Comfort and style should go hand in hand when considering outfits for women over 40. But I believe we can marry the two together.
Of course, you are free to wear whatever you wish. However, some worry about looking too young or trying too hard to stay young. To avoid appearing older, here are some guidelines on how to dress after 40.
Disclaimer: I always suggest wearing what makes you feel comfortable and confident. Remember that these are only GENERAL recommendations based on our tastes; they might not work for everyone. So skip any that don’t resonate with you.
Reinventing outfits for women over 40
Discover timeless essentials and flattering summer outfits with our top style tips for dressing casually and stylishly after you reach the glorious 40!
We covered some casual summer outfit recommendations for the young ladies too. Check out here:
Colors that flatter
Don’t shy away from color. For example, choose vibrant, bright colors to make you look younger and improve your complexion. For summer 2024, consider incorporating shades like blue, orange, beige, and white into your summer wardrobe. These hues not only give off a fresh vibe, but they also go very well with different skin tones. Other universally flattering shades include cobalt blue, red, pink, and jewel tones.
If you have a curvy bottom, monochromatic outfits can be particularly flattering. For instance, pairing a white top with white jeans ensures no part of your body is disproportionately highlighted. Although you can play around with colorful or patterned tops, a plain white top usually looks ideal for a well-balanced ensemble.
Dresses to flourish
Midi Dress
A beautiful midi dress with long sleeves is ideal for women over 40. Besides, the dobby v-neck with white dots on black is versatile and comfortable. For the summer fashion trend, consider Sophiia’s split-neck short-sleeve midi with cap sleeves—a great neutral option if you need arm coverage.
Maxi dress
A maxi dress elevates your look effortlessly while providing comfort and style. Moreover, it’s flattering on all body types and comes in countless styles—floral, bohemian, or solid—you name it.
Whether for a beach party or a summer evening stroll, it’s your versatile go-to. Opt for a solid color with some statement jewelry.
Shirt dress
Chic shirt dresses offer polished yet relaxed looks. Either wear them with sneakers or accessorize them with bold jewelry for a more laid-back look. Moreover, their versatility in materials—from silk to cotton—allows easy dressing up.
Style with tops
Tees
Northside Vintage Tee is my top pick for casual summer outfits due to its softness and quality. The floral Eyelet top in camel or white is perfect for an easy option. Also, it features pretty eyelet cut-outs and a flattering sleeve length—unique yet neutral.
Shirts
For a summer-friendly alternative to a sleeve chambray shirt, try denim camp shirts with a whole crest wash. If you want short sleeves, a white linen button-down offers arm coverage and comfort, ideal for layering over tank tops or dresses. Then again, fitted T-shirts look stylish and polished.
Tank tops
We all want a sleeveless top underneath a jacket because summer is super heated nowadays, right?
Then, a whisper cotton scoop-neck tank is perfect for layering under a jacket. Because of its light, non-strappy nature, it can be worn with a regular bra.
Also, the V-neck sweater tank is a chic and entertaining layering alternative if you go with something else.
Jackets
Simply adding jackets over tops can transform your overall idea about outfits for women.
Bomber Jacket
The blush pink bomber jacket is lightweight and pairs well with sneakers and skinny jeans. I often pick this casual look for family birthday parties.
Mango jacket
This versatile jacket with shoulder pads is in dark olive and can be easily paired with sneakers and ankle jeans.
Denim jacket
I love two-tone reversible denim jackets. A jean jacket is just like a cool girl jacket, and it can look chic and modern. Additionally, you can style it in a million different ways.
Leather jacket/ blazer
You don’t need a genuine leather blazer; try coated jeans or faux leather pieces for a seductive yet understated look. Plus, vegan options are budget-friendly.
Cargo coats
This season, cargo jackets are fashionable and made of a satiny material that adds glitz. Their flattering shape, especially when cinched at the waist, adds a touch of glamour to any outfit.
Don’t forget the bottoms.
