After the age of 40, there is an expectation of a woman growing into a higher taste level. We bring a lifetime of experience and good judgment forward and it is presumed that it will be reflected in how we look, speak and present ourselves. The appearance of a woman dressed age appropriately is reflected by the look of modern styling, durable construction, quality fabric and an exceptional fit.

As we age, we grow into our power. We become better versions of ourselves, gaining wisdom and confidence. This is what makes us more beautiful on the inside and allows us to glow on the outside . . . this can only come with age.

When a woman dresses too young, it appears that she is desperately holding on to her youth and rejecting all the things that make her beautiful for her age. She does not appear to be wise, confident and self-loving, but instead appears to be self-rejecting. However, the opposite can also be true, she can be dressed in ways that we have often heard referred to as too old, frumpy or dowdy.

So, how do you get it right? Not too young, not too old, but just right for your age?

I’ll share the three areas where women make the biggest style mistakes by appearing too young or too old. By avoiding these style pitfalls, you’ll have a better chance of getting it just right for your age!

Revealing Skin: Too much or too little?

When a woman wears clothing that reveals too much skin, whether it be cleavage, stomach or legs, it immediately makes her look as though she is desperately clinging on to her youth. For women over 40 who have the body of a much younger woman, they wonder, “If I’ve got it, why not flaunt it?”

In our younger days, we could be experimental and try all types of daring new ways to dress. I am not suggesting your style needs to suddenly change and become conservative, especially if you have been used to showing lots of skin. It’s more about going out into the world and leading with your substance rather than your skin.

The reverse can also be true. If a woman is covered with too much clothing, she can risk presenting herself as older and more mature beyond her years. If your comfort level is to cover yourself in head-to-toe clothing and not show any skin (other than for religious reasons), you dim the intoxicating beauty of your femininity. Showing skin signals youth, vibrancy and body confidence. By showing a bit of décolletage, arms or legs, you are sending a message that you are proud of your body and comfortable in your own skin.

Poor Fit: Too tight or too loose?

Elegance and good taste is shown by how your clothes fit. If your clothing is too tight or loose, it does not flatter your body and give a quality appearance. We can see signs of a great fit as soon as you walk into a room. A good fit can enhance the curves of your body. A poor fit detracts from the positive aspects of your body and makes a negative first impression. 

For women over 40, it is more important than ever to invest in quality, become an expert about the shape of your body and learn how to dress for it. This is a time in life to gain a fine-tuned sense of your body shape, to know what looks good on you, and hire a tailor to sculpt your clothes to perfection. This will enhance your shape and give you an overall quality image, and add an extra boost of body confidence.

Styling: Too young or too old?

The style of clothing can quickly signal if a woman looks too young or too old. One of the fastest ways to appear too young is by wearing clothing styles made for younger women. While buying clothing in the junior departments of stores can be a tempting option with clothing sold at lower prices and in plentiful supply, the quality and fit are made for younger bodies. It’s fine to buy a piece from the junior department here or there, but if you make the junior department a habit as your shopping destination, you risk shortchanging your overall appearance as being less than quality.

Many junior clothing manufacturers make clothing that is not meant to last beyond a trendy season or two. It’s actually referred to as “throwaway fashion.” That is the opposite idea when building a wardrobe as a woman over 40. The goal is to buy clothing that is made to last for years. However, when you hold onto clothes too long and wear outdated styles, it gives you the appearance of being too old. It’s great to invest in clothing that will last for many years; however as trends change, it is time to let go of a cherished piece of clothing that has served you well. The alternative is to work with a tailor to update an item of clothing and give it a makeover if you are having trouble parting with it.

Mastering the art of great style requires making the successful age appropriate transition from one decade to the next. While there are specific style rules, there are also many unspoken rules that require your wisdom and judgment. There is no better time for a woman over 40 to have ageless style, make a personal statement and express herself beautifully.