Fashion Forward: Embracing Style for Women Over 40
First and foremost let me say that you can wear whatever the heck you want! This is not going to be one of those articles that say, “Never ever wear this or that after a certain age”. I am simply offering suggestions on what to wear in your 40s that you can take or leave.
Honestly, I don’t believe in hard and fast fashion rules about “dressing your age”. After all, we all have 100% freedom to wear any style of clothing we like!
This is especially true after a certain age (like 40) when are older, wiser, and waaaay less likely to care about what other people think of our fashion choices.
The only thing women over 40 (or any age really) should NEVER wear is the weight of other people’s opinions.
Some of my blog posts contain affiliate links, from which we may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. For more info see our disclosure and privacy policy.
What’s Inside:
- Incorporate “Younger Looking” Pieces Into Your Look
- Embrace your body shape
- Wear prints the right way
- Denim done right
- Mix Classic with contemporary
- Choose quality fabrics
- Say no to age-defining trends
- Fashion for 40-somethings doesn’t have to be frumpy
- Be wise don’t overaccessorize after age 40
- Experiment with Layering
- Stay on trend with colors
- How to dress your age over 40 is all up to you!
Incorporate “Younger Looking” Pieces the right way
Now, with all that being said, I do have some tips for dressing in your 40s and beyond while still looking trendy and hip. You can most definitely incorporate younger style elements into your look.
It’s all about balance right?
Fashion is not just for the young! Far from it. It’s a way for everyone to express their unique personality and style.
Women over 40 can totally rock hip and trendy looks that exude confidence and sophistication.
How to “dress your age” is completely subjective and I’m just offering my two cents. 🙂
Let’s dive in and explore some style tips for women over 40, 50 and beyond and remember, age is no barrier to being fashion-forward and looking and feeling fab!
1. Embrace your body shape
One of the keys to looking amazing at any age is to dress for your body shape. Avoid wearing ill-fitting or overly tight clothing that doesn’t flatter your figure.
Embrace your curves and invest in well-tailored garments that highlight your best features while providing comfort.
Well-tailored clothing is a game-changer when it comes to achieving a hip and polished look.
Invest in tailored shirts and flattering blouses (I love this white jacquard long sleeve!), classic blazers, pants, and dresses that flatter your figure and provide a structured silhouette.
2. wear prints the right way
You don’t need to shy away from prints and patterns. They can inject fun and vibrancy into your wardrobe if done the right way. But avoid overly busy patterns or head-to-toe print outfits.
If the print reminds you of your gramma’s couch from 1982 then you’ll probably shouldn’t be wearing it.
Instead think classic prints like stripes, polka dots, or timeless animal prints to add a touch of sophistication to your wardrobe. Remember to offset patterns with solid-coloured pieces to create that balanced look.
Some of the fashion gurus say that an outdated print can instantly date an outfit and stay away from large floral prints but I’m not sure if I agree.
In fact, one of my favourite dresses has a large floral pattern but it is not too busy and has a good amount of plain white negative space.
So, again it’s all a matter of balance and your personal preference. If you like boho style, as I do, you probably have a lot of floral and/or paisley printed stuff. Mix them up with some solid pieces and you’ll be good to go.
3. denim done right
Denim is a timeless fabric and can most definitely wear it in your 40s, 50s, 60s, and beyond!
One thing I love about denim these days is that so much of it is made with stretch built in. So comfy!
Opt for jeans with a modern and flattering cut, such as high-rise “mom” jeans. boyfriend jeans rolled up, or straight-leg styles.
Stay away from low-rise jeans that show your thong when you bend over. Actually, I think that’s good fashion advice for any age group!
Some fashion experts say no ripped jeans for us “older” ladies but I still wear distressed/ripped denim as a part of my personal style. I’m a rebel, what can I say? TikTok is on fire right now talking about Judy Blue jeans, and I am very tempted to try a pair on for size!
If natural is your style, pairing jeans with a nice slim-fit white v-neck t-shirt and a long cardigan might appeal to you. If you lean more towards chic, then pair your jeans with a trendy cold shoulder sweater and over-the-knee riding boots for a more sophisticated look.
