The Age of Cougars

 Wednesday, 11 February 2009 06:20 Monet Lu and Marian A. Maraya 
from the AsianJournal - http://www.asianjournal.com/aj-magazine/midweek-mgzn/1224-the-age-of-cougars.html?start=1

Lou Sabas and Philipp Harth

Older women, younger men: Is it the new trend?

Openly revealed or poorly concealed, May-December romances have emerged as phenomenal fodder for conversations, both for those who fawn over or frown on this type of convention-breaking (or some say, liberating) relationship.

Thanks to superstars Demi Moore and Ashton Kutcher or their lesser known Hollywood counterparts, what has once been dismissed as taboo has been given quite the rehabilitated image: That older women dating younger men is not only gaining society’s approval but that it is now an attractive alternative. Before Demi and Ashton, there’s always been the May-December partnership between actress Susan Sarandon and her much younger boyfriend actor Tim Robbins.

The Nanny actress Fran Drescher once dated a gentleman 16 years younger than herself. Actress Kim Catrall, whose sexually-adventurous character Samantha in Sex and the City favored young men, is seeing someone many years her junior in real life.

In Philippine showbiz, the May-December trend is alive and well. Famous examples: TV host Kris Aquino and basketballer husband James Yap have an 11-year age gap; star for all seasons Vilma Santos is married to politician Ralph Recto who is ten years younger than the Batangas governor; concert queen Pops Fernandez is dating younger actor Jomari Yllana and the list goes on.

Within the Socal vicinity, there’s been the much publicized new marriage of Fil-Am newspaper columnist Cora Pastrana and the much younger Raymond Bagatsing.

There’s also the fascinating dating life of LA-based singer and actress Lou Sabas who has no qualms admitting she enjoys the company of younger gentlemen.

Sabas believes her fascination with younger men was borne out of an interrupted young adulthood. She married very young (at age 21) and gave birth to a baby girl the following year.

Sabas says she missed the opportunity to date guys her own age when she was in her 20s.

"My first husband was the only older guy in my life, seven years older than me. I got married the second time, he was two years younger. That marriage which lasted ten years didn’t work out in the end. Now I’ve been divorced for 16 years. Most of my friends are in their 20s and 30s and I get along real well with them. So most of the time, I’m around younger guys and they never treat me like an older woman. I like their sense of humor and they are more fun to be with. They uplift my spirit and it helps me feel young all the time. And I believe that how you feel about yourself is the aura that other people can see when they look at you," says Sabas.

Currently, she is openly dating 28-year-old Philipp Harth.

So what’s age really got to do with it? If you ask actor Tim Robbins, age isn’t even a factor in his relationship with the older Susan Sarandon. The actor told a 1995 Playboy magazine interview that "Each person is who they are. I’ve met young women who are old, I’ve met older women who are young."

But really, if age weren’t a factor, why does it even come up in the case of older women dating younger men?

Many believe it’s partly because of the double standard. After all, older men have been engaging in May-December affairs with much younger women for ages.

Author Valerie Gibson who penned the book Cougar: A Guide for Older Women Dating Younger Men is aware of the double standard.

In the end, the ultimate reason why older people decide to date younger is more or less the same across the board— whether you’re a woman, man, gay or straight.

The main lure, according to Gibson is "the mentality of having a youthful person on your arm who makes you feel good, who makes you feel ageless, makes you feel desired and desirable."

Do you hear the resounding "Amen!"?

Cougar Stands For...

Cute
Older
Unmarried
Gal
Aggressively
Recruiting

From the Inquirer : Will You Be A Cougar?

By Cheche V. Moral, Vangie Baga-Reyes, Pam Pastor
Philippine Daily Inquirer

Direct link to Inquirer.net article: http://lifestyle.inquirer.net/sundaylifestyle/sundaylifestyle/view/20100808-285503/Will-you-be-a-cougar


Yes, sounds like fun, and if he is charming, intellectually curious, kind to others, has a good sense of humor it just might lead to “gonna make it after all.” Women can date whom they want, when they want and get called just “women.” Though I will not date any man 10 years younger and any boy as young as my 18-year-old son.—Michele Sison, designer, Michele Sison et Kleid; widow with a teenage son

