How to pick the best women’s shorts for women over 40

If you’re wondering how to find the best women’s shorts that would be flattering for your age and figure, let’s go over 3 things:

1. Body shape

Most women learn towards one of the 5 different body shapes: apple, pear, rectangle, inverted triangle and hourglass.

Certain shorts will work better on one shape over another. Keep your shape in mind when looking at the styles below.

For instance, you might want to think about a darker colored pair if you are a pear shape, or a pair to fit your curves if you are an hourglass.

If you don’t know your body shape, read our article on how to find your body shape.

2. Height

Height can also add to the variable of how to choose the best shorts for your body shape.

Petite women should be more careful of how much fabric the shorts have in the form of bows, pleats and other details, which can overwhelm the frame.

Regardless of height, always consider if the shorts you’re trying on are the right length for your height. Remember, for the most flattering silhouette you want to get a 1/3 – 2/3 balance within your outfit and / or within your overall look. (to learn more about this concept check our article on how to wear capris or take the 21 steps style course where we explain this concept in a lot of detail.

Natalia @odin.stylish.me above shows how to do a half tuck. This can ensure that you still have a leg lengthening look because you can see where her waist is.

Steal her look with this similar shirt, shorts, sandals, bag, necklace, earrings and sunglasses.

3. Legs

Not being comfortable with showing your legs is probably the top reason most women don’t want to wear shorts. And of course the choice if doing so is completely up to you. But if you like the comfort of wearing shorts, and want to wear them despite being reluctant to show your cellulite, veins, scars or other issues, there are solutions.

My favorite solution is just to choose comfort over vanity and don’t care about the way your legs look. That is always a choice! If you wear your shorts with confidence, people will notice YOU and not your legs.

However, if you’d rather not showcase you legs, opt for a longer short style.

You can also consider wearing a pair of lightweight tights under a shorter pair of shorts. Wearing tights can be a fashion statement or it can be a way to smooth and conceal veins or scars. The ones Spanx makes will also conceal will also smooth the body fat in your legs.

What length is best for shorts for women over 40?

Just as there are many skirt lengths to choose from, anything goes when it comes to the hem length of your shorts.

There were plenty of short shorts on the catwalks for summer and for fall 2024, but also stylish longer length shorts.

So, simply choose the length that flatters you, and which you are comfortable with.

Best women’s shorts on the catwalks

Below, you can see some designer inspiration when it comes to wearing shorts

Hermès – Givenchy – Chanel

What style of shorts are most flattering?

This will very much depend on your body type. But, generally, a pair of mid-length, high-waisted shorts looks great on most figures.

What shorts to wear when you have a tummy?

You can approach this in different ways. You could wear slim capri length shorts and then keep your shirt loose over the top of them. Or, look out for mid to high-waisted shorts that tuck your tummy in, and wear with a tank, t-shirt or shirt tucked in.

Take a look at these articles on how to hide a belly with the right clothes, pants to hide a belly and tops to hide a belly for more tips.

What body type looks good in shorts?

All body types can look great in shorts. The trick is to choose shorts that are most flattering for you. For example, if you have a long torso and shorter legs, then choosing a high-waisted pair of shorts and tucking your top in can balance out your figure.

What are the best women’s shorts and most flattering shorts for each shape?

Below, you’ll find all of our favorite shorts that we’ve found in stores now. Look out for shapes that suit your figure for the most flattering effect.

First, know your shape – check out how to find out your body type here.

If you’re a rectangle, shorts look great on your athletic body. You can choose any shape you want. Choose tighter styles to follow your figure, or flowy shorts if you want to add curves.

For inverted triangles, you can balance out wider shoulders by choosing wider, flowy shorts or culottes.

Hourglasses look great in retro short styles with high waists. The key is to make sure you show off your waist line.

For pears, choosing a darker pair of shorts that skim over hips and thighs and teaming with a brighter top is a great idea.

If you’re an apple, then keeping your top loose over your shorts and looking our for mid and high waisted styles that streamline your tummy is perfect.

similar tunic, shorts, sandals, hat and necklace

Most of you will only wear shorts for summer or for your vacations. I also like to wear shorts as loungewear as I just find them very comfortable.

Let’s break shorts down into current styles and who they’re best for.

UTILITY women’s shorts – Best shorts for a safari holiday

Khaki shorts are ideal for a safari holiday or a walk in the park.

If you love a natural look, then khaki shorts would be a lovely option. I can definitely imagine Jennifer Aniston wearing these ones.

J.Crew Seaside Linen-TENCEL™ Lyocell Blend Cargo Short

Or, you could opt for a utility style in blue. The Ramy Brook shorts (below) team a smart look with cargo details.

Ramy Brook Cornelia Belted Utility Shorts

Below is how I wore mine during my holiday in Namibia.

similar shirt, shorts, (another option here), shoes and hat

High waisted shorts with a flare: the best dressy shorts to go for dinner or on evening walk

What they are: High waisted flare shorts often look like a skirt because of the flared legs and fitted and defined waistline. They’re often shorter in length, around mid-thigh. This style is on trend right now and is fresh, flirty and feminine.

What woman should wear this style: It’s the perfect style for pear, apple and inverted shapes because it cinches and accentuates the waist, tucks the tummy in and flares at the leg, sort of like an A-line skirt. Although any woman of any shape would find this style flattering of they want to accentuate their waistline! Especially those looking for a pair of shorts that tend to conceal your thighs and hips by draping softly around them.

How to wear high waisted flare shorts: Get your girly game on, because this style is great with feminine accessories. A heel, wedge or dainty mule or sandal would be a great shoe option. Because of all the attention around the waist from this style, keep the top clean, minimal and tucked in. Layering with a shorter cardigan adds polish to the style.

Open Edit Pleated High Waist Trouser Shorts

Cinq à Sept Aldi Belted High-Waisted Shorts

similar top , shorts and flats

I find my high waisted flare women’s shorts particularly good for more dressy occasions. Above is how I wore mine on a holiday during the evening for a stroll on the boulevard and outdoor dinner.

Best women’s shorts styles: Bermuda shorts

What they are: Bermuda shorts are slightly fitted, straight up and down in cut, are longer (falling around 1 to 2″ above the knee) and can be worn rolled up or with a cuff. Many companies call any short that is mid-thigh length or longer a bermuda.

What woman should wear this style: The rectangle or hourglass shape woman would find this style flattering, because they aren’t cut for the big hips or curves of other shapes. The other body shapes should avoid them, since they could feel too tight around the hips, waist and/or butt area. Most women would then try to buy them in a bigger size and then end up with improperly fitting bermudas.

How to wear bermuda shorts: Depending on your style, bermuda shorts can be dressed up or down. They are versatile enough to be worn with a t-shirt and sandals, in which case you can roll them up, or if they have a nice fabric to them, dress them up with a blouse and wedge heels. I especially love this style with a loose, wrap cardigan, mid-size belt and slip-on flats or sneakers.

NYDJ Briella Denim Bermuda Shorts

KUT from the Kloth Pleated Linen Blend Shorts

The pair below are from Not Your Daughter’s Jeans (NYDJ), which is one of my favorite jeans brands. Tighter bermuda shorts tend to be more flattering that really wide ones as wider ones can really widen you and make your look bigger than you are.

similar shirt, shorts, sandals, sun hat and necklace

Best women’s shorts: Long shorts

You may not want to wear shorts because you don’t like the way your thighs look, or simply because you don’t feel they are appropriate as you get older.

But, the right pair of long shorts can be flattering, especially if you are happy with the bottom part of your legs.

Not only that, but longer length shorts are very on trend right now.

L’AGENCE Hadleigh Long Shorts

Co-ordinates are very on trend right now – and you can find matching top here.

COS Gathered Wide Leg Shorts

Pants shorts

What they are: Trousers or pants shorts for women are perhaps the most flattering style of all. They’re essentially well-tailored trousers. They vary in style from very short to 1″ above the knee. They are similar to the bermuda shorts but dressier and often constructed in finer fabrics.

What woman should wear this style: Any woman can wear this style. Even the length is a matter of preference! It’s a myth that petite women should wear shorter shorts and taller women should wear long shorts. Go with what you like and feels right for you.

How to wear trouser shorts: The trouser shorts is so nicely constructed, you may want to tuck in your top and add a belt. This is a great dressier style that can be paired with a lightweight sweater or a jacket for a short pants suit.

J.Crew Linen Blen 9″ Trouser Short

Ser.o.ya Paisley Shorts

Best women’s shorts: Pleated shorts

What they are: A pleated short style has some type of pleat detail to the front of it. The length on this style of shorts can vary. Pleated shorts can be tricky, so the important rule of thumb is to look for a pair without too many pleats, folds or other ornamentation.

What woman should wear this style: This style can be worn by all body shapes. The pleats on the legs are roomy enough to hide imperfections or downplay larger thighs. The shape of pleated shorts is wonderful for petite or rectangle women who may want a little extra volume. The cut is more like a structured skirt. These can be the perfect shorts style for the 40+ fashionista.

How to wear pleated shorts: The secret to this style is to choose a quality fabric and the right fit. A longer, pleated short is a fun and feminine style. But fabric that is too bulky or a pleated short that is too tight or loose can be highly unflattering. For a fashion-forward, avant-garde look, choose a longer knee-length style, urban colors like blacks, grays or bold tones and pair with bold accessories.

Alice + Olivia Conry Pleated Linen Blend Shorts

Ramy Brook Joss Pleated Shorts

Angela @angelamashelle above looks fabulous in her black shorts outfit.

Get her look with this similar top, shorts, pumps, handbag, belt, earrings and sunglasses.

More types of shorts

While these are the main styles of shorts you could opt for, there are of course lots of types of shorts within those categories that you can choose. Here are some of the most popular.

paperbag

A paperbag style usually has a higher waist, which is particularly useful if you want to make your legs look longer.

Caslon Tie Waist Linen Blend Shorts

Lounge shorts

You may be looking for a pair of lounge shorts because you are at home much more than usual at the moment, or because you would like a pair of shorts to exercise in.

Treasure & Bond French Terry Shorts

Walking shorts

Do you love to walk around your neighborhood, or further afield? Whether you’re heading out for a few errands, sightseeing (when you’re able to travel again) or you like to get out for a longer hike, the outdoor shorts below are very well-reviewed, with reviewers saying they are the perfect length for exercising – not too long, and not too short!

They’re also a great choice if you like yoga or pilates and you don’t want to wear longer leggings when the weather starts to warm up.

You can also find a longer option here.

Libin 5″ Athletic Shorts

Chino shorts

Just as chino pants are timeless enough to wear year after year, so too are chino shorts.

Boden Barnsbury Chino Shorts

J.Crew Button-front Chino Short

Patricia @patriciaafricaiglesias above opts for a pair of cargo shorts and coral top.

Check out this similar tee, shorts, sneakers, handbag, belt, sunhat and sunglasses.

printed shorts

A pair of printed shorts could be the perfect way to add interest to your outfit. Just wear with a plain tank top or T-shirt and you have the perfect vacation outfit.

Johnny Was Luciana Botanical Linen Belted Shorts

Boden Crinkle Shorts

Jean shorts

Jean shorts, or denim shorts, are a style staple which suit women of all shapes, sizes and ages.

And, while you may not want to wear your denim shorts as short as the Daisy Dukes immortalized by actress Catherine Bach in the Duke’s of Hazard, there are plenty of longer options which would be flattering.

Boden Denim Shorts

rag & bone McKenna Denim Bermuda Shorts

Emms @beautifuleveryday_uk above opts for a classic look of denim shorts and striped t-shirt. We love how she has matched her shoes to the print in her top.

Get her look with this similar tee, shorts, pumps, clutch and sunglasses.

Black denim shorts

While you may traditionally think of denim shorts as being blue, you don’t have to stick to this shade. You could opt for a black pair instead to bring something a little different to your looks.

You can always wear a lighter, feminine top so your outfit doesn’t look too heavy for warmer weather.

Agolde VidaHigh-Rise Split Jean Shorts

White denim shorts

Just as a pair of white jeans are a great option for summer, a pair of white denim shorts will be a lovely addition to your wardrobe for warmer months.

This pair from Joe’s Jeans (below) is a timeless classic you are likely to wear for many summers to come.

Joe’s Jeans The Avery High-Rise Denim Shorts

If you love wearing white during the summer, also take a look at how to wear white pants.

High-waisted denim shorts

If you like to make your legs look longer, or you have a torso which is long in proportion to the rest of your body (read what I have to say here about your vertical body type), a pair of high-waisted denim shorts can be very flattering on you.

High-waisted denim shorts are particularly on trend this summer, with celebrities wearing them to festivals and bloggers showcasing them on Instagram.

But, they can also definitely work for the 40+ woman if you opt for a pair which are a little longer in the legs. High-waisted shorts look best with a shirt or blouse tucked into them.

J.Crew High-rise Denim Short

linen shorts

Linen is always a lovely, light material for summer, making linen shorts ideal for a warm weather vacation.

You can find the matching shirt here for the J.Crew shorts (below).

J.Crew Linen Tropez Short

Boden Westbourne Linen Shorts

Adaline @sdmomstyles above opts for a classic look with beige shorts and a blue shirt. Perfect if you want to achieve an old money look during the warmer months.

Recreate her outfit with this similar shirt, shorts, sandals and necklace.

silk shorts

If you want to make your shorts outfit look and feel more luxurious, like one of the silk options below.

You can see the matching top here for the silk shorts (below).

Loulou Studio Silk Straight Leg Shorts

Dress capris

As well as wearing shorts for work, you could opt to wear dressier shorts, perhaps for a summer barbecue you are invited to, or for smarter venues and restaurants while on vacation.

Or, if you still want to be cool, but you want a more formal look, you could choose a pair of culottes or capris which come below the knee, rather than shorts. Then, you can wear with a heeled sandal.

Chiara Boni La Petite Robe Nuccia Jersey Capris

mid length

The perfect mid length is often hard to find when you’re searching for the best women’s shorts.

kate spade new york Tech Twill Shorts

Short shorts

I still like my short shorts especially when I’m at the beach. They feel easy to wear with a colorful t-shirt and it just feels relaxed. Above is one of my favorite shorts looks. If you are not keen on short shorts and don’t want to wade through dozens of pairs of short shorts, you can narrow down by mid length shorts and long shorts on Nordstrom.

vineyard vines Herringbone Stretch Cotton Shorts

similar top and shorts

Flowy shorts

A pair of flowy shorts can be lovely if you prefer the material of your clothing to be loose and not to cling too much to your upper thighs.

These can be great for fitting a pear shape, or for balancing out an inverted triangle.

The flowy skort (below) from Amazon would be lovely for vacations or sunny days in the garden.

Blaosn Flowy Casual Shorts

BEST SHORTS FOR THE BEACH

Or, if you want to swim in shorts, how about a pair of board shorts?

BALEAF High Waisted Swim Shorts

See our top picks for the best bathing suits for women over 40 this summer.

Skort

Another option could be to look for a pair of shorts which look like a skirt. That way, you can get away with a shorter length of skirt, secure in the knowledge that you won’t be flashing anything you don’t want to when you sit down!

VERO MODA Mymilo High Waist Skort

Work shorts

Depending on your workplace, if you are working right now, then you may want to look at a pair of shorts you can wear for the office.

I find that a pair of tailored shorts in a darker shade works well. You can wear with heels and team with a smart blouse or shirt for a look which keeps you looking smart enough for the office but cool enough for summer temperatures.

I think the J.Crew shorts (below) be a very versatile pair to dress up or down. They also come up with a matching blazer

J.Crew Sailor Stretch Linen Blend Pleated Short

Or, you could choose a shorts and blazer set that is already put together for you. The blazer set (below) comes in 11 different colors, and reviewers say it is great quality and super comfortable.

Fisoew Store Blazer and Short Set

Jona @the50plusgirl above opts for a shorts suit that would be perfect for summer events.

Steal her look with this similar tank top, blazer set (another option here), pumps, handbag (another option here) and sunglasses.

What length shorts should a 50 year old woman wear?

We hope that we’ve shown you that you can wear any length of shorts you want to. Pick a length that makes you feel confident, whether you like to show off your legs, or you prefer some coverage.

What shorts should a 60 year old woman wear?

There are so many shorts to choose from, that you should concentrate on the shorts that look good on your body type, rather than what looks good at a particular age.

Can a 70 year old woman wear shorts?

Of course. You can wear shorts at any age. You can be stylish and elegant in shorts no matter whether you are 40, 50, 60, 70 or above.

Final tips on how to wear shorts over 40

I leave you with some final do’s and don’ts when wearing and choosing the best women’s shorts:

• Don’t be afraid to invest a few dollars to have your shorts hemmed to the proper length. You’ll probably wear them year after year, so it will be worth it.
• Don’t do short and tight together. If you choose shorter shorts, choose a baggier, looser style. And the tighter the shorts you choose, the longer they should be.
• An easy proportion rule of thumb on how to style shorts is: balance short shorts with a longer top and longer shorts with a shorter (or tucked in) top.
• Try tights under your dressier shorts for a polished, elegant look.
• Flat-front shorts are great for not adding extra bulk to the tummy area

Shop the best women’s shorts in stores now:

Do you enjoy wearing shorts? What are the best women’s shorts brands and styles you’ve found so far?

Continue reading:

1. How To Wear Capris And Cropped Pants – An Extensive Guide!
2. How To Wear Leggings Over 40 – A Complete Guide
3. How To Wear White Pants: Inspiration And Ideas

Like this article on the best women’s shorts for women over 40? Save it on Pinterest!

Feature image by Emms @beautifuleveryday_uk

The post The best women’s shorts that fit and flatter women over 40 of any shape appeared first on 40+ Style.

Summer jackets serve a variety of purposes. They keep you warm, enhance your look or provide an extra layer that can enhance your body shape. No matter what your purpose is, it’s vital to choose the right summer jacket to make sure you stay chic and stylish without overheating.

What type of jacket is best for summer?

Shorter jackets usually work best. But long, thin coats can work too, like duster coats. You’ll also need to think about whether you just want a light layer or whether it needs to be rain-resistant.

Kimba @kimbalikes above opts for a pink jacket and on-trend cargo pants.

Get her look with this similar tee, jacket (another option here), pants, sneakers and sunglasses.

what purpose does it serve?

Just think about what you want from your jacket. Will it need to be lightweight and not too warm? Does it need to be waterproof? Or does the jacket mainly serve a fashionable or layering purpose? Take a look below at some of the best summer jackets to choose from.

What jacket can I wear with a dress?

Alison @wardrobe_oxygen above shows off a great choice with a dress – a denim jacket. If you want your legs to look longer, then opt for a denim jacket that ends at your waist.

Steal her look with this similar dress, jacket, sandals, earrings and fedora.

How do you style a summer jacket?

There are so many ways as you will see below. You can wear your jacket over your favorite summer dress, with a denim skirt, or with shorts or cropped pants. For more creative ideas also check our article on denim outfits.

Best summer jackets for women

First, let’s look at some of the best summer jackets for women available in stores now. Then, we’ll move on to what to wear them with.

denim jacket

A denim jacket is an absolute classic so you can be sure that you can wear yours for years to come. Perfect to wear over your summer dresses.

J.Crew New Classic Denim Jacket

Boden Belted Denim Jacket

Also take a look at how to wear a denim jacket.

J.Crew New Classic Denim Jacket – J.Crew Seamed Tie-waist Dress – J.Crew Metallic Leather Toe-ring Slide Sandals – J.Crew Berkeley Bucket Bag – J.Crew Door Knocker Drop Earrings

blazers

A lightweight blazer can add a little warmth as well as elevating any of your summer outfits to give your casual looks a more formal vibe.

Elie Tahari Helena Striped Linen-Blend Blazer

Cinq à Sept Kylie Linen-Cotton Blazer

Misook Modern Lace-Up Jacket

Sandra @lapecosapreciosa above shows how you can wear your blazers with your shorts. Perfect if you want to take your daytime look to evening, or you are heading from sightseeing to lunch.

Check out this similar top, blazer, shorts, mules, earrings and sunglasses.

moto jackets

A moto jacket is another classic. We love wearing moto jackets over our summer dresses. Perfect for transitional weather.

BLANKNYC Suede Leather Moto Jacket

NIC+ZOE Rumba Linen Moto Jacket

NIC+ZOE Rumba Linen Moto Jacket – J.Crew Vintage Rib Tank Top – & Other Stories Denim Midi Skirt – Fly London Gogo Platform Wedge Sandals – J.Crew Cadiz Hand-knotted Rope Tote – J.Crew Metallic Chainlink Necklace

utility jacket

Cargo and utility styles are particularly on trend right now, so a cargo jacket is a great way to add some cargo pockets to your existing outfits.

J.Crew Funnel Neck Field Jacket

Cinq à Sept Genevive Utility Jacket

cardigan style

If you love a preppy or a classic style then a cardigan jacket is ideal to add warmth to your outfits. We love wearing it with our white jeans or cropped pants.

J.Crew Emilie Sweater Lady Jacket

Boden Holly Knitted Jacket

Abi @stealmystyle40 above shows off a beautiful, classic outfit using only black and white.

Recreate her outfit with this similar jacket, pants and pumps.

bomber jacket

If you love a street or urban style then a bomber jacket is ideal for your look. Bomber jackets look great with denim skirts and cargo pants.

J.Crew Collection Lightweight Bomber Jacket

MANGO Denim Bomber Jacket

cropped styles

Cropped styles are perfect to add some warmth without being too hot during the summer months. Plus, the great thing about wearing cropped styles is they can make your torso look shorter and legs look longer, so they can be a good tool to balance your silhouette if you want to look taller and slimmer.

Splendid Breck Cropped Chambray Jacket

Theory Cotton-Blend Short-Sleeve Crop Jacket

Theory Cotton-Blend Short-Sleeve Crop Jacket – J.Crew Vintage Rib Tank Top – Weekend Max Mara Elica Linen-Blend Denim Shorts – J.Crew New Capri Mother-of-pearl Paillettes Slide Sandals – J.Crew Cadiz Hand-knotted Rope Tote – J.Crew Berkeley Bucket Bag – & Other Stories Gemstone Drop Earrings

trench coat

A trench coat is perfect for transitional weather, so longer styles are ideal for moving into spring or fall. Choose a shorter trench coat for summer.

Favorite Daughter The Cropped Charles Trench Coat

Nordstrom Crop Stretch Cotton Trench Coat

Boden Cropped Trench Jacket

Kylie @kylish_aus above wears her crop trench coat with a maxi denim skirt.

Get her look with this similar cropped trench coat, skirt, sneakers, bag, sunglasses and cap.

print jacket

Summer is a good time to have some fun with the prints you wear. While you may usually wear a pair of print pants for summer, a print jacket can also be very chic. Wear with a block color dress or with your cropped jeans.

Boden Occasion Jacket

MOTHER The Out Of Pocket Trucker Jacket

Boden Occasion Jacket –J.Crew Vintage Rib Tank Top – Cinq à Sept Benji Twill Crop Cargo Pants – Cole Haan Josie Block Heel Sandals – J.Crew Berkeley Bucket Bag – J.Crew Door Knocker Drop Earrings

packable

If you’re more worried about the occasional shower rather than layering, then you can opt for a jacket that packs up small and you can simply take it out of your handbag when you need to.