Denim jackets or shirts can also be layered over dresses or paired with skirts for a cool and casual vibe.
4. Mix Classic with Contemporary
Blend classic and contemporary elements in your outfits to create a hip and fashion-forward look. Again, it’s all about striking that balance of dressing like a grown-up but still not taking yourself too seriously.
Combine a crisp white button-down shirt with a leather skirt, or pair a tailored blazer with a graphic tee and jeans.
Pair “younger looking” items such as a concert tee with something a little more polished like a simple blazer and a pair of good quality leather loafers.
Mixing timeless pieces with trendier items adds a touch of individuality to your style and keeps your look fresh and fun.
For example, ever since high school, I have loved to wear Converse Chuck Taylors high top sneakers. I’m an 80s kid and I think they’re the coolest.
But at my age, (well beyond 40), am I going to wear them with short shorts, a concert T-shirt, and bubble gum lip gloss?
Definitely not. Again, if you want to, go for it. I’m not judging anybody!
For me, however, what works better is pairing my fun, youthful sneakers (or these girly combat boots!) with classic denim jeans, (solid dark wash or white is perfect), and a nice linen button-down or boyfriend shirt.
The point is you can most definitely add something to your outfit that is typically worn by the younger crowd.
Just because we’re getting older doesn’t mean we are going to be dressing frumpy.
Gen X is doing the whole aging thing differently as I’m sure you’ve noticed. And I for one am totally on board with it.
- Red Zipper Long Sleeve Hooded Coat
- Price: $23.98
- Multi Color Button Tartan Print Belted Coat
- Price: $43.98
- Black Zipper Long Sleeve Lapel Jacket
- Price: $52.98
5. choose quality fabrics
Investing in high-quality fabrics can make a significant difference in the way your clothing looks and feels. You're worth it!
Steer clear of cheaply made, synthetic fabrics that can appear flimsy and quickly wear out.
Opt for natural materials like cotton, silk, linen, cashmere, and wool that provide comfort and age gracefully, maintaining their shape and durability.
6. say no to age-defining trends
As women mature, it's important to be mindful of trends that may not suit our changing styles and bodies.
I may catch some flack for this one but as I said earlier, you can take these tips if they resonate with you and leave them if they don't.
While there's no age limit to fashion, some trends just come across as too youthful.
For example, these days my 20-something nieces are all wearing cropped t-shirts and they are so cute! And guess what? In the 80s and 90s, I rocked them too! Everything comes back in style am I right?? ;-)
But I am not running errands or going to pick up my kid at school in a crop top at my age... bootie shorts either for that matter.
Yes, I'll wear short shorts over my swimsuit sometimes if I'm hanging out at the beach but that's about it.
Some things are meant to be left in the past. Personally, I avoid overly revealing outfits that might seem inappropriate for the occasion. I feel like a broken record but I feel it's all about balance.
A sleeveless top with a plunging neckline that makes your boobs look great can be amazing sometimes but pairing it with a too-tight mini-skirt or Daisy Duke shorts seems a bit over the top to me.
Stick with classic pieces that you can mix and match and stay away from trends that come off as "I'm trying to recapture my youth".
7. fashion for 40-somethings doesn't have to be frumpy
Dressing in your 40s for comfort doesn't have to equal frumpy.
Avoid falling into the trap of shapeless and unflattering outfits that can make you appear older than you are.
I'm all for comfort, believe me. If it feels like pyjamas but looks like a million bucks, I'm in.
The good news is you really can be both comfortable and stylish at the same time.
Maybe you love the comfort of yoga pants or sweat suits like me?
Believe it or not, leggings, harem, and yoga pants can be a part of a chic-looking outfit very easily! Even the right jogging pants can be a viable option! Hey! Even cute sweatsuits are making a comeback! They've rebranded them a bit, calling them loungewear sets but it's still a sweatsuit to me.
PRETTYGARDEN Women's Fall Two-Piece Outfit
Long Sleeve Crewneck Pullover Tops and Long Pants Tracksuit
The key is making sure they fit your body properly, are of decent quality, and they highlight your best features.
