7 Items Women Over 40 Should Never Wear & What to Wear Instead

Let’s be honest ladies – loud, cheap prints with tons of color or pattern can completely overwhelm you. They’re distracting, busy, and never look sophisticated. I always say: let YOU be the statement, not your shirt! Instead, I love solids and subtle prints like animal print, stripes, or a small polka dot. A perfect example is this classic wardrobe staple from Citizens of Humanity – a high-quality button-down that’s flattering, timeless, and worth the investment. I styled it with my latest denim find from Madewell, an elevated suede belt, and chic clear heels for a polished, put-together vibe. I’m wearing an XS in the shirt and a 24 in the jeans.

Long, untucked tops may seem comfortable, but they can totally hide your shape and make an outfit look sloppy. A half-tuck instantly elevates any look and creates shape where you need it. If you love longer tops, try tucking them in or go for a bodysuit instead. I’m obsessed with this sleeveless brown bodysuit from Revolve — it’s sleek, flattering, and perfect on its own or layered under jackets. I paired it with some low sling baggy jeans and a cropped bomber jacket, one of fall’s hottest trends.

Stylish women over 40 don’t sacrifice comfort, but we definitely skip clunky orthopedic shoes that age us. The goal is to find pieces that are both wearable and chic. I reach for minimal heels like these chocolate brown suede pumps — the pointy toe and 3-inch heel make them flattering yet easy to walk in. For casual days, I love clean, simple sneakers or sleek loafers that elongate the leg and keep the outfit looking modern.

Fit is everything! Oversized pieces can look sloppy, and clothes that are too tight never feel elegant. The trick is finding structured pieces that skim your body without clinging. This form-fitting mock-neck dress is a great example – it’s polished, flattering, and not too tight. I draped a chocolate brown faux fur jacket over it for a touch of glam. If you prefer a more relaxed fit, just size up one for that effortless look. I wear an XS and I find it fits true to size.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that investing in high-quality basics makes a huge difference. Cheap tees and thin fabrics fade fast and never look elevated. Instead, I love Quince for luxe basics at affordable prices. This black long-sleeve bodysuit is incredibly soft and feels just like SKIMS — but for a fraction of the cost. I styled it with a cropped army jacket and this incredible lace-trimmed skirt that is under $30! I wear an XS in both the jacket and the skirt and they both fit true to size.

Stylish women never wear clothes that are pilled, faded, or stretched out — those pieces only drag your look down. Instead, I refresh my wardrobe with classic, flattering staples that feel current. One of my favorites right now is this gray sweater skirt by Staud — it’s soft, slimming, and perfect if you want comfort without sacrificing style. I paired it with a black Quince bodysuit and topped it with a real leather bomber jacket that instantly makes any outfit look expensive.

Okay, this one might stir up a little debate, but I’m standing firm — low-rise jeans are not flattering, especially over 40. They shorten your legs, draw attention to the midsection, and honestly just feel outdated. High-rise or mid-rise denim is so much more flattering and elongates your silhouette. My current favorite is this pair of dark-wash high-rise jeans from Quince — only $50 and they look identical to my $200 Frame pair. I styled them with a strapless brown top and a camel bomber jacket for a chic, modern look.