7 Fall Fashion Mistakes Women Over 40 Make & How to Fix Them

One mistake I see often is wearing oversized pieces from head to toe once the weather turns colder. This can look sloppy and frumpy. Instead, pick one oversized item and keep the rest of your look fitted. For example, I styled this camel cardigan with a sleek bodysuit and dark straight-leg denim to create balance while staying cozy. I wear a size XS in the cardigan and bodysuit and a size 24 in these under-$50 jeans, and I find everything fits true to size.

Round-toe ankle boots are outdated and can make your outfit feel off-trend. A better option is a pointy-toe bootie, especially sleek sock booties, since they’re trending again this season. They pair beautifully with straight-leg, barrel, and wide-leg denim for a chic and modern look. I wear a size 7.5 in these sock booties and find they fit true to size.

Shapeless sweater dresses add unnecessary bulk and hide your figure, making your outfit appear dated. Instead, choose a knit dress that gently hugs your curves without being skin-tight — this cashmere midi is timeless, flattering, and luxe, especially when paired with a pointy-toe heel to elongate your frame. I wear an XS in the sweater dress and find it fits true to size.

Skinny jeans styled with ankle booties that leave skin showing between the hem and shaft is a dated look that makes your outfit feel out of style. Instead, wear straight-leg or wide-leg jeans with loafers, pumps, or tall boots, and add a bomber jacket to keep your look fresh and on-trend. I wear a size 24 these versatile straight leg jeans and an XS in the jacket, and both fit true to size.

Tiny, outdated handbags can make your whole outfit feel less polished. The trend now is larger, structured bags and the east-west silhouette, both of which look modern while still being functional. I love this gorgeous brown suede bag for fall from Quince. It’s the perfect size and comes in this stunning whiskey brown shade.