Don’t get me wrong: I’m not saying women can’t be stylish at any age, but there are a few fashion rules for women over 40 that some of us tend to… forget… which can spell sartorial disaster. What are these fashion rules for women over 40, and how can we avoid fashion embarrassment? Keep reading…
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1. Don’t Dress Too Young
There’s a store called Forever 21 that sells fashion-forward clothes to teens and young adults. But before you go on a spree, note that name, and the target clientele. The same goes for Charlotte Russe, Aeropostale, Hollister and Abercrombie & Fitch, which also cater to younger (MUCH younger) shoppers. These stores may have a few items older women can wear, but most of the clothes are too young for women over 40. There’s little in this world more embarrassing than dressing too young, so this is my very first of the fashion rules for women over 40.
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This isn't about denying yourself the joy of fashion, or saying you can't be trendy after 40. It's about finding the balance between youthful energy and refined elegance. Opt for stores that offer timeless pieces designed with a mature silhouette in mind. Brands like J.Crew, Ann Taylor, or Banana Republic blend classic style with current trends, ensuring you look chic without seeming like you're trying to reclaim your teenage years. Embrace a sophisticated wardrobe that celebrates your age with style, confidence, and a nod to contemporary fashion, rather than one that misrepresents it.
2. Don’t Dress Too Old!
The flip side of that “dressing to young” coin is dressing too old! You’re only 40, not 70, so there are some looks that just won’t work for you. Skip the orthopedic granny shoes and the pastel velour pantsuits and the glasses on a chain, at least for the next 30 years or so.
Frequently asked questions
Absolutely! Fashion knows no age. It's all about wearing what makes you feel confident and comfortable.
Not really! Rules are meant to be broken. Fashion is personal and should reflect your unique style at any age.
Of course! If you like their style and it suits you, then why not? Wear what you love regardless of the label.
Consider how the trend fits your personal style and comfort level. Adapt trends to suit you, not the other way around.
Choose pieces that make you feel good and reflect who you are. Confidence comes from being true to yourself in fashion.
3. Comfort Rules
I was so glad to give up clothes I always felt I had to pull up (low-cut tops) or pull down (short skirts) or clothes I couldn’t wait to take off when I got home. But you know what? You don’t have to wait til you turn 40 to start wearing clothes that are comfortable – you can start anytime, and you’ll be so glad you did!
4. Know Your Palette
I always knew I could wear deep purples (but avoid yellows), but until recently, I had no idea I could wear coral. Do yourself a favor, and figure out which colors you can wear, and which to avoid, as you age. You’ll open so many more fashion possibilities for yourself!
5. Keep It Simple… but…
Let the youngsters rock the crazy trends, and keep your own personal style simple. But don’t be afraid to be bold with an accessory once in a while… wear your favorite LBD but forgo the black heels, and wear bright yellow or blue instead. Ditch the boring beige handbag and opt for green or coral instead. Or treat yourself to a pair of bright white skinnies this spring, instead of traditional blue.
6. Know What Flatters You
You may not have gained a single ounce, but your body isn’t the same exact shape it used to be, either, so some of the fashions you wore when you were in your 20s just don’t fit the ways they used to. If you still have gorgeous legs, wear skirts! If you have impressive cleavage, show it off a little… but remember, along with showcasing and accenting your best features, camouflage the ones that aren’t quite what they used to be (or, in my case, never were).
7. Two Words: Mom Jeans
The number one fashion mistake I see women my age make: mom jeans. They might be comfortable, but there are other casual attire choices that are just as comfortable and that look so much more flattering! Don’t wear mom jeans!
8. Be Polished
Going back to college in my late 30s taught me more about fashion than just about anything else. For example, there’s very little as unattractive as a woman of any age who can’t be bothered to brush her hair, let alone pay any attention to what she’s wearing in public. The comfort argument only goes so far, by the way… spend the extra six minutes to make yourself presentable and polished. You’ll never regret it, but you may regret being sloppy. Trust me.
How do I know so much about fashion for women over 40? Because I’m over 40, and I have the best training and examples available, from my own super-stylish mother and still-rocking grandmother (she’s 89 this year!). Follow these simple rules and you’ll look and feel fantastic and stylish and never feel a moment of fashion embarrassment. Do you have any over-40 fashion horror stories to share, or tips that will help us all dress well? Do tell!
Comments
andrea: Wow I totally disagree with the stores in #1 I am pushing 40, shop in all of the stores mentioned and get a lot of compliments! The rest of the article should apply to women of ALL AGES not just women in their 40's!
Janet: Tops and tunics over leggings are ok but must cover your bum!
Klara: I would say you can shop anywhere - even Abercrombie (never thought I’d say that!). I just returned two pairs of jeans (curve love) at Abercrombie but did order two more. There is no branding on them which I like and they make curvy jeans - as someone who is 5’4 and 34-24-36 - I appreciate the options they offer. Not sure if the other two pair I ordered will work - they might not - but they don’t look too young. And if I don’t like them fine but I do think there are some classy options. I think as long as you keep it clean - simple and classy it doesn’t matter where you buy your clothes. It’s so hard to find stores for over 40 that don’t look too frumpy and I have issues with finding clothes that fit me. So I am opening up my options…with caution lol. Rather than saying where not to go - maybe offer some places that are suitable. Everlane I think is good too. Madewell - again with caution as it tends to be the 25-35. White House black market. I never have good luck at macys it honestly confuses me where to go there. It seems like it’s juniors or 60 somethings? Banana republic - good but as I’ve gotten older I don’t love everything like I used to. I think the type of clothes you get is more important than the brand. I’d say no big logos. Or any logos. Nothing too tight. Layers. I’ll wear a tank with jeans (not distressed) but I’ll tuck it in and wear a boyfriend button up - unbuttoned….and maybe a low heel or toms if it’s a casual spring or summer. But really - I’m learning as I get older - wear what you want and don’t be so judgy. For myself I try to keep it toned down and classy - comfortable - and covered up. But I do struggle still. Some clothes seem too…stuffy…but I don’t want to look like I’m trying to dress like I’m 25 or even 30.
Stacy: I\'m with Andrea. Shop where you want!! If you have all the others in this list down and you understand yourself and fashion you can shop at babies are us and still look fabulous! (If you find something that fits LOL) I\'m 46 and I shop at Hot Topic, Claire\'s, Forever 21, Wet Seal, etc.... And I always look great. :-)
Deloris: What about the over and under the knee rule for skirts ?
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