UNIQLO Pocketable UV Protection Parka

Avoogue Lightweight Windbreaker Jacket

duster jackets

While we’ve been concentrating on shorter jackets so far, longer, lightweight dusters can also look good for summer. Wear with a vest top and shorts, or you can wear as a swimsuit cover-up.

Treasure & Bond Border Print Duster

Misook Long Colorblocked Cardigan

Fonda @savvysouthernchic above wears her tank top with shorts.

Check out this similar top, kimono, shorts, sandals, handbag, necklace and earrings.

What to wear with your summer jacket – failsafe combinations

Have you chosen your favorite summer jacket? What should you wear with it? Below are some of the clothes, shoes and accessories you could style with your summer jacket.

Clothes

J.Crew Vintage Jersey T-shirt – J.Crew Vintage Rib Tank Top – J.Crew Seamed Tie-waist Dress – Cinq à Sept Benji Twill Crop Cargo Pants – Weekend Max Mara Elica Linen-Blend Denim Shorts – & Other Stories Denim Midi Skirt

shoes

J.Crew New Capri Mother-of-pearl Paillettes Slide Sandals – J.Crew Metallic Leather Toe-ring Slide Sandals – Fly London Gogo Platform Wedge Sandals – Cole Haan Josie Block Heel Sandals

Shirt from H&M (similar options here and here), jacket from H&M (another option here), cargo pants from H&M (another option here), similar sneakers, sunglasses and hat

accessories

J.Crew Cadiz Hand-knotted Rope Tote – J.Crew Berkeley Bucket Bag – J.Crew Metallic Chainlink Necklace – & Other Stories Gemstone Drop Earrings – J.Crew Door Knocker Drop Earrings – J.Crew Wide-brim Packable Straw Hat

How do you like to wear your summer jackets for women? Let us know in the comments below

Your summer jackets outfits together in one capsule

Below, you can see the jackets, clothes, shoes and accessories from above together in one capsule. You can see that you could easily wear any of the jackets with any of the outfits.

shop the best summer jackets below:

Continue reading:

1. Summer Suiting: Taking Your Summer Suits For Women Beyond Workwear
2. Not Just For Jeans! All The Denim Outfits And Trends You Need To Know This Year
3. How To Fit A Blazer – A Comprehensive Guide On How To Select The Right Blazer

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The post Lightweight summer jackets for women that are perfect for summer layering appeared first on 40+ Style.

What to look out for when choosing swimsuits with tummy control

Before we show you some of our favorite tummy-control swimsuits, what should you look for when choosing a new bathing suit that will slim and disguise your tummy?

Swimsuits with control fabric will keep everything in place while ruching will help to camouflage a belly.

Shauna @chicover50 above (read her style interview here) looks fabulous in her fuchsia one-piece. A belt can help to define the waist, while the shoulder detail draws the eye up and away from the tummy.

Steal her look with this similar swimsuit (other options here and here), earrings and sunglasses.

What swimwear to wear if you have a belly?

There is nothing wrong with having a belly and you can look good in any kind of swimwear, including bikinis. Just, wear whatever makes you feel at your most confident when you’re on the beach or at the pool. If you are self-conscious about your belly or if you want to downplay the belly area then choosing swimsuits with slimming technology, ruching or choosing a bathing suit with prints will help.

How can I camouflage my belly when swimming?

Choose swimsuits that draw the eye away from the tummy while helping to ‘suck’ everything in. You’ll find more tips to hide a belly with the right clothes in this article.

Suzie @suzie.richetti above looks stylish in her monochrome swimsuit and accessories.

Check out this similar swimsuit (other options here, and here), hat and sunglasses.

What style of bathing suit is the most slimming?

If you’re looking for a swimsuit that slims, then choosing a darker color generally works better. Bathing suits that feature technical detailing especially designed to slim, like ruching or stronger belly panels will help give you a streamlined silhouette.

Best brands for swimsuits with tummy control

Now let’s look at some of the best brands to search for when you’re looking for a slimming swimsuit.

Miraclesuit

Miraclesuit is specifically designed to contour, slim and shape. Its fabric delivers three times the control of ordinary swimwear. The makers promise that Miraclesuit visually removes 10lbs from your figure.

Choosing a patterned swimsuit can be a good way to draw attention away from the tummy. But we also love the subtle sex appeal of this zip-up black one-piece.

Miraclesuit Swim Shore Leave Siren One-Piece Swimsuit

Magicsuit

Magicsuit is also specially designed to fit and flatter the female form with compressing fabric and special panelling. We love the ruching and one-shoulder design of the swimsuit below, which also comes in black.

Magicsuit Charlize One-Piece Swimsuit

Spanx

Renowned for its shapewear that you wear under your clothes, Spanx has also turned its attention tow swimsuit using the same slimming technology. The black swimsuit (below) offers 360-degree slimming and is a timeless classic so you can take it on vacation year after year.

SPANX Piqué Shaping One-Piece Swimsuit

Lands’ end

Lands’ End is a great place for classics, like the one-piece (below) which comes in a regular or a D cup. It has firming fabric to smooth and shape, and some ruching to disguise the appearance of a tummy. We also love that you get the appearance of a deep v-neck but with some mesh for coverage.

Lands’ End SlenderSuit Grecian Tummy Control One-Piece Swimsuit

boden

The Boden swimsuit (below) is a style that comes out each year in different color pathways. We love the waist detail. And, the design features supportive side panels so is great if you want to create a smoother look at the sides of your waistline.

Boden Santorini Halterneck Swimsuit

Emms @beautifuleveryday_uk above looks fabulous in her stylish print swimsuit.

Recreate her outfit with this similar swimsuit (other options here and here) and sunglasses.

La Blanca

Another brand offering tummy control, La Blanca is a good one to browse when searching for your next bathing suit. A black one-piece, like a little black dress, is always on trend. This one features tummy control and removable bra cups.

La Blanca Island Goddess Tummy Control One-Piece Swimsuit

summersalt

We love the Summersalt brand for designing for women’s figures of all shapes and sizes. The ruffle sleeve swimsuit (below) comes in lots of different colors. We also love the color block styles. It features the signature Summersalt fabric and fit for a supportive feel.

L.L.Bean x Summersalt New Arrival The Ruffle Backflip

gottex

This piece from Gottex has a ruched tummy to disguise a tummy. The print also helps to draw attention away from any areas you aren’t so keen on.

Gottex Echo Ikat One-Piece Swimsuit

stylest

If you like a bit of coverage with your swimsuit – maybe you’re going snorkelling, or you just like to cover your upper arms – then STYLEST’s DREAMSCULPT swimsuit is a great choice. The bathing suit promises 4x compression compared to other swimsuits, and built-in shapewear. It also comes in black.

STYLEST DREAMSCULPT™ Zip-Up One Piece Swimsuit

Ta3swim

Have you discovered TA3Swim? The founder created the brand because she wanted to feel confident in her swimwear. The material is compression wear, similar to what you would find in a supportive sports bra.

Ta3swim Seamed Squarey Swimsuit

Hermoza

If you don’t want to opt for compression fabric, but you still want to disguise a tummy, then looking out for a swimsuit that features cinching and ruching is a good tip.

Hermoza Faustina One-Piece Swimsuit

Tempt me

The Tempt Me swimsuit (below) comes in a huge choice of colors and features tummy control. You can see that your eye is drawn to the cut-out just below the bust rather than to the tummy. Reviewers say the slight ruching hides a great deal, while the cut and style are feminine and sexy.

Tempt Me Tummy Control Front Tie Knot Bathing Suit

cupshe

Cupshe has a huge choice of swimwear, including the halterneck tummy control suit (below). It has tummy control and a lace-up design at the back. Wearers say it is comfy and flattering for curvy women.

CUPSHE Tummy Control One-Piece Swimsuit

Holipick

The Holipick swimsuit (below) features a glamorous one-shoulder design together with effective tummy control. Reviewers say it feels secure and looks incredible on.

Holipick One Shoulder Tummy Control Swimsuit

Laphee rose

The Laphee Rose swimsuit (below) does two things. The ruching at the bust draws the attention there rather than to the tummy, while the tummy control panel helps to shape. There’s a choice of more 10 colors, and reviewers praise it for being both secure and flattering.

LAPHEE ROSE Tummy Control Ruched Swimwear

Smismivo

We also love the crossover detailing on the Smismivo tummy control (suit) below. We think the print shown here would work particularly well for pear shapes as it emphasizes the top half while downplaying the bottom half of your figure. It comes in a good choice of other prints and block colors, and women who have worn it say it feels like a high-end suit but at a purse-friendly price.

Smismivo Tummy Control Swimsuit

Do you have a favorite tummy control swimwear brand? Let us know in the comments below

shop the best swimsuits with tummy control here:

Continue reading:

1. The Best Bathing Suits For Women Over 40 – Swim Suits That Make You Feel Fabulous!
2. Stylish Travel Clothes For Women That Are Chic And Comfortable
3. The Best Women’s Beach Outfits For Your Summer Vacation

Like this article on swimsuits with tummy control? Share it on Pinterest!

Feature image by Emms @beautifuleveryday_uk

The post The most flattering swimsuits with tummy control for your next vacation appeared first on 40+ Style.

Why arch support shoes?

Women love shoes. However, it gets more important as you get older that your shoes don’t just look good, but that they also feel great on your feet. That’s why you may need to think about choosing arch support shoes.

Unfortunately, for many of us over 40 it gets harder to wear uncomfortable shoes as we age and we do need shoes with good arch support. If you are looking for the best shoes with arch support, you’ve definitely come to the right place. This article features my own favorite recommendations and those of 40+ Style readers.

What brand of shoes has the best arch support?

Everyone’s foot shape is different, so what works for one person may not be best for you. But some of the best brands to try are Naturalizer, Vionic, FLY London, SoftWalk, Birkenstock, Skechers, Dr Scholl’s, Naot, Söfft, FitFlop, Gentle Souls by Kenneth Cole, Trotters, Børn, KEEN, and ECCO. Don’t forget to add your own favorite arch support brands to the comments at the bottom of the article so we can make this an even better resource for women who need comfy, stylish shoes.

What kind of shoes are best for arched feet?

What you’re looking for when choosing shoes with arch support is a contoured footbed to support your arch, cushioning for comfort, and shock absorbency. Having your foot correctly aligned not only helps to keep your feet comfy, but also helps to prevent issues elsewhere in your body like your hips and knees.

Is it good to wear shoes with arch support?

If you suffer from foot pain, then yes you may benefit from shoes with arch support. But be sure to check with your podiatrist if you are unsure.

Dayle @artfulcitystyle above (read her style interview here) chooses comfy black shoes with an ankle strap. Note that she matches the on-trend ‘chunkiness’ of her shoes with a statement black necklace.

Recreate her outfit with this similar tunic top, pants, shoes (another option here) and necklace.

How do I know if a shoe has good arch support?

There are two tests you can do to check how much arch support a pair of shoes has. The first is the twist test – hold your shoe in both hands and twist the toe away from your body and the heel towards you. The more difficult it is to twist, the more supportive your shoe is likely to be. The second is to try to push down the back of the heel. In general, the harder to push, the more supportive. Obviously these tests are best performed on shoes that are meant to have some ‘give’ like your sneakers, rather than your leather pumps!

WHY IS ARCH SUPPORT IMPORTANT?

Many women over 40 suffer from foot problems like plantar fasciitis that require shoes with more arch support.

It’s one of the unfortunate annoyances that often come with aging.

Wearing shoes with arch support may actually be a good preemptive step, as it is estimated that over 80% of the population will end up with foot problems, which are largely due to poor footwear.

A shoe with good arch support reduces muscle strain and helps you to maintain balance. In effect, arch support equals shock absorption.

It can also reduce the risk of plantar fasciitis, which is a painful inflammatory process of the plantar fascia, the connective tissue on the sole (bottom surface) of the foot. You will find our recommendation for the best shoes for plantar fasciitis here.

This is often caused by overuse of the plantar fascia or arch tendon of the foot. It is a very common condition and can be difficult to treat if not looked after properly. Another common term for the affliction is “policeman’s heel”.

A good support shoe is rigid enough to support the arch, yet offers just enough flexibility to allow the foot to naturally flex.

Best SHOES WITH ARCH SUPPORT

In this updated extensive article based on my experience and your own comments and experiences, I will highlight the best arch support shoes and brands.

I also share a comprehensive list of brands that offer shoes with arch support and share some of my favorites with you.

We are always updating this article so if you have a great experience with shoes that offer great support, be sure to add your comments to this article so it becomes the definitive resource on arch support shoes! (more than 100 comments and recommendations already).

Let’s help every woman to be comfortable AND stylish. There’s definitely no reason that the two have to be mutually exclusive!

Favorite ARCH SUPPORT SHOES

similar dress and jacket

Above, I’m wearing my favorite FLY London Bani sandal which have a comfort footbed and shock-absorbing sole.

Another favorite shoe that I’ve been wearing a lot on my travels is this silver sandal from one of my favorite comfortable shoe brands FLY London. I can’t find an exact match online, but these ones are very similar and seem to have the same cushiony sole that’s been really comfortable. I also like these silver ones that are a bit edgier and higher. I’m also loving these white sandals that are perfect for any outfit. Another favorite Fly London shoe is the FLY London Yeay wedge.

similar jumpsuit and sandals

comfortable best shoes with arch support for spring

As we are now approaching Spring (at least for most of you) this page will tell you about many of the choices you could choose for the spring and summer season. You’ll also find plenty of options for cooler weather.

A pair of ankle booties like the Sorel booties (below) is a good choice for transitional weather as they will keep your feet comfy and cozy, without looking too “heavy” with your warmer weather outfits.

They feature a cushioned footbed with arch support to fit and support your feet. Reviewers say they are stylish, comfortable, and add a little height without feeling too high.

Sorel Out N About Slip-On Wedge Shoe II
Website / Zappos / Amazon / Nordstrom

Shop Sorel: Website, Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos

WILL ARCH SUPPORT INSOLES OR ARCH SUPPORT INSERTS WORK TO PROVIDE THE NEEDED SUPPORT?

Another way to provide more arch support is to work with shoe insoles like these ones from Amazon (below).

These are very affordable and you may be able to use them with your existing shoes, even though high-quality orthopedic shoes are recommended.

Experiment with insoles to see if they fit in your current shoes and if they provide enough support before changing all your shoes!

Arch Supports Orthotics Inserts

PCSsole 3/4 Orthotics Shoe Inserts

WalkFit Platinum Foot Orthotics Arch Support Insoles

CAN YOU WEAR ARCH SUPPORT SHOES AND STILL LOOK GREAT?

‘Sensible’ shoes do tend to be thought of as more boring and are slightly more aging.

However, more and more manufacturers are paying attention to this problem now and the shoes on this list all look good.

Shoe brands like ECCO, FLY London, Vionic and Söfft have started to create really nice shoes!

The key is to find shoes that are just slightly different, have a hip vibe to them and are just a bit funkier than the regular ‘sensible’ shoe.

You can see that I’m wearing comfy booties with my skinny jeans (below) – perfect for sightseeing.

Below you will find a list of recommended brands that offer comfortable shoes and shoes with arch support. My personal favorites are ECCO and FLY London.

They all combine comfort with style because I’m sure you don’t want one without the other!

Want to know what shoes to wear when? Check out our article on what shoes to wear with different styles of pants.

similar sweater, poncho, jeans and boots

best shoes with arch support – boots

Let’s start with some booties, which can be a great choice for transitional weather.

1. David Tate

For booties with a little heel, the block heel booties (below) are very much on trend and would look great with your jeans or with tights and a dress. Get them in either black or beige.

David Tate Bellview Booties
(Zappos / Amazon / Nordstrom)

Biker style boots will add an edge to your outfits. The buckle boots (below) come in either brown or black, and they have a removable insert with arch support.

David Tate Palmar Boots
(Zappos / Amazon / Nordstrom)

Shop David Tate: Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos

2. fly london

FLY London is very well known for their sandals. But, did you know they also create comfy, on-trend boots? The elastic on the suede boots (below) adds interest as well as making them easier to get on and off.

FLY London Yade Booties
(Zappos / Nordstrom)

Shop FLY London: Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos

3. chaco

For a comfy walking option, you could opt for the Chaco boots (below). One reviewer said she has plantar fasciitis and these are her favorite boots ever, while another described them as both supportive and stylish.

Chaco Fields Chelsea Waterproof Boot
(Website / Amazon)

Shop Chaco: Website, Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos

4. nisolo

You don’t have to forgo a heel when you need arch support. In fact, you may find a small heel more comfortable. The Nisola Chelsea boots (below) come in a pale beige that would be ideal for Spring.

Nisolo Ana Go-To Heeled Chelsea Boots
(Zappos / Amazon / Nordstrom)

Shop Nisolo: Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos

5. Dr. Scholl’s

For booties with a little heel, the block heel booties (below) are very much on trend and would look great with your jeans or with tights and a midi dress. 

Dr. Scholl’s Shoes Teammate Ankle Boot

Shop Dr. Scholl’s Shoes: Website, Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos

6. anne klein

If you want a ‘dressier’ bootie, the Anne Klein boots (below) with the little buckle are ideal. They feature a cushioned footbed with arch support.

Anne Klein Kaci Boots
(Zappos / Amazon)

Shop Anne Klein: Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos

7. bzees

For a comfy walking option, you could opt for the Bzees boots (below). They come in four colors and feature a SoCush memory sole insert that gives arch support. They’re also lightweight.

Bzees Ontario Boots
(Zappos / Amazon)

Shop Bzees:  Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos

8. naot

In beige or black, Naot’s booties are timeless, and will go under your jeans or with your dresses. They have a small heel and arch support.

Naot Ethic Boots
(Zappos / Amazon / Nordstrom)

Shop NAOT: Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos

9. söfft

We love the on-trend lug soles of the Söfft suede booties (below). They’re waterproof, are cushioned at the ball of your foot and heel, and have built-in arch support.

Söfft Samira Suede Boots
(Zappos / Amazon / Nordstrom)

A shoe-boot hybrid is a great idea for transitional seasons. Plus, peep-toes are very much on-trend this season. The bootie sandals (below) come in a choice of 10 colors and they have a cushioned, leather-lined footbed.

Söfft Carleigh Heeled Bootie Sandals
(Website / Zappos / Amazon / Nordstrom)

Shop Söfft: Website, Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos

10. lucky brand

Another peep-toe bootie option for you. We love the woven design of the Lucky Brand booties (below). Perfect to add texture to your outfit. They have a cushioned insole and come in black or cream.

Lucky Brand Mofira Woven Peep Toe Booties
(Zappos / Amazon / Nordstrom)

Shop Lucky Brand: Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos

Jas @thefashionstylefile above opts for black booties with her check coat.

Steal her look with this similar top (another option here), jeans, booties, coat and belt.

best shoes WITH ARCH SUPPORT – Flats

Let’s take a look at some flat shoes with arch support, before moving on to heels, sandals and boots.

1. fitflop flat

FitFlop, as you would expect, started off selling flip flops. But they now have a wide range of styles that feature shoes that are designed to give a natural rolling motion when you walk to help prevent strain on your feet. The ballet flats (below) have contoured and cushioned comfort.

FitFlop Allegro Bow Ballet Flat
(Zappos / Amazon)

Shop FitFlop: Website, Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos

2. gentle souls by Kenneth Cole

The Gentle Souls flats (below) have a modern feel. They have a layered cushioned insole and are easy to pack if you want to take a pair of flats out with you when you are wearing heels.

Gentle Souls by Kenneth Cole Sailor Buckle Flats
(Zappos / Amazon / Nordstrom)

Shop Gentle Souls by Kenneth Cole: Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos

3. Dansko

Dansko is another good brand to look at when searching for stylish, comfy shoes. We love the minimal styling of the slip-on flats (below). They come in a good choice of colors and feature arch support technology.

Dansko Larisa Slip-On Flats
(Zappos / Amazon / Nordstrom)

Shop Dansko: Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos

4. naturalizer

Naturalizer tends to release its Carla ballet flats in different colors each season. They have comfort and contour technology so you can wear them all day.

Naturalizer Carla Ballet Flats
(Zappos / Amazon / Nordstrom)

There were lots of ballet flats featuring a strap on the designer runways this season, like the Kelly flats (below). They have dual density cushioning and a contoured footbed.

Naturalizer Kelly Flats
(Zappos / Amazon / Nordstrom)

Flat loafers are very on trend this season so you can be sure to be in style and comfy at the same time. The Naturalizer loafers (below) are perfect if you love a preppy look.

Naturalizer 27 Edit Beline Loafers
(Zappos / Amazon)

Shop Naturalizer: Website, Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos

5. vionic

Vionic is often a good choice for arch support. The loafers (below) feature a cushioned footbed with arch support. They would look good worn with your jeans or pants.

Vionic Kensley Slip-ons
(Zappos / Amazon / Nordstrom)

We also love the simplicity of the Vionic Willa loafers (below) which come in a huge range of colors and are designed to hug your arches.

Vionic VIONIC Willa II Loafers
(Zappos / Nordstrom)

Shop Vionic: Website, Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos

6. Easy Spirit

The Easy Spririt loafers (below) feature an on-trend lug sole and will add a little height without wearing uncomfortable heels. They have good arch support and a rounded toe shape if you find pointed toes uncomfortable.

Easy Spirit Kinndle Loafers
(Zappos / Amazon / Nordstrom)

Shop Easy Spirit: Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos

7. trotters

Trotters is another brand to take a look at if you like a classic style. The loafers (below) would look good worn with your slim jeans.

Trotters Emotion Loafers
(Zappos / Amazon / Nordstrom)

Shop Trotters: Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos

8. aerosoles

Whether you’re looking for comfy shoes for work or weekend, the Aerosoles loafers (below) could fit the bill. The metallic shade will go with everything in your closet.

Aerosoles Betunia Slip-on Loafer

Shop Aerosoles: Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos

9. Stuart Weitzman

We noticed lots of toe cap styles on the catwalks for the new season, so the Stuart Weitzman flats are particularly on-trend right now. They have a cushioned insole and a classic silhouette.

Stuart Weitzman Sleek Bow Flats
(Zappos / Amazon / Nordstrom)

Shop Stuart Weitzman: Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos

10. pointed flats

For day-to-day, a pointed toe ballet flat could be the way to go. They look great worn with skinny jeans, a blazer and a t-shirt. The pointed flats (below) are a purse-friendly choice. They have a padded inner sole and you can add a pop of color with the pair below.

MUSSHOE Pointed Flats

Shop MUSSHOE: Amazon

Emms @beautifuleveryday_uk below wears a pair of Vionic loafers with a trendy lug sole. Check out this belted shirt jacket and jeans to complete the look.

Best SHOES WITH ARCH SUPPORT – women’s dress shoes

Of course, you may want to add a dressier pair of shoes or a pair of heels to your closet. You can still wear heels if you need arch support. In fact, flat shoes can be more uncomfortable for you to wear if you need arch support.

1. cole haan

If you like to add some height, then the Cole Haan pumps (below) give you the feel of a stiletto without a very thin heel. They have an arch support footbed and are lined to help prevent rubs on your toes and heels.

Cole Haan Mylah Heel Pumps
(Zappos / Amazon)

Shop Cole Haan: Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos

2. aerosoles

Block heels are easier to walk in than very thin, high heels. Plus, they’re very much on trend. The Aerosoles pumps (below) have a cushioned Ortholite sole, and they come in a good choice of colors, including the metallic shade shown.

