8 Outfits Women Over 40 Will and Won't Wear (2024)

We consistently turn towomen over 40 for much of our sartorial direction. After all, we consider this set to be certified experts given their time developing polished personal wardrobes after style trial and error over the years.

We've already highlighted the jeans women over 40 love, so we thought we'd focus next on the specific ensembles some of the coolest women over 40 gravitate toward in their day-to-day. After all, who better to nab a little outfit inspiration from than those with that primo fashion knowledge?

And to dig even deeper into the matter, we thought you'd also be interested in the looks these women don't really wear anymore to add to that outfit-inspo journey. Of course,age really has nothing to do with what you should and shouldn't wear, but hey, there might be something worth taking note of with the style advice comingyour way.

With all that said, keep scrolling to check out the outfits fivewomen over 40 will and won't wear. Plus, shop staples throughout that will work for anyone at any age. And also note that thequotescoming your way are based on personal preference from the women featured—you should always wear whatever you personally love and what makes you feel comfortable and confident.

8 Outfits Women Over 40 Will and Won't Wear (1)

(Image credit: @venswifestyle)

"I stay away from tight suits and tight white shirts when putting together an outfit for work. Instead, one of my favorite outfits for work is a midi dress and knee-high boots, or an oversize blazer with a white shirt, tapered trousers, and unique heels."— Renata Jazdzyk

8 Outfits Women Over 40 Will and Won't Wear (2)

Mango

Flowy Suit Blazer

8 Outfits Women Over 40 Will and Won't Wear (3)

Bottega Veneta

Stretch Sandal

8 Outfits Women Over 40 Will and Won't Wear (4)

(Image credit: @trayslounge)

"I have never worn a fitted knee-length dress to work. Ever. Instead, this is about as scrubbed up as I get with a smart shirt with a good collar. I am lucky. I work in fashion. I can pretty much wear anything to the office. In fact, I could probably go to work in an incy-wincy teeny-weeny yellow polka-dot bikini with a fluorescent green welly on my head and nobody would bat an eyelid. ‘There goesTray,’ they would say. ‘She works in the fashion department…’ ‘Oh that explains it then…’”— Tracey Lea Sayer

8 Outfits Women Over 40 Will and Won't Wear (5)

Mango

Oversize Cotton Shirt

8 Outfits Women Over 40 Will and Won't Wear (6)

Alex Mill

Cotton Twill Boy Pants

8 Outfits Women Over 40 Will and Won't Wear (7)

Vince

Rava Sandal

8 Outfits Women Over 40 Will and Won't Wear (8)

Poolside Bags

The Essaouira Tote

8 Outfits Women Over 40 Will and Won't Wear (9)

"On weekends, my go-to outfit used to be jeans, a sweatshirt, and sneakers. It took a minute to break this habit. I realized that I could be cute and casual. Now I put more effort into my weekend looks." — Georgette Niles

8 Outfits Women Over 40 Will and Won't Wear (10)

Reformation

Enya Floral Print Tie Shoulder Sundress

8 Outfits Women Over 40 Will and Won't Wear (11)

Jones New York

Icon Cardigan

8 Outfits Women Over 40 Will and Won't Wear (12)

The Reformation

Eleonora Sling Back Block Heel Sandal

8 Outfits Women Over 40 Will and Won't Wear (13)

(Image credit: @venswifestyle)

"When we often think about casual weekend outfits, we think tracksuits. I love to incorporate some sport elements into my outfits. However, I stay away from full sporty looks—especially tight tracksuits. My go-to formula for a casual outfit includes oversize jeans, a white T-shirt, and an oversize cardigan or blazer. Comfy and easy. To make my casual outfit a bit more unique, I love adding statement jewelry like a big necklace." — Jazdzyk

