Lyn Slater

Lyn Slater began her career with a Ph.D. in Social Welfare, dedicating over 40 years to social work. Her early work focused on advocating for children and families, particularly young women impacted by trauma within challenging systems. To manage the stress of her demanding profession, Slater engaged in creative outlets such as writing and theatre. This commitment to self-care and creativity later manifested through her unique fashion sense during her 20 years as a professor at Fordham University’s Graduate School of Social Service. Her distinct style drew attention from students and colleagues, who encouraged her to start a fashion blog. Slater launched her blog, “Accidental Icon,” and an accompanying Instagram account in 2014, showcasing her intellectual and avant-garde style. This initiative unexpectedly led to her significant presence in the fashion world.

Her online platforms quickly gained a substantial following, reaching over 700,000 followers on Instagram. This digital presence led to features in major publications such as The New York Times and Harper’s Bazaar. During this period, Slater also secured several brand partnerships, leveraging her influence in the fashion industry. In 2019, she retired from her teaching position. Her experiences in the digital sphere, including brand collaborations and the challenges to her mental health posed by the demands of influencing, prompted her to reflect on her journey. She recognized the importance of advocating for herself, a lesson from her social work background.

In 2024, Slater published her memoir, “How to Be Old: Lessons in Living Boldly from the Accidental Icon.” This book allowed her to narrate her own story and address themes of reinvention, creativity, and the complexities of aging in contemporary society. Through her book and public discussions, such as a virtual conversation hosted by Fordham University, she has emphasized intergenerational collaboration and challenged media portrayals of aging. Slater continues to explore how her past experiences as an advocate, educator, and accidental icon shape her identity and purpose.