Aerosoles Betsy Pumps
(Zappos / Amazon)

Shop Aerosoles: Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos

3. Marc Joseph New York

The contrast stitching on the NYC pumps (below) adds a slightly casual flare to heels. They come in five colors and have a well-padded footbed.

Marc Joseph New York NYC Pumps
(Zappos / Amazon / Nordstrom)

Shop Marc Joseph New York: Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos

4. lifestride

For a very classic pump shape, opt for the Lifestride pumps (below). They feature arch support and are perfect to wear for dinner, where you can wear heels without having to worry about standing for long periods of time in them.

LifeStride Sevyn Pumps
(Zappos / Amazon / Nordstrom)

Shop LifeStride: Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos

5. Vionic

The block heel and rounded toe of the Vionic pumps (below) make them comfy and give them a stylish retro feel. They come in a choice of colors and are designed to support the natural alignment of your feet.

Vionic Carmel Pumps
(Zappos / Amazon / Nordstrom)

Shop Vionic: Website, Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos

6. Naturalizer

The Naturalizer pumps (below) come in a range of colors and will go with your workwear or with a pair of jeans and blazer.

Naturalizer Everly Pumps
(Zappos / Amazon / Nordstrom)

Shop Naturalizer: Website, Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos

7. fly london

We love the unusual shape of the FLY London pumps (below) which feature a curved heel and heart design toe. They come in black or gold and have a memory foam insole.

FLY London Baze Pumps
(Zappos / Amazon)

Shop FLY London: Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos

8. FRANCO SARTO

The heel on the Franco Sarto shoes (below) ties in with this season’s flared heel trend and adds a point of difference to an otherwise classic style. Wear it with your jeans and a blazer.

Franco Sarto Racer Slingback Pump
(Zappos / Amazon / Nordstrom)

Shop Franco Sarto: Website, Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos

9. trotters pump

Trotters’ Keely pumps (below) are available season after season, so you can be sure its classic styling won’t date. This style features Trotters’ signature arch support soles.

Trotters Keely Pumps
(Zappos / Amazon / Nordstrom)

Shop Trotters: Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos

10. Adrienne Vittadini

We love the asymmetry of the Adrienne Vittadini pumps (below), which feature a chunky block heel for height and stability.

Adrienne Vittadini Sampson Pumps

Shop Adrienne Vittadini: Zappos

Patricia @patriciaafricaiglesias below (read her style interview here)

Recreate her outfit with this similar dress, jacket, pumps and bag.

best arch support sandals

Sandals are a great choice when the weather gets warmer. Let’s take a look at some of the most supportive arch support shoes for summer.

1. fly london

My brand of choice for arch support shoes is FLY London.

My current favorite is their Bani sandal which I have worn very often over the last few months.

Fly London Bani Sandal

They are incredibly comfortable, even for long city walks or when visiting Versailles.

Similar top, jacket, skirt, Fly London Bani sandals and hat

I also like wearing my Fly London Yala wedges below when I want more height. They are currently sold out but you can check out the other styles here and here. They look a little ‘chunky’ in style before you put them on, but when you wear them, they are comfortable, stylish and edgy. They remain on trend each year!

Similar dress (other options here and here), shoes and clutch

I find these are great shoes to transition from summer through to fall as you can wear with summer clothes or pieces for cooler weather.

Below are a few examples of how I have worn my own Yala wedges.

Similar top, skirt, shoes and shoulder bag

Similar top, (another option here), skirt (another option here), shoes, tote and necklace

You may also like to try the FLY London Yaji sandals below. It has the same sole as the Yala and has an edgy look.

FLY London Yaji Sandals

The Tupi sandals (below) feature raised seams which give them a point of difference, together with FLY London’s signature chunky sole.

FLY London Tupi Sandals
(Zappos / Amazon)

Shop FLY London: Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos

2. birkenstock

Birkenstock, with its instantly-recognizable contoured footbed is renowned for offering good arch support as the footbed is designed to mirror the shape of the foot.

Birkenstock Arizona Big Buckle Sandals
(Zappos / Amazon / Nordstrom)

Shop Birkenstock: Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos

3. Söfft

The Söfft sandals (below) look modern thanks to their wide straps. You can wear it day-to-day or for traveling.

Söfft Bali Sandals
(Zappos / Amazon / Nordstrom)

Shop Söfft: Website, Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos

4. aerosoles

The rubber soles on the Aerosoles sandals (below) are designed to disperse any friction points on your feet, and the gold color will go with everything in your summer or vacation wardrobe.

Aerosoles In Conchlusion Flat Sandals

Shop Aerosoles: Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos

5. franco sarto

The Franco Sarto sandals below feature InFORMA comfort technology, boasting ergonomic insoles, contoured padding strategically placed at key pressure points, and exceptional support. The innovative design not only enhances the style of the sandals but also prioritizes comfort, ensuring a pleasurable wearing experience throughout the day.

Franco Sarto Ruth Ankle Strap Sandals
(Zappos / Amazon / Nordstrom)

Shop Franco Sarto: Website,  Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos

6. cole haan

Snakeprint was a big favorite of designers on the runway this season. We love how the Cole Haan sandals (below) combine snakeprint with classic brown leather. They have a comfort insole which features layers of shock absorbtion together with arch support.

Cole Haan Anica Lux Buckle Sandals
(Zappos / Amazon / Nordstrom)

For a heeled option, we also love the block heeled sandals (below), which feature fantastic cushioning.

Cole Haan Anica Lux Block Heel Sandals
(Zappos / Amazon)

Shop Cole Haan: Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos

7. Dr. Scholl’s

The Dr. Scholl’s sandals (below) have cushioning, comfort and arch support – perfect for sightseeing when you’ll be doing a lot of walking.

Dr. Scholl’s Take Five Flat Sandals
(Zappos / Amazon / Nordstrom)

Or, for a little extra height, try the Dr. Scholl’s platforms (below) which come in a choice of colors and have a foam insole.

Dr. Scholl’s Once Twice Espadrille Sandals
(Zappos / Amazon)

Shop Dr. Scholl’s Shoes: Website, Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos

8. Børn

If you prefer a more substantial look to your sandals, rather than strappy styles, then the Børn sandals (below) would look good with your shorts for sightseeing trips. Reviewers say they are very comfortable.

Børn Ithica Sandals
(Zappos / Amazon / Nordstrom)

Shop Børn: Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos

9. rockport

For a wedge look with comfort, the Rockport sandals (below) are well reviewed. Wearers describe them as “insanely comfortable”.

Rockport Briah Sling Wedge Sandal
(Website / Zappos / Amazon)

Shop Rockport: Website, Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos

10. skechers

If you usually wear Skechers sneakers, you could also try their sandals. The Arch Fit sandals (below) are a classic, comfortable, modern style that should go with everything in your closet.

Skechers Foamies Arch Fit Footsteps Sandals

Shop SKECHERS: Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos

Similar dress, Fly London Bani Sandal and hat

Best shoes with ARCH SUPPORT – sneakers

If you really want to make sure you’re comfy, then a pair of sneakers could be a good option for you.

1. keen

KEEN’s Knx sneakers are a true classic that won’t go out of style. They are designed to hug and move with your feet.

KEEN Knx Lace Flexible Sneakers
(Zappos / Amazon)

Shop KEEN: Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos

2. ECCO

We love the interesting sole on the ECCO sneakers (below), which would add modernity to your outfits. Reviewers say they are comfy and bouncy with good arch support.

ECCO Gruuv Sneakers
(Website / Zappos / Amazon / Nordstrom)

Shop ECCO: Website, Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos

3. taos

The Taos sneakers (below) are another true classic. They come in a good choice of colors and offer arch and metatarsal support.

Taos Footwear Plim Soul Lux Sneakers
(Zappos / Amazon)

Shop Taos Footwear: Website, Amazon and Zappos

4. victoria

Victoria’s Berlin sneakers look hip and modern thanks to the color contrast design. They have a padded textile footbed for comfort and arch support.

victoria Berlin Ciclista Sneakers
(Zappos / Amazon)

Shop victoria: Zappos

5. Paul Green

We love the metallic shade of the Paul Green sneakers (below) because it will go with everything in your closet. They feature a small platform for a little height and have a padded footbed with arch support.

Paul Green Faye Sneakers
(Zappos / Amazon / Nordstrom)

Shop Paul Green: Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos

6. adidas by Stella McCartney

A designer option for you now. Stella McCartney’s collaboration with Adidas is the perfect way to add a designer touch to your outfits without breaking the bank. They have a cushioned midsole with absorbs shock and keeps you comfortable.

adidas by Stella McCartney Sportswear 2000 Sneakers
(Zappos / Amazon)

Shop adidas: Website, Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos

7. skechers

If you’re looking for sneakers for walking or running errands, the SKECHERS Go Walk Joy style (below) could be ideal. They have more than 60,000 largely positive reviews, with wearers saying they are cushioned and flexible. One woman said Skechers are the only brand she wears.

SKECHERS Go Walk Joy Sneaker
(Zappos /Amazon)

Shop SKECHERS: Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos

8. SOUL Naturalizer

Not a running sneaker, but a great option for casual days, we love the Naturalizer reptile texture sneakers (below), which have a minimalist silhouette and good arch support.

SOUL Naturalizer Turner Platform Slip On Sneakers
(Zappos /Amazon)

Shop Naturalizer: Website, Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos

9. Dr. Scholl’s

A wedge sneaker is perfect to add a little height and a point of different to your outfit. The Dr. Scholl’s sneakers (below) feature elastic at the sides for easy on-and-off, and they are partially made from recycled bottles, so you will be doing your bit for the environment.

Dr. Scholl’s Time Off Wedge Sneakers
(Zappos /Amazon / Nordstrom)

Shop Dr. Scholl’s Shoes: Website, Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos

10. frye

Frye’s slip-on sneakers are a classic shape and a lovely metallic shade. They feature arch support and elastic goring to make them easy to get on.

Frye Ivy Slip-On Sneakers
(Zappos /Amazon / Nordstrom)

Shop Frye: Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos

Adaline @sdmomstyles above styles her sneakers with her loungewear for a stylish, casual look.

Get her look with this similar ribbed set, denim jacket, sneakers and bag.

best running shoes with arch support

If you want your shoes to keep you comfortable while exercising, you will want to look out for a pair designed especially for sport. While many of the sneaker options above would be perfect for exercise, there are more below that you could choose.

1. rykä

Ryka’s sneakers have the American Podiatric Medial Association Seal of Acceptance for products that promote good foot health. They have an anatomical footbed for arch and heel support.

rykä Devotion X Plus Walking Shoes
(Website / Zappos)

Shop rykä: Website, Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos

2. fitflop

FitFlops’s running shoes (below) come in a good choice of colors. They are super light and have extra support at the arch.

FitFlop Ff Runner Shoes
(Website / Zappos)

Shop FitFlop: Website, Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos

3. New Balance

New Balance is often recommended for arch support. They have a removable cushioned footbed and the lug sole makes them good for uneven terrain if you are walking or hiking the trails.

New Balance Fresh Foam 510 V6 Trail Running Shoes
(Zappos / Amazon)

Shop New Balance: Website, Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos

4. HOKA

HOKA always makes shoes in fun colors so is perfect if you want to add a bright shade to your athletic outfits. These ones come in lots of color pathways and also have approval from the American Podiatric Medical Association.

HOKA Bondi 8 Max Cushioned Road Running Shoes
(Zappos / Nordstrom)

Shop HOKA: Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos

5. On

Cloudswift is super popular thanks to it’s instantly recognisable sole design and comfort footbed. The sneakers (below) are well reviewed by wearers who say they are comfy and perfect for high arches.

On Cloudswift 3 AD Sneakers
(Zappos / Amazon / Nordstrom)

Shop On: Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos

TENNIS SHOES WITH ARCH SUPPORT

A pair of sneakers or tennis shoes will go with the jeans in your closet, or you could wear with your skirts and dresses to add a more casual feel to your outfits.

1. mizuno

Mizuno’s tennis shoes (below) are made from recylced materials and they also have good ankle support.

Mizuno Wave Sky 7 Shoes
(Zappos / Amazon)

Shop Mizuno: Amazon and Zappos

2. wilson

Padel is becoming increasingly popular as a sport, and the Wilson shoes (below) are especially designed for it. They have a removable footbed and supportive heel, for comfort on the court.

Wilson Hurakn 2.0 Padel Shoes

Shop Wilson: Amazon and Zappos

best shoes with arch support – WOMEN’S WALKING shoes

If you’re looking for the best shoes with arch support to do some serious walking in, you may want to choose a specialist pair like one of the hiking shoes or walking sneakers options below.

1. timberland

For a more serious hiking choice, the Timberland hiking boots (below) have a cushioned footbed with heel and arch support.

Timberland Euro Hiker Hiking Boots
(Zappos / Amazon)

Shop Timberland: Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos

2. merrell

If you prefer a sneaker style but you still want to make sure your feet are supported, you could try the Merrell shoes (below). They’re especially designed for you if you use walking as a key part of your fitness regime.

Merrell Siren Edge 3 Hiking Shoes
(Zappos / Amazon / Nordstrom)

Shop Merrell: Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos

3. Skechers

Skechers are a good choice if you’ll be on your feet for a lot of the day. The walking sneakers (below) have arch support and come in a good choice of shades.

Skechers Go Walk Arch Fit 2.0 Balin Sneakers
(Zappos / Amazon / Nordstrom)

Shop SKECHERS: Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos

4. hiking sandals

On the other hand, if you live or are going on vacation somewhere warm, then you may prefer a pair of walking sandals.

Teva Jadito Universal Sandals
(Zappos / Amazon)

Shop Teva: Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos

KEEN’s Astoria West sandals are another good choice, and are ideal if you prefer to keep your toes covered while walking.

KEEN Astoria West Sandals
(Zappos / Amazon)

Shop KEEN: Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos

We also love the Taos sandals (below) for walking and sightseeing because you can use the straps to adjust the fit and get it just right for your feet.

Taos Footwear Super Z Sandals
(Zappos / Amazon)

Shop Taos: Amazon and Zappos

Josephine @chicatanyage below (read her style interview here) chooses lace-up boots to match her pants and gloves.

Check out this similar sweater, coat, pants, boots, scarf, earrings and gloves.

best SHOES WITH ARCH SUPPORT FOR TRAVEL

If you are looking for comfortable shoes for travel, here are a few more options.

Many of the arch support shoes mentioned above will be great choices but if arch support is not your top priority here are a few more.

1. sperry

Sperry is a big favorite of the Princess of Wales. They are a classic style that goes with everything from your shorts to dresses, and reviewers say they are perfect for wearing at the airport if you need to take your shoes on and off through security.

Sperry Crest Vibe Sneakers
(Zappos / Amazon / Nordstrom)

Shop Sperry: Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos

2. OrthoComfoot

The Orthocomfort shoes (below) are specifically designed to provide support and reduce foot pain. They come in a choice of colors and reviewers say they are a good wallet-friendly comfort option.

OrthoComfoot Slip-Ons

Shop OrthoComfoot: Amazon

3. Ilse Jacobsen

The slip-ons (below) come in a huge choice of colors and are good at keeping your feet cool when travelling. Reviewers say they like the fit, feel and cushioned sole. One wearers said she loved them so much she has them in three colors.

Ilse Jacobsen Tulip Slip-Ons
(Zappos / Amazon / Nordstrom)

Shop Ilse Jacobsen: Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos

For more inspiration, read our article on what shoes to wear with different styles of pants.

Similar top, jeans, shoes from Rollie (similar here) and necklace

SLIPPERS WITH ARCH SUPPORT

You may also want a pair of comfy slippers for relaxing in at home. And, of course, to keep your feet cozy.

If you usually need arch support, then walking around in bare feet or just your socks can be uncomfortable.

1. sollbeam

With arch support to help with foot and leg alignment while walking around the house, the Sollbeam slippers (below) have a heel cup for extra support. Reviewers say they offer fantastic foot pain relief.

SOLLBEAM Arch Support Orthotic Heel Cup  Slippers

Shop SOLLBEAM: Amazon

2. KuaiLu

For a super cozy option, we love the fur lining on the memory foam slippers (below). They come in different colors and one reviewer even described them as the most comfortable slippers in the world.

KuaiLu Fluff Dual Memory Foam Slippers

Shop KuaiLu: Amazon

3. hometop

For a simple style, the HomeTop slippers have an easy slip-on design and come in a huge choice of colors.

HomeTop Memory Foam Loafer Slippers

Shop HomeTop: Amazon

There are more ideas here in this article on the most comfortable walking shoes for women over 40.

Lydia @birabiro above (read her style interview here) chooses a pair of bright pink slipppers to go with her loungesuit.

Steal her look with this similar lounge set, vest and slippers (another option here).

OTHER RECOMMENDED BRANDS for the best ARCH SUPPORT SHOES

Of course, the options above aren’t the only arch support shoes available, although they tend to be the most popular.

Here is a full list of recommended brands of shoes that offer you great arch support and are comfortable walking shoes.

I have listed the best arch support shoes brands in alphabetical order:

• Aerosoles (Amazon / Zappos / Nordstrom)
• Aetrex (Amazon / Zappos / Nordstrom)
• Alegria (Amazon/Zappos / Nordstrom)
• Aravon (Amazon/Zappos/Nordstrom)
• Arche (Zappos)
• Arcopedico (Amazon / Zappos)
• ASICS (Amazon / Zappos / Nordstrom)
• Bared footwear (Australia)
• Bernardo (Amazon / Zappos / Nordstrom)
• Birkenstock (Amazon / Zappos / Nordstrom)
• Børn (Amazon / Zappos / Nordstrom)
• BZees (Amazon / Zappos / Nordstrom)
• Chaco (Amazon / Zappos / Nordstrom)
• Clarks (Amazon / Zappos / Nordstrom)
• Cobb Hill (Amazon / Zappos)
• Dansko (Amazon / Zappos / Nordstrom)
• ECCO (Amazon / Zappos / Nordstrom)
• Earth Origins (Amazon / Zappos / Nordstrom)
• Earthies (Amazon / Zappos)
• Finn Comfort (Amazon / Zappos)
• FitFlop (Amazon / Zappos / Nordstrom)
• Fly London (Amazon / Zappos / Nordstrom)
• Frankie4 (Australia)
• Gentle Souls by Kenneth Cole (Amazon / Zappos / Nordstrom)
• Geox (Amazon / Zappos / Nordstrom)
• Hush Puppies (Amazon / Zappos / Nordstrom)
• J. Renée (Nordstrom)
• Jack Rogers (Amazon / Zappos / Nordstrom)
• Jambu (Amazon / Zappos / Nordstrom)
• Josef Seibel (Amazon / Zappos /Nordstrom)
• Klogs (Zappos)
• L’Amour Des Pieds (Amazon / Zappos / Nordstrom)
• Mephisto (Amazon / Zappos / Nordstrom)
• Merrell (Amazon / Zappos / Nordstrom)
• MOSHA BELLE (Amazon)
• Naot (Amazon/Zappos/Nordstrom)
• Naturalizer (Amazon / Zappos / Nordstrom)
• New Balance (Amazon / Zappos / Nordstrom)
• Paul Green (Amazon / Zappos / Nordstrom)
• Propét (Amazon / Zappos / Nordstrom)
• PIKOLINOS (Amazon / Zappos / Nordstrom)
• Rieker (Amazon / Zappos / Nordstrom)
• Rockdove (Amazon)
• Rockport (Amazon / Zappos / Nordstrom)
• Romika (Amazon / Zappos / Nordstrom)
• Rollie (Amazon / Nordstrom)
• Sam Edelman (Amazon / Zappos / Nordstrom)
• SoftWalk (Amazon / Zappos / Nordstrom)
• Söfft (Amazon / Zappos / Nordstrom)
• Superga (Amazon / Zappos)
• Taos (Amazon / Zappos)
• Teva (Amazon / Zappos / Nordstrom)
• Think! (Amazon / Zappos)
• Trotters (Amazon / Zappos / Nordstrom)
• UGG (Amazon / Zappos / Nordstrom)
• Unity in Diversity (Zappos / Nordstrom)
• VANELi (Amazon / Zappos / Nordstrom)
• Vans (Amazon / Zappos / Nordstrom)
• Vionic (Amazon / Zappos / Nordstrom)
• Wolky (Amazon / Zappos)
• Ziera (Amazon)

shop the best shoes with arch support here:

WANT TO MAKE THIS RESOURCE EVEN BETTER? ADD YOUR best ARCH SUPPORT shoes RECOMMENDATIONS AS WELL

Just add a comment to this article with your favorite arch support shoes and why they work so well for you.

Do you have any favorite comfortable shoe brands? What would be your picks for the best arch support shoes? Let me know in the comments below.

More articles on comfortable shoes:

1. The Most Comfortable Walking Shoes For The Stylish Woman
2. The Best Plantar Fasciitis Shoes For Women Over 40
3. The Most Comfortable Heels That Look Hip AND Are Comfortable To Wear

LIKE THIS ARTICLE ON THE BEST SHOES WITH ARCH SUPPORT? SHARE IT ON PINTEREST!

The post Best shoes with arch support – comfortable walking shoes to walk in all day! appeared first on 40+ Style.

Why are most jeans blue?

Jeans have been worn for centuries, but why were they originally blue? Initially, the blue came from an indigo dye, chosen mainly because of the way it interacted with the denim. During each wash, a little of the dye and fibers are lost, giving blue jeans a softer, more lived-in look as time goes on.

What to consider when choosing your blue jeans

So, when you’re looking for the perfect pair of blue jeans, what should you take into account?

1. Take inspiration from our popular jeans article

Look at our guidelines on wearing jeans over 40 for plenty of tips to help you choose your jeans. All of those guidelines apply to choosing any color of jeans.

2. Consider the shade of your blue jeans

When choosing blue jeans in particular, you will want to consider the exact shade of blue that you want. Darker blue tends to be more flattering, slimming, and easier to wear for work or dinner with a special top. Lighter blue usually looks more casual.

Also, think about how the color of your jeans will work for your figure. For instance, if you have a pear-shaped body, darker jeans will help slim and balance your hips and thighs. Meanwhile, if you have an inverted triangle shape, lighter blue can make your bottom half look more in balance with your broad shoulders.

Karen @styledbykaren above opts for an on-trend pair of high-waisted, wide-leg blue jeans with a raw hem. High-waisted styles look great with your top tucked in or with a shorter top or sweater that ends at the waistline.

Recreate her outfit with this similar top (another option here), jeans and sandals.

3. The shape of your jeans

Wider jeans and bootcuts are particularly on trend right now. But, if you love your skinnies and they suit your figure, they can still look great with tunic tops. Think about what suits you, rather than what suits the fashion industry.

4. Do you want contrast stitching

Look at the jeans you already have in your closet. Do they have contrast stitching? High contrast stitching can make jeans look more casual or Western, while jeans that are stitched with a color close to the hue of the rest of the denim will look smarter.

What is the best brand of blue jeans?

Some brands we love include PAIGE, KUT from the Kloth, and NYDJ. That’s because they are all designed with women’s figures in mind rather than for the teenage market, so you’ll find our favorite brands feature heavily in our round-up of the best blue jeans for women over 40 and below.

The best blue jeans for women we’ve seen this season

Now, let’s look at some of our favorite blue jeans. Below, you’ll find some of the jeans we already have in our closets at 40+ style, as well as those we have our eyes on.

Bootcuts

Bootcut jeans have been a part of fashion history for decades and are still on trend this year. They’re one of the most flattering choices for all figures, thanks to figure-hugging thighs and flared hems that create a leg-lengthening effect.