Cougar! What a provocative name for an older woman with a much younger man as prey. I’ve been free to date for the last 10 years, but no, I wouldn’t care to date a much younger man. I do not enjoy the prospect of becoming a sugar mommy, for what else would a much younger man want with an old cow like me? I know it’s just a date, but I’m sensitive to what people might say and will never be able to explain to my conservative children. A woman should always behave her age, especially if she has children who look up to her as a model.—Erlinda Enriquez Panlilio, writer; widow

No, I will not go out with anyone younger by more than five years. I’ve always liked the wisdom, wordliness and finesse of older men.—Leah Caringal, managing director, Green Bulb PR; happily single open to fun and action

While I’d much rather date an older man or someone my age, I wouldn’t discount dating someone younger. If a young, confident stud could transform playful banter into intellectually engaging conversation, why not? Plus, he’d most likely be already impressed with who you are and what you’ve accomplished without having you try so hard.—Zo Aguila, editor in chief, Cosmopolitan magazine; single and loving it

Even if I were free to date now, I wouldn’t go out with a much younger man. I have four children, I don’t think I can handle a fifth.—Kaye Tinga, philanthropist- socialite; married

Yes, more out of curiosity than anything else. I’ve been associated with older men ever since I can remember so it might be exciting to break out of the mold once in a while. Although the maximum [age] I would probably go is 10 years my junior. [Any younger] than that would be way too much work and for the more adventurous woman I guess—I can’t imagine what our conversations would be like! Or maybe I shouldn’t judge too hastily and just need to get my feet wet first. Ask me again in a few years.—Malu Francisco, retail executive; single with two adult kids

Why not? As long as the guy knows how to differentiate the mother from her daughters. And the affair should not cost me anything. —Annie Ringor, managing director, Bridges@Com; widow with two daughters

I would date a younger man but it depends how much younger. Young people can be fun and interesting and give off a nice vibe and energy. That can’t be a bad thing. Actually age isn’t a big deal because there are also immature older men. The age difference just shouldn’t look too obvious or awkward.—Chiqui Mabanta, restaurateur, Corner Tree Café and Mexicali; single

Assuming I were free, yes I would go out with a younger man, but no more than 10 years younger. First, they’ve got more energy. Second, I noticed that men mature a lot faster than they used to, so you get a fresh new perspective on life, politics, religion... And the fact that they show interest in an older woman shows that they are open to intellectual stimulation. And hey, a little spice never hurt! Ahh... I have the makings of a cougar!—Marla Moran Tañada, restaurateur, Café Mediterranean; married with two kids

Now at 33, no. I’m a different person now. But if I recall, when I was 27 I “dated” a 19-year-old, and his cousin who was also 19 right after. Haha! I have dated much older men, too. About 10 years my senior. Now the perfect fit, the man I’m dating is 35. We are at the same stage in our life, enjoying our youth and will be literally growing old together.—Tina Pamintuan, model, chef, restaurateur, L’incontro Ristorante Italiano; single

Assuming that I am in a position to still go dating, I don’t find anything wrong in going out with someone younger than me. If the chemistry’s there, why not? What’s important is that we get along well and we have the same appreciation of things. The relationship should be inspiring and fun and as long as there’s mutual love, trust and respect, age shouldn’t be a problem.—Antonette Villanueva Rodriguez, badminton enthusiast; married with two children

I’m two years older than my husband so yes, I would. Age is just a number. It doesn’t dictate maturity or love.—Sunshine Puey Pengson, chef, The Goose Station; married

Nope. Depends on my age. [When I’m] 50 [or older] definitely. [Now that I am still under] 40, I would rather go out with an older man since I want a man to take care of me instead of [me] taking care of a [him].—Pixie Sevilla Santos, chef-instructor, Magsaysay Institute of Hospitality and Culinary Arts; married with one daughter

Depends.—Millie Dizon, VP for marketing communications, SM; single

I’m fine as long as he’s a man who is striving for perfection in every aspect of his life. Basta not more than five years younger.—Ruby Gan, entrepreneur/power lifter; single with two adult sons

No, I want a mature man who can fascinate me with his brain. And I already have three kids, I don’t need another son to baby. Gusto ko ako naman ang alagaan.—Madge Lejano, makeup artist, single

No, because men are immature by nature. I’d rather go out with a guy my age or older.—Agoo Bengzon, beauty editor; married

Definitely yes... It will be wonderful to get fresh energy into the system. —Tessa Prieto-Valdes, columnist/host/interior designer; married

