How Should I Dress Now That I’m 40?
I’ve just turned the big 4-0 and have written all about my feelings on reaching that milestone in another post, as part of a mini-series. But one constant debate I have with myself is about my wardrobe. How Should I Dress Now That I’m 40?
I have read so many articles over the years that discuss the topic I never thought I would have to worry about – dressing for my age.
I currently own and wear whatever I think looks nice and I don’t choose certain stores over others because of their target age range. My wardrobe consists of items from so many stores. I shop at Zara, H&M, Forever 21, New Look, All Saints, ASOS, Boohoo, Quiz, Bershka and Stradavarius. And of course, there are those few key designer items that are timeless.
I feel these articles are constantly telling me that what I’m wearing or what I’m buying is simply not age appropriate and that I should be covering up more. My skirt should apparently be no shorter than knee-length. I should be throwing out skinny jeans. Only a bare minimum of skin should be showing.
I’m now at a time in my life when I can afford to spend a little more on myself. I have worked hard all of my adult life and after having my two children, I always put myself after them, buying what they needed, spending money on things I knew they would like.
A trip into town would often result in purchases for the kids – and I’m not just talking about the necessities. I would go above and beyond buying extra clothes, jewellery, hair accessories and pretty things. I mean, does a young girl really need eight pairs of shoes? My shopping trip would hardly ever result in a treat for myself.
That was always the case up until three years ago when I suddenly looked at my wardrobe and hated what I found. So I started buying pretty things for myself – complimentary items, nice shoes and beautiful pieces of jewellery. And after being bombarded by online articles about ‘age appropriate clothing’ I find myself asking why I should yet again be restricted?
One article said I should throw out skinny jeans now that I’m 40. Apparently I should opt for bootcut or flared jeans. The same article pointed out that mini-skirts were also on the forbidden list. But most of the skirts I own are thigh-length (all worn with tights of course).
I always wear clothes appropriate for any occasion. I’m hardly going to turn up to work in hot pants (not that I own any). And I’m not going to wear tube tops anytime soon. I’ve always looked younger than I actually am – and maybe that’s why I can get away with some of the items I own but regardless of what I can pull off, why should anyone dictate what I can or can’t wear?
Some people do give me funny looks on the school run sometimes. I’m always dressed up with a full face of make-up, as I leave for work straight after. This might be envy or people may think I look over the top. However, I am dressed decently. I also think I look good. But most importantly, I feel good.
I feel confident in my own skin – and what I choose to cover it in. So no matter what my age, if I am comfortable in something, I will wear it. I know what works for me and what doesn’t. It’s about me and my body. It has nothing to do with how many numbers I’ve notched up on the counter of life.
So I’m making a mental note to no longer pay heed to any of these articles or question myself again. From now on, I will buy and wear what I want to, when I want to.
I am so pleased this was chosen as the featured post by Kate at Confessions Of A New Mummy!
You are stunning and I love all your choices. I wear exactly what I want and feel everyone should. I love Zara and Topshop. Loving your blog xx
Author
Hi Vicki,
Thank you so much for your feedback and what a compliment! I’m a big fan of your blog and thanks for your help in my journey so far.
Rosie x
Hi Rosie!
I turned 42 last week and it was only after I turned 40 that I realised I should wear whatever the heck I want to wear. Who are these people that tell us what to wear or what not to wear at a certain age, anyway? I no longer take any notice of such things. If I want to wear a mini skirt, I’ll wear a mini skirt and as for skinny jeans… OMG I LOVE my skinnies and I reckon I’ll still wear them in my 80s!! Now that you’re 40, Rosie, you should dress entirely for you and just you. You’re a beautiful woman and you’re right, you look younger than your age. Embrace it. This is such a wonderful time of life, wouldn’t you agree?
Happy New Year!
Suzy xx
http://www.suzyturner.com
Author
Hi Suzy,
Happy New Year! Thanks so much for your kind words. It’s a real boost for me at the beginning of my blogging journey. To prove the point of being confident in my own skin, I treated myself to a lovely little skirt today and can’t wait to wear it! I’m enjoying your blog 🙂
Hi Rosie, age is but a number. If the outfit looks good and you feel good in it – wear it! I have noticed the women who tend to have these so called fashion rules for women over 40 usually do not have the confidence to wear such outfits themselves. Wear what YOU are comfortable in. And I definitely don’t see the need to now have to buy expensive clothing either! Please yourself only. Lise
Author
Hi Lise,
Thanks for your feedback and your advice. Yes, I definitely agree with you. We could potentially have many hang-ups about all sorts of stuff – at least our wardrobe shouldn’t be something we need to fret about. It should be a fun and enjoyable thing – finding exciting new items, getting dressed up etc. I’m glad it’s no longer something I will worry about 🙂
Rosie x
I get pleasure from reading a publish that makes individuals think. Also, thanks for allowing me to comment!
Author
Hi. Thanks for your feedback. Keep reading!
Age is just a number, a growing number! Although it is always natural, it can not be avoided, but we can create a good mood for ourselves! I think the more important thing is the state of mind.
Author
Hi David,
You’re absolutely right! In fact, if you have a positive state of mind, you can tackle anything. Thanks for reading – and your feedback.
Rosie
So pleased with your conclusion in this one. Celebrate the individual you are with your individual style too. Age like weight should never define you. Too many experts out there telling us how to live our lives when they don’t know our stories or personalities at all in my view. Be you – good enough! #TwinklyTuesday
Author
Absolutely. Thanks Kate x
You look great and as long as you feel great that’s all that matters #TwinklyTuesday
Author
Totally. Thankfully I came to that conclusion quite quickly x
I’m waaaay older than that. I think wear what you like until you look in the mirror and think ‘Oh my! That looks stupid!’ which becomes alarmingly frequent after a certain age. I have a wardrobe full of clothes I can’t wear but am yet to replace them because I can’t see what I like that I can wear…#TwinklyTuesday
Author
You’re right – it’s up to you and it’s your decision. As long as you’re in control. I refuse to let people dictate to me anymore x
40 is the new 20 – hahaha. I’ve turned 42 this year and I feel so good as I’ve embraced my age. I think it’s not about what you wear but how you feel. I’ve always gone for classic items that are timeless and I stay away from fashion trends. You can be in your 40’s and still be stylish (of course you not going to go through a mid-life crisis and dress like a teenager). I suggest just go with the flow and embrace 40 #twinklytuesday
Author
Absolutely agree with you. I know what’s right for me – but I refuse to have anyone dictate what I should wear. I’m loving this new decade of life. I find it liberating x
I think the most important thing is to dress to make yourself feel good. I saw a 50-ish lady out the other day with a unicorn headband on. She looked so happy and that was all that mattered. #GlobalBlogging
Author
I absolutely agree. I’m done with people dictating to me what I can wear anymore x
Age is just a number! If you know what suits you and what you feel comfortable in then who cares what anyone else thinks? Loving the outfit choices in the pics above, they all looks fab on you. Thanks for linking up, hope to see you again soon! #twinklytuesday
Author
Thank you – yes enough of people dictating what anyone can wear or not x