It’s September!
And that means Fall…and more specifically, Fall Fashion.
I’ve been researching the trends over the past two months and while there is a BUNCH of trends that no 40-year old should even go near (hello, Nouveau Victorian), there are several trends that can be EASILY integrated in your wardrobe regardless of your age (and your budget).
So grab a pen, or get your finger ready to “pin it” to Pinterest, as we explore 2015 Fall Fashion Guide For 40 Year Olds.
2015 Fall Fashion Guide For 40 Year Olds
Trend #1: Plaid
It’s all about plaid. And the more traditional (aka bigger pattern), the better.
How do I wear it? If you are feeling adventurous, try mixing plaid with prints. Otherwise, stick with pairing a bold plaid with a solid color.
Why it works? It’s traditional, while still feeling modern because of the new color combinations.
High End: Guess Boucle Plaid Wrap Coat
Mid-Range: IZ Byer Plaid Jacket
Budget Friendly: Merona Plaid Tailored Blazer
Trend #2: Kitten Heel
THANK GOD!! While I love the look of a sky-tall heel, my body just isn’t made for walking in those babies anymore. Just make sure to pick a pair with a pointed toe and extra points for a pattern, color or details.
How do I wear it? With about anything EXCEPT skinny jeans or leggings. Looks best under flared jeans, traditional work pants or culottes.
Why it works? The low heel is easy to wear. Plus, with flared jeans making a comeback, it’s good to have a “long” shoe poking out from your pant leg.
High End: Sam Edelman Laura
Mid-Range: Calvin Klein Gabrianna
Budget Friendly: Dana Buchman in Black
Trend #3: Long Cardigan
Like its cousin, the tunic, the long cardigan is amazing at covering trouble spots while looking absolutely, positively CHIC.
How do I wear it? Honestly, with about anything, except a skirt. Jeans (both flared and skinny), leggings, shorts, etc. are fair game.
Why it works? It looks super chic. It keeps you warm. And it covers up trouble areas with ease. However, if you are shorter, look for a cardigan that hits mid-thigh vs below or at the knee.
High end: Long Sleeve Midi Coverup
Mid-Range: Woven Heart Geo Pattern Open Cardigan
Budget Friendly: Self Esteem Aztec Duster
Trend #4: Flared Jeans
You know those jeans you saved a few years ago and placed lovingly in the back of your closet or bottom of your jean’s drawer? Well, you can give them a big hug because flared jeans are BACK.
How do I wear it? With a structured shirt that hits at the waist or can be tucked in (aka no tunics). Feel free to pair with a vest or long cardigan and kitten heels or stacked boot to complete the outfit.
Why it works? In most cases, it comes with a higher waist. (Which I love, because it means less chance of a muffin top.) It also elongates the leg and hides a multitude of sins. And looks more “structured” than skinny jeans.
High End: Joe’s Jeans – Mustang Flare (Camilla)
Mid-Range: 1969 Indigo Flare Jeans
Budget Friendly: ana High-Rise Flare Jean
Trend #5: Fringe Boots
Fringe boots are back! They made their first appearance last year and are still on the “must have” list for a second year in a row,
How do I wear it? Fringe boots are perfect to wear with leggings, jeggings and skinny jeans. Just don’t over fringe…a little goes a long way.
Why it’s works? Because fringe makes up feel just a little rock and roll, a little western and a lot badass.
High End: Sam Edelman Louie (Own these, love them.)
Mid-Range: Journee Faux Suede Fringed Booties or Steve Madden Ohio Fringed Boots
Budget Friendly: Delaney Fringe Western Boots
Trend #6: Moto Jacket
It is motorcycle, but all grown up. Slightly structured and slightly badass…just depends on the day.
How to I wear it? Usually moto jackets are cropped, so find a shirt with some detail at the hem.
Why it works? Is there a time where leather doesn’t work? Because it is a structured jacket, it looks fitted vs boxy. Plus, it goes with anything…skirts, jeans, trousers, etc.
High End: Sam Edelman Zip Detail Moto Jacket
Mid-Range: Sebby Motorcycle Jacket
Budget Friendly: Bernard Black Leather Jacket
Trend #7: Military
Think camouflage, utility vests and military inspired jackets. The cinched waist can hide lots of problem areas without looking boxy. (Isn’t that what camouflage is all about? Hiding.)