Age is nothing but a number, it’s the maturity that matters. I once dated someone who was much older than me but he turned out to be infantile.—Divine Lee, entrepreneur/ model; in a relationship

Yes, why not? As long as he can carry an intellectual conversation with me, age will never be a barrier.—Leah Salterio, publicist; regularly dating

Personally, I’d rather date a king than a prince charming.—Joyce Ramirez, publicist; single

No, they don’t know what they want in life. Older men are sexier—I married one.—Juana Manahan-Yupangco, writer; wife of sexy older man

Depends on his maturity level. I was asked out on a date by a younger guy and he took me bowling—with his family. Fail!—Maui Reyes-Drilon, advertising copywriter; married

Yes! The younger guys now have less hang-ups than those of my generation. They are all about having fun. Older, pretty women fascinate them as well. Would I marry one, though? Probably not.—Kinny Salas-Amparo, beauty columnist; married

Yes, I would consider it! Usually guys my age (29-30) are either taken or gay. It’s a little frustrating!—Kara Alberto, PR executive; single

Ten years younger? Why not? Malay mo mag-click. Pero kailangan maginoo siya pero medyo bastos, hindi KJ, hindi pa-impress at dapat may ipambabayad siya ng bill ng kinain namin otherwise magwo-walkout ako... Next, 10 years older please!”— Merci de Leon, physician; married

If I were single, why not? It’s just a date. Although I’ll do a little investigating first if it‘s really worth giving a try or not.—Hazel Vera de la Cruz, housewife

Yes, absolutely. Why not? I think I’m still too young to be called a cougar or MILF and I’m totally not an ageist! Though I’ve only dated a younger man once, I have always been friends with younger people in general so I can’t imagine holding a man’s age against him. Nowadays, age is just a number. Whatever their age, I’ll make sure to select men who are honest and genuine and who are who they claim to be. Age is no indicator of how decent a man is. —NJ Torres, publicist; single

Be A Healthy Cougar

Is being a cougar a fad? Fad or not, women 40 plus, divorced, single or widowed are dating and marrying younger men. The American Association of Retired Persons conducted a survey in 2003 and found that 34 percent of women over the age of 40 date younger men. Out of the 3500 men and women surveyed, the study found that the main criticism from both sexes was the amount of baggage that someone in the same age group carried.

Are Older Women on the Prowl for Younger Men?

In an interview with a divorced women age 54, when asked if she would date a younger man, she responded that it had never crossed her mind, and if she did the extent of the age gap would make a difference.

She commented on a recent episode at the gym, where a young man and his friend were working out and he recognized her as the mother of one of his friends, her daughter. He came over to the treadmill where she was working out and jokingly stated that he was going to tell her daughter that she was getting her young on. She commented that she works out all the time, not with the intent of attracting a younger man, but to stay healthy and fit.

Julia Macmillan, founder of the dating site ToyBoysWarehouse.com, stated in an article titled ‘Don’t Call us Cougar," published October 1, 2009 in The Independent that she is against the title cougar. "What I really object to with the cougar word is that it is such a stereotype. It's the image the media love of the older predatory woman who 'eats' young prey." She goes on to say, "Women are looking more fabulous for longer and it's normal that guys should find older women attractive. It's always been the other way around, now things are changing!"

Cougar Fashion

The fashion of being mentally and physically healthy does not apply only to the older women. Women 40 plus are in the realm of looking and feeling healthy.

A healthy cougar is a confident woman, capable of making choices that contribute to living a quality life. She is true to herself, cautious, yet open-minded, can have fun and does not sweat the small stuff.

Being a Healthy Cougar

According to Laura Lewis, Life Fit Expert on her website LauraLewis.com, dating a younger man is not for everyone, and the relationships tend not to last. However, she states, “There is something to be said about having a wonderful, connected, loving and long lasting relationship with your soul mate”. She says if a women is looking to have a relationship with a younger man, “then dating younger men is probably a very good thing….for your health (wink!) of course”!

Cougars are older women of renaissance nature, confident, smart, fit and independent. They look for a happy, healthy companionship without the concern for age.

Be a healthy cougar!

Source:

LauraLewis.com. Is Being a Cougar Good for her Health? (accessed May 20, 2010).