PAIGE is one of our all-time favorite jeans brands, and we love the flared bootcut jeans (below) which strikes the perfect balance between smart and casual.

PAIGE Laurel Canyon High Waist Flare Jeans
(Nordstrom / Amazon / Website)

Wit & Wisdom’s Itty Bitty bootcuts are another great choice that is available season after season. The dark wash makes them super versatile for most occasions.

Wit & Wisdom ‘Ab’Solution Itty Bitty Bootcut Jeans

Fonda @savvysouthernchic above chooses a mid-wash pair of blue bootcuts, and tucks her blouse in for a leg-lengthening look.

Check out this similar blouse, leather jacket (another option here), bootcut jeans, booties, bag and earrings.

wide leg

Wide legs are particularly on trend right now. So, if you don’t already have a pair of blue wide leg jeans in your closet, now is definitely the time to add one.

Boden’s high-rise jeans (below) combine casual contrast stitching with a more formal cut usually associated with wide-leg trousers. We love the flattering dark blue shade.

Boden High Rise Wide Leg Jeans

For a smart choice to wear to work, choosing a pair of jeans with a crease that makes them look like trousers like the J.Crew jeans (below) is a great choice.

J.Crew Denim Trouser

flare

Let’s move onto blue flares now. Flare jeans are fabulous to mirror your curves, or give you some. The Mother jeans (below) with their fading around the knees and thighs are more casual and akin to 70s jeans stylish. Ideal if you have a bohemian style personality.

Mother The Weekender Flare Jeans
(Saks Fifth Avenue / Website)

For a smarter look, choose a pair of darker denim flares. The Hudson Jeans flares (below) feature subtle whiskering at the hips, which gives them just the right amount of lived-in appeal.

Hudson Jeans Holly High-Rise Flared Jeans
(Nordstrom / Amazon / Saks Fifth Avenue / Website)

Greetje @no_fear_of_fashion above opts for dark denim with pockets at the front, and tucks her sweater in.

Steal her look with this similar sweater, jeans, booties, handbag and necklace.

straight leg

Straight leg styles manage to be modern while having vintage appeal. They look great in high-waisted styles like the Levi’s Ribcage jeans (below). They come in a good choice of blue shades so you can go as light or dark as you want. Reviewers say the fit is flattering with evident attention to good tailoring.

Levi’s Ribcage High Waist Straight Leg Jeans
(Nordstrom / Amazon / Website)

For a more classic look when it comes to your straight jeans, look at NYDJ’s Marilyn denim, which are usually available season after season. These come in a choice of blue colors and have lift, tuck technology to shape the rear.

NYDJ Marilyn Straight Jeans
(Nordstrom / Amazon / Website)

Skinnies

Skinny jeans fell out of favor for a while, but are slowly making another comeback. We spotted lots of skinnies on the fashion catwalks for 2024. Perfect to wear with your longer tops and tunics and boots or ballet flats.

Good American Good Legs Crop Skinny Jeans
(Saks Fifth Avenue / Website

The NYDJ skinnies (below) shouldn’t lose their shape as they feature elastin to give them some stretch. Plus, they have been especially designed to lift, shape and tuck everything in.

NYDJ Ami Skinny Jeans In Sure Stretch® Denim
(Nordstrom / Amazon / Website)

Tanasha @letsrecreatethelook above opts for a classic choice of skinny jeans and a bright blazer with matching ballet flats.

Get her look with this similar top, blazer, jeans, flats, bag, belt and scarf.

trouser jeans

If you want to wear your jeans for work, then a good rule of thumb is to choose a dark shade of blue. To up the smartness level, choose a pair of trouser style jeans with a crease in the middle. FRAME’S trouser jeans have a triple banded waist, so are great with your blouses and tops tucked in.

FRAME Triple Binding Le Slim Palazzo Jeans
(Nordstrom / Saks Fifth Avenue)

Joe’s trouser jeans are another smart, 70s-inspired choice. Just be aware if you are choosing a pair of trouser jeans with a turned up hem, that the hem will ‘cut’ a visual line along your ankles which can make your legs look shorter. Of course, perhaps you already have long legs and you don’t mind. Or, you can always add a pair of heels underneath to counteract that effect.

Joe’s Jeans Madison High-Rise Trouser Jeans
(Dillard’s / Website)

boyfriend

Blue boyfriend jeans are the ultimate casual denim style. So, of course, you can wear it with your sneakers and T-shirts or sweaters. But we love to mix formal and wear with a blazer and heels. The KUT from the Kloth jeans (below) comes in a good choice of blue shades, and reviewers say they are good for curvy figures.

KUT from the Kloth Catherine Boyfriend Jeans
(Amazon / Website)

The Levi’s boyfriend jeans (below) also come in a fantastic range of blues. Wear them turned up or down at the hem, depending on what looks best for you. Some reviewers say you should size down as they run a bit big.

Levi’s New Boyfriend Jeans
(Amazon / Website)

Carmen @carmen_gimeno above dresses up her boyfriend jeans with her blazer, designer bag and shiny red flats.

Recreate her outfit with this similar top, blazer, jeans, patent shoes, bag and brooch.

plus size

For the perfect pair of plus size blue jeans, we love the NYDJ straight legs (below). The high waist tucks everything in, and lift tuck technology helps to lift and slim.

NYDJ Marilyn Hollywood High Waist Straight Leg Jeans
(Nordstrom / Amazon / Website)

The Lee jeans (below) are also well reviewed by thousands of plus size wearers who say they hug in all the right places, and don’t pull down and expose anything when you sit or bend down. They come in a wide choice of blue colors from light to dark.

Lee Relaxed Fit Straight Leg Jean

petite

If you’re petite, finding a pair of jeans that fit just right can be tricky. We love the Joe’s Jeans boocuts (below) with their subtle, lived in whiskering and fading.

Joe’s Jeans The Provocateur Stephaney Bootcut Jeans
(Nordstrom / Website)

The NYDJ Barbara bootcuts are one of our favorite styles from the denim designer, and they come in regular and petite

NYDJ Barbara Bootcut Jeans
(Nordstrom / Website)

Abi @stealmystyle40 above chooses a pair of casual cropped blue jeans and adds a touch of more formal chic with her loafers.

Steal her look with this similar cardigan, jeans, loafers and tote.

Trendy jeans

There are lots of timeless styles for you above, but if you want to try a pair of blue jeans that are particularly on trend this season, take a look below.

Cargo styles of jeans are ideal if you want to add casual flair, or you want to make your bottom half look larger in relation to your top half. Good for inverted triangles and to add curves for rectangles.

Hudson Jeans Wide-Leg Cargo Jeans
(Nordstrom / Saks Fifth Avenue)

The barrel leg cut like the Pistola jeans (below) has been taking the fashion world by storm recently. But, what is it, and should you wear it? They fit well as the waist, taper out in the legs, and then back in at the ankle. They’re a bit like mom jeans but tend to have a slimmer fit. Because they’re a curvy shape, they can flatter your curves and help to give the illusion of curves if you don’t have any.

Pistola Eli Ankle Barrel Leg Jeans

To add a little glamour to your blue jeans, add some embellishment. The crystal embellished jeans (below) will add a point of difference to your denim.

Endless Rose Crystal Embellished High Waist Rigid Straight Leg Jeans

What are your favorite blue jeans brands? What is the most flattering pair of blue jeans you own? Let us know you own best blue jeans for women in the comments below

shop the best blue jeans for women here:

Continue reading:

1. How To Wear Jeans Over 40 – Guidelines And Lots Of Ideas
2. The Best White Jeans For Women Over 40 – Our Top Picks
3. The Best Fitting Jeans For Women: Choose The Best Jeans For Your Body Type

Like this article on the best blue jeans for women over 40? Share it on Pinterest

Feature image by Greetje @no_fear_of_fashion

The post The best blue jeans for women over 40 to go with every top in your closet appeared first on 40+ Style.

With party season in full force, you’ll want to make sure your perfume makes an impact. You may just find your new signature scent or the perfect gift for a loved one among these….

Choosing the best smelling perfume for you

Just as you are drawn to certain styles of clothing and accessories, you are likely to be attracted to particular styles of perfume.

You may prefer fragrances which are musky, floral or citrusy, for example. While you probably already have a favorite fragrance, it’s always fun to experiment with new styles, just as with the rest of your outfits.

What is a good winter perfume?

Below, you will find some of the best and most popular perfumes to try from big name brands and lesser known options.

Winter perfumes

Take a look and see if your new winter perfume is among the choices below. We’ve included a mix of classics and newer options. We would also love to hear what your all-time favorite perfume is to wear for winter. You can let us know in the comments section at the bottom.

Best Chanel perfume

Chanel is always a popular choice when it comes to perfume. When choosing a CHANEL perfume, the truly timeless option would be CHANEL N°5.

However, if you want to try a different Chanel option, then PARIS-PARIS could be the perfect one to try. It’s a lovely mix of citrus, rose, and peppercorn, with patchouli to give it some weight. Reviewers say they always get lots of compliments when they wear it.

Chanel PARIS-PARIS LES EAUX DE CHANEL Eau de Toilette 

Best Gucci perfume

Gucci has introduced a series of perfumes called The Alchemist’s Garden, which come in seriously pretty bottles. We love Where My Heart Beats for winter. If you love fresh, green florals, this is for you.

Gucci Where My Heart Beats Eau de Parfum

Best Tom Ford perfume

If you really want to make an impact with your perfume, then a Tom Ford fragrance could be the way to go. There’s a boldness to all Tom Ford fragrances, so they definitely aren’t for shrinking violets. They’re also unusual, in a good way. The designer is unafraid to play around with different combinations.

But, which Tom Ford scent is the best? Well, like anything in life, that’s subjective. Soleil Neige is inspired by sunshine on snow, so it’s perfect for the cooler months.

TOM FORD Private Blend Soleil Neige Eau de Parfum

Best Dior perfume

For those of you with a glamorous style personality among you, you really can’t go wrong with a DIOR perfume. Miss Dior looks great on your dressing table thanks to the romantic bow styling. It is a peony and rose scent with added muskiness. It smells clean, light, and floral.

DIOR Miss Dior Blooming Bouquet Eau de Toilette

Best Burberry perfume

Burberry’s Goddess perfume is ideal if you love a glamorous look for your dressing table. This is a lovely one if you love vanilla scents, and there’s an unexpected hint of lavender. It’s warm and spicy so perfect to evoke a cozy feeling on colder days.

Burberry Goddess Refillable Eau de Parfum

Mugler perfume

If you like a non-traditional perfume with a strong scent, then Mugler perfumes are a good choice. You may have already tried Alien or Angel. But, how about trying one of the new Alien blends?

Alien Goddess features jasmine, bergamot and vanilla. Coconut adds a slight beachy vibe but it has enough warmth to make sure it holds its own in winter and fall.

MUGLER Alien Goddess by Mugler Eau de Parfum

Best Jo Malone perfume

Are you a Jo Malone fan? While Jo Malone fragrances are pricier than some options on the list, they last a long time and they do smell fabulous. Plus, the beauty of Jo Malone perfumes is that you can wear them on their own or you can blend them to create a unique fragrance.

One of our favorites is this Peony & Blush cologne (below) which manages ot be both fresh and sensual at the same time. It’s perfect for the party season.

Jo Malone London Peony & Blush Suede Cologne

Best Lancôme perfume

There are plenty of Lancôme perfumes you could choose from, but one of the most well-reviewed is Oui La vie est belle, which is fresh, clean and soapy, making it a good everyday option year-round.

Lancôme La vie est belle Eau de Parfum

best marc jacobs perfume

Marc Jacobs’ bottles certainly make a statement on the dressing table, making them a good, playful, gift. Perfect is different from so many fragrances because it combines rhubarb and daffodils, making it ideal for winter through into spring.

Marc Jacobs Perfect Eau de Parfum

best victoria’s secret perfume

If you want a relatively inexpensive option, you could look at Victoria’s Secret fragrances. The bottle of Bombshell Sundrenched is perfect for festive parties. Reviewers say it is intense and seductive but also has a fresh scent, making it ideal year round. Ideal to bring a bit of sunshine into your world even when it’s cold outside.

Victoria’s Secret Bombshell Sundrenched Eau De Parfum

lily of the valley perfume

Softly floral and slightly sweet, lily of the valley is frequently used in fragrances, and it also happens to be Kate Middleton’s favorite flower. Acqua di Parma’s Lily of the Valley features a classy sweet smell with classic white flowers.

Acqua di Parma Signatures of the Sun Lily of the Valley Eau de Parfum

Best vanilla perfume

Do you like a vanilla scent? We know some of you will love vanilla while others may find it too sweet. However, vanilla doesn’t have to be cloying. If you are looking for a grown-up, sophisticated vanilla fragrance, then try the Skylar Vanilla Sky perfume which is spicy, sweet, warm and wearable.

Skylar Vanilla Sky Eau de Parfum

Best floral perfume

If you prefer a floral scent, one of the best-reviewed is Parfums de Marly Delina perfume which is a complex bouquet in a bottle. Plus, it features the prettiest pink packaging, which should definitely appeal to the romantics among you.

Parfums de Marly Delina Eau de Parfum

Best long-lasting perfume

Perfumes react differently on different people. You may find that something that smells fantastic on a friend doesn’t suit your body chemistry at all and smells completely different.

The same is often the case for how long a perfume lasts. However, if you are trying to find a perfume that is likely to last all day, Maison Francis Kurkdjian Oud Satin Mood perfume has plenty of reviews commenting on how long it stays on the skin for. Reviewers describe it as addictive and intense.

Maison Francis Kurkdjian Oud Satin Mood Eau de Parfum

Best rose perfume

Rose fragrances sometimes have a reputation for being old-fashioned. However, that’s far from the case with the Le Labo Rose 31 Eau de Parfum

It pairs rose with spices and woody notes.

Le Labo Rose 31 Eau de Parfum

Best fruity perfume

Do you prefer fruity rather than oriental or floral? Some fruity perfumes can feel a little too girly, but the Ellis Brooklyn SUN FRUIT perfume is the epitome of grown-up, fruit-filled sophistication. You don’t have to keep your sunny fragrances just for summer.

Ellis Brooklyn SUN FRUIT Eau de Parfum

Best jasmine perfume

Jasmine is often featured in perfume for its sweet scent. If you’re a fan of jasmine a sophisticated choice is the Carolina Herrera Good Girl perfume. As well as jasmine, it features warming spices including safe and pepper.

Carolina Herrera Good Girl Eau de Parfum

Top rated perfume

When looking to try a new perfume, choosing one with lots of good reviews can be the best way to choose a fragrance that you haven’t tried before.

CHANEL N°5 is an absolute classic that you have to try at least once.

CHANEL N°5 Eau de Parfum Spray

clean smelling perfume

If you prefer a nice, fresh, clean smelling scent, the Narciso Rodriguez perfume (below) is perfect for you. It’s clean and floral with a little bit of musk. Reviewers say it is grown up and sexy.

Narciso Rodriguez For Her Pure Musc Eau de Parfum

Best citrus perfume

A citrusy scent can be ideal for both summer and for winter perfumes. CHRIS COLLINS Citrus Grandis is sharp and citrusy with pomelo notes, but it also features earthy, woody notes to add balance. It feels bright, radiant and sophisticated.

CHRIS COLLINS Citrus Grandis Eau de Parfum

best coconut perfume

Coconut is usually associated with summer days, but you can definitely wear it for winter too, so don’t discount it when considering winter perfumes. Maybe it’s best during cooler months when people aren’t expecting it.

The Laura Mercier Almond Coconut perfume is well reviewed and we love the warm addition of almond.

Laura Mercier Almond Coconut Eau de Parfum

Best sweet perfume

If you like a sweet perfume, Brown Girl Jane Casablanca incorporates musk and caramel and works particularly well in colder weather. It smells both sweet and sensual.

Brown Girl Jane Casablanca Eau de Parfum

Winter perfumes as gifts

As well as treating yourself to a new fragrance ready for the festive party season, perfume can also make a great gift.

Thinking about the sort of style a loved one is drawn to in their outfit choices, it will help you to narrow down the kind of perfume they are likely to love.

Chanel

Chanel is an absolute classic choice that is sure to be appreciated. The Coco Mademoiselle set (below) features both fragrance and body oil. Wear both and it will make your fragrance last longer.

CHANEL COCO MADEMOISELLE Coffret Set

DIOR

Another classic choice for you. Dior’s perfume set below features a selection of Dior’s favorite fragrances, as well as timeless red lipstick. Perfect for party season.

DIOR Le Mini 30 Montaigne Discovery Set

Yves Saint Laurent

Dramatic and glamorous, Yves Saint Laurent’s Black Opium set features body cream, perfume and a travel size fragrance so you can top up your fragrance on the go.

Yves Saint Laurent Black Opium Fragrance Set

Parfums de Marly 

If you want to try something different, the perfume set (below) isn’t one of the bigger name brands so you’re less likely to find anyone else wearing the same fragrance as you. It’s a great way to sample the perfumes before deciding which one to buy in full size.

Parfums de Marly Feminine Fragrance Discovery Collection

Jo Malone

Jo Malone’s Christmas collection set would definitely be welcome under the Christmas tree. The ginger biscuit fragrance smells fabulous and the set also features Jo Malone favorites.

Jo Malone Christmas Cologne Collection Set

For more gift inspiration take a look at the best gifts for women over 40.

What fragrance is best for cold weather?

You’re sure to have been tempted by one of our perfume picks above. For fragrances that match the winter season, look for notes of vanilla, spice, orange, amber and wood. Or choose clean fresh scents that emulate winter snow. But, don’t limit yourself. If you want to bring the smell of sunshine to the cooler months, choose coconut or florals.

How do you wear perfume in the winter?

To give your perfume longevity in winter, apply in several different spots, including your wrist and the nape of your neck. Layer your fragrance with a body lotion or body oil and then add your perfume.

Maybe you could start your own Christmas or New Year’s Eve tradition of wearing the same scent each year.

If you’re in sunnier climes this festive season, you may wish to check out our article on the best fragrances for summer.

shop the best winter perfumes here:

What are your favorite winter perfumes for women? Will you be trying something different this winter?

Continue reading:

1. The Best Gift Ideas For Women Over 40
2. How Important Is Perfume For Your Style?
3. How To Wear Perfume The Right Way

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Feature image by Gucci

The post Top perfumes for women this winter: The most glamorous scents for your Christmas parties appeared first on 40+ Style.

Are designer scarves worth it?

Because designer scarves are truly timeless and transcend trends, they’re a great investment. You can wear a designer scarf year after year. And, of course, buying a designer scarf is a more cost-effective way to wear your favorite designer without investing in top-to-toe, high-end brands.

Which brand is famous for scarves?

Hermés and Dior are famous for their iconic silk scarves, while more recently, Burberry checks and Alexander McQueen’s skull print have become instantly recognizable.

Do you want a neck scarf or an oversized option?

When thinking about your designer scarf of choice, consider whether you want to wear your scarf indoors or out, and whether you are looking for style alone or you want to combine that with warmth.

What material to choose?

This will come down to the look and feel you want. Choose wool and cashmere for cool weather or silk, satin, and linen blends for indoor wear or warm months.

Abi @stealmystyle40 above opts for a classic black scarf with her monochrome outfit.

Recreate her outfit with this similar scarf (another option here), dress, moto jacket, boots and bag.

Do you want an iconic print or something different?

If you want your scarf to be instantly recognizable as a designer scarf, then look out for one of the best-known prints. But, if you wish to quiet luxury, you can choose something more unexpected. Either way, you’ll find a favorite in this article.

Are you buying a designer scarf for yourself or as a gift?

We think scarves make fabulous gifts for women. You’ll need to consider what colors and outfits your recipient loves to wear.

The best designer scarves for women

Let’s look at the most stylish and best designer scarves for women we’ve spotted in stores now.

Alexander McQueen

Alexander McQueen’s skull print scarves are famous, but we also love the designer’s solarized scarves, inspired by photography’s light exposure techniques. The result is beautiful, graphically printed scarves that will add a modern touch to any outfit.

Alexander McQueen Solarized Silk-Cotton Scarf

Burberry

One of the most iconic prints you can choose is the Burberry check pattern. This looks fantastic worn against your block color winter coats or with your trench coat.

Burberry Giant Check Print Wool & Silk Scarf

We also love the Burberry oversized rose print scarf (below), which will bring a beautiful bloom into the cold winter months. Wear on either the red or burgundy side to change up your outfits.

Burberry Rose Jacquard Wool-Silk Scarf

Prada

Like a work of art, the Prada scarf (below) features a romantic floral print. A great way to update your weekend or workwear.

Prada Crepe De Chine Jacquard Scarf

Dries van Noten

We love Dries van Noten for its modernist aesthetic. The two-tone scarf (below) is hip, minimalist and comes in a lovely silk shade.

Dries van Noten Raving Rose Silk Foulard Scarf

Ferragamo

We love the print on the Ferragamo silk scarf (below), which is a fabulous way to transport yourself on vacation without going anywhere at all.

Ferragamo Palazzo Feroni Print Silk Square Foulard

For dramatic flair, you can’t beat the picture scarf (below), which gives a fresh take on leopard print.

Ferragamo Leopard-Print Silk Scarf

Missoni

Missoni’s geometric pattern is instantly recognizable and is fantastic for adding a touch of bohemian flair to your outfits.

Missoni Chevron Stripe Wool Blend Scarf

Moschino

If you love a glamorous look, the Moschino is a great go-to. The silk scarf (below) would look great with your jeans and blazer outfits.

Moschino Leopard Chain Print Square Silk Scarf

Dolce&Gabbana

Instead of a statement necklace, wear the cherry print skinny scarf around your neck. You can also wear it instead of a bracelet or tie around the handle of your handbag to create different looks.

Dolce&Gabbana Cherry Print Silk Skinny Scarf

The Dolce&Gabbana print scarf (below) would also add a fantastic pop of color to your winter outfits.

Dolce&Gabbana Maiolica Print Cashmere-Modal Scarf

Mulberry

If you like a subtle, luxurious designer look, then Mulberry is a fantastic choice. It is made from a wonderfully soft cashmere and has the discrete Mulberry logo in the corner. We love the cobalt blue shade of the Mulberry scarf (below).

Mulberry Embroidered Logo Fringe Trim Cashmere Scarf

Saint Laurent

The Saint Laurent logo is interwoven into the silk and wool scarf (below) like a pattern. It comes in a choice of three lovely autumnal shades.

Saint Laurent Grand Allover Logo Silk & Wool Scarf

Polo ralph lauren

For a preppy look, Ralph Lauren is a fantastic brand to choose. The wool blend scarf (below) will keep you cozy on cold winter days and would look beautiful worn with a cream or white coat and tan boots.

Polo Ralph Lauren Patchwork Plaid Recycled Wool Blend Fringe Scarf

Faliero Sarti

Faliero Sarti’s scarves have interesting prints that are sure to prove to be talking points. If you love New York, then the Manhattan print is for you.

Faliero Sarti Manhattan Printed Wool Scarf

We also love the ombre scarf (below), which has the feel of a modern artwork.

Faliero Sarti Dania Wool-Blend Scarf

longchamp

We love Longchamp’s bags for travelling, and the medallion print scarf (below) would add a polished look to your travel or weekend wear too.

