Spoiler alert: a 40-year-old woman can dress however she likes. Despite what people might tell you, your age does not mean that you should wear this or not wear that.
However, there is a very good reason why you have found yourself here.
Once you hit age milestones – for example the 30s, the 40s, and so on – there are a few common questions that run through the mind.
Some of these include whether you think that you’re dressing younger than you should be and whether a person at your age can get away with wearing something like that.
Before we go on, it is time to eliminate such things from your mind!
Instead of fretting over whether a person your age should be wearing this or that, think about the styles you enjoy wearing and your body type.
Having a fuller figure might appear challenging, but actually, it does not have to be. There are so many ways to look and feel oh-so-fabulous, even at the wonderful age of 40.
So, let’s take a look at some of the ways you can feel beautiful in your clothing choices, as well as remove the question: “How should a 40-year-old woman dress?” from your mind.
Should You Dress For Your Age?
Dressing for your age is a funny thing. When it comes down to fashion and personal style, it is all about experimentation and finding the clothing we enjoy wearing.
Obviously, it is doubtful that you are still wearing the same clothing as you did when you were a teenager.
This is because those years are all about experimenting with different styles, whether it was going through a punk phase or wanting to wear cropped T-shirts only.
When it comes to wanting to know how to choose clothing at a certain age, then you will want to take advice lightly.
Not everything that is said applies to absolutely everyone. This is because we all look different, and do not have the same taste in fashion or clothing.
This is absolutely okay. As we become older, it is more about embracing the clothing that looks great on you, as well as feeling confident in the clothing that you love to wear.
There is no such thing as being unable to wear something because of your age.
The following advice is just a guide for those who want to feel comfortable and stylish in clothing during their 40s.
How To Embrace Fashion In Your 40s?
Here are some helpful tips for feeling fabulous and confident in your clothing choices during your 40s:
1. Stay Away From Fad Trends
This could apply to anyone, but it is usually best to stay away from trends that make the rounds on platforms such as TikTok or Instagram.
A lot of these fad fashion trends (which are sometimes picked up by large fashion houses) are usually tacky and disappear by the end of the season.
The influencers who create them tend to be in their teens or early 20s, and during these ages, they are experimenting with daring styles.
However, if you are the kind to enjoy quirky fashion choices, then be picky.
Choose the trends that suit your own style, as well as your body type. There is no reason that you cannot rock it confidently if you wish to do so.
2. Choose Flattering Clothing
Generally, clothing shouldn’t be about not being able to wear something because you have hit the age of 40 or any other milestone age.
Instead, it should be about wearing the clothing that you enjoy putting on, but also what flatters you.
This means thinking about your body shape. Take a look in the mirror and figure out if you are:
- Pear shape
- Hourglass shape
- Apple shape
- Rectangle shape
- Inverted triangle shape
Figuring out the shape of your body isn’t about not being able to wear certain clothing. It is understanding the ways you can wear clothes to flatter your body, as well as accentuate the areas you like best.
You might find that a skirt that reaches just above the knees flatters your figure better than a short or really long skirt. You may want to wear a belt at the waist to give you extra curves.
Forgo what is in fashion, and wear what makes you feel confident and comfortable.
3. Mix And Match Tight Clothing
If tight clothing like leggings and skinny jeans are something you avoid, then you may want to rethink the way you can wear them.
While there are the exceptions, such as when a person is working out, wearing something tight is complimented well with something looser.
For example, a flowy top can pair nicely with leggings. As does a tunic and tight jeans.
Just because you might be getting older does not mean that you have to start throwing away the tight clothing. Keep that fitted skirt, but think about wearing a loose blouse or sweater with it.
4. Remember Statement Pieces
Gosh, whoever said that you should wear muted tones the older you get was obviously living in a different century.
One thing you should not forget about is adding your personality to your clothing.
This could be through a patterned dress, cute shoes, or even a statement top.
It does not matter what the item or items are, just because you have reached the age of 40 does not mean that you cannot embrace fashion.
Having essentials such as neutral-toned tops and so forth makes sense, but you may also want to add in some key statement pieces too.
5. Have Fun With Accessories
Accessories have a way of elevating your look. Add bracelets and necklaces, but also think about belts and scarves.
Not only will they change a more laid-back casual look, but they can also bring extra shape by creating curves.
If you love wearing lots of jewelry, then go for it. If not, then only add key pieces to your outfit.
6. Find The Perfect Jeans
Jeans are a wonderful closet staple. Not only can they be worn with a plethora of different outfits, but they are the kind of thing that you can throw on with no thought at all.
Choose a style that flatters your figure, rather than choosing one of the latest styles. A classic fit will ensure that they are never out of fashion.
However, add complimentary fashion styles that are currently on trend, such as those which have rips or are a certain color other than blue or black.
It is nice to have a choice, even if these styles of jeans will not be your first choice.
Final Thoughts
Just because you have hit 40 does not mean that you have to dress a certain way. Instead, wear the clothing that you enjoy putting on every day.
Just like with every decade, choose items that flatter your body shape and make you feel confident. But also remember to have fun.
Adding personality to your look is a great way to feel fabulous. You can do this by wearing your favorite colors and patterns.
The above article is just a generalized guide on how to feel fantastic in what you wear.
My whole life, I have always been a little bigger than my friends. I was always a bit taller, wider and just bigger built. From my late teens, I would say that I was curvy. I really struggled to find clothes that fitted me, as my hips went out, but my chest didn’t really.
I created WarningCurvesAhead.com because I wanted other women to feel the sense of empowerment I have felt since changing up my wardrobe and finding out what clothes suit my body shape, skin tone and style.
I hope that you too can join me on this journey, and start making some amazing fashion choices that celebrate your beautiful body- instead of hiding it!
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