Fattore Cenerentola o Silver economy? La rivoluzione silenziosa nei consumi e stili di vita degli anziani

This essay addresses a topic largely overlooked in historiography: the role of old age as a historical driver of inequality. It begins by outlining the significance that advanced age has assumed within contemporary demographic dynamics and by discussing the concept of ageism. The analysis then offers a historical overview of the socioeconomic condition of older adults in Italy—as well as their media representation—from the Fascist period through the economic boom and up to the present day. In its final section, the essay examines the agency of older individuals, drawing on original oral interviews and focusing particularly on clothing and fashion practices.