Longchamp Logo Medallion Cotton Blend Fringe Scarf

etro

Etro is known for lovely prints, the the silk scarf (below) is no exception. Perfect to add interest to an otherwise neutral outfit.

Etro Floral Print Square Scarf

We love the colors in the red and blue scarf (below) too, which is a lovely blend of modal, cotton and silk.

Etro Floral Modal-Blend Scarf

Givenchy

The silk scarf (below) features the designer’s signature motif, and will look fabulous as part of a monochrome outfit.

Givenchy 4G Monogram Silk Square Scarf

versace

Versace is the epitome of glamour, and there’s no mistaking who designed the silk scarf (below). Wear with your neutral tops and let your scarf be the star of your outfit.

Versace Barocco Silk Scarf

Loewe

Loewe’s logo print scarf (below) is an alpaca blend so it’s very soft. It features a tassel trim and will be perfect to add to your winter wardrobe.

Loewe Anagram Alpaca-Blend Scarf

Kate Spade New York

You can also look at mid-range brands as well as top-tier designer houses to give you a designer look. Kate Spade is a great choice if you like a romantic look.

Kate Spade New York Rose Garden Oblong Scarf

coach

The COACH scarf (below) is great to add a pop of color to your outfits. You could wear for work, or with your jeans and a white shirt.

COACH Signature Logo Square Silk Scarf

tory burch

The Tory Burch scarf (below) has a gentle sheen which gives it a luxurious finish. It comes in a choice of soft colors and is big enough to wear over your shoulders as a shawl too.

Tory Burch Diamond Dot Jacquard Wool & Silk Traveler Scarf

Acne Studios

Houndstooth is a print that doesn’t date, so you can wear the Acne Studios scarf year after year.

Acne Studios Vadik Houndstooth Knit Scarf

Isabel Marant

The Isabel Marant scarf (below) features a stylish graphic print and comes in a soft wool and cashmere.

Isabel Marant Alette Wool-Cashmere Scarf

Toteme

Toteme’s scarf gives a large but subtle take on the designer trend because you have to have the scarf open to see the full name, but it still has a lovely pattern while wrapped.

Toteme Ps24 Monogram Wool Cashmere Scarf

Dolce&Gabbana

Dolce&Gabbana Maiolica Print Cashmere-Modal Scarf

Pleats Please Issey Miyake

Issey Miyake is known for geometric shape bags, and is also taking a textural approach to scarves like the semi-sheer scarf (below). Wear wrapped around your neck, or drape over your shoulders and wear with your eveningwear.

Pleats Please Issey Miyake Semi-Sheer Shibori Scarf

Valentino Garavani

Take a walk on the wild side with Valentino Garavani’s panther print scarf. Brighten up your winter neutrals, or wear with other bright shades.

Valentino Garavani Panther Cashmere-Wool Stole

Rani Arabella

Whether you’re an equestrian or not, the polo print scarf (below) will add flair to any outfit.

Rani Arabella Cashmere and Silk Polo Printed Scarf

Jane Carr

Crafted in cashmere and with a subtle tonal design, the Jane Carr scarf will add a softness to winter looks.

Jane Carr Heroes The Wave Carre Cashmere Scarf

Barja

The colors in the Barja camo print scarf (below) look fabulous together and you can alter how the print looks depending on how you wear your scarf.

Barja Purple Camo Print Cashmere Scarf

Do you have a favorite among these designer scarves for women? Or do you already own one? What designer brand would you move love to add to your closet?

shop the best designer scarves here:

Continue reading:

1. How To Wear A Scarf And Style Scarves Different Ways
2. The 10 Best Designer Handbags You Can Definitely Afford
3. The Best Gift Ideas For Women Over 40

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Feature image by Abi @stealmystyle40

The post The best designer scarves for women to get wrapped up in style appeared first on 40+ Style.

What are the warmest gloves for women for winter?

Jess @elegantlydressedandstylish above (read her style interview here) opts for a classic, elegant pair of black leather gloves that will always be on trend.

Check out this similar blazer, pants, booties, handbag, necklace, earrings and gloves.

When choosing gloves, you want to make sure you’re cozy. So, what are the warmest gloves for winter that you can choose? Look for wool and fleece options. You can even choose heated gloves if you really feel the cold.

what winter gloves won’t make your hands sweat?

If you need warmth but you want to ensure that your hands don’t get sweaty, then choosing natural materials like wool and cashmere is a good idea.

what material should your gloves be?

This is going to come down to preference and practicality. We love wool and cashmere options if it’s not raining, or leather if you need a pair to keep out wind, rain and snow.

Do you need waterproof?

If you need a water resistant or waterproof choice, then leather is a great option. Or, you can choose synthetic materials that are specially designed to keep the rain out.

Smartphone compatabiilty 

If you want, or need, to check your phone while out and about, then choose gloves that are touchscreen compatible.

what brand is best for winter gloves?

Josephine @chicatanyage above (read her style interview here) adds a splash of color with her burgundy gloves.

Recreate her outfit with this similar sweater, pants, sneakers, beret and gloves.

We bring you lots of our favorite brands below.

Best winter gloves for women in stores now

Let’s take a look at the best winter gloves for women that we’ve spotted in stores now. Take a look and see if you have a favorite.

leather gloves

A pair of leather gloves is a timeless, elegant choice that won’t date. J.Crew’s Italian leather gloves look and feel like a classic pair of leather gloves, but they have a heart-shaped tech finger that means you can check your smartphone. They come in a choice of 7 colors.

J.Crew Italian Leather Tech-Touch Gloves

With cashmere lining, the Amazon gloves (below) feel lovely against your skin and they come in a good choice of colors. Reviewers say they are super soft, warm and beautiful.

QNLYCZY Leather Gloves

We love the horsebit detailing on the Nicoletta Rosi cashmere-lined gloves below. These would make a great gift for yourself or a loved one.

Nicoletta Rosi Horsebit Cashmere Lined Leather Gloves

The zips on the AllSaints gloves (below) add a point of difference and little “toughness” to otherwise ladylike gloves.

AllSaints Zadie Leather Zip Gloves

If you’re a fan of neutrals during winter, then tan leather is a great option. Combine with winter whites and creams for a stylish, chic look.

Saks Fifth Avenue COLLECTION Cashmere-Lined Leather Gloves

The two-tone COS gloves (below) have a modern feel, and we love the combination of red and brown. There are more ideas on how to wear red here.

COS Cashmere-Lined Color Block Leather Gloves

Patricia @patriciaafricaiglesias above (read her style interview here) always looks chic. Her black leather gloves match her boots and are a stylish way to finish her outfit.

Check out this similar sweater, coat, skirt, high boots, bag, headband and leather gloves.

cashmere gloves

We’re a fan of cashmere for coats, scarves, hats, loungewear, and gloves. The cuffed gloves (below) come in 5 colors and have tech touch features to allow you to check your phone without taking them off.

J.Crew Cashmere Tech-Touch Gloves

Soft pastels look beautiful in winter. The Nordstrom gloves (below) feature a deep cuff and soft cashmere to make braving the elements a more luxurious experience.

Nordstrom Cashmere Gloves

faux fur trim

Faux fur is a great way to keep out the elements, whether you wear around your hood, on your boots or your gloves. The faux fur cuff on the UGG gloves (below) should stop any cold drafts from blowing around your wrist. Plus, they’re insulated and water-resistant.

UGG Faux Fur Trim Quilted Gloves

Best winter gloves for women – wool

Wool is always a classic choice for your gloves. We love the subtle Ralph Lauren branding and cable knit design of the tan gloves (below). Perfect for the classic style personality.

Polo Ralph Lauren Wool-Blend Cable-Knit Gloves

A pair of black gloves in wool will always be on trend. The Rag & Bone gloves (below) are 100% wool and allow you to swipe your phone while wearing.

rag & bone Addison Wool Gloves

Heattech gloves

Uniqlo is a fantastic go-to for warm basics in cold weather. Look for the HEATTECH range. The Uniqlo gloves (below) are timeless, understated and warm.

Uniqlo HEATTECH Knitted Gloves

touchscreen gloves

The North Face is a good place to start when looking for cold weather clothing. The North Face gloves (below) are stretchy for a good fit and they feature grippy palms and touchscreen-compatible fingers.

The North Face Etip Touchscreen Gloves

Fleece lined

For extra warmth, look for gloves that are fleece-lined. The isotoner fleece gloves (below) come in a huge choice of colors and have great reviews. Wearers say they are of great quality and value.

isotoner Fleece Gloves

Another good fleece-lined choice are the Fenely cable knit gloves (below). They come in 13 colors and wearers say they are super soft and warm. Reviewers do say the fingers are long, so think about whether that will suit your hand shape.

FENELY Cable Knit Wool Fleece Lined Gloves

Emms @beautifuleveryday_uk above opts for classic black gloves to go with her cozy outfit.

Get her look with this similar plaid coat (another option here), jeans, boots, gloves, scarf and turban.

thermal

If it is really cold where you are, then a thermal choice is perfect. The thermal gloves (below) are a good choice if you’re exercising outdoors.

SIMARI Thermal Gloves

cable knit

The faux suede palm grip adds a stylish touch to the cable knit gloves (below). They come in a huge choice of colors so you’re sure to find a favorite.

C.C Unisex Cable Knit Anti-Slip Gloves

Waterproof gloves

Wool gloves are great for staying warm, but if it’s particularly rainy or snowy where you are, they can get wet and keep your hands wet in the process. A waterproof pair like the quilted gloves (below) will keep you dry.

Carhartt Quilts Insulated Breathable Gloves

Best winter gloves for women – Heated gloves

If you tend to feel the cold, then a pair of heated gloves are definitely worth thinking about. The heated gloves (below) have temperature control so you can alter it to suit you and the weather.

Riomza Electric Precise Temperature Control  Heated Gloves

tartan

Barbour’s tartan gloves look stylish and cozy. We love the combination of the tartan and faux fur.

Barbour Ridley Tartan Gloves

Monogram gloves

To add a designer touch to your outfit, the Tory Burch gloves (below) feature the designer’s monogram in the fabric and hardwear.

Tory Burch T Monogram Jacquard & Leather Gloves

Studded gloves

If you have a rock chick personality or you want to add a bit of an edge to your outfit, the studded gloves (below) are perfect.

Seymoure Kelly Studded Leather Gloves

Fingerless gloves can add a stylish element to your outfit when the weather isn’t too cold. Plus, they’re great for working from home when you need to type!

Portolano Cashmere Fingerless Gloves

Terri @glammas.closet above (read her style interview here) adds a pair of subtly-studded gloves to her outfit.

Steal her look with this similar coat (another option here), booties, handbag, earrings, hat and gloves.

Best winter gloves for women – Bow detail

To add a romantic touch to your cold weather outfits, the Kate Spade wool gloves (below) are perfect. Ideal to wear with other pale colors, or to “soften” your black outfits.

Kate Spade New York Bow Detail Wool Gloves

Convertible mittens

If you prefer to have access to your fingers rather than touchscreen gloves, convertible mittens are great. You can just pop the mitten over your fingers when you’re cold.

COACH Metallic Logo Convertible Mittens

shop the best winter gloves here:

Continue reading:

1. How To Wear A Scarf And Style Scarves Different Ways
2. How To Look Fashionable In Winter – Which Of These 14 Ways Do You Use?
3. The Best Gift Ideas For Women Over 40

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Feature image by Patricia @patriciaafricaiglesias

The post The best winter gloves for women to keep your fingers toasty warm appeared first on 40+ Style.

In fact, you’ll find the most comfortable pajamas below, from cozy flannel and cotton pjs to silky, glamorous nightwear, so you may just want to wear your pjs all day.

Does it matter what your pajamas look like?

When it comes to pajamas everyone has an opinion. On one hand, some think; “I’m just sleeping, no one will care or notice.”

On the other hand, some think; “This is a fairly good chunk of my life, I need to look put together.”

I fall into the latter category. Pajamas should not be an afterthought, they should be an acknowledged part of your wardrobe.

When it comes to pajamas for women there are so many choices. There are also quite a few things to consider when you’re looking for a good night’s sleep.

What to consider when choosing women’s pajamas

Below are some factors to think about before you choose your next pair of pajamas…

Style and fit

Our style evolves over our lifetime. As we get older, we tend to be a little more on the conservative side. We opt for pajamas that offer more coverage and perhaps more practicality.

The fit and style of pajamas are important. If these two elements are off, you will be uncomfortable. Discomfort will most likely cause you to wake in the middle of the night to adjust…something.

The bottom line is pajamas should fit you well. There should not be any tightness or pulling, and the only thing you should feel is comfort.

Pajamas for women are available in all size categories so it should not be difficult to find the right fit.

Remember to think of your pajamas as an extension of your wardrobe, don’t be afraid to have them tailored for the right fit.

Nothing detracts from an elegant look like ill-fitting clothes, pajamas included.

Sheree @shesheshow above enjoys coffee with a view in her leopard print pajamas.

Get her look with this similar pajama set (other options here and here).

Pajamas for women: what is the best type of fabric for pajamas?

When choosing pajamas fabric is probably the most important factor.

The fabric you choose directly affects your body temperature, your comfort level, and subsequently your quality of sleep.

Understanding the properties and benefits of the fabrics most often used for sleepwear is important.

We love natural fabrics as you’ll see in this article: Do you have a problem wearing synthetic fabrics?

Look for moisture-wicking fabrics like cotton, linen, bamboo and wool. Silk also regulates temperature well, while warmer choices like flannel are your friend in cooler weather.

Consider the temperature and humidity where you are and whether you tend to get hot or cold easily. This will help you make the best choice for your needs.

Adaline @sdmomstyles above opts for a classic, silky pair of neutral pajamas and cozy slippers.

Recreate her outfit with this similar pajama set (another option here) and slippers (another option here).

Are you choosing pajamas for a gift?

We always think pajamas make such a good gift idea for women. If you are choosing pajamas as a gift, make sure you choose an extra-special pair.

The Escalier pajama set (below) for example feature a striking pattern and print.

Escalier Silk Satin Floral Pajama Set

Or,if your recipient leans towards minimalist style, you could choose a pajamas set like the one from the White Company (below).

The White Company Silk Classic Striped Pajama Set

If your pajamas are a gift, then looking for beautiful colors and fabrics is essential. Washable silk is pretty and practical.

Lunya Washable Mulberry Silk T-Shirt Pajamas

The SKIMS pajamas (below) are designed to look and feel like the sort of pajamas you would wear for a luxury hotel stay.

SKIMS Hotel Shine Sleep Set

Are you just sleeping in your pajamas or will they be seen at breakfast

If you tend to wear your pajamas as loungewear and at breakfast time rather than just in bed, you are likely to want a beautiful pair.

Alison @wardrobe_oxygen above (read her style interview here) opts for pajamas with a striking floral print.

She is wearing Soma’s floral pajama top and ankle pants.

Are you looking for winter pajamas or summer pajamas?

Of course, you may feel the cold more than others, or perhaps you regularly get too hot during the night. In which case you will want to choose pajamas for your body temperature.

But you will also want to consider the seasons. You are likely to want a thicker, cozier pair of pajamas for the cooler months than if you are on summer vacation, for example.

If you get really cold, you could choose a pair of thermal pajamas like the ones from PajamaGram (below) which are designed to keep you warm in cooler months.

PajamaGram Shearling Rollneck Pajama Set

Celebrity inspiration

While you don’t often see celebrities in their pajamas, you can still be influenced by your favorite stars when it comes to your pajama choice.

What pajamas does Oprah wear?

We’ve seen Oprah say that her favorite pajamas are Cozy Earth’s long sleeve bamboo set. So, you’d be in good company if you choose these to sleep in. They come in a great choice of colors and the bamboo fabric helps to regulate your temperature.

Cozy Earth Long Sleeve Bamboo Pajama Set

What pajamas does Jennifer Aniston wear?

We spotted Jennifer getting ready for the Emmy Awards in a pair of stylish Pour les Femmes crinkle pajamas. We’re sure she’d love this shorts set. Take a look at how to dress like Jennifer Aniston for more inspiration.

Pour Les Femmes Angel Crinkled Cotton-Gauze Pajama Set

What pajamas does Kate Middleton wear?

Ok, so we’ve never actually seen the Princess of Wales in her sleepwear! But, we know she loves to wear Boden, so we’re imagining she could well have a pair of their brushed cotton pjs.

Boden Brushed Cotton Pyjama Shirt – Boden Brushed Cotton Pyjama Trouser

The best pajamas to choose, no matter what the season

Now, let’s take a look at more of the best women’s pajamas to choose that we’ve spotted in stores now…

Softest women’s pajamas

When you go to bed, the last thing you want is to feel itchy or uncomfortable because of your fabric choice.

The pajamas from Papinelle (below) are another good choice if you want a pair of soft, casual pajamas.

Papinelle Super Soft Thermal Knit Pajamas

SKIMS pajamas also have great reviews for softness, as they’re made from modal fabric.

SKIMS Soft Lounge Sleep Set

Most comfortable pajamas

More so than any other item of clothing, your pajamas need to be comfortable. Otherwise, you simply won’t get quality sleep. The long sleeve pajama set (below) comes in a good choice of colors, patterns and prints, and reviewers say the outside feels like a cozy soft T-shirt while the inside feels like brushed cotton.

LAKE Relax Pants Set

The long sleeve pajamas (below) come in a huge range of colors and have thousands of good reviews. Wearers say they are super soft and well-made.

Ekouaer Soft Button Down Pajama Set

Christmas pajamas for women

As the festive season is coming up, many of you may be looking for a pair of pajamas that would be perfect for Christmas morning. The fun print below features big cats in Santa hats.

Printfresh Holly Jolly Bagheera Flannel Long Sleep Set

For a subtle take on the festive trend, opt for a snowflake print.

The White Company Brushed Cotton Snowflake Pajama Set

Cotton pajamas for women

Cotton fabrics are probably one of the best options for pajamas no matter what time of year it is as they are soft, lightweight and easy to care for.

Additionally, cotton allows for air circulation due to its breathability. It is important to note that cotton absorbs moisture, so if night sweats are a concern, however, this may not be the best option for you.

The White Company Cotton Classic Pajama Set

Boden’s brushed cotton pajamas feel great to wear and they come in a choice of stylish prints.

Boden Brushed Cotton Pyjama Shirt / Pyjama Trouser

Best silk pajamas for women

For those who want to sleep in luxury, silk is a great option, as it is a natural thermo regulator.

It keeps you warm when it’s cold and keeps you cool when it’s warm.

The primary concern with silk pajamas is that they may be slippery. Although it’s often recommended to dry clean silk pajamas we personally just wash them by hand. If that’s too much work for you the dry cleaning bills can add up.

You could still save these for special occasions though! Silk pajamas also make a beautiful gift option.

The White Company Silk Lace Detail Cami Pajama Set

Cozy Earth Classic Long Sleeve Pajama Top – Cozy Earth Classic Pajama Pant

jersey pajamas

Jersey is a comfy choice as it’s soft and it moves with you. Choose a classic pair like The White Company pajamas (below) and you can wear them for loungewear or when travelling too.

The White Company Jersey Long Sleeve Satin Trim Pajama Set

The jersey shorts set (below) Is a great option for warmer months.

Eberjey Gisele Relaxed Jersey Knit Short Pajamas

Comfy pjs: Lounge pajamas

Loungewear is a popular option right now. Opt for a pair of lounge pajamas that you can wear during the night, or to relax during the day.

UGG Gable Brushed Drawstring Pullover & Joggers Lounge Set

The Honeydew intimates set is a lovely neutral choice. Perfect for the minimalists among you.

Honeydew Intimates Renew Lounge Set

For for more style inspiration, check out the best loungewear for women over 40.

Best sleepwear for women: Moisture-wicking sleepwear

Moisture-wicking sleepwear is great for anyone who deals with night sweats.

Just like activewear, these fabrics draw moisture to the surface and allow it to evaporate, allowing the wearer to remain dry.

Bamboo is a fantastic fabric for sleepwear because of its moisture-wicking properties. Wearers say the short sleeve set (below) is soft and comfortable.

Joyaria Short Sleeve Bamboo Pajamas Set

Winter pajamas – flannel pajamas for women

During the cold winter months, flannel is a great option as it is breathable and provides warmth. To feel really cozy, flannel would be a good choice if you’re looking for the warmest pajamas for chilly weather.

Eberjey Plaid Cotton Flannel Pajamas

SKIMS Fleece Sleep Set

Warmest women’s pajamas: Fleece pajamas

Fleece traps a layer of air around your body so is a great option if you feel the cold in the winter months.

MEROKEETY Fleece Pajama Set

Lianlive Fleece Lounge Set

Best pjs: Satin pajamas

These satin pajamas from Printfresh look just like silk and have classic styling. They come in a great choice of prints.

Printfresh Bagheera Satin Pajama Set

We also love the geometric print on the silk-satin set (below), which will brighten up your bedtimes.

Trina Turk x Bedhead Pajamas Geometric-Print Silk Satin Pajama Set

modal blend

Modal is very soft and breathable. The Soma pajamas (below) have classic piping and come in a choice of four colors. They’re a great blend of cotton and modal.

Soma Embraceable Long-Sleeve Pajama Set

Glamorous pajamas

If you are on vacation, you want to look amazing while staying as a guest with friends, or you just want to feel glamorous while sleeping, these pajamas from The White Company could be the ones for you. The lace details add glamour.

The White Company Jersey Lace Yoke Pajama Set

If you’re somewhere warm, then a short set of lace pajamas will work well.

Flora Nikrooz Gabby Lace Trim Satin Charmeuse Short Pajamas

Floral pajamas

Flowers are always a popular print for pajamas. Even if you don’t usually wear prints day-to-day, pajamas can be a good way to bring some patterns into your wardrobe.

Desmond & Dempsey Long Sleeve Cotton Pajamas

Midnight Bakery Dylan Floral Print Satin Short Pajamas

Women’s pajama sets

A classic pajama set choice is to choose a pair with piping like the J.Crew set (below) which comes with a sleep mask and has great reviews from wearers who say they fit and wash nicely.

J.Crew Eco Dreamiest Pajama Set

Matching pajamas

While you can opt for pajama separates, just as you can choose separates, rather than a suit for work, we always think matching pajamas help you to feel particularly put together.

Printfresh Big Cat Energy Long Sleep Set

kimono style

The kimono styling of the jacket adds a point of difference to your sleepwear.

LAKE DreamKnit Kimono Pajama Set

Summer pajamas

While long flannel pajamas are a great idea to stay cozy during colder months, you also need to ensure your wardrobe has sleepwear to keep you comfortable during warmer weather.

Shortie pajamas or cropped pajamas are a great option for this, providing comfort and coverage while keeping you cool.

kate spade new york Crop Jersey Pajamas

Lunya Washable Silk T-Shirt 2-Piece Pajama Set

Women’s pajama pants

Perhaps you prefer to wear separates, or you like to wear a t-shirt, vest or camisole with your pajamas rather than choosing a matching set. In that case, you could opt for a pair of pajama bottoms and wear whatever you want to on top.

Barefoot Dreams Ultra Soft Rib Wide Leg Pajama Pants

SKIMS Sleep Straight Pants

Robes to go with your pajamas

What will you wear over your pajamas when you pop down to breakfast? You could opt for a cozy robe to wear as you have your coffee.