Shorts
If you don’t own Tweed Ivory Jeans this summer, you need some. Again, a pair of white denim or tailored clean linen cotton blend shorts in off-white is the quintessential summer shot option.
Denim
Never neglect the impact of a well-fitting pair of jeans! For a smashing look, opt for modern straight-leg jeans with a tapered ankle.
Skyscraper jeans with baby flare elongated legs are my favorite at $50. Light-wash skinny jeans are great for spring and summer, while wide-leg or bootcut jeans enhance leg length.
Skirts
Denim mini skirts are fun, but a flowy, linen, or cotton peasant-style midi skirt is a superb summer staple. It hits mid-calf, and a pale yellow-like flax color is ideal for casual summer outfits. Also, printed cotton or linen midi skirts are great for balancing with solid tops.
Complete with shoes
Which do you like to wear—heels or sneakers? Let’s find out what is trending in fashionable outfits ideas for women over 40:
Sneakers
I am obsessed with Veronica’s beard sneakers. This is because they feature a hidden platform, are incredibly comfy, and come in various colors like taupe and ivory or, more like, white leather. Because of the platform’s height addition, these are ideal for all-day wear. To add, low-top white sneakers are my go-to for dressing up or down.
Kitten heels
These strappy mules are chic, easy-to-style wearables. Also, they often come with high heels, embracing comfy vibes along with optimum affordability. For you gorgeous ladies, I recommend three versatile colors, tan, white, and gold. But my personal choice is tan because I can style it with literally anything from my wardrobe!
Boots
The proper boots—whether stiletto, western, or knee-high—can elevate any outfit. Booties by Dolce Vita are on-trend right now. I wear them a TON with jeans, dresses, and skirts. Adding these boots to any outfit instantly makes it feel and look just a little sexier.
Slide sandal
Amel slide sandals in medium brown are versatile, and I keep pushing everybody to get them. It’s comfortable and has a little bit of arch support. If you want a little bit of height, try Saige double-strap sandals.
Unique in accessories
Stay moderate with accessories. Scarves, jewelry, and belts may all substantially boost your outfit. Also, a statement necklace can elevate a block-colored top or dress.
Bags
Bags are essential; I always choose thoughtfully. Classic purses, leather totes, crossbody bags, and belt bags are my favorites. A computer bag is a must for office attire.
Jewelry
Bold jewelry can attract attention, but for a touch of sexiness in casual outfits, keep it minimal. Choose a single, elegant piece over large costume jewelry to avoid a cheap look.
Hats/ Scarfs
I love wearing hats with my looks. Pairing a baseball hat with a street dress is trendy women’s fashion in 2024. And wearing dressier outfits with baseball hats is becoming popular.
Waistbelt
A waist belt highlights your waist, especially if you wear killer high-rise jeans that come way up over your belly button. If you’re still weary of the waist belt, throw on a third layer.
Essential tips for outfits for elderly women
Do’s
- Invest in high-quality, lasting items.
- Opt for tailored pieces.
- Identify your wardrobe staples and know your style.
- Embrace minimalism.
- Tuck long shirts or t-shirts up, not down.
- Mix and match designer items with non-designer ones.
- Have fun with colors, but don’t ditch black entirely.
- Wear fitted clothing to highlight your shape.
- Mix metallic combinations for a modern touch.
Don’ts
- Avoid oversized clothing.
- Ditch short shorts.
- Skip super high heels.
- Stay away from neon bright colors.
- Don’t neglect your casual wardrobe.
- Don’t choose dress lengths solely based on trends.
- Avoid showing too much skin; balance is essential.
- Limit the number of rings you wear.
Wrap up
Our daily outfit choices have been scientifically proven to make us feel better or worse. As we age, especially when choosing outfits for older women at 40’s , it’s important to balance comfort and style.
Pay attention to your wardrobe every day. Understand your body and personal style to break fashion rules confidently. Proving that comfort and style can live together, celebrate your age with confidence and effortless elegance.
At this point, we’ve learned that we don’t need to suffer for fashion. So, which of these tips will you try first?
