignored it, but deep down, I knew it wasn’t something to silence—it was something to follow. Because midlife isn’t about staying where we’ve always been. It’s about stepping into who we’re meant to be next.”
creator of maison 1973, Nic Tierney.
The Maison 1973 Takeaway:
Our final thought? Let yourself ask the questions, make the moves, and say yes to what calls you—even if you don’t have it all figured out yet. Because midlife isn’t about fading out.
It’s about turning up the volume on who you were meant to be all along.
Restless & ready.
Continue to explore our mood boards for inspiration
Bonjour, mon amie. Sit with me for a moment. Let’s imagine a morning in Paris—one of those quiet mornings where the city is just waking up, the air smells of freshly baked bread, and the world feels a little slower.
Here, breakfast is important. It’s not something you rush through or eat in the car. It’s a moment—a ritual. A small luxury before your day starts. Today, we want to share the art of a French breakfast—the way it should be enjoyed. Even if we’re far from Paris, we can bring a bit of this ritual into our mornings (just like we do) – and we promise, it will change how your day goes.
It doesn’t have to be fancy; it just needs to be simple and enjoyed. We really need to bring this kind of morning back, and who better to lead the charge than the maison 1973 woman.
The French Approach to Breakfast: QUALITY Over Quantity
The first thing we must know is this: a French woman’s breakfast is never about excess. It is not a buffet or a multitasking moment where she’s scrolling through her phone with one hand and sipping coffee with the other. It is about pleasure—in small, thoughtful bites.
A French breakfast is typically light but deeply satisfying. It centres around a perfect balance of texture, flavour, and elegance. No heavy omelette, stacks of pancakes, or protein shakes. Instead, it’s about simplicity:
A fresh croissant or tartine (a slice of good bread, toasted and slathered with butter or jam)
A beautifully brewed café au lait or espresso
A bowl of yogurt with honey and nuts
A few seasonal berries or a perfectly sliced seasonal fruit
It’s enough. It’s satisfying. It is just right—and that is the secret.
pain et beurreœufs sur du pain grillébaies et yaourtpetit déjeuner muffin
“On my trips to Paris, I loved mornings best, sitting at a small table with coffee and a pain au chocolat. The routine was simple—no rush, no distractions. Unlike at home, I didn’t worry about whether I should have butter or earn the pastry, is it enough protein? do I have time? The list goes on! I just enjoyed it and felt part of Parisian culture. I realised that breakfast is more than a meal to the French—it’s a moment to pause, practice self-care, and set the day’s tone. Even on busy days, I now like mornings to bring a relaxed pace. I aim for this now at this stage in my life. It’s important.”
creator of maison 1973, Nic Tierney
The RITUAL: Creating Your Own FRENCHBreakfast at Home
Now, let’s bring this morning magic into your home. You don’t need a Parisian apartment with wrought-iron balconies. All you need is intention. Here’s how we do it:
1. Start with the Right Mindset
Before anything else, commit to slowing down. French women do not rush through breakfast. Even if it’s just ten minutes, let it be ten beautiful minutes.
Tip: Set the scene. Open a window. Let in the morning light. Play some music, softly. This is not just about eating; it’s about being present.
2. Choose the Perfect Bread
If you have access to a local boulangerie (bakery), you already know—the bread is everything. But even if you don’t, you can recreate the experience. Look for:
A fresh baguette (crisp on the outside, airy inside)
A flaky croissant
A slice of pain de campagne or sourdough, toasted to golden perfection
3. Butter, Jam & The Little Details That Matter
French women understand that it’s not just the food, but how it’s prepared. This is why they choose good butter—real, creamy, slightly salted. They spread it generously, and it is always at room temperature. And the jam? Apricot, raspberry, or fig. Nothing overly sweet, just enough to enhance the bread.
Tip: Try a jam from a small-batch local brand (we love Beerenberg), something with pure fruit flavours. And never rush—this moment of spreading the butter and jam is part of the ritual.
4. The Café au Lait (Or Your Coffee of Choice)
This is perhaps the most sacred part. Coffee is never an afterthought. It is brewed strong but smooth, never burnt, never rushed. A true café au lait is made with equal parts strong coffee and warm, frothy milk, served in a or wide-rimmed cup, sipped slowly.
Alternatively, the French love an espresso. Short and strong. Perfect to dip your pastry into.
Tip: Invest in a good French press or espresso machine for home. We adore using our Chemex.
5. A Small Addition
French breakfasts often include something fresh—a small bowl of yogurt with honey, a handful of nuts, or a few slices of fruit. Think seasonal and simple. No elaborate fruit salads, just a perfectly ripe peach or a few raspberries on the side.
Tip: If yogurt is your choice, go for full-fat, natural varieties, and drizzle with some of your local area honey. Keep it pure. We also opt for a coconut yoghurt (dairy free).
The trick here is to keep things balanced and when in doubt – leave it out.
Bringing a Touch of PARIS to Your Everyday Life
Even though we may not be in France, nothing stops us from bringing a bit of this elegance into our morning. The practicalities of our lives and our routines often dictate how we begin our day. We know life is busy, we have to get to work, we have family to take care of in the mornings and we often have to commute – so it doesn’t need to be everyday, but just try to start with one.