Printfresh Bagheera Satin Robe

Nordstrom Shawl Collar Plush Longline Robe

Slippers to go with your pajamas

You’ll also want to keep your feet cozy with a pair of stylish slippers or socks in the colder months.

UGG Scuffette II Slipper

Acorn Waffle Spa Slipper

Accessories to go with your pajamas

Just as with all your outfits, you’ll want to accessorize your pajamas. A cozy pair of socks will keep your feet cozy, sleep masks and blankets will help you to doze off, and you can always treat yourself to candles and sleep oil to finish your night-time ritual.

Stems 3-Pack Lounge Socks

BLISSY Silk Sleep Mask

slip Pure Silk Hair Wrap

Bearaby Organic Cotton Weighted Knit Blanket

Sunday Riley Luna Sleeping Night Oil

Diptyque Baies (Berries) Scented Candle

Should you change your pajamas every night?

So, now that you’ve found your favorite pajamas, how often should you change your pajamas? Well, just as slipping between clean sheets feels great, so does wearing a fresh, clean pair of pajamas. So, if you want to change them every night, go ahead.

The American Cleaning Institute recommends you change them once every three or four wears, so two or three pairs should be perfect to last a week.

shop the best pajamas for women here:

What do you like to wear at night? What helps you to feel comfortable and to sleep better? I’d love to hear about your own recommendations for the best pajamas for women.

Continue reading:

1. The Best Loungewear That Makes You Feel Comfortable AND Stylish
2. Holiday Gift Guide: The Best Gift Ideas For Women Over 40
3. The Ultimate Checklist Of Wardrobe Essentials: Which 28 Essential Pieces Do You Need In Your Closet?

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Feature image by Alison @wardrobe_oxygen

The post Pajamas for women: The best types of women’s pajamas for women over 40 appeared first on 40+ Style.

This article has some of the very best women’s coats for extremely cold temperatures, as well as what to look for when choosing a coat for very chilly weather.

Things to think about when finding a coat for extreme temperatures – Which coats are the warmest in winter?

Before you choose a coat for very cold weather, you need to know what to look for.

Choosing the warmest winter coats for women

Depending on where you live and how cold it is, your priorities can vary when choosing a winter coat. It may be that the style of the coat is the most important factor to you. In that case, we’d definitely recommend taking at look at the best winter coats for women.

You’ll tend to find that down or insulated parkas are the warmest options for you. The good news is that not only are these coats warm, but they’re actually very on-trend right now.

When you’re facing really cold weather, your coat definitely has to be practical as well as stylish. Below are some key considerations.

technical features

Look for technical features such as a waterproof shell, windproof fabric, and inner vests to keep out the chill.

Josephine @chicatanyage above chooses a long puffer jacket to stay warm and cozy.

Get her outfit with this similar long puffer (another option here), jeans, sneakers, bag, gloves and scarf.

Which brand of winter coat is warmest?

Is there a particular brand you should choose? Some of the best brands we’ve found for warm coats in cold weather include The North Face, Patagonia, Ugg, Parajumpers, Columbia, Barbour, Bernado, 32 Degrees, and Orolay. Read on for our picks from these brands.

What material is warmest for winter coats? 

There’s no right or wrong answer here. Wool will keep you warmer than many synthetic materials, but won’t necessarily keep you dry. It’s about finding the material that works for your weather and activities.

Susanne @textelle above wears a gillet over her coat for extra warmth.

Steal her look with this similar turtleneck top, puffer jacket, vest, jeans, sneakers and belt.

Abi @stealmystyle40 above layers with cashmere, fleece and a heavy duty vest.

Check out this similar top, shearling pullover, long vest (another option here), sneakers, crossbody bag and cap.

The filling

Down is often the warmest filling to choose because it creates little air pockets.

What is fill power?

So, how much filling do you need? If you look at the fill power of your coat, if you’re choosing down, this essentially measures the quality of the down. Look for a fill power upwards of 550.

Yvonne @funkyforty above wears her puffer coat over her sweater.

Recreate her outfit with this similar sweater, coat (another option here), pants and boots.

Long or short?

Shorter could give you greater freedom of movement, but longer will keep you warmer.

Susan @susan_unefemme above chooses a shorter jacket and adds a scarf for extra warmth.

Steal her look with this similar sweater, puffer jacket, jeans, booties, crossbody bag and scarf.

Warm coats for women: Making them flattering

Some of the warmest jackets to choose are not always the most flattering, because they tend to be quilted or puffer styles. This can make you look bigger than you actually are.

However, by keeping the rest of your outfit in balance you can make sure you still create a pleasing silhouette. If you’re worried about adding unwanted bulk, you could also look for styles that nip in at the waist or which have a belt.

Suzie @suzie.richetti above chooses a quilted style that doesn’t add too much extra bulk.

Get her look with this similar coat, wide jeans, sneakers and scarf (another option here).

Warmest winter coats for women

Now that you’re thinking about what might work for you, let’s take a look at some of the most recommended and some of the warmest winter coats for women in stores. You’ll find the best women’s winter coats for extreme cold below.

Triple F.A.T. Goose

The belt on the coat (below) adds shape to your silhouette while the down filling will keep you warm. It is made with recycled down with a 750-fill power and is water resistant.

Triple F.A.T. Goose Althea Down Jacket

Orolay

The Orolay thickened jacket is so popular, it even has it’s own fan-based social media accounts. We can see why. It does look like a designer jacket, but at a fraction of the price. Reviewers say they bought it because they wanted something a little different to the norm. One said she was now looking forward to winter as she’d never had a coat that kept her this warm. There’s a choice of 13 colors.

Orolay Thickened Down Jacket

Parajumpers

The Parajumpers coat (below) is a good option for cold weather as it comes just below your knees (depending on how tall you are, of course), and features a down fill as well as ripstop nylon to keep the water and wind out. It comes in a choice of four neutral shades.

Parajumpers Panda Hooded 700 Fill Power Down Puffer Parka

The North Face

The North Face is another well-known cold weather brand to consider. If you’re choosing a down jacket, one thing to consider is the down fill number which usually ranges from around 500 to 900. The higher the down fill, the warmer the coat should be.

The North Face jacket (below) has a 550 fill, making it a warm choice without adding too much extra bulk.

The North Face Gotham 550 Fill Power Down Hooded Parka

UGG

Well known for cozy shearling-lined boots. But they also make warm coats. The UGG coat (below) is lined with faux shearling and a cozy high collar.

UGG Ronney Faux Leather Puffer Coat

Columbia

A down-fill isn’t the only choice when looking for extra warmth. The Columbia puffer coat (below) is 100% polyester. But, it still manages to pack a punch when it comes to keeping you cozy as a result of its heat reflective lining.

Reviewers say it is warm, yet lightweight. You may want to size up though as some reviews say it runs small.

Columbia White Out Mid Omni Puffer Coat

barbour

Well known for its country wear, Barbour is a great choice for warm coats for winter walks. The quilted coat (below) has a drawstring so you can define your waist, and there’s a high collar for extra warmth.

Barbour Alexandria Quilted Long Coat

Canada Goose

If you want to make an investment in your winter wear, then the hooded down jacket (below) from Canada Goose is one of the warmest choices you can make. It will ensure you are winter ready for years to come.

Canada Goose Merritt Water Resistant Recycled Nylon Hooded Down Jacket

save the duck

If you prefer an alternative to down, then Save the Duck is a good brand to look out for. It’s long to keep you cozy, and it has a water-repellent finish.

Save The Duck Joanne Hooded Longline Puffer Jacket

Uniqlo

Uniqlo is a great choice for cold weather basics. Choose Uniqlo’s Heattech tops and bottoms, and add a quilted coat and you’re ready for whatever the weather has in store for you.

Uniqlo Ultra Light Down Long Coat

Rains

If you need both windproof and waterproof, then the Rains coat (below) is your answer. It has an iridescent sheen so will add some casual glamour to your cold weather outfits.

Rains Alta Windproof & Waterproof Insulated Long Puffer Coat

Mackage

The way that the quilting is designed on the Mackage coat (below) adds a flattering shape. It has a warm down filling, is water repellent and there’s a detachable hood so you can adapt it to the weather.

Mackage Camea Down Puffer Coat

Dawn Levy

If you’re choosing a shorter style, add extra warmth by choosing a furry collar.

Dawn Levy Vera Down Shearling Jacket

Bernardo

Bernardo is a good option for quilted coats as well as moto jackets and wool styles. If it’s not super cold where you are, you might want to think about wearing a sweater with a long vest over the top.

Bernardo EcoPlume^™ Box Quilt Long Hooded Vest

Sam Edelman coat

The Sam Edelman puffer coat (below) would look great with your jeans, sweater and boots for casual days. It features a hidden bib front for added insulation.

Sam Edelman Hooded Bib Puffer Coat

Sam.

The belt on the puffer coat (below) adds a stylish element. As well as the down filling and being wind and water repellent, it has storm cuffs to stop the chill from going up your sleeves.

Sam. Noho Belted Down Puffer Coat

Quince

With responsibly sourced down, the Quince puffer jacket (below) is a good everyday choice. It comes in a choice of eight colors.

Quince Responsible Down Puffer Jacket

Everlane long puffer

For casual basics, Everlane is one of our favorite brands to try. The long puffer below has drawstrings at the hem and hood to help adjust the fit.

Everlane The Long Re:Down® Puffer (RenRew Long Liner)

Wantdo

If you’ll be taking part in winter sports this year, or you know that the wind chill factor is usually an issue for you, then the Wantdo jacket (below) could be a good choice. It has a fleecy lining and a waterproof snow skirt to stop rain or snow from getting into your pants!

Wantdo Hooded Waterproof Parka Jacket

marmot puffer

Another option with a zip-off hood is the Marmot Montreal puffer (below) which has a 700 down fill so it should keep you warm when the temperatures fall. Reviewers say it kept them warm even in temperatures which dipped down to -15c. Most said it runs small though so it may be best to size up.

Marmot Montreal Mid-Thigh Length Down Puffer Coat

Lands’ End

Another of our favorite brands for basics, the Lands’ End puffer coat (below) is fleece lined, and the way the quilted pattern is shapes adds a flattering effect.

Lands’ End Insulated Cozy Fleece Lined Winter Coat (plus size here)

Eddie Bauer

Eddie Bauer’s long quilted coat (below) has plenty of good reviews, including one that says it is like wearing a hug.

Eddie Bauer Lodge Down Duffle Coat

Fitouch

Fitouch’s long down coat has 700 fill power for warmth. The pockets are fleece-lined to keep your hands warm.

Fitouch Waukee Long Down Coat

32 Degrees

If you want warmth without heaviness, the 32 Degrees coat (below) is a great choice. It comes in a choice of 13 colors, has a 650 fill power and reviewers say despite being very lightweight, it is super warm.

32 Degrees 3/4 Ultra-Light Down Jacket

WenVen

Adding a faux fur hood is a great idea to stay warm. Just pull your hood up to keep out the chill. The WenVen coat (below) comes in a great choice of 16 colors.

WenVen Winter Thicken Puffer Coat

ELORA

Stuffed with 100% polyester, the Elora quilted coat (below) is a good option is you want warmth but not a down filling. It’s a good long length, and reviewers say it is high quality.

ELORA Quilted Long Fleece Trim Puffer Coat

SUOKENI

If you want to keep out the elements, then opting for a ski jacket is a good idea. The Suokeni jacket (below) has thousands of good reviewers and comes in lots of colors. Wearers say it’s an awesome coat that is warm but not too thick, has lots of handy pockets, and it is truly waterproof.

SUOKENI Waterproof Jacket

where to shop for the best winter coats:

• Triple F.A.T. Goose
• Save the Duck 
• Canada Goose 
• Bernardo
• Uniqlo
• Barbour
• Columbia
• UGG
• The North Face
• Parajumpers
• Mackage
• Fitouch
• 32 Degrees
• Eddie Bauer

shop the warmest winter coats here:

What are your own recommendations for the warmest winter coats for women? Do you have a favorite brand?

Continue reading:

1. All The Winter Essentials You Need In Your Closet This Year
2. The Best Winter Coats For Women This Season And How To Choose A Coat
3. The Best Thermal Underwear For Women To Wear Under Everything When The Temperature Dips

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Feature image by Susanne @textelle

The post Warmest winter coats for women: The best women’s coats for extreme cold appeared first on 40+ Style.

It’s one of the most versatile, stylish dresses you can have in your closet. But it’s more than that. The best cocktail dresses can take you from semi-formal to more formal occasions.

What exactly is a cocktail dress?

Put simply, it’s a dress that hits anywhere from knee-length to ankle length that you can wear for everything from dinner to parties.

To help you in your quest for the perfect dress, you’ll find below some of the best cocktail dresses in stores right now, as well as how to wear them.

A classic cocktail dress can take you anywhere.

The most important thing when choosing a cocktail dress is – do you feel good in it?

Cocktail dresses as a dress code

If you’re invited to an event where the dress code says “cocktail attire” you can’t go wrong with a dress with finishes either just above, just below, or on the knees, worn with heels.

However, just because a cocktail dress tends to be a certain length, that doesn’t mean you can’t choose a dress which suits your individual body type and style.

You can opt for a dress with sleeves, a sleeveless gown, one-shouldered or strapless.

New Year is just around the corner so you may also want to check out are outfit ideas for NYE!

cocktail dresses for weddings

A cocktail dress can be a beautiful option for a wedding. Any of these dresses (below) would be a good option for you if you are a wedding guest, although you may want to avoid wearing white.

Take a look at what to wear to a wedding.

Lizzy @whatlizzyloves above (read her style interview here) opts for a beautiful blue dress that would be ideal as wedding guest attire.

Get her look with this similar maxi dress (other options here and here), sandals, clutch and headband (another option here).

Cocktail attire for women when you don’t want to wear a dress

What if you simply aren’t a dress kind of person? Or you don’t fancy wearing a dress that night?

Don’t worry, the cocktail attire dress code is not quite as formal as it once was.

You could always channel your inner Marlene Dietrich, Josephine Baker or Katharine Hepburn and choose a tuxedo jacket and pants instead.

Tahari ASL Peplum Blazer & Pants

Or how about opting for a jumpsuit? Jumpsuits are just as suitable for a cocktail event as a dress. Just make sure you choose a jumpsuit in a material and shape suitable for the occasion.

Ramy Brook Myra Asymmetric Pleated Satin Jumpsuit

The best cocktail dresses in stores now

But if you are looking for a beautiful, classic cocktail dress which will take you to everything from dinner to a party, below are some of the best options for women over 40 in stores now.

Black cocktail dress

You can’t go wrong with a little black dress.

You can always stand out from the crowd by looking for one with interesting details such as an embellished neckline or flared hem.

Teri Jon by Rickie Freeman Asymmetric Peplum Minidress

Souri @fabfemme_australia above (read her style interview here) chooses a textured black dress with bow details.

Recreate her outfit with this similar dress (other options here and here), pumps and crossbody bag.

Red cocktail dress

If you aren’t keen on showing off certain parts of your body, such as your tummy, then maybe you could opt to show off a bit of shoulder instead.

Amsale Draped Satin One-Shoulder Midi-Dress

White cocktail dress

While you will definitely find plenty of black dresses at any cocktail party, how about wearing white?

You can make your white dress winter ready by pairing with black accessories and a black shrug for a stylish, monochrome look.

Dress the Population Emery Long Sleeve Sequin Cocktail Dress

Sexy cocktail dresses

What is sexy is definitely a matter of opinion. We don’t think a sexy dress has to be one that is overly revealing.

While there are some dresses with sheer paneling which we would be wary of wearing, a dress like this one below by Aidan Mattox by Adrianna Papel manages to be both demure and sexy at the same time.

Aidan Mattox by Adrianna Papell Floral Lace Illusion Mesh Cocktail Dress 

Long sleeve cocktail dresses

If you aren’t keen on showing your upper arms, or you opt for a hemline which is a little shorter and you want to balance that out, there are lots of long-sleeve options in stores at the moment.

For more inspiration, take a look at the best dresses with sleeves.

Tahari ASL Beaded Drape Long Sleeve Stretch Velvet Sheath Dress

Cocktail dresses with sleeves

Here is another stylish option for you if you are looking for dresses with some arm coverage. Look out for dresses with mesh arms for coverage that doesn’t feel too ‘heavy’.

Mac Duggal Embellished V-Neck Long-Sleeve Midi-Dress

short sleeve cocktail dress

If you just want to cover your upper arms, a short sleeve cocktail dress will work for you.

JS Collections Hope Floral Embroidered Cocktail Dress

designer cocktail dress

Because a cocktail dress is a classic that you can wear year after year, you can make an investment in your cocktail attire. The Donna Karan cocktail dress (Below) would work for all of your special events.

Donna Karan New York Social Ruffle Hem Cocktail Dress

midi dress

Cocktail dresses can also be midi length like the embellished empire waist dress (below) which comes in a choice of two colors.

Mac Duggal Beaded Empire Waist Column Midi Cocktail Dress

mini cocktail dress

If you want to opt for a shorter dress, you can always wear a pair of opaque tights or slim pants under your cocktail dress for extra coverage.

Lilly Pulitzer^® Jessamie Metallic Long Sleeve Dress

tea length dress

A tea-length dress typically falls a few inches above the ankle. We love the dramatic print and asymmetric hem on the Kay Unger midi dress (below), which could easily be worn for festive events or summer weddings.

Kay Unger Jessie Poppy Mikado Ruffled Midi-Dress

knee-length cocktail dress

A knee-length style is a traditional length for cocktail attire. The Badgley Mischka dress (below) features embellishment and an overlay jacket, making it perfect for cooler weather.

Badgley Mischka Overlay Jacket Midi-Dress

maxi dress

While a cocktail dress is usually classed as being on or just above the knee, you should be able to get away with wearing a longer gown to a cocktail party.

We love the satin material and the print on the Reformation dress (below). If you need a cover-up to go with it, check out our article on how to cover a formal outfit.

Reformation Frankie Floral Silk Satin Maxi Dress

asymmetric dress

Asymmetric detailing is always on-trend. The dress below features a shorter sequin skirt with a longer asymmetric overlay.

BCBGMAXAZRIA Sequin Asymmetric Midi-Dress

two-piece dress

If you like the look of separates but want a cocktail dress, then the Alex Evenings cocktail dress (below) is ideal. It comes in a good choice of colors. The paler colors will work well for summer events, or choose the navy or burgundy shades for winter parties.

Alex Evenings Mock Two-Piece Cocktail Dress

wrap dress

A wrap style is flattering for all body types, and the Eliza J metallic dress (below) is glamorous enough to ear to any party.

Eliza J Metallic Long Sleeve Faux Wrap Cocktail Dress

Off the shoulder cocktail dress

Everyone has certain areas of their body that they are happy to show off, and other areas that they prefer to cover.

If you have great shoulders, you can draw attention to them with an-off-the-shoulder dress.

Kay Unger Izzy Belted Cocktail Dress

one shoulder dress

A one shoulder dress is perfect for adding some subtle, yet elegant sex appeal. The Theia gown (below) comes in four colors.

Theia Rayna One-Shoulder Gown

Sequin cocktail dresses

For some festive sparkle, you could choose a sequin dress.

Here is how to wear sequins after 40 in a chic way.

Elie Tahari The Robin Sequined Sheath Dress

Jamie @moreturquoise above (read her style interview here) wears a knee-length sequin dress and adds black ankle-strap heels.

She is wearing a sequin dress from Chico’s. Check out this similar pair of bow pumps and earrings.

Lace cocktail dress

Choosing a cocktail dress can be a great way to play around with textures such as sequins and lace. The crepe dress (below) features subtle lace panelling.

Tadashi Shoji Crepe Lace-Paneled Midi-Dress

tulle dress

Tulle is a great choice to add some volume and drama to your party looks.

Mac Duggal Sequin Tulle One-Shoulder Cocktail Dress

corset style cocktail dress

A corset style dress can keep everything tucked in and pushed up, flattering your bust and waist. It’s a good shape if you have an hourglass figure.

HOUSE OF CB Myrna Satin Corset Dress

empire waist cocktail dress

Play around with where your waistline is and see that the most flattering effect is for you. An empire waist can work well for some women as it cuts in below the bustline where you are likely to have your slimmest point.

Maggy London Gathered Empire Waist Long Sleeve Dress

elegant cocktail dress

Cocktail attire should always look elegant. The sheath dress (below) features a contrasting black belt and strap details as well as fringing at the hem.

Aidan Mattox Jacquard Sleeveless Sheath Dress

high low cocktail dress

A high-low hemline will show off your legs and add interest to your silhouette.

Shani High-Low Crepe Dress

ruffled dress

If you like a romantic look or you want to add drama to your outfit, then choosing ruffling is a good choice.

Cinq à Sept Paola Floral Ruffled Midi-Dress

sheath cocktail dress

The sheath cocktail dress (below) features a stylish draped neckline and the color is sure to get you noticed for the right reasons.

Black Halo Kozia Draped Sheath Dress

velvet

Velvet is one of those fabrics that really comes into its own during the cooler months, adding a luxe look to any outfit.

You could add a touch of velvet on your cocktail dress, or maybe try a velvet blazer or pair of velvet boots.

For an extra luxe look, you could team with a faux fur bolero.

Tadashi Shoji Off-The-Shoulder Velvet Lace Midi-Dress

cape dress

A cape style is great for adding some extra coverage, and for balancing your figure if you have a pear shape or narrow shoulders.

Badgley Mischka Cape Bodice Midi-Dress

feather dress

Feathers or embellishments are perfect to add extra glamour and a touch of playfulness to your cocktail attire.

Likely Prima Crystal & Feather Midi-Dress

ruched cocktail dress

Ruching is a great way to ‘hide’ any lumps and bumps and flatter your figure.

Gauge81 Ira Ruched Midi dress

high neck dress

Choose a neckline that looks good on you. A v-neck is flattering on everyone, for example, while a high-neck tends to look good if you have a long neck, a rectangle or an inverted triangle figure.

A.L.C. Inez Satin Halter Dress

Erica @ericabunker above (read her style interview here) chooses strappy sandals with her white dress.

Steal her look with this similar cocktail dress (another option here) and sandals.

halter

A halter dress is another style that looks great on inverted triangle figures as it will balance out wider shoulders.

susana monaco Sequin Halter Midi-Dress

classy

Cocktail attire is always a classy choice. For extra glamour, choose an embellished cocktail dress.

Badgley Mischka Embellished Scuba Midi-Dress

modest cocktail dress

If you are looking for a relatively modest choice, then a cocktail dress with long sleeves and a below-the-knee hem length will work for you.

Santorelli Paisley Satin Wrap Midi-Dress

unique cocktail dress

For a unique style, the cocktail dress (below) combines the look of a dress with the styling of a tuxedo jacket.

Aidan Mattox Mixed Media Sheath Dress

winter cocktail dress

If you have a winter event to attend, then velvet is a beautiful material to choose for the cooler months. Choose longer sleeves to add warmth.

Donna Karan New York Main Event Velvet Burnout Midi-Dress

fall cocktail dress

If you’re attending a cocktail event during the Fall, then choosing autumnal shades such as burgundy will work well.

Black Halo Audrey Velvet Tie-Neck Midi Dress

cocktail dress for summer

For summer cocktail events, choose paler shades and lighter materials such as silk. We love the print on the slipdress (below).