Read more at Suite101: Older Women Dating Younger Men: Be a Healthy Cougar http://womens-sexual-health.suite101.com/article.cfm/a-healthy-cougar#ixzz0w8taWVz1

Cougar: A Guide for Older Women Dating Younger Men

“Older women are extremely attractive,” Valerie Gibson, author of “Cougar: A Guide for Older Women Dating Younger Men,” said. “They own their own businesses, cars, condos and have their own life.” Gibson is a self-proclaimed cougar who said she “introduced the whole trend of cougars,” and has openly discussed why she thinks younger men love to date older women.
The world of cougars is very interesting; they are confident, in control, and unafraid to say “Don‘t call me, I’ll call you.” Also, you won’t often find them asking questions such as “Where is this going?” or “Do you love me?” that younger women tend to ask. Men find this irresistible, Gibson said. And of course, cougars are stereotyped as being a younger man’s fantasy because of their sexuality.
According to criminal justice junior Pat Gormley, who is currently dating an older woman, the appeal older women have is that they have more life experience. However, most guys he knows are attracted to them because they are more experienced sexually.
And Gibson was not opposed to the stereotype of being highly sexual. “Sexuality is something that is very strong with cougars,” Gibson said.
When asked if she had ever been under the impression that younger men had used her for sex or money she said they would never date older women for their money, but rather, for their sex.
“Of course they are using them for sex; that’s what they are there for,” Gibson said. She said that there is nothing wrong with being older and still wanting a sexual relationship. “It’s new they (older women) are blatantly saying they like sex. To say that you shouldn’t have sexuality after 40 is absolute rubbish … sexuality does not just jump off a cliff.”
But there is also another side to cougar relationships that can move beyond physical lust. Gibson was in a 15-year relationship with a man who was 14 years younger than her, and she said her relationship was like “any other relationship,” just with a larger age gap.
“The world of cougars is very interesting. They have life experience and good conversation they can share with a younger man and mature younger men love that,” Gibson said. “The cougar does not date every bozo … they like more sophisticated younger men; not all men can date an older woman,” Gibson said.
“Why guys go after older women is because they want to have a mature relationship with a mature woman,” Gormley said. “Guys also like to say they are dating an older woman … they seem older if they are dating a more mature woman.” He also said that his friends have a fantasy of being with a cougar but have never followed through with actually dating one.
Gibson also said that younger men are now chasing after the older women, not the other way around.
“In the past seven years, the trend is now driven by younger men; now the younger men adore you … go to a bar with a girlfriend, and they will swarm you,” Gibson said.
There are numerous Web sites such as cougarhunter.ca, gauged toward younger males who are attracted to older women that dish cougar dating advice, “cougar hunting” tips and even sell cougar apparel. While different people may have opposing perspectives on the age gap, it’s apparent that cougars are available and wanted by some younger men.
“Younger men fall madly in love with older women; it seems they are addicted and never want to go back,” Gibson said.


Taken from : http://www.cougarconvention.com/dialogue/cougar-a-guide-for-older-women-dating-younger-men/

Demystifying the cougar

From the Philippine Star : Demystifying the cougar
LIVIN' & LOVIN' By Tetta Matera (The Philippine Star)
Updated March 31, 2010 12:00



Demi Moore, then 42, married her beau Ashton Kutcher, a hunk of a 27-year-old man in 2005.

Call me clueless, but I did not know that a cougar was something other than a four-legged animal until a few months ago when I saw the teaser for the TV show Cougar Town. I thought the Demi-Ashton thing was just a “May-December affair” in reverse!

When I asked my 14-year-old daughter Riana if she knew what a cougar was, she rolled her eyes in disbelief and asked “Mama, what planet do you live in”?

So off she searched the Internet to introduce me to Urban Dictionary. (Yes, Merriam Webster! Move over, there’s a new dictionary in town and it’s online!) Apparently, this online dictionary is where you find meanings to the vocabulary of the Now Generation.

What Is A Cougar?

Urban Dictionary says a cougar does not fit one particular mold. The only common denominator among cougars is their involvement with a younger man, in most instances at least 10 years younger than them.

A cougar is described as:

*A 35 -year-old and above female who is “into” much younger, energetic, willing-to-do anything male.

*A fit, active, confident, independent woman who is attracted to younger men because men her age are opinionated and often only talk about insurance premiums or lazy slugs with beer guts hopelessly attached to their TV remote.

*A hot, attractive and sexy older woman in her sexual prime, usually in her 40s-50s, single or married who knows what she wants and isn’t afraid to go after it.