8 Outfits Women Over 40 Will and Won't Wear (14)

Hanes

Nano T-Shirt

8 Outfits Women Over 40 Will and Won't Wear (15)

Mango

Raw Hem Wide Leg Jeans

8 Outfits Women Over 40 Will and Won't Wear (16)

Brinker & Eliza

Against All Odds Necklace

8 Outfits Women Over 40 Will and Won't Wear (17)

Loeffler Randall

Mid Heel Clogs

8 Outfits Women Over 40 Will and Won't Wear (18)

"One area of my wardrobe that has definitelyimproved is my casual game. In my 20s, I didn't give much thought to my look on a casual day. It was jeans and whatever T-shirt I threw on. Now I love casual separates so much—especially soft sweatshirts, sweatpants, and sweaters. A pair of distressed jeans and my favorite T-shirt and cardigan are a current go-to of mine." — Jeniese Hosey

8 Outfits Women Over 40 Will and Won't Wear (19)

English Factory

Tie Detail Shirring Top With Short Sleeves

8 Outfits Women Over 40 Will and Won't Wear (20)

HALOGEN®

Long Cardigan

8 Outfits Women Over 40 Will and Won't Wear (21)

Edwin

Tash Jeans

8 Outfits Women Over 40 Will and Won't Wear (22)

Sam Edelman

Naomi Sandal

8 Outfits Women Over 40 Will and Won't Wear (23)

(Image credit: @livelovesarablog)

"For a night out to dinner, I find that I don't like to wear hemlines that hit above the knee anymore. I now gravitate to a longer silhouette because they make me feel more put-together and sexier with minimal effort.As for outfit formulas, lately, my go-to is arelaxed button-down. I pair it with (or without) a jacket, then add jeans andpumpsfor a polished yet casual look. And for a night out, I like to wear it with something a little edgier like a mid-length leather skirt or trousers with heels."— Sara Watson

8 Outfits Women Over 40 Will and Won't Wear (24)

Mango

Pinstripe Suit Blazer - Women | Mango Usa

8 Outfits Women Over 40 Will and Won't Wear (25)

Madewell

Whisper Cotton Crewneck T-Shirt

8 Outfits Women Over 40 Will and Won't Wear (26)

Atp Atelier

Cremona Chili Slides

8 Outfits Women Over 40 Will and Won't Wear (27)

Coach

Hayden Quilted Crossbody Bag

8 Outfits Women Over 40 Will and Won't Wear (28)

(Image credit: @venswifestyle)

"The element I often avoid are miniskirts. I don't like to show my legs a ton. Hence I tend to go for a leather midi skirt mixed with silky tops. Overall, I tend to go for pieces that are fun, unique, and stand out in a crowd—like a unique blazer, puff-sleeve tops, or one-shoulder tops combined with oversize jeans and colorful heels." — Jazdzyk

8 Outfits Women Over 40 Will and Won't Wear (29)

Reformation

Rosen Ruffle Silk Blouse

8 Outfits Women Over 40 Will and Won't Wear (30)

Bdg Urban Outfitters

Modern Boyfriend Jeans

8 Outfits Women Over 40 Will and Won't Wear (31)

Cult Gaia

Gigi Sandals

8 Outfits Women Over 40 Will and Won't Wear (32)

(Image credit: @jenesaiquoithe)

"There is very little that I restrict myself to not wearing, but my rule of thumb has always been that if I have to fidget with it, then I'm not going to wear it. So I stay away from super-short items when it's time go out. I want to be comfortable without thinking about how I look all the time. When I go out, I gravitate toward mid-length dresses, jeans, and a fabulous party top.” — Hosey

8 Outfits Women Over 40 Will and Won't Wear (33)

Eloquii

Long Sleeve Cutout Midi Shirtdess

8 Outfits Women Over 40 Will and Won't Wear (34)

Open Edit

Quincy Sandal

8 Outfits Women Over 40 Will and Won't Wear (35)

What Goes Around Comes Around

Louis Vuitton Monogram Ab Pochette

Editor's Note:Thispostwas originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.

Up next, I think people in their 20s, 40s, and 50s would love these Nordstrom picks.

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Style TipsWeekend OutfitsOutfit Inspiration

8 Outfits Women Over 40 Will and Won't Wear (2024)

FAQs

How to look classy over 40? ›

Invest in high-quality basics like well-fitting jeans, crisp white t-shirts, and classic blazers. Experiment with bold prints, bright colors, and trendy accessories to add interest to your outfits. Try mixing and matching different textures and fabrics to create unique and personalized looks.

