Fashion is Subjective, and Age is Just a Number!
There’s no such thing as being “too old” for a trend if you feel confident and comfortable wearing it. Gone are the days when reaching a certain age meant dressing a certain way. Women over forty know themselves better than ever. We’ve been through a lot, and quite frankly, we’ll stick two fingers up to anyone telling us what we should or shouldn’t wear!
Style is ageless. Some of the most stylish women I know are over 40. We’ve spent a lifetime learning what suits us and curating the perfect wardrobe. I’m not here to tell you what you should or shouldn’t wear – we are all different, and rightly so.
The Case for Animal Print
I’m never going to be one of those who wear head-to-toe fake fur leopard print, but I do like it in subtle ways – a scarf, shoes, or a bag. I even covet a leopard print faux fur coat, but I might need a little more ‘who gives a damn’ attitude to wear it! That said, I have a friend who rocks animal print. As an Autumn colourway, she wears rich browns and tans beautifully. She knows what flatters her, which is half the battle.
The Athleisure Debate
I’m also probably never going to wear athleisure bra tops and ‘up the crack of your arse’ leggings. Call me old-fashioned, but I think gym wear belongs in the gym – not on the school run or out shopping.
That said, I love well-fitting, luxurious loungewear in flattering colours. And yes, you can have loungewear that looks good! I’ve had lovely compliments on mine, likely because I felt happy and comfortable wearing it. No worrying about back fat or thigh exposure – just clothes that skim, flatter, and make me feel good. But if you love showing off your hard-earned body, that’s bloody fantastic too!
The Great Jean Debate
Jeans can be the nemesis of every woman over forty. Getting it right is tricky. I love skinny jeans, and while Gen Z says they’re out, I say over my dead body! That said, I’m open to other styles – just not wide-leg jeans. I find them too stiff, and at my height, they swamp me. The same goes for cropped jeans; they make me look shorter and wider than I already am.
Bootleg jeans came and went quickly, but they work well for balancing my body shape. Still, I prefer a straight leg – they ‘give’ in the right places. Comfort is key, but I also like a high waist. If I were super skinny with a flat tummy, I might rock a mid or low-rise, but let’s be honest – most of us over 40 (thanks, menopause!) prefer comfort over style on that front.
I’ve tried almost every jean trend: mom, boyfriend, girlfriend, ultra-baggy, flare, carrot-fit. Speaking of carrot-fit – I tried a pair the other day and almost wet myself laughing. Not an uncommon thing post-children and menopause, but still, they made me look like I had rickets! Not a good look – sorry, not sorry!
Blazers: Chic or Swampy?
Boxy blazers are another tricky trend. Blazers aren’t just for the boys or office wear – they look great over a jumper with jeans and boots. Oversized is fine, but boxy? Not so much. My advice: stick to single-breasted styles. Double-breasted blazers swamp most people, regardless of size.
I have an artist friend who absolutely rocks an oversized blazer. She has the flair to pull it off – not everyone does. And that’s okay!
Tips for Navigating Trends
Ultimately, there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to fashion and age. But here are some tips to keep in mind:
✔ Focus on fit – The way your clothes fit is more important than the trend itself. Find pieces that flatter your shape and make you feel good.
✔ Consider your lifestyle – Choose trends that fit your daily activities. If you’re always on the go, practicality and comfort should be key.
✔ Add your personal touch – Don’t be afraid to experiment! Mix trends with your unique style to make them your own.
✔ Confidence is key – The most stylish people exude confidence. If you feel good in what you’re wearing, it shows!
Wear What You Love!
The best fashion advice? Wear what you love and what makes you feel good about yourself. Trends will come and go, but confidence and authenticity never go out of style!
Now, where did I put that leopard print scarf…? 😉
Take care, stay safe.
Becks Xo
My life and style over 40 