How do I wear it? A little of this trend goes along way…so add one piece to your outfit.
Why it works? It’s a neutral so it looks good on everyone. Plus, it feels patriotic.
High end: Levi’s Anorak Military Jacket
Mid-Range: Longline Military Vest
Budget Friendly: Long & Lean Tank
Trend #8: Structured Bags
I have to admit, I’ve always been a fan of the structured bags. They just feel very “Jackie Kennedy” and lady-like. Look for either a tote or satchel, with defined handles and details.
How do I wear it? First, if it comes with a strap, ditch it. This is not meant to be a shoulder bag. You are meant to carry it in your hand.
Why it works? Because it can fit all of the “stuff” we have to carry around in our purse and doesn’t look like a diaper bag.
High end: Rebecca Minkoff Amourous Satchel
Mid-Range: Ralph Lauren Lexington Shopper
Budget Friendly: Tote Handbag with Turnlock
What do you think? Will you be adding some of these fall trends to your wardrobe? Were you surprised at some of the budget friendly options or are your saving for some of the high 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.
Or check out these other articles…
Best Winter Boots For Mom That Aren’t Uggs
Just found your site and love your “How to Wear It” and “Why it Works” on the Fall 2015 fashion trends for 40 yr olds. I turn 40 this December and truly grateful to have found this site with exceptional detail!! Thank you!! 🙂
Thank you Teresa. That comment just made my day. So glad I can help and inspire!!
This is me too! I thought to myself, “Wow, this is totally for me!” I’ll be 40 in 5 months and 26 days! LOL. Happy Birthday to you!
YEAH! I’m so glad it spoke to you. I’m 41 and don’t think I have to give up fashion, I just need to pick items that are age appropriate.
Great post! I agree that the trends you shared are accessible to us over 40 ladies. I’ll probably add some moderately priced plaid to my wardrobe and splurge on a bag
This is RIGHT on the money! Great post.
Yes and AMEN! I refuse to fuddy duddy! A great way to integrate the plaid trend without investing tons of cash is to opt for a blanket scarf. Cute and versatile! I really appreciate your descriptions and different options for price ranges. Carry on, sista!
Thank You so much! This is great. I’m 52yo and haven’t had to dress up for over ten years. My closet is overflowing with beautiful, designer clothing that I either haven’t worn in over ten years, or I’ve never worn it and the tags are still on them. Coming to the conclusion that dressing up once in a while will be good for my health, so I’m opening up the closet and dusting things off. I have never been good at pairing things, which is why I have so many tags in the closet. I see something I like in the store, buy it, take it home and can’t figure out how to wear it! I’m thinking about taking photos of each piece of clothing so that I can try to match things up that way.. I wonder if there’s any websites or programs that can help me with that, but I’ll be checking here frequently and reading all your updates! Thanks so much, and please wish me luck in deciphering my closet!
Elisa – You will do AWESOME at putting those outfits together!! I have found that creating a matrix of what looks good together (yes, on paper) helps me…that way I never stand in the closet and wonder “what should I wear” or get stuck in a rut of wearing the same thing over and over.
I love the idea of styles for 40 year olds but do the models really have to look 17? And what about the 40+s who are plus size? Cheers
I followed a link from Dana White’s blog and am happy I clicked through. As a first time mom (at 44) your pages are just what the doctor ordered. The weight is coming off and I’m investing in a new wardrobe after paring down to some basics which have stood the test of time. I worked at a Cancer Research Center for ten years and want to look somewhat professional. I’ve been in sweat pants and jeans for fifteen months now, let’s get on with it!
I wanted to thank you for posting about the Saffiano Amorous structured bag that will hold up for years. I can see it is a well made product. The Satchel Bag was not in stock on Nordstrom, as your link suggested, but eBay had a sensational deal in the red cherry color. I just happened to find it with five minutes of the auction ending, so I just got a great new bag for not a lot of money. If I’m advocating eBay you know I’m not a shill for the Rebecca Minkoff company. So glad I found redefinedmom!
I’m looking forward to reading more of your material. Keep up the good work!
Jennifer – WELCOME. I’m so glad you loved the post!! And I’m glad you were able to get a great deal on eBay.