*A real head-turner, True Hottie who doesn’t have to sneak up and attack because she has her act together.

*A classy, beautiful, smart and successful woman who usually owns expensive cars and homes; she embraces her true self, lives her life to the fullest.

*A woman, who looks younger than her age, acts younger than her age and has a confidence that she didn’t have when she was much younger.

*A woman who has overcome society’s prescribed behavior regarding sexuality.

Looking at these descriptions, it would be difficult to put the cougar in a box that says, “One size fits all.” To do this would be a disservice to them and to the readers. Years ago, I heard stories about matrons who dated their often younger D.I. (Dance Instructors), in some cases bequeathing money to them upon their death. These matrons were rather predictable with their coiffed hair, heavy make-up and preference for ballroom dancing.

But the cougar, on the other hand, defies conventional wisdom. For the purpose of this article, let’s cover the basics and see what two Pinay cougars have to share.

How It All Started



The use of the word “cougar” began in 2001 with the publication of the book titled Cougar: A Guide for Older Women Dating Younger Men written by Valerie Gibson, an English woman living in Canada who writes a column on relationships for The Toronto Sun.

At 62, Gibson is a self-acknowledged pioneer cougar who claims “a woman should not have to give up her sexuality, vibrancy or ability to have fun just because she has reached a certain age.” She admits that there is still a stigma attached to being a cougar but Hollywood made it acceptable, even hip, when Demi Moore, then 42, married her beau Ashton Kutcher, a hunk of a 27-year-old man in 2005. She is considered the penultimate cougar.

Many high-profile celebrities will not publicly admit to being cougars but their relationships say it all. Madonna (51) is with Jesus Lopez (22), a Brazilian model. Halle Berry (43) has a baby girl with Gabriel Aubry (33). Kim Catrall (53) of Sex and the City is going out with Alan Wyse (28), a Canadian chef.

Mariah Carrey recently married Nick Cannon, 11 years younger than she. Then there’s Goldie Hawn who is 15 years older than Kurt Russell, Barbara Hershey (61) who is dating Naveen Andrews (40) of the TV show Lost and Paula Abdul whose boyfriend J.T. Torregiani is 12 years younger.

Candace Bushnell (50), the author of Sex and The City, does not appreciate being called a cougar and asks: “How come every time women manage to break out of traditional roles, someone comes along and tries to ruin it with a derogatory label”? She is happily married to Charles Askegaard (40), a ballet dancer of the NYC Ballet.

While all these women embrace and relish their choice to be with younger men, Catherine Zeta-Jones does not find younger men attractive. Married to Michael Douglas who is 25 years older, she says that “young men are more unbiased, playful and firmer, there’s no question about that. But they are also more selfish and narcissistic. This is why they never had a chance to go out with me. I need a man who is sensitive and caring, someone who is superior to me and I can lean on.”

I don’t know why Ms. Gibson chose cougar as opposed to say, the “Millennium Woman” or the “Now Woman” or something less controversial but the truth of the matter is cougars are out there. Some wear the label with pride while others choose to be low-profile, even anonymous.

The Filipina Cougar

Since I didn’t know one personally, I asked some of my friends to introduce me to several that they knew. Some declined an interview outright, some refused a face-to-face interview but agreed to answer the questionnaire. One got cold feet while answering the questions and dropped out. One agreed to answer via e-mail under an alias. Another just admitted to being a cougar during a casual conversation at the gym locker; she obliged me with her answers and several photos for the article.

“J. Lo” (her alias) is a 50-year-old woman who manages her own business; she is a widow who was unhappily married for seven years with three children aged 30, 28 and 26.

Tina (her real name) is an ex-New York banker-turned-entrepreneur who “thinks like a 40-year-old, looks like a 30-year-old, feels like a 20-year-old but acts like a 10-year-old sometimes.” Tina refers to herself as a “mature kitten” since she believes that the term cougar carries a negative connotation. She is single but wouldn’t mind getting married to a strong sensitive guy and imagines their partnership to be that of equals.

I asked the two of them the same questions and here are their responses:

When did you start dating younger men? Do your kids know you are dating younger men?

J. Lo: I started dating younger men in 1999 and yes, my kids approve of my relationship with a younger man because they believe that I deserve to be happy.

Tina: I remember that young boys were already attracted to me even when I was just 15! “The younger boys/men seem to find me whether I lived in Los Angeles, New York or Manila.”