Cinq à Sept Mon Amour Milana Printed Silk Satin Slipdress

Plus size cocktail dresses

Are you looking for a plus size cocktail dress this year? Thankfully, there are plenty of beautiful options in stores now, for all shapes and sizes. We love the hemline on the Chelsea28 dress (below).

Chelsea28 Asymmetric Hem Satin Dress

Kiyonna Mademoiselle Lace A-Line Dress

Petite cocktail dress

If you’re petite, it can be tricky to find a dress which falls at knee-length rather than being too long for you.

Look out for brands which have petite ranges to get the right fit. A jumpsuit would also look great on you.

Xscape  Ruffle Off-the-Shoulder Cocktail Dress

There’s more inspiration in how to dress if you are petite.

gold cocktail dress

For a luxe look, how about gold? It was one of the major color trends seen on the winter and fall catwalks for this year.

Sachin & Babi Carmen Sequin One-Shoulder Midi-Dress

Blue cocktail dress

Rather than a little black dress, how about a little blue dress? The sheath dress (below) features a flattering v-neck and interesting tie detail.

Badgley Mischka V-Neck Sheath Dress

light blue cocktail dress

A paler blue can work well for warmer weather. Or, you can wear during the cooler months by adding black accessories.

ML Monique Lhuillier Luella Lace Midi Dress

gray cocktail dress

Gray tends to be thought of as a color for business, but it can also work just as well for parties if you choose a gray dress in satin or silk, or with embellishments.

Badgley Mischka Brooch-Embellished Belted Coatdress

pink dress

Just as red will help you stand out from the crowd, pink could be another option to consider.

We’d opt for a deep shade rather than pastels if you are attending a winter event, although if you do have a paler pink dress, you could always wear with a black jacket or bolero and black accessories to make it more seasonally-appropriate.

Laundry by Shelli Segal Scuba Off-the-Shoulder Sheath Dress

emerald dress

The little black dress is definitely a stylish woman’s best friend.

But, we love all of the lovely jewel colors that are in stores now for fall and winter events.

Donna Karan New York Social Occasion Asymmetric Velvet Cocktail Dress

Orange dress

To stand out during your cocktail event, an orange cocktail dress is perfect. We don’t think anyone else will be wearing orange. Take a look at our article on how to wear orange to decide what color to wear with it.

Elliatt Dimness Halter Ruffle Midi-Dress

Tanasha @letsrecreatethelook above perfectly mixes orange and blue.

Get her look with this similar ruched dress, sandals, handbag and earrings.

Yellow cocktail dress

Do you love to wear yellow? We know it’s one of those colors which is a bit like Marmite – you either love it or you hate it.

But you can almost guarantee no one else will be wearing a yellow cocktail dress, so you’re sure to stand out from the crowd.

You could team with black or gold accessories.

Badgley Mischka Pleated Side Drape Sheath Dress

champagne dress

If gold is too ‘blingy’ for you, then Champagne is a more subtle option that will give you a similar look.

Sam Edelman Pleated Dress

Purple cocktail dresses

For something a little different from the usual black or navy, how about opting for a deep purple or plum?

More ideas here on how to wear purple.

Elliatt Reception Cascade Ruffle Strapless Dress

accessories to go with your cocktail attire

Of course, if you have chosen a beautiful cocktail dress, you will need equally beautiful accessories to go with it.

Below are some of the best shoes, wraps and jewelry to wear with your cocktail attire.

Nordstrom Satin Border Silk Chiffon Scarf – Tory Burch Reva Leather Clutch –

Cole Haan Wallet On A Chain – Nina Crystal Frame Clutch – Valentino Garavani VLogo Signature Earrings – Kenneth Jay Lane Ball Drop Earrings – Konstantino Anthos Earrings

Jess @elegantlydressedandstylish above (read her style interview here) teams her red dress with black accessories.

Check out this similar dress (other options here and here), tights, pumps, clutch, earrings, necklace.

Read our article on how to wear tights for more inspiration.

shoes to go with your cocktail attire

We’ve stuck to a palette of black, gold and silver here as they will go with any cocktail dress.

Opt for classic pumps or sandals to go with your cocktail dress.

If you don’t want to wear very high heels, you could look at kitten heels or block heels, which will be more comfortable. Or, choose a pair of pointed flats.

Also take a look at the these stylish heels that are comfortable to wear.

Jack Rogers Debra Ballet – Naturalizer Vera Ankle Strap Sandals – Badgley Mischka Zendaya Pumps – Calvin Klein Gabrianna Pumps

Fonda @savvysouthernchic above matches her shoes to her cocktail dress.

She is wearing a wrap sequin dress from DKNY. Check out these similar pumps, clutch, earrings and necklace to complete the look.

winter cocktail dress ideas

If you are wearing your cocktail dress for a winter dinner or party, you will definitely need to stay warm on your way to the event and, depending on the temperature inside, you may wish to keep a wrap over your shoulders.

Faux fur adds a glamorous touch.

Read our article on how to style your shrugs and boleros for evening dresses.

Eliza J Faux Fur Capelet – BABEYOND Faux Fur Cape – kate spade new york Faux Fur Pull Through Scarf – Lucky LeafFaux Fur Ornate Collar Shrug

Your cocktail dresses together in one capsule

Below, you can see some of the cocktail dresses used above, complete with accessories so you can see how to wear them.

shop the best cocktail dresses here:

Read our ultimate guide to creating a capsule wardrobe that works best for you.

Do you already have a lot of cocktail dresses in your closet? What events will you be wearing yours to this fall and winter?

Continue reading:

1. The Best Dress Styles For Your Body Shape
2. How To Choose The Perfect Little Black Dress For Your Body Type
3. How To Dress For A Christmas Party: 11 Outfit Ideas!

Like this article on the best cocktail dresses? Save it on Pinterest!

Feature image by Souri @fabfemme_australia

The post The best cocktail dresses in stores now appeared first on 40+ Style.

You really don’t have to forgo comfort for style. And, here in this article to prove it are the most comfortable heels you can wear, which both look and feel amazing.

Comfortable high heels

You might want to wear high heels because you would like to add extra height.

Or, you may want to add heels for a formal occasion, for work, or because you simply think a certain outfit looks better with heels.

Whatever the reason, you will want to make sure that the heels you choose are comfortable for your feet as well as looking stylish.

 Check out our tips on how to look taller.

The best types of comfy heels to choose

We definitely won’t wear anything that hurts. If you too have turned your back on heels which aren’t kind to your feet, what types of heels should you look for?

The best types of heels for comfort are likely to be kitten heels, block heels and platform heels because either they don’t have skyscraper heels, or they have wider heels, making them easier to walk in. I’d stick with heels around 3-inches or lower.

So, you can certainly combine being trendy and stylish with being comfortable. Plus, lower heels are on trend right now, so you can be comfy and trendy.

We like shopping for heels on Nordstrom and Zappos because you can define your search by heel height and by height type.

Best of all, these styles are definitely on trend right now. Check out this article on the best shoe trends for fall and winter 2023.

What to look out for when choosing a pair of comfortable heels

Have you ever bought a pair of heels which look fabulous, only to find you wear them once or twice and then push them to the back of your closet because they are so uncomfortable.

We know it’s a mistake that we’ve all made. Below are some things to look out for if you want to ensure that the heels you opt for are comfortable:

Choose the right heel height for you

A comfortable height for one woman is not necessarily a comfortable height for someone else. Don’t opt for 4-inch stilettos just because they look good. Generally, a height between 2-inches and 3-inches will be best.

Karen @styledbykaren above opts for block heel sandals. The pink shade gives her classic outfit a playful pop of color.

Recreate her outfit with this similar shirt, jeans and sandals (another option here).

Make sure you get the right fit

It’s always important to get the right fit in any shoe. But, with high heels, you definitely don’t want them pinching or slipping on and off your feet. Just like clothes, you will find that some brands fit you better. As well as shoe size, ensure you opt for the right width for your feet.

Look for soles with cushioning

Wearing high heels puts more pressure on your feet, particularly on the balls of your feet. Look out for shoes which have cushioned soles (or you can always add a cushioned insert).

Want more support from your shoes? Check out the best shoes with arch support.

Opt for natural materials

Leather and suede are often more forgiving for your feet as they stretch and “give” a little wear, and molding to your feet, while manmade materials can be less flexible.

Fonda @savvysouthernchic above chooses block heels with her jeans.

Steal her look with this similar blouse, jeans, mules, bag and necklace.

Pointed or round?

Heels can be tricky to wear. Pointed toes can also be hard to wear if you don’t get the fit just right as they could squeeze your toes. So, when you put the two together, you could find pointed heels are uncomfortable to wear. If you want to make sure that your toes aren’t squished, then you could look for a round toe (or an open toe in warmer weather).

Try on your shoes in the afternoon

Whether you are buying in person or trying on your online purchase, it’s best to try on your shoes in the afternoon. That’s because your feet swell a little and change shape during the day. So, the shoes that fit you in the morning may feel too tight in the afternoon. The ones that fit in the afternoon are the ones you should buy.

Types of comfortable heels to look out for

Now that you are considering what heel height and shoe shape might be best for you, below are some of the most comfortable heel styles to choose from, whether you are looking for heels for an evening out, for a special occasion, for work, or just for everyday.

Kitten heels

Short and slender, kitten heels are generally around 1.5-inches in height, so are definitely more comfortable to walk in than many other types of heels.

Not only that, but they’re very much on trend for the upcoming Spring 2024 season, with designers including Prada and Khaite showcasing small-is-beautiful heels on their runways.

Trotters are a great comfort brand if you need extra support.

Trotters Keely Pump
Amazon / Zappos

We also love Sarah Flint’s heels, which are made with anatomical arch support. If you haven’t discovered Sarah Flint yet, take a look. Her designs are handmade at family factories in Italy.

Sarah Flint Perfect Kitten Pump 50

Souri @fabfemme_australia above (read her style interview here) opts for kitten heel pumps with her party outfit.

Steal her look with this similar dress, slingback pumps, clutch and fascinator.

Low heels

Another great comfy heels option, either for work or for everyday, are these Naturalizer sandals below.

They come in a huge choice of colors and have contour cushioning for all-day comfort.

Naturalizer Vera Sandals
Amazon / Zappos

Or, you could try the Margaux pumps (below), which are another true classic. They come in a choice of 11 colors, and were especially designed to answer the question of ‘where the heck do I find a comfortable heel?’.

Margaux The Heel

For a budget-friendly option, LifeStride is a good go-to. The Parigi pumps (below) have traction rubber soles to stop you from slipping.

LifeStride Parigi Pump
Amazon / Zappos

Block heels

Because you are giving yourself more surface area to walk on, you will find a block heel much more comfortable to wear than thinner heels.

You may even find that even if you choose a higher pair, they are still easier to walk in because of the width of the heel.

Plus, you’re not going to get your heel caught in anything as you walk, or run the risk of your foot turning over onto its side if you wobble.

If you’re heading into summer, you will be thinking about sandals and shoes which let your feet breathe. For winter, you can look at block heeled boots and closed toe styles.

These Marc Fisher pumps are a classic. They have a fresh take on a block heel, making a heel which is wide yet still manages to be delicate. You could opt for black leather or suede, or a nude style if you are looking for a leg-lengthening effect.

Marc Fisher LTD Zala Pump
Amazon / Zappos

We love the sculptural look of the Vivaia heels (below) which have pressure-relief insoles and heel padding. They come in four colors.

Vivaia Pointed-Toe Block Heels

Moving onto a fun, party look, the Boden slingbacks (below) have a mid block heel and will go with all of your going-out looks.

Boden Slingback Mid-Heel Pumps

For more inspiration, read our article on what shoes to wear with different styles of pants.

Jess @elegantlydressedandstylish above (read her style interview here) chooses block heels booties with her maxi skirt.

Check out this similar cardigan, skirt, boots (another option here), bag, earrings and necklace.

Angled heels

A similar take on the block heel or the kitten heel which is particularly on trend this year, the angled heel still offers a wide heel or small heel to walk on but with a stylish twist.

Vionic’s pointed toe pumps would be ideal to add interest to a neutral outfit.

Vionic Jacynda Pointed Toe Pump

NYDJ’s booties would go with anything in your closet and feature an interesting angled heel.

NYDJ Gabbe Booties

Comfortable heels for work

As you head into your 40s and beyond, where you work, the way you work, and even if you work may change.

But, if you do need, or want, a pair of high heels for work, the last thing you want is to suffer through your working day with aching feet.

Trotters is always a good go-to for comfortable heels and you will find a number of classic pumps which will add some timeless style to your closet.

Trotters Cassidy Pumps

For more inspiration check out our article on what shoes to wear with different styles of pants

Comfortable pumps

A pair of pumps is a true wardrobe staple that you can wear with everything from a pencil skirt to a pair of jeans.

You can choose any heel height from an inch to four inches – whatever you feel comfortable with.

They’re such a versatile pair of shoes too. You can go with any number of classic options or patterns like leopard print to bring something new to your outfits.

Vionic’s Monterey Carmel pumps feature cushioning for comfort.

Vionic Monterey Carmel Cushion Pumps
Amazon / Zappos

Comfortable black heels

Most women will have a pair, or several pairs, of black heels in their closet. But, how comfortable are yours?

You could of course, choose any number of styles of black heels, and they will be on trend for many years to come.

Naturalizer’s Everly pumps (below) have a two-and-a-quarter-inch heel and contour technology.

Naturalizer Everly Pumps
Amazon / Zappos

For a lower heel, try Trotters Dream pumps with a comfy, cushioned insole.

Trotters Dream Pumps
Amazon / Zappos

Emms @beautifuleveryday_uk above chooses classic black heels with her red dress.

She is wearing a dress from LK Bennett. Check out this similar pair of pumps and bag to complete the look.

Platforms

A platform heel is another idea if you want to add height without walking on a traditional heel. Platforms elevate the ball of your foot as well as your heel, so they tend to be more comfortable to walk in than high heels.

Kork-Ease’s leather sandals (below) feature an interesting ankle strap.

KORK-EASE Stasia Leather Heeled Sandals
Amazon / Zappos

Aerosoles’ heeled sandals also feature a platform sole and would go well with anything from your summer dresses to wide-leg jeans.

Aerosoles Camera Heeled Sandals
Amazon / Zappos

Comfortable wedges

If you’ve been following us for a while now, you will know how much we love Fly London sandals. They’re comfortable and a little bit quirky, so you can add some individual style to your outfits.

For another Fly London style more suitable for cooler weather, try the wedge pumps (below).

FLY London Yaz Wedge Pumps
Amazon / Zappos

For a dressier take on the wedge, you could try the Nine West pump (below). They come in a choice of neutral shades, and reviewers say they are cushiony and easy to walk in.

NINE WEST Cal9x9 Pump

Wedges are a great option for summer, and the Cole Haan espadrilles (below) are specially designed with foam technology for comfort. They come in a choice of five neutral shades.

Cole Haan Cloudfeel Espadrille Wedge Sandal
Amazon / Zappos

Comfortable sandals with heels

Sandals with heels are another incredibly versatile shoe.

You can pack them for evenings out on vacation or wear them to more formal occasions such as summer weddings or events.

Or, if you find a comfy pair, you can wear it for day-to-day wear with a pair of jeans and a blazer.

We love the asymmetric strap details on the Rebecca Allen strappy sandals (below).

Rebecca Allen The Block Sandy Sandals

Dawn Lucy @fashionshouldbefun above (read her style interview here) chooses on-trend cage-style sandals with her tiered skirt.

Check out this similar top, denim jacket, skirt, sandals, handbag, earrings, necklace and belt.

Most comfortable stilettos

If you do want to add a few inches, then stilettos are usually the highest heels you can choose. Most come in 4-inch heel heights. But, they can be much more difficult to walk in because they feature a tapering heel that narrows at the bottom.

While you are unlikely to want to wear them everyday – after all, even Victoria Beckham has given up her stiletto habit in favor of more comfortable shoes – you might want to don a pair of stilettos occasionally.

Maybe you save your stilettos for times when you know you will be on your feet for a limited amount of time, such as a dinner event.

You can opt for a classic shade, go for something bright like red or pink, or choose a pattern like florals or snakeprint which are bang on trend this year.

Ralph Lauren’s Lanette pumps are well-reviewed for comfort and come in a good choice of colors. Some reviewers say they run small, so you may want to size up.

LAUREN Ralph Lauren Lanette Pumps
Amazon / Zappos

Another good choice for a higher heel are the Cole Haan’s Grand Ambition pumps, which have a cushioned footbed.

Cole Haan Grand Ambition Pump
Amazon / Zappos

Comfortable sandals

Everyone needs at least one comfortable pair of sandals for summer. Söfft’s Verdi features wide straps with metallic details as well as a shock-absorbing midsole.

Söfft Verdi Sandals
Amazon / Zappos

We also love the woven detailing and interesting heel shape on the Gentle Souls sandals (below).

Gentle Souls by Kenneth Cole Nadia Sandals

Flared heel

A different take on the kitten heel, the flared heel is a nod to the 90s and was featured on many of the designer runways for this season. The Franco Sarto pumps (below) come in a good choice of colors.

Franco Sarto Diva Pumps
Amazon / Zappos

Stacked heel

Usually featuring a wooden sole and heel, the stacked heel starts off wide and narrows towards the base, but it still provides a wide heel to walk on.

We love the elasticated detailing on Everlane’s The Day heel, which comes in a choice of neutral colors.

Everlane The Day Heel

Most comfortable heels for wide feet

If you have wide feet, then an elasticated pair of heels can be perfect. We have more ideas in this article on the best shoes for wide feet.

LifeStride Charlotte High Heel Sandals
Amazon / Zappos

Most comfortable designer heels

If you’re thinking about investing in a pair of designer heels, then you’ll want to ensure they are comfortable, you can walk in them, and they are a classic style so you can wear them for many years to come.

You get the iconic Christian Louboutin red on the Mary Janes (below) without a huge stiletto heel.

Christian Louboutin Miss Jane Patent Red Sole Pump

Ferragamo’s block heels are another good choice for comfort. They will never be out of style, which is important if you’re investing in a designer style.

Ferragamo Myra Lambskin Bow Pump

How to make heels more comfortable

If you do already have heels in your closet that you would love to wear, but which are uncomfortable, you may still be able to find a solution.

Before you gift or donate them, you could try wearing shoe inserts.

You can find high heel comfort inserts on Amazon. Depending on where you suffer any discomfort, or just to prevent any soreness before it happens, you can find pads for the balls of your feet, or heel grips to stop any slipping on the back of your feet.

Walkize Metatarsal Pads

Ballotte Premium Grade Silicone Heel Protectors

Dr. Scholl’s Ball of Foot Cushions for High Heels

Dr. Scholl’s Stylish Step High Heel Relief Insoles

It may be worth trying one of these options before you give up on your heels completely.

What are the most comfortable brands of high heel?

• Sam Edelman
• Naturalizer
• Steve Madden
• Söfft
• Comfortiva
• Fly London
• Clarks
• Aerosoles
• Gentle Souls
• Everlane

shop the most comfortable heels here:

What are the most comfortable heels you have ever worn? Let me know in the comments below so you can help to turn this into a fantastic resource for other women searching for comfortable high heels. 

Continue reading:

1. Best Shoes With Arch Support – Comfortable Walking Shoes To Walk In All Day!
2. The Best Shoes For Swollen Feet
3. What Shoes To Wear With All Your Dresses

like this article on the most comfortable heels? Share it on Pinterest!

Feature image by Emms @beautifuleveryday_uk

The post The most comfortable heels that look hip AND are comfortable to wear appeared first on 40+ Style.

Plus, if you can’t wait until Black Friday 2023 itself to snap up a bargain fashion buy, don’t worry, many stores have started their Black Friday sales early. You’ll find some of the best early discounts below…

What to expect from the Black Friday sales

For 2023, the Black Friday sales start on November 24 and Cyber Monday falls on November 27, but you’ll find that there are already deals in many stores.

Tips on shopping the sales to get the best black Friday deals for you

Plan ahead to get the best black friday deals

If you are looking for Christmas gifts for loved ones, the Black Friday sales can be the perfect time to buy.

Plus, think about the events you have coming up in the next few months, whether you have been invited to a festive party. Or maybe you expect to be working from home during the upcoming year. Or perhaps you have a vacation coming up. What outfits will you need? Take this into account when looking at the best black Friday deals. It’s no good buying something if you won’t actually find the right occasion to wear it!

Think about what you will wear now

This time of year, the sales usually include plenty of seasonally-appropriate attire, so you can pick up the perfect winter coat or pair of boots to help you put together your cold weather outfits.

Don’t buy just because it’s discounted

Common sense, of course, but don’t be tempted to make a purchase just because an item of clothing or pair of shoes is on discount.

Make sure what you choose fits and flatters you, and that it isn’t uncomfortable. Otherwise, your new purchase will simply spend years lurking at the back of your closet.

The best places to find great black Friday deals

Now that you’re thinking strategically about what will suit you, and that you will wear this season, and beyond, below are the best places to shop the Black Friday sales…

Black Friday discounts at Nordstrom

Nordstrom is promising that Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals will include discounts on North Face, Nike, Hunter, UGG and Tory Burch. But you don’t have to wait. Nordstrom already has discounts of up to 71%.

Classic boots in the black friday sales

A perfect example of a sale purchase which will never date, a classic pair of boots will be something you wear year upon year. The Blondo boots (below) are waterproof and have a lug sole.

Blondo Dahlia Waterproof Bootie WAS $149.95, NOW $99.99

designer bag

If you love a particular designer, the Black Friday sales can be a good time to check if any of their bags are reduced.

Tory Burch Kira Moto Quilted Wallet on a Chain WAS $348, NOW $243.60

A warm winter coat

If you haven’t yet invested in a warm winter coat, the Bernardo jacket (below) has a tailored waist to flatter your figure and should keep you nice and warm.

Bernardo Hooded Water Resistant Puffer Jacket WAS $180, NOW $99.99

moto jacket

A moto jacket is always on trend and adds a bit of an edge to an outfit. Wear a moto jacket over your summer dresses with booties.

Levi’s Faux Leather Moto Jacket WAS $150, NOW $89.99

shirt

Wear a chiffon shirt with a camisole underneath. The KUT from the Kloth shirt (below) comes in a good choice of colors and prints.

KUT from the Kloth Jasmine Chiffon Button-Up Shirt WAS $69, NOW $41.41

loungewear

This time of year is the perfect time to invest in some new loungewear or choose pajamas as a gift.

Eberjey Gisele Jersey Knit Pajamas WAS $138, NOW $110.40

black friday deals: Amazon black friday sale

Amazon is one of the prime destinations for holiday shopping and there are already lots of great deals here for Black Friday. Amazon will have its Black Friday event on November 23 and 24.

sweater

We love the simplicity of the oversized sweater (below). You can wear it with a pair of leggings or slim jeans. The discount you get depends on the color you choose.

LILLUSORY Oversized Ribbed Turtleneck Sweater FROM $23.99 TO $39.99 DEPENDING ON THE COLOR YOU CHOOSE

wrap dress

A wrap dress is flattering on all body types. You can easily dress the PRETTYGARDEN dress (below) up or down and style it for different seasons.

PRETTYGARDEN Wrap Ruffle Hem Maxi Dress $47.99

leather bag

Invest in a leather bag and it should be an investment that will last. The crossbody bag (below) is perfect for traveling.