Also, a comfortable pair of well-fitting jeans is something you can build so many great looks around without sacrificing comfort.
8. be wise don't overaccessorize after age 40
Accessories can elevate any outfit but remember that sometimes less is more. Moderation is key.
Accessories are a fantastic way to infuse your outfits with personality and style. Just don't wear too many at once!
Over-accessorizing can overwhelm your look and distract from your natural elegance.
I really love jewelry and accessories, I even like big chunky bracelets and oversized rings since I lean toward that boho hippie vibe.
As much as I love all my baubles and beads and crystals, I don't wear everything all at once. If I'm wearing a big chunky necklace I will skip the earrings or just wear studs and vice versa.
So yes, you can opt for bold statement necklaces, oversized sunglasses, unique handbags, or vibrant scarves to make a fun fashion statement. But do it the right way, which means don't overdo it.
Choose one or two pieces to make a statement and keep the rest of your accessories minimal. This will let your style and beauty shine through while not overpowering you. Experiment with different accessories to find what resonates with your personal style! Just don't wear everything at once!
9. Experiment with Layering
Layering is a practical way of dressing but it also adds depth and dimension to your outfits.
Play with different textures and lengths by putting together a long cardigan, kimono, or a soft suede trench coat with a fitted top and cropped pants.
Try layering a jean jacket over a dress or black yoga pants or adding a cute vest to your outfit.
Layering is a great way to have fun with your fashion and explore your sense of style over 40. It allows you to mix and match pieces, creating unique and eye-catching looks.
10. stay on trend with colors
Unlike trends that are too "young" or overly revealing for us to wear in our 40s, trending colors are something we may want to follow.
Keeping up with current color trends is an excellent and super easy way to infuse your wardrobe with a modern and hip vibe.
Wearing trendy colors combined with your favorite neutrals like black, white, beige, or grey can instantly update your look. Experiment with shades like electric blue, vibrant red, or sunny yellow to make a stylish statement.
how to dress your age over 40 is all up to you!
Ladies, remember this. Fashion has no age restrictions, and personal style should always be an expression of who we are.
However, as we enter different stages of life, our fashion choices may naturally shift.
While there are certain guidelines that can help women over 40 feel confident and fashionable, it's essential to remember that these are simply suggestions. Nothing is set in stone.
What you choose to wear in your 40s is all up to you!
The most important aspect of fashion is feeling comfortable and authentic in your own skin.
Embrace your uniqueness, experiment with different styles, and have fun discovering what makes you feel beautiful at every stage of life.
After all, age is just a number, and style knows no boundaries.
Until next time, K.
Kelly Blakely is the founder and creative force behind Just Our View From Here. As a first-time mom over 40, she brings a fresh perspective to parenting and family life on her blog. Kelly also explores a wide range of lifestyle topics in her writing, including fashion, beauty, self-care, and well-being.
more articles for you!
Best Swimsuits That Hide Belly Pooch (And Look Stunning!)
Jean Jacket Outfit Ideas For Women
Cute & Trendy Beach Cover Ups For 2023
Best Postpartum Pants For All Seasons
The Ultimate Guide to Postpartum Pants: Stylish and Comfortable Bottoms for Every Season Hey there...
Jean Jacket Outfit Ideas For Women
Are denim jackets in style in 2023? Yes! Did they ever really go out of...
Cutest Beach Cover-Ups For Women
trendy beach cover-ups for 2023! A round-up post of 75 of the cutest swimsuit beach...
13 Best Swimsuits To Hide Belly Pooch
Updated for 2023- Now Over 30 Gorgeous Swimsuits That Help Hide Tummy Pooch! Updated, Nov.11/2023...
Postpartum Fall Fashion: Comfy AND Stylish
When it comes to postpartum fashion in the fall or ANY season, the name of...
White Jeans After Labor Day: Is It Okay To Wear Them Today?
Can You Wear White Jeans (Or Any White Clothing) After Labor Day Or Not? I...
Just Our View From Here is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com