How should women dress in 40s? ›

Our top 5 investment-worthy styles for women over 40
  • A chic jacket. Whether it's a black leather jacket, a neutral trench or a blazer with a bold print, get the most from your final layer by opting for a statement-making style. ...
  • A white sneaker. ...
  • A crossbody bag. ...
  • A slip dress. ...
  • The perfect jeans.

What to wear on a night out in your 40s? ›

Choose puff sleeves to balance wide hips, plunging v-necks to lengthen the torso, and three-quarter length sleeves or belted tops to emphasise the waist. Choosing a nice top at this time of year is so much fun as there's no shortage of glitz and luxe fabrics – sequins, velvet, taffeta, organza, sheer, metallics.

What makes you look frumpy? ›

If you've found yourself wondering, “What makes a woman look frumpy?” It's wearing oversized, baggy, sloppy clothes. Say goodbye to the days of drowning in fabric and open yourself up to owning your shape. Let go of any and all pieces that don't fit you.

Can you look attractive in your 40s? ›

Turning 40 is a stepping stone towards middle age, but it doesn't mean you can't still look and feel good. It's easier now more than ever to age gracefully. With the right look, the right habits, and the right attitude, you'll have everyone wondering if you're not 10 years younger.

How to look good at 45 female? ›

And if you really want to turn back the clock, steal these 100 Anti-Aging Secrets for Looking and Feeling Younger Than Ever.
  1. Stay Moisturized. ...
  2. Limit Your Sodium Intake. ...
  3. Revamp Your Wardrobe. ...
  4. Laugh Often. ...
  5. Get a New Hair Cut. ...
  6. Try Out Hair Extensions. ...
  7. Wear Fitted Clothing. ...
  8. Wear Nail Polish.
Oct 12, 2017

How to wear jeans in 40s? ›

“For example, if you're after some baggy boyfriend jeans and chunky trainers are part of your daily outfit, you'll want to consider opting for a longer inseam length.” If you're trying on at home, experiment by wearing your jeans with other items in your wardrobe too.

What to wear out for drinks for a 40 year old woman? ›

Think: mini and midi dresses (and even jumpsuits!) that are chic and polished, suiting that's a bit more tailored, and footwear that feels elevated (literally, if you're wearing heels). It's the perfect combination of elegant and comfortable.

What's a going out top? ›

But at its core, a "going out top" is simply a blouse or shirt that you wear in the evening for dinners, parties and other social events, explains fashion stylist Naina Singla. "It will often be a statement-making piece integrated with embellishments like sequins, beading, or embroidery," she says.

Do going out tops exist for adults? ›

Yes, Sophisticated Going-Out Tops Exist—and They Look Nothing Like What You Wore in the 2000s.

How can a 50 year old woman look younger? ›

Here are a few easy tips you can apply that will help you maintain a younger looking body, and restore your confidence:
  1. Exercising for 20 minutes per day.
  2. Regularly moving more.
  3. Standing instead of sitting at your desk.
  4. Going out for a walk.
  5. Making sure you get at least 10,000 steps per day.

How many dresses should a woman own? ›

Research on How Many Clothes We Need

Ask a researcher how many clothes do I really need, and you'll get some interesting answers. According to a report referenced by Vogue in 2022 that leans on sustainability goals, “The researchers found that a “sufficient” wardrobe consists of 74 garments and 20 outfits in total.

How can I look classy but not old? ›

14 Ways to Always Dress Classy
  1. Use neutral colors as your foundation. ...
  2. Choose solid colors. ...
  3. Wear classic patterns. ...
  4. Try out a monochrome look. ...
  5. Don't wear more than three colors. ...
  6. Mix and match textures. ...
  7. Wear a high neck and high waist. ...
  8. Follow the rule of thirds.
Apr 17, 2022

How can I look mature and classy? ›

Buy more sophisticated clothes.
  1. Blouses and dress shirts often look more adult than T-shirts or other types of tops. ...
  2. Avoid novelty clothes. ...
  3. Avoid embellishments. ...
  4. Pick subdued colors, rather than flashy colors.

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