Easter. Daylight Savings Time. Tulips.

It is Spring….and more importantly time for Spring Fashion.

I’ve been researching the trends over the last two months and while there are SEVERAL trends that no 40-year-old woman should ever go near (hello, Patterned Patchwork), there are many that are not only age appropriate, but can easily be integrated into your wardrobe.

So grab a pen or get your finger ready to “Pin IT” to Pinterest as we explore the 2016 Spring Fashion Guide for 40 Year Olds.

2016 Spring Fashion Guide For 40 Year Olds

Trend #1: Peep-Toe Cut-Out Block Sandals

This is the “it” sandal this season. It combines two trends – cut-outs and block heels – into one sexy shoe.

How do I wear it?  This sandal can be dressed up with linen pants and a dress or dressed down with shorts and t-shirt. Make sure your toes are painted, because this sandal will put the spotlight on them.

Why it works? Strong heel. Comfortable leather. Easy to wear. Plus, gives us a reason to get a pedicure.

High End: Vince Camuto “Lavette”
Mid-Range: Sbicca “Piccolo”
Budget Friendly: Attention “Deanna”

Trend #2: Dressed-Up Denim

Denim grows up and gets refined. This is about “really, that is denim?” and not “look I have more embellishments on my jeans”.

How do I wear it? Denim is a neutral, so feel free to wear it with bright jewelry, fun shoes or big prints – like oversized floral or bold stripes.

Why it works? It is a juxtaposition. Denim is typically very casual, but new cuts, designs, and fabric make it office worthy – and super comfortable.

High End: Karen Kane Wrap Top
Mid-Range: ASTR Halter Jumpsuit or Levi’s Shirtdress
Budget Friendly: Merona Chino Short

Trend #3: Bold Stripes

Either classic or colorful and bold – stripes are here to stay.

How do I wear it? Look for bolder, bigger stripes, they are more flattering. Also, be mindful of the stripe placement – horizontal stripes can bring attention to “certain” areas.

Why it works? It’s traditional, while still feeling fresh because of the new combinations.

High End: Eliza J Shift Dress
Mid-Range: Yacht Striped Drama Top
Budget Friendly: Gala Striped Scarf or Ultimate Crew T-Shirt

Trend #4: Exposed Shoulder

I LOVE this trend. I think there is nothing more sexy than an exposed shoulder on a woman.

How do I wear it? Your shoulders are the star, so simplify the rest of your outfit. Also, opt for cut-outs versus complete exposure to look age-appropriate (aka not like Daisy Duke from Dukes of Hazard.)

Why it works? Showing a little bit of skin is sexy. Always, regardless of your age. Plus, these new styles allow us to wear a real bra vs no-bra or strapless.

High End: Leith Drapey Top
Mid-Range: Worthington 3/4 Sleeve
Budget Friendly: Decree T-Shirt or Mossimo Tank or ana Long Sleeve

Trend #5: All White Urban Sneakers

It’s time to go old school and embrace our inner Run DMC.

How do I wear it? With cropped flared jeans, maxi dresses, shorts, regular jeans … it’s a tennis shoe, it goes with anything.

Why it works? It takes one of our favorite shoes for the summer and gives it a slight bad-ass edge. Plus, we were actually around when this shoe was popular the first time, so our street-cred just became legit.

High End: Puma Brooklynite
Mid-Range: Converse Chuck Taylor
Budget Friendly: Lenia Sneaker

(PS: I did a whole post about street style sneakers for the modern mom with WAY more choices and information on how to wear them.)

Trend #6: Pointed Toe Flat

It’s the big sister to the ballerina flat. A little more sophisticated, but still as comfortable.

How do I wear it? With dresses, jeans, shorts, cropped pants…just about anything.

Why it works? It elongates the leg, while still being super comfortable.

High End: Nine West Onlee
Mid-Range: BP Moveover
Budget Friendly: Bellamarie Flat

Trend #7: Oversized Graphic Floral

This is NOT your grandma’s floral. The patterns are bold, bright and colorful.

How do I wear it? A little of this trend goes a long way – so if you go floral, make sure to balance it with a neutral or solid color.

Why it works? It’s edgy and feminine at the same time. No one will mistake you for going to a “ladies who lunch” tea party.

High End: City Chic Pop Art Skirt
Mid-Range: Floral Fresco Pants
Budget Friendly: Stylus Floral Poncho or Mixed Media Tank

Trend #8: Cropped Flares

The trendy flare from Fall is back, but cropped for summer.

How do I wear it? With a structured shirt that hits at the waist or can be tucked in (aka no tunics). Pair with urban sneakers, cut-out bootie sandals, or pointy-flats to complete the outfit.

Why it works? It is the on-trend, updated cooler cousin of the “capri pant”. Plus, the flare gives more room in the hips and thigh.

High End: rag & bone
Mid-Range: Free People
Budget Friendly: Eco-Friendly or Stylus

What do you think? Will you be adding some of these spring trends to your wardrobe? Were you surprised at some of the budget friendly options or are you saving for some of the higher-end ones?

If you enjoyed this article, be sure to follow my Style & Fashion Trends For Women Over 35 on Pinterest where I share outfit inspiration everyday.

Follow Kelly @ Redefined Mom’s board Style ~ Fashion Trends for Women over 35 on Pinterest.

And be sure to check out last year’s Fall Fashion Guide For 40 Year Olds.

Plus, if you feel like you have a closet full of clothes, but nothing to wear, be sure to check out my Adore Your Wardrobe eCourse where we breakdown and demystify fashion through science and math.