Fabulous Fashion in your Forties

Alexandra Wood-Ives, from online fashion store Kaleidoscope, discusses ways to look fabulous in your forties.

If life begins at 40, then your wardrobe is in for a treat!

Many of our customers here at Kaleidoscope are in their forties. Quite frankly they’re a fashionable and glamorous bunch who demand clothes that are flattering, comfortable and on-trend at the same time. Quite right too.

However, choosing fashionable clothes once you hit 40 does often present a challenge for many women. Fashion in your forties is about striking the balance between looking age-appropriate yet unique and utterly modern at the same time. So what are some good tips for dressing fabulously in this fantastic decade of your life?

Firstly, it’s time to tidy up – but that doesn’t mean looking too staid. For example, you can still look fantastic in jeans and a top: we recommend you go for fitted jeans and a well-made top in a good fabric. If you’ve got the legs, then there’s no reason why you shouldn’t wear skinny jeans; otherwise, straight-legged or boot cut jeans in a dark denim will look great.

Once you hit your forties, it’s a good idea to add more structure into your wardrobe. Buy at least one blazer and make sure you have a tailored jacket on hand for every occasion: one for weekends to wear with jeans and loafers, another to team with a skirt and even one for evening occasions – it’s a simple but effective way to embellish your outfit and add the “wow” factor.

The key to remaining chic and keeping a unique style is attention to detail.  Select the right fabrics and take care of your clothes. Crisp shirts in a good cotton mix and trousers with their pleats just-so will make you look elegant and refined as well as fashionable. To embellish this look, try adding a smart handbag or a piece of classic jewellery.

If you like to keep up with the trends, it’s best to pick one or two pieces per season to wear with your smart capsule wardrobe rather than attempting the whole look. For example, this season bold prints are very chic: you could pick out a new patterned scarf to add to your outfit along with a pair of gladiator sandals.

Similarly, mix and match this season’s trends with structured pieces for an elegant take on fashion. For example, this season’s maxi dresses and flowing floral skirts will look great when contrasted with one of your smart jackets.

Do reflect your structured look in your haircut and accessories. If you want to keep your hair long, keep it glossy and trimmed regularly. Make sure the clothes and accessories you invest in match the tones and hues of your hair. Choose mainly classic-looking accessories (especially bags) in quality fabrics and understated tones. For a celeb-style look, finish off your outfit with a pair of glamorous sunglasses.