Try this tomorrow:
Wake up a little earlier. No rushing. Just quiet time for you.
Make your breakfast beautiful—a proper plate, a lovely coffee cup, a moment to enjoy it.
Be present. No emails. No social media. Just taste, sip, and breathe.
By doing this, you’re not just having breakfast—you’re creating a life filled with small, intentional luxuries.
The Maison 1973 Takeaway:
We spend so much time chasing big moments, waiting for grand things to happen. But the truth? A beautiful life is made in the small, everyday rituals.
So tomorrow morning, wherever you are—whether it’s Paris or not—take a breath. Make your coffee with care. Butter your toast slowly. And know that in this simple act, you are embracing something truly French: the art of living well.
À votre santé, my friend. Here’s to mornings done beautifully.
Take it slow.
Continue to explore our mood boards for inspiration
This is our most cherished trait here at maison 1973 – everyday we find ourselves intrigued by what is happening in the world around us and curious to explore it more.
We truly believe that curiosity fuelsgrowth, keeps the mind sharp, and stops us from becoming stagnant. Confidence, on the other hand, pushes us forward, allowing us to step into new experiences with authority. Together, they create an unstoppable force that ensures we’re never sidelined, never outdated, and never irrelevant.
“Curiosity is the wick in the candle of learning”
Albert Einstein.
Why CURIOSITYMatters More Than Ever
The world constantly evolves, and the women of Gen X—the ones who grew up in a world of mixtapes, and the first taste of digital revolution—are still evolving with it. What keeps us relevant? Curiosity and confidence. These two forces are the lifeblood of reinvention, the secret ingredients to staying ahead, engaged, and thriving at any stage of life.
Curiosity is what allows us to remain agile, open-minded, and constantly learning. It’s what separates those who get stuck from those who continue to evolve. In a world that moves at lightning speed—where technology, culture, and even the way we communicate is constantly shifting—staying curious is the key to staying engaged.
“You have to break rules to create new ones.” – Rei Kawakubo (Japan, designer & founder of Comme des Garçons)
Curiosity leads us to ask better questions. It forces us to explore new industries, fresh perspectives, and innovative ways of thinking. It prevents us from falling into the trap of believing that we already know everything we need to know.
How to Keep CURIOSITYAlive
Learn Something New: Whether it’s a new language, a creative skill, or an emerging industry, never stop being a student.
Engage with Different Generations: Listen to what Gen Z and Millennials are saying, and stay part of the conversation.
Travel with Purpose: New places and cultures fuel an open mind. It’s not just about the destination; it’s about seeing the world through a fresh lens.
Ask More Questions: Challenge assumptions, seek out new viewpoints, and never stop wondering “What if?”
CONFIDENCE: The Ultimate Game-Changer
Confidence isn’t about knowing all the answers—it’s about trusting yourself enough to step forward even when you don’t. For too long, women—especially those in midlife—have been conditioned to diminish themselves, to make room for others, to be seen but not heard. That era is over.
Confidence comes from experience, but it also comes from deciding that you deserve to take up space. It’s about stepping into rooms, conversations, and opportunities with the belief that you belong there. And if no one has made space for you? Create it yourself.
How to CultivateCONFIDENCE Daily
Dress for Yourself: What you wear should empower you, not please others. Style is an extension of who you are. Speak Up: Your voice is valuable. Make sure it’s heard, whether in the boardroom, in friendships, or in societal conversations. Say No Without Guilt: Confidence means knowing what serves you—and unapologetically rejecting what doesn’t. Invest in Yourself: Whether it’s personal development, mental wellness, or financial independence, self-investment is the ultimate power move.
The INTERSECTION of Curiosity & Confidence
When curiosity and confidence work together, you become unstoppable. You aren’t afraid to explore, experiment, or pivot. You recognise that relevance isn’t about clinging to youth, but about embracing evolution.
The maison 1973 woman isn’t content to fade into the background—she’s still shaping culture, leading industries, and redefining what it means to be a woman in midlife.
REINVENTION is a Power Move
The most dynamic women of our time never stop reinventing themselves.
Reinvention isn’t about starting over—it’s about building upon what you already know and shaping it into something new. The maison 1973 woman sees reinvention not as a challenge, but as an opportunity.
Career pivots? Yes. It’s never too late to change direction or launch something new. Exploring new industries? Always. The digital world has opened up endless possibilities. Living without limits? Absolutely. This phase of life is about expansion, not contraction.
The ConfidentARCHITECTS
As Gen X women, we are the decisive bridge between tradition and innovation. We’ve witnessed the world transform, and we’ve mastered the art of adaptation every step of the way. Now, we possess the knowledge, experience, and unwavering confidence to define what’s next—on our own terms.
“I am curious, but never nosy. It’s important to know the difference when it comes to understanding life.
maison 1973 founder, Nic Tierney.
The Maison 1973 Takeaway:
Our final thought? Keep moving forward.
Get discovering.
Continue to explore our mood boards for inspiration