How many younger men have you dated?

J. Lo: As far as I can recall, I have dated about eight younger men.

Tina: I’ve dated many but one relationship was serious enough with a Dutch university intern I met at Serena Bar in NYC sometime in 1999.

What is the age gap between you and the younger men you have dated?

J. Lo: I have dated a man 16 years my junior but I have also dated a man just two years younger.

Tina: I have dated a guy 15 years younger than me.

How do you choose the younger men you date? Do you have a criteria?

J. Lo: I do not go for a particular type or someone who fits a profile. I don’t choose them, they just happen to come along! Fortunately for me, they come with looks, intelligence and success, the whole package.

Tina: Exasperated, I seem to unintentionally intimidate the Filipino guy with my bon vivant attitude, strong opinions and non-conformist ways. So by default it seems, I have been dating foreigners who can match my wit, keep up with my energy and still be able to “dish it back to me” when necessary.

Have you tried dating men your age? Why do you date younger men? Do you ever give them money or pay for the date?

J. Lo: I have tried dating older men or guys my age but I just enjoy the company of younger men more. I believe that being around younger men keeps me from growing old, kind of like a reverse osmosis. I dislike the double standard whereby men can date younger women; unlike them, I do not have to spend a single cent since my young man initiates and pays for our dates! I refuse to give money to my man, never, it is a mortal sin.

Tina: I am quite liberal but I am a romantic at heart as well. “All is fair in love” is what I believe in. Being with a younger man who is confident and secure makes me feel that I can conquer a world that has no boundaries, where a woman can achieve anything and be in a relationship with a man, regardless of age. But I am also a pragmatic and believe in equal opportunity so I offer to pay for a date even if in most cases the man does.

Is the sex better with younger men?

J. Lo: Definitely! “Waaaaaaaay, much, much better! It is more fun and exciting to be around a younger man!

Tina: I believe that sex is one area where age doesn’t matter because it is about self-esteem, the ability to enjoy one’s sexuality and generosity of spirit.

Do you date several men at a time? Who initiates the dates? Do you date openly?

J. Lo: Yes, I do date several men at a time if I am not in a serious relationship. The younger man usually initiates the dates and I am not uncomfortable to date openly. We go out alone and sometimes with other friends on a group date. I enjoy doing the same things other couples do like go out for a drink, enjoy dinner together or travel out of town.

Tina: I am a serial monogamist who will date one man at a time especially if it’s serious. Yes, we date in public, alone and sometimes with friends who do not judge or mind my relationship with a younger man.

Have you been in a long-term relationship with a younger man?

J. Lo: Yes, I have been in a serious, long-term relationship with a younger man; it lasted for several years.

Tina: I have been in a long-term relationship with a younger man but I move on and cut my losses when I don’t see the relationship maturing. I don’t want to waste my time or his time just to hang out, have company.

Are you happier with your life now? Would you consider marrying a younger man or do you see yourself marrying an older man? Are you in a relationship at the moment?

J. Lo: Yes, I am very much happier. I guess I would only stop dating a younger man if I found an older man who will pamper me and give me heaven and earth! I may think about marrying an older man if he gives me everything I want but for now I am single and just enjoying my life.

Tina: I will only stop dating when I finally walk down the aisle. I firmly believe that it is my destiny to get married to a younger guy! I’m convinced it has something to do with my innate belief in Darwinism.

* * *

These two women definitely know what they want and are truly comfortable in their own skin. They are both very candid, funny and certainly no-nonsense women. They don’t pretend to be anything they are not and they don’t feel the need to make excuses or justify the choices they make. They clearly love the life they are living! “I am what I am.” “To each her own” and “Live and let live,” seem to be the resounding themes in their lives.

Cougar Effect Boosts Lingerie Sales

Lingerie is displayed in the new Playboy store in central London September 19, 2007.

Credit: Reuters/Alessia Pierdomenico

LONDON | Thu Apr 29, 2010 2:17pm EDT

LONDON (Reuters) - Sales of sultry lingerie among older women are booming in Britain thanks to the glamorous 40-somethings of "Sex and the City 2" and "Cougar Town," retail chain Debenhams reported on Thursday.

The hit TV show, and forthcoming movie, featuring the bedroom antics of women in their 40s and 50s and their much younger partners, is being credited with a rise in demand for lingerie from women of the same age, Debenhams said.

