Martha Stewart Reflects on Aging Naturally, Romance at 85

Martha Stewart marked her 85th birthday by rejecting conventional beauty standards, insisting she has never undergone plastic surgery despite her decades-long career in the public spotlight. In an interview with People magazine, the lifestyle entrepreneur emphasized her commitment to natural aging while acknowledging her use of targeted maintenance treatments to preserve her appearance.

Stewart attributed her youthful look to disciplined habits rather than surgical intervention. She revealed relying on consistent skincare regimens, periodic facial fillers administered roughly every four months, and a rigorous wellness routine that includes daily exercise and horseback riding. She explicitly dismissed more invasive procedures, stating flatly that she has no interest in cosmetic enhancements beyond these modest interventions.

Genetics and lifestyle choices form the foundation of Stewart’s aging philosophy, she explained. Her mother maintained an attractive appearance into her 95th year, Stewart noted, and the family’s approach emphasizes regular exercise, a nutritious diet, minimal alcohol consumption, and avoiding tobacco—all practices Stewart continues daily.

On the subject of romantic companionship, Stewart expressed a notable shift in priorities with advancing age. She downplayed the importance of partnership in her later years, suggesting that the need for a spouse diminishes naturally over time and that she would avoid entanglement with an aging partner facing health challenges.

The lifestyle mogul celebrated her milestone birthday at her Maine estate, posting a photograph of herself relaxing in a hot tub surrounded by evergreen trees. Stewart promised to use the facility daily during her Maine stays, describing the experience as invigorating and restorative.

Despite reaching 85, Stewart continues her demanding professional schedule without significant slowdown. She maintained her characteristic early-morning routine, waking at 3 a.m. to complete daily puzzles before tackling her work obligations. Recently, she recreated her 1995 People magazine cover at her 156-acre Bedford, New York property, underscoring her continued relevance and visibility.

Stewart’s career trajectory from catering entrepreneur to self-made billionaire—achieved in 1999—demonstrates sustained ambition across multiple decades. She has authored more than 100 cookbooks, established restaurant ventures, and became Sports Illustrated’s oldest Swimsuit cover model at 81. Her current projects include a home intelligence application and a skincare line developed under her brand.

When asked if she had achieved all her professional goals, Stewart pointed to her newly launched home app as evidence of continued innovation. She acknowledged maintaining a perfectionist’s work ethic and juggling multiple simultaneous projects, though she expressed a desire for additional leisure time she has yet to fully realize.