Montana West Genuine Leather Crossbody Bag WAS $49.99, NOW $39.99

Ann Taylor

Best known for producing classic styles to flatter women who care about their appearance, but don’t want to be a slave to fashion trends, you’ll find plenty of timeless designs on sale already.

The Ann Taylor sale is already on, with discounts on lots of items. We love the color of the belted coat (below).

Ann Taylor Wool Blend Blanket Coat WAS $239.99, NOW $142.79

Anthropologie

If you join the retailer’s loyalty program, you’ll get a heads-up on all the Black Friday deals. For now, you’ll find there’s already a sale, including classic choices like the dress (below).

Maeve The Cecily Fit & Flare Sweetheart Dress WAS $170, NOW $99.95-$129.95

Boden

One of the beauties of the Boden brand is that it tends not to design clothes and accessories with a focus on trends, but instead creates timeless clothes that you can wear for many seasons.

There are often clearance items on Boden, year round, but you’ll find extra discounts for Black Friday. Currently, the Boden sale has discounts on everything from swimwear to knitwear.

Boden Bias-cut Printed Midi Skirt WAS $120, NOW $84

Chico’s

With a focus on classic styling, and bold prints, Chico’s will have plenty of its signature styles on discount for Black Friday, with more than 1,000 items in the Chico’s sale.

Chico’s Faux Leather Wide Leg Crops WAS $119.00, NOW $59.99

Club Monaco

A good option for luxe casual wear, the Club Monaco sale is already on. You could treat yourself to a cashmere sweater or some new workwear.

Club Monaco Cristina Cashmere Cardigan WAS $249.50, NOW $189

Gap

The older sister to Old Navy, Gap still has plenty of stylish tricks up its sleeve. The GAP sale has 50% off outerwear and sweaters.

GAP Loose Khaki Cargo Pants WAS $79.95, NOW $49.99

everlane

A great go-to for timeless outfits, the Everlane sale is already on. We love the linen pants (below) which we’ll be investing in for our next vacation.

Everlane The Linen Way-High® Drape Pant $128, NOW $64

farfetch

Farfetch already has lots of discounts on designer clothes and accessories. Take a look and see if your favorite designer has markdowns.

Marc Jacobs The J Marc Chain Satchel Bag WAS $495, NOW $347

free people

Free People is a perfect go-to for you if you have a bohemian style or natural style personality.

Free People Adele Velvet Duster $248, NOW $99.95

J.Crew

J.Crew is expected to offer new markdowns in its Black Friday sale – but you can already shop some good discounts of 60% off and more. The wool sweater (below) is a classy, classic option that you can wear year after year.

J.Crew Crewneck Sweater WAS $118, NOW $105.99

Karen Millen

Karen Millen often has discounts year-round, making it a good place to pick up occasionwear. Perfect for party season shopping.

Karen Millen Pintuck Tie Neck Woven Column Maxi Dress WAS $342, NOW $172

Kate Spade New York

The Kate Spade sale is offering discounts on thousands of items. So, if you want to treat yourself to a new bag, now is the time.

Kate Spade New York Spade Flower Jacquard Stripe Everything Large Tote WAS $398, NOW $239

Kohl’s

Kohl’s is set to launch its Black Friday sale. But it already has special offers. You can find great deals on dresses, tops and sweaters.

Kohl’s Croft & Barrow® The Extra Soft V-Neck Sweater, WAS $36, NOW $12.74

Loft

A store which doesn’t try to be achingly cool, or on trend, but which still produces some interesting designs each season. The LOFT sale is already on.

Lou & Grey Marled Colorblock Sweater WAS $79.99, NOW $47.99

Macy’s

You can already have a look at Macy’s Sale without having to wait until Black Friday. Currently, there is an extra 20% off with the code ENJOY.

Michael Kors Single-Breasted Coat WAS $320, NOW $159.99

Madewell

Madewell’s Black Friday event has already started with 30% off if you use the code LETSGO.

Madewell Kick Out Crop Jeans WAS $138, NOW $119.50

MANGO

Mango can be a great go-to for on-trend clothes to update your wardrobe.

Mango Belted Halter Jumpsuit WAS $99.99, NOW $59.99

best black friday deals at NYDJ

One of the brands specially designed for women over 40, Not Your Daughter’s Jeans (NYDJ) offers classic shapes and styles that fit, flatter and won’t date.

How about these slim jeans (below) which will be perfect to wear with oversized tops and shirts.

NYDJ Sheri Slim Jeans WAS $129, NOW $109.98

black friday online deals at Old Navy

Old Navy already has a pre-Black Friday sale. Expect more discounts over the Black Friday weekend.

Old Navy Shaker-Stitch Cardigan Sweater WAS $44.99, NOW $26.99

black friday offers at &other stories

& Other Stories has already started its sale with plenty of stylish choices.

&Other Stories Jacquard Patterned Drawstring Cuff Top WAS $119, NOW $63.99

black friday specials at Saks Fifth Avenue

Another good option for designer discounts, the Saks Fifth Avenue sale has already started in the run-up to Black Friday.

COACH Kenna 70MM Leather Ankle Bootie WAS $325, NOW $227.50

black Friday shopping at Shopbop

A good option to look at if you want to look for designer clothes or accessories at a reduction. The Shopbop sale is on with some discounts of up to 70%.

DeMellier Vancouver Embossed Croc Bag WAS $575, NOW $402.50

early black friday deals: Target

Target has hundreds of discounts already on clothes, shoes and accessories.

A New Day Jackie Ballet Flat WAS $19.99, NOW $16.99

black friday deals store: Walmart

The Walmart Black Friday deals start online on November 10. Not just for your groceries, Walmart is already known for budget fashion options, with pre-Black Friday deals already offering discounts.

Michael Kors Mercer Extra-Small Pebbled Leather Crossbody Bag  WAS $398, NOW $144

What you be buying in the Black Friday sales? Let us know if you find some fabulous Black Friday deals.

shop the best black Friday fashion deals here:

Continue reading:

1. The Best Winter Coats For Women This Season And How To Choose A Coat
2. The Best Winter Boots For Women: Stylish Winter Boots That You Can’t Wait To Wear
3. Cold Weather Outfits To Keep You Warm AND Stylish

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The post The best black Friday deals on fashion appeared first on 40+ Style.

Did you know sequins can be traced all the way back to the time of King Tut, whose clothes were found covered in gold sequins in a bid to make sure he was rich in the afterlife?

We’re definitely not suggesting that you wait for the next life to wear yours. There are some very stylish sequin pieces in stores now, which will make sure you sparkle at Christmas and New Year parties.

We love the way Ruth talks about sequins in her style interview here, when she says sequins are associated with having fun with the dressing up box as children. They definitely have those associations, and you certainly don’t have to give up your sequins after 40!

Tips for wearing a sequin dress and other sequin outfits

First of all a few tips for wearing sequins.

Less is more if you opt for a sequin dress

The great thing about sequin dresses is you really don’t need to worry too much about the rest of your outfit. A pair of heels and a clutch bag, and you’re good to go. You don’t need a lot of accessories.

You can wear sequins as daywear

In fact, this has been a big trend over the summer. For fall, team a cozy sweater with a sequin skirt or sequin pants.

Sequin accessories are perfect for parties

If you don’t want to go full-on with your sequins, look out for sequin accessories such as shoes, belts and clutch bags.

Simple silhouettes

Keep your silhouette simple so you don’t look too fussy. Think about simple sheath dresses, or wearing a plain silk shirt with sequin skirts and pants.

Kim @kimair above (read her style interview here) teams her sequin dress with contrasting menswear-inspired shoes and a double-breasted blazer.

Recreate her outfit with this similar sequin dress, blazer, loafers and earrings.

the best sequin dresses in stores now

Let’s take a look at some of the most beautiful sequin dresses we’ve spotted in stores this season.

Embellished sequin dress

If you have a formal black-tie dinner coming up, a gala ball, or a plush New Year’s Eve event, then you have the perfect excuse to wear a long sequin gown! While some sequin dresses can be unforgiving, often showing up every lump and bump, this dress from Mac Duggal is super flattering as the design creates a waistline.

It’s also a good option if you aren’t so keen on your upper arms, as it has long sleeves to provide coverage.

Mac Duggal Sequin Embellished Bateau Neck Long Sleeve A-Line Gown

Sequin sheath dress

A simple sequin sheath dress is given a huge shot of glam with the use of sequins. This can be a beautiful silhouette for most body shapes.

Alex Evenings Sequin Cap Sleeve Sheath Cocktail Dress

fit & flare dress

Fit and flare styles work particularly well for pear shapes as they skim over your hips and thighs. The lace overlay on the midi dress (below) draws attention to the neck and face.

SL FASHIONS Sequin Lace Midi Dress

cocktail dress

The long sleeve cocktail dress below is a classic shape with a knee-length pencil skirt and long sleeves. Keep your shoes and accessories simple.

Xscaspe Long Sleeve Sequin Cocktail Dress

mock neck

The Donna Morgan dress (below) has a lovely balanced design with a high neckline but a slit at the thigh. Perfect if you like to show off your legs.

DONNA MORGAN FOR MAGGY Sequin Mock Neck Cocktail Dress

black sequin dress dress

Update your little black dress by adding some sequins. We love the v-neck and wrap style of the Maggy London sequin dress (below), which will flatter all body shapes.

Maggy London Sequin Faux Wrap Cocktail Dress

mini sequin dress

Even if you don’t like to wear mini dresses, we love the idea of wearing a sequin mini dress over leggings, pants or leather jeans for an edgy party look.

Chelsea28 Sequin Long Sleeve Minidress

midi dress

Midi lengths are very much on trend, and the beautiful blue shade of the sequin midi (below) gives this dress a stylish point of difference.

Ever New Lolita Sequin Cocktail Midi Dress

long sleeve sequin dress

The long sleeve sequin dress (below) features an interesting geometric pattern, and comes in four different colors. It features a low back, but is still high enough to be able to wear a bra underneath without the strap showing.

Dress the Population Emery Sequin Stripe Long Sleeve Cocktail Dress

two-piece

A two-piece sequin outfit is the perfect choice for parties or if you have a wedding to attend. The bodice on the Alex Evenings dress (below) matches the jacket and flows into a chiffon skirt.

You can wear the jacket as separates too, to dress up your jeans or wide-leg pants.

Alex Evenings Sequin Midi Dress with Jacket

color block dress

An unusual take on the sequin dress now, with the two-tone dress (below), which is sure to get you plenty of compliments.

Anne Klein Colorblock Sequin Long Sleeve Dress

sequinned-sleeve dress

You don’t have to opt for top-to-toe sequins. You could choose a dress which features sequins only on one section, like the sequin-sleeve dress by Eliza J (below).

Eliza J Sequin Long Sleeve Body-Con Cocktail Dress

sequin outfits

Of course, sequins don’t have to be worn just on dresses. There are lots of other stunning sequin pieces in stores now, from sweaters to skirts, scarves to pants.

Below, you can see lots of sequin outfit ideas, including dresses, suits and pants.

sequins suit

We love the look of a sequin suit for festive parties. Wear with a simple white shirt or a neutral silk top and let the sequins be the stars of the show.

Mango Sequinned Suit Blazer – J.Crew Garçon Tuxedo Shirt – Mango Sequinned Suit Pants – Naturalizer Vera Block Heel Sandal – COACH Luxe Refined Calf Leather Bandit Crossbody Bag – Tory Burch Roxanne Link Earrings

Sandra @lapecosapreciosa above looks stunning in her silver sequin suit.

Check out this similar sequin blazer, pants (set here), top (another option here), pumps, clutch and earrings.

Sequin cocktail dress

A sequin cocktail dress is a party classic. We love the mixed materials and off-the-shoulder detailing on the navy blue cocktail dress (below). Keep your coat and accessories in neutral colors.

J.Crew Italian Melton Wool Palais Topcoat – Tadashi Shoji Sequined Diamond Velvet Sheath Dress – Sam Edelman Dori Pump – HOBO Evolve Clutch – Swarovski Dextera Pavé Detachable Mismatched Hoop Drop Earrings

Sequins with pastels

Sequins can create a look that mixes romantic and glamorous styles. Mix soft pastel shades with silver sequins.

J.Crew Collection Italian Wool Bouclé Blend Topcoat – J.Crew Cashmere Shrunken Turtleneck Sweater – J.Crew Collection Sequin Slip Skirt – J.Crew Maisie Double Strap Heels – Cult Gaia Mini Hera Shoulder Bag – Jenny Bird Nouveaux Puff Earrings

casual sequins outfit

While sequins are usually associated with evenings out and glamorous parties, you can wear your sequins more casually. A sequin sweater and wide-leg jeans are the ideal combination for lunch or dinner with friends and family.

J.Crew Mariner Cropped Sequin Boatneck T-Shirt – J.Crew Pintuck Skinny Flare Jean – J.Crew Maisie Double Strap Heels – J.Crew Edie Metallic Leather Bag – Jenny Bird Nouveaux Puff Earrings

Alison @wardrobe_oxygen above (read her style interview here) wears her sequin sweater with wide leg pants.

Check out these sequin sweaters from Cinq à Sept, Halogen and GRACE KARIN that you can wear with this similar pair of wide pants, booties, clutch and earrings.

Sequin blazer

A sequin blazer will instantly dress up any outfit. It is ideal to pop on if you want to quickly change from work or casual mode to party perfect.

Milly Alexa Peaked Sequin Blazer – Vince Band-Collar Silk Satin Blouse – AG Jeans Farrah High-Rise Boot-Cut Jeans – Naturalizer Vera Block Heel Sandal – J.Crew Edie Metallic Leather Bag – Jenny Bird Nouveaux Puff Earrings

Sequin cover-up

If you have a sleeveless dress and you prefer to cover your upper arms, then look out for a sequin cardigan or bolero jacket.

Eileen Fisher Sequin Wool Open Front Cardigan – Alive + Olivia Asymmetric Slit Midi Dress – Sam Edelman Dori Pump – Ganni Mini Sequin Clutch – Swarovski Dextera Pavé Detachable Mismatched Hoop Drop Earrings

Jona @the50plusgirl above wears a sequin duster over her dress.

Steak her look with this similar dress, cardigan, sandals and bag.

Sequin camisole

Keep your sequins more subtle and let them peek out from underneath your blazer by choosing a sequin camisole.

J.Crew Collection Italian Wool Tuxedo Blazer – SIMKHAI Arlene Sequined & Lace Tank – AG Jeans Farrah High-Rise Boot-Cut Jeans – ZODIAC Hill Loafers – COACH Luxe Refined Calf Leather Bandit Crossbody Bag – Tory Burch Roxanne Link Earrings

Sequin pants

If you prefer pants to dresses, you can find some super stylish sequin pants this season. Team them with a tuxedo-style blazer.

We love the idea of these sequin pants as an alternative to dresses. We can’t imagine anyone else would have the same outfit. Wear with neutrals and let the pants be the statement piece of the outfit.

We think they’d also be a good outfit for more casual occasions like a festive lunch. You could wear them with a cashmere sweater for a more relaxed feel.

J.Crew Collection Italian Wool Tuxedo Blazer – J.Crew Sleeveless Shell Top – Alice + Olivia Elba Sequined Wide-Leg Pants – Sam Edelman Dori Pump – HOBO Evolve Clutch – Swarovski Dextera Pavé Detachable Mismatched Hoop Drop Earrings

Sequin accessories

You can easily update your outfits by just swapping your shoes and accessories for sequin styles.

J.Crew Italian Melton Wool Palais Topcoat – J.Crew Garçon Tuxedo Shirt – Favorite Daughter The Favorite Pant Pleat Pants – Jack Rogers Debra Sling Back Kitten Heel – Ganni Mini Sequin Clutch – Tory Burch Roxanne Link Earrings

Lizzy @whatlizzyloves above (read her style interview here) chooses a sequin bag and pumps to go with her outfit.

Get her look with this similar blouse, pants (another option here), pumps, clutch and necklace.

Your sequin outfits together in one capsule

Below, you can see the sequin outfits from above together in one capsule, so you can see how you would wear them.

You can mix and match the clothes, shoes and accessories to create different looks. You could wear the sequin blazer with any of the outfits, or wear the shirt or sweater more casually with jeans.

shop the best sequin pieces here:

Do you already have a sequin dress in your closet or other sequin pieces? Do you save your sparkly dresses for the festive season, or do you wear them all year round?

Continue reading:

1. How To Dress For A Christmas Party: 11 Outfit Ideas!
2. WHAT TO WEAR ON CHRISTMAS DAY: All The Christmas Day Outfits You Need For Lounging, Lunching, Staying In Or Going Out
3. How To Choose The Perfect Little Black Dress For Your Body Type

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Feature image by Jona @the50plusgirl

The post Sequin dress outfits to sparkle in for the festive season appeared first on 40+ Style.

A great pair of boots can not only keep you warm and dry, but can give an outfit real impact.

We show you the best winter boots for women that you won’t be able to resist. Take a look and see which are your favorites.

Why a pair of women’s winter boots can elevate your style

A great pair of boots can make a huge difference to the overall look of your outfit.

Just think about the difference a pair of knee-length boots can make to even the simplest of outfits.

A pair of boots added to a classic outfit of jeans and a sweater will make it instantly special.

You will wear your boots many times over the winter season, so it’s definitely worth investing in a pair of the best winter boots for women that you love.

What are the essential boots for your closet?

Of course, you can just choose one pair of boots for winter, but ideally, you will have different boots to take you through different occasions, and different weather. Below are the boot styles you might like to choose when looking for the best winter boots for women:

1. best winter boots for women – A pair of knee-high riding boots

You could opt for a heel, but riding boots are traditionally flat, making them a versatile option for casual days. The Boden boots (below) have a small heel, making them a great choice to add a little height while still being comfy.

Boden Cara Flat Stretch Knee Boots

Take a look at the shoe trends for fall and winter 2023 and you’ll see plenty of boot inspiration – whether you prefer booties or knee-highs.

2. A pair of take-you-anywhere ankle booties

Such a great transitional investment, ankle booties can take your summer dresses into fall. Just add a pair of tights or leggings and a moto jacket and you’re good to go.

Franco Sarto Joanne Ankle Boots

3. A pair of dress boots

You might want a dressier pair of boots that you can wear to the office, or for dinner, or with your little black dress. These could be heeled or flat. Choose black or a beautiful shade of red or burgundy.

Ralph Lauren Willa Bootie

4. A pair of snow boots or wellingtons

Boots don’t just have to look great. They also have to be functional in cold and wet weather. If you live or are visiting somewhere where you may get rain, slush and snow, you may also want a pair of snow boots.

SOREL Tofino II Waterproof Insulated Winter Boot
Amazon / Zappos

How to choose a pair of stylish winter boots

But, first, how to choose a pair of winter boots? Here are some questions to ask yourself.

Do I want a timeless pair or a trendy option?

If you are looking to build up a capsule wardrobe that you can wear year after year, you will want a timeless pair (or pairs) of boots like a classic pair of Chelsea ankle booties or a pair of knee-high riding boots.

The best winter boots for women will be different for everyone depending on your style.

But, if you already have those things in your closet, you might choose to add a pair of boots in a style that is bang-on trend for this season.

What weather will my boots have to withstand?

Obviously, you are looking for boots which are both practical and stylish. But which is most important to you?

If your boots need to withstand wet or snowy outdoor weather, you will need to make sure that they are functional as well as choosing a style you love.

Yvonne @funkyforty above (read her style interview here) opts for beige boots with her white jeans.

Check out this similar sweater, coat, jeans, boots, scarf, sunglasses and cap.

What do I want to wear underneath?

If you are choosing your boots for walking through snow or rain, you may wish to make sure that you can fit a pair of thick socks on with them.

Or, if you are wearing just a pair of opaque tights and a dress, you can look for a pair of boots with a snugger fit.

How much are you prepared to maintain them?

For instance, if you choose a pair of suede boots, you will have to make sure you use a protective spray and try to avoid wet weather if you can.

A leather pair will be easier to clean.

What will I be using them for?

Are your boots for casual walks, for example? Or will you be wearing them to work? Or for a night out to wear with a dress?

Emms @beautifuleveryday_uk above chooses heeled booties with her maxi dress.

Recreate her outfit with this similar sweater dress (another option here), blazer (another option here) and booties.

What heel height am I happy with?

This will partly come down to how happy you are in heels on a day-to-day basis, but also what you are using your boots for.

If you are just heading to dinner and sitting down, a three-inch heel is fine, for example, but you don’t want to be tottering around in the snow in heels.

Do I want a comfort option?

If you have plantar fasciitis, for example, or need arch support, you may prefer to choose a comfort brand of boots.

What is my style personality?

A pair of boots can express your style personality like no other item in your closet.

If you aren’t sure what your style personality is, you can take this fun quiz to find out.

The best winter boots for women this season

So, having thought about what boots you already have in your closet, and where the gaps in your wardrobe are, which are the best boots to buy this season? Below you’ll find some of my favorites in stores now:

long boots

A classic pair of knee-high boots will never go out of style.

If you have a classic style personality, these are the perfect addition to your closet.

Judith @stylecrone above (read her style interview here) matches her boots to her black and red outfit.

Check out this similar dress, coat, cape, tights, boots, bag, earrings, gloves and head wrap.

Naturalizer

The Naturalizer boots below have a riding boot style, and would be ideal to wear over skinny jeans or leggings. Reviewers say they are comfortable, well-fitting and have plenty of room in the calves.

Naturalizer Darry Tall Water Repellent Knee High Boot
Amazon / Zappos

sAm edelman

The Sam Edelman boots (below) come in a good choice of black or brown. We love the gold buckle detail at the ankle.

Sam Edelman Clive Knee High Boot
Amazon / Zappos

naot boot

NAOT boots are great for comfort and keeping you cozy. They come in either black or brown water-resistant leather, and reviewers praise them for their soft leather and great quality.

NAOT Footwear Viento Boot
Amazon / Zappos

COS boots

Designed to hit just below the knee, COS’ leather riding boots will look good worn over your leggings or skinny jeans.

COS Leather Riding Boots

boden boots

Boden’s stretch knee highs are a great mid-height, and they come in four colors. Perfect to wear under your midi dresses.

Boden Cara Heeled Stretch Knee Boots

over the knee

A pair of over-the-knee boots can add real impact to your outfit.

If you still like to keep your look fairly low-key, you could wear with a simple pair of skinny jeans and a sweater, along with your winter coat.

nine west

Nine West’s over-the-knee boots feature stylish metallic details and would look good worn over leggings or under dresses.

Nine West Andone Over-The-Knee Boots

Naturalizer

If you want to wear your white jeans during the winter, then a great way to do so is to team them with pale-colored boots like the Naturalizer over-the-knee style (below).

Naturalizer Kyrie Over-The-Knee Boot
Amazon / Zappos

Boden

Choose over-the-knee boots with some stretch for a good fit. Wear the Boden boots (below) with your skinny jeans or black leggings.

Boden Over-The-Knee Stretch Boots

ankle boots

Another great boot style to choose from is a pair of ankle boots that you can wear when the weather starts to cool down.

Diana @dianagabrielnyc above (read her style interview here) matches her ankle booties to her pants.

Get her look with this similar shirt, jacket, pants, boots, handbag, earrings and sunglasses.

lucky brand boots

The Lucky Brand booties (below) would look good with your jeans and sweaters for everyday wear. They come in a good choice of neutrals, and reviewers say they are