" ‘Grandmother’ doesn’t mean that you have gray hair and you retire and stay home cooking cakes for your grandchildren. "
- Carine Roitfeld

The quote suggests that being a grandmother transcends mere physical appearance or passive roles within a family structure. It challenges the stereotype that becoming a grandmother means simply aging and focusing one’s life on domestic duties like cooking for grandchildren.

Beyond its surface meaning, this statement delves into how societal expectations can limit the roles of older women. Carine Roitfeld implies that there is more to being a grandmother than just biological age or traditional caregiving responsibilities. The quote encourages older women to continue pursuing their passions and interests rather than conforming to outdated stereotypes about aging and maturing as a woman. It advocates for a broader, more dynamic interpretation of what it means to be a grandmother—one that includes professional fulfillment, personal growth, and active engagement in various aspects of life.

Carine Roitfeld is known for her influential career in the fashion industry. As the former editor-in-chief of French Vogue and a style icon, she has long been recognized for breaking conventions and pushing boundaries. Her quote reflects her commitment to defying ageist stereotypes and encouraging others to do the same, both inside and outside the fashion world.