They say that 40 is the new 30, and in some ways it might even be better. It's a time when we're generally much more true to ourselves and stop trying to look like other people. But beyond the clichés about how to dress at a certain age, here are some style tips for women over 40 who want to feel comfortable, authentic, confident and, of course, gorgeous!
Achieving an impeccable style in your 40s and feeling as confident as you did in your 30s or 20s is easier than it sounds. The essential thing is to know your body shape to enhance both your figure and your features. Fashion for women over 40 is not just about following trends, it's about embracing your authenticity, feeling comfortable and confident, and ultimately reflecting who you really are.
Style tips and looks for women in their 40s
At Lookiero we know that every woman is unique and different, and we understand that each stage of life has its own charm, learnings and opportunities to reinvent itself. And, at 40 in particular, it is the ideal time to adapt the rules of style in our favour and project all our confidence and personality. Here are some dos and don'ts for putting together a modern and stylish wardrobe:
DO
Quality jeans adapted to your body shape: Their versatility makes them essential for a timeless wardrobe for all kinds of occasions. The options are endless but the best way to get them right is to know your body type.
Structured blazers: a wardrobe staple for a sophisticated look that is perfect for any occasion. Whether for everyday wear or for special occasions, it's a must-have in your wardrobe. Wear it in neutral and/or dark colours for a sophisticated look or get one in vibrant tones or even printed for a more fun and energetic outfit.
Shirts and blouses: plain, printed, this versatile garment can give you an elegant and casual look at the same time. According to colourimetry, fair skins, or phototypes I, II or III, favour light and soft tones, such as blue, pink or mint green, adding a subtle touch of colour. Golden skin phototypes IV, V or VI will look best with bright tones such as orange, fuchsia and yellow which will provide a striking contrast, making the look stand out. Both skin tones will look best in colours such as emerald green, burgundy or petrol blue.
Wide trousers: culottes, for example, are always a good choice. Play with pleats and flared legs if you have a rectangle, inverted triangle or hourglass body type. On the other hand, opt for trousers without pleats and straighter if you have a triangle or oval body type.
Monochromatic looks: learn to get familiar with total looks and you won't need anything else. Choose a neutral colour and play with its tones and the textures of the garments. A pleated skirt with a matching blazer or bomber jacket and voilà, you have a versatile and timeless colour blocking look that will be the perfect everyday wildcard. Combine shoes and accessories in contrast with your chosen shade to give your outfit a boost.
DON'T
Jeans that don't suit you: and, in general, any garment that doesn't flatter you even if it is trendy. Good jeans that are chosen to suit your personality and body type and fit your figure look good on any woman of any age.
Don't mix too many colours: This is a general rule that doesn't only apply to the 40s, but just in case, we'd like to point it out. To look sophisticated and elegant, the ideal is to combine a maximum of three different colours. If you wear more, you could end up looking like a harlequin.
Impulse buying: and without taking into account your body type or even your colourimetry. Knowing our body allows us to choose clothes that enhance our strengths and flatter our figure. Trends are fun and we, more than anyone else, love to keep up with them, but in order to incorporate them into our looks we need to create a smart wardrobe that makes us feel comfortable and stylish in our skin.
Beware of going too matchy-matchy: As we said, a monochromatic look is an ideal outfit for any occasion but it's important to know how to choose your clothes and layers. For example, the typical two-piece suit can get old quickly if you don't help it stand out with other clothes or accessories.
5 must-haves for your wardrobe at 40
We know that every woman has her own style and tastes, but here are 5 must-have garments that you must have in your capsule wardrobe. The versatility will depend on the particularity of the piece itself or on how we wear it.
White shirt: To triumph in any occasion and elevate any look; it is an essential basic that adapts to any style. But you have to choose the fit: opt for an oversized model to balance the figure or a fitted cut to highlight your curves.
Jeans: As we already know, jeans are your best ally as long as you find the perfect model for your body type. Flared or bootcut jeans are ideal for a triangle silhouette, as they balance the figure. Skinny jeans are perfect if you want to highlight your legs, but combine them with an oversized top to keep the balance. Straight and wide leg styles are ideal for hourglass figures. There is no doubt that any figure can be enhanced by the perfect pair of trousers.
Striped jumper: If you want to look elegant, in any occasion, without renouncing to comfort, this jumper is a key garment. It can be combined with jeans, classic trousers, trainers, ankle boots or even heels. Wear it with a blouse underneath (leaving only the collar visible) or as the main piece under your favourite trench coat - a basic that goes with almost any outfit!
Long skirts and dresses: Trendy these last seasons and an ideal garment to have in your wardrobe. It suits all body types (as long as you choose a good cut) and can be worn casually, for example for a sophisticated casual look: a long dress with trainers, a blouse and a blazer. It is also perfect for evening wear: combine a midi or long skirt with a lingerie top and a leather jacket for a modern touch and complete the look with ankle boots or heels.
Blazer: We have already mentioned it but this classic garment cannot be missing in your wardrobe. Super versatile, it can be worn both day and night. Play with its cuts, textures, colours and prints because, no matter what, it will give you an instantly chic and sophisticated look.
Casual style for women over 40: balance between comfort and style
The combination trench coat and jeans is a must: elegant, modern and practical. We recommend you to combine it with a a jumper and completing the look with the shoes that best suit your style. For a day-to-day or office look you can opt for loafers or ballerinas, this season's trend, but trainers are also perfect. What about ankle boots? Add them to your evening look combined with a white shirt. Simple, casual and infallible!
Evening look for women over 40: Effortless elegance
A total black look is always a good choice as it slims the figure and always looks elegant. But it's easy to look boring if you don't play with fabrics and accessories: combine a leather-effect skirt with a simple turtleneck jumper. This look slims the silhouette and at the same time is modern and sophisticated. Choose your accessories and shoes to change your look from day to night and go for the animal print tones, trendy this season, which will give an extra touch to your outfit.
Office look for women over 40: The best outfits for work
For an office look for women over 40 we recommend a chic and minimalist style, not to be confused with a boring or old-fashioned style. For an autumn-winter look: a pair of wide, houndstooth patterned trousers with a coloured jumper and loafers in a neutral tone that matches the trousers. This look is the perfect example of what we call "outfit balance": for your wide-leg trousers, choose a more fitted top, and vice versa. This trick is essential to always look impeccable and sophisticated.
For a spring summer look, swap the trousers for a pleated skirt, add a lightweight blazer and if the heat gets too much, replace the jumper with a short-sleeved shirt. For footwear, mules, mid-heeled sandals or even minimalist white trainers can work depending on how formal you want to go.
Fashion for women over 40 is all about finding the styles that reflect your personality; whether it's casual, classic, boho, minimalist... Identifying the clothes and styles that suit you, your body and your tastes is the key to feeling comfortable and confident as well as elegant and stylish.
It is also essential to take colourimetry into account when talking about fashion. Your Personal Shopper can help you select the perfect garments for you, updating your wardrobe with timeless pieces, incorporating modern and trendy touches.
Whether you've already tried it or you're now in the mood for a style makeover, order your Lookiero box and discover the looks that enhance your uniqueness and confidence.