The department store said a nationwide analysis of the most popular lingerie styles from October 2009 to April 2010, revealed that women over 40 have given the more seductive side of the lingerie industry a big boost.

"Positive female role models in this age group such as the women in the Sex and the City movies and Courteney Cox in TV's Cougar Town are giving the women confidence to splash out on themselves," Debenhams head lingerie buyer Annette Warburton said in a statement.

Women over 40 were rediscovering their figures, often after having children or getting divorced.

Previously, the store said, the main purchasers of cleavage-enhancing bras, basques, thongs, stockings and suspenders, have been women in their early 20s.

"With women's 40s being touted as the new 20s, and lingerie designers stepping up to the mark to feed this demand, it's a market we expect to see grow further in the future," Warburton said.

(Reporting by Paul Casciato; Editing by Steve Addison)

Cougars and a women’s summit

Cougars and a women’s summit
From the PDI Column : At Large
By Rina Jimenez-David
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 00:49:00 10/18/2009


MANILA, Philippines-While “Cougartown,” the American TV show about a 40-something Courtney Cox and her adventures in search of younger men, has yet to air on Philippine TV, I’m already familiar with the term “cougar.” The context is a story in itself.
I was with some friends of long-standing, who shall remain nameless because one of them is a nun, joined by two of our daughters. We were having dinner at a very popular place, and so had to be seated outside in the corridor, frantically waving at servers to notice us. The waiter who finally did approach turned out to be a personable young man, clean-cut and pleasant of manner, and of course we were all much taken by him. I don’t know about my friends, but my sole aim was to introduce him to my daughter. And so I asked his name, what he did aside from serving (he turned out to be a graduate of a computer school), and if he had a girlfriend. (So sue me, I happen to be a very good journalist!)
Amid all this banter and back-and-forth between a group of 50-something women and a good-looking waiter, the young women at our table looked on horrified and too offended for words. “Mom,” said one of them who looked suspiciously like my daughter, “you’re such a cougar.” “A what?” I asked above the din in the corridor. “A cougar, an older woman who likes younger men.”
I didn’t get her because she pronounced “cougar” as “coo-ger,” and at first I thought she was calling me the stuff that comes out of one’s nose. A cougar is a wild animal that belongs to the cat family, but a “coo-ger” is apparently a woman past her prime who hunts for younger male prey. The analogy wasn’t lost on us, but no, we weren’t (and aren’t) desperate, lusty or frantically chasing time by lowering the average age of our sexual partners.
We were just having a good time.
* * *
BUT I can understand the dynamic. No longer are relationships supposed to follow a single pattern: older man (who is also richer, more powerful, more experienced, more “worldly”) and younger woman (economically dependent, vulnerable, virginal and innocent).
These days, relationships following the reverse order are all the rage: Courtney Cox herself and her hubby David Arquette who is seven years her junior; Kris Aquino and James Yap with nearly a decade between them; and of course the poster-couple of happy cougar-hood, Demi Moore and Ashton Kutcher.
There is even supposed to be a natural logic to all this, for as former Inquirer columnist (and incorrigible dirty old man) Larry Henares once put it: men hit their peak of sexual prowess from age 15 to their early 20s, while women’s sexuality peaks in their late 30s and 40s. Thus the most sexually compatible, not to mention sexually fulfilled, couples would be those of younger men with women at least two decades older than them.
I myself have nothing against cougars, except for the rather demeaning term. And if I were single, economically independent and reasonably fit, I can’t see any reason why I should be limiting my dating pool to men of my own age, when younger men are more energetic, genuinely attracted to my experience and worldliness, and willing to learn.
But I would guess that keeping up with a youthful partner can prove to be exhausting, as I’m sure men in their 50s and 60s with young trophy-wives who want to party after a long day can attest to.
In all probability, in fact, the newly empowered cougars the entertainment industry is so fascinated with could very well be the men’s discarded wives, who are finding themselves suddenly in fashion, suddenly desirable, and suddenly arm-in-arm with muscular studs and fresh-faced boylets.
There is justice in the gender wars, after all.

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"Cougar? I like it!"

Asked on what she thought of being labeled as a Cougar, actress Jean Garcia gleefully replied to the reporter on Kapuso Mo Jessica Soho, "I like it!"

Jean Garcia in her photos here only show how much she relishes the limelight of being in this category of modern women.