5 Tops That Age You After 40 (and What to Wear Instead)

Babydoll and empire waist tops have had their moment, but now they just feel dated and a little juvenile. Honestly, they can even read like maternity wear, which is never the vibe I’m going for. Instead, I’m loving this fitted denim vest from BlankNYC. The tailored cut hugs in all the right places, giving it a sleek, modern feel that’s still timeless. I paired it with my high-waisted Good American white jeans—they’re thick enough to smooth over any lumps or bumps and insanely flattering. This combo is elegant, versatile, and just a little bit sexy. I’m wearing an XS in the vest and it fits true to size.

Long tunics that hit at the hip or below are one of the biggest tops that age you after 40. That hemline draws attention to the widest part of your body and throws off your proportions. Instead, I always tuck in my tops—either a full tuck or even just a half tuck. It instantly defines the waist and creates a balanced, modern look. My draped halter top from Mango in chocolate brown looks amazing tucked into high-waisted wide-leg jeans. Left untucked, it’s a completely different (and much less flattering) story. I’m wearing an XS and it fits true to size.

A chunky turtleneck that fits tightly around the neck is another one of those tops that age you after 40. It can highlight aging in the neck area and make your upper body look shorter. I prefer open necklines like halters or classic crewnecks that elongate and draw the eye upward. This tan halter from Reformation is a favorite—it’s slimming, modern, and still feels polished. I love it with my soft barrel jeans for an easy, on-trend look. I’m wearing an XS and it fits tts.

Wrinkled tops are an instant giveaway and one of the easiest tops that age you after 40 to spot. They make even the most stylish outfit look frumpy and less polished. That’s why I gravitate toward wrinkle-resistant fabrics like knits. This sleeveless knit vest from Mango, with luxe gold buttons, reminds me of a Balmain piece but at a fraction of the price. Paired with my black Agolde jeans, it creates a sleek monochrome look that’s both flattering and youthful. I’m wearing an XS and it fits true to size.

Ruffle-sleeve tops are completely outdated and do nothing to flatter your shape. They add bulk in all the wrong places and can instantly age your look. Instead, I reach for a classic, minimal piece like my black button-down from Citizens of Humanity. I love wearing it open over a sleek cropped tank for a modern twist. Paired with high-waisted denim shorts, it’s an easy, elevated outfit you can wear on repeat. I’m wearing an XS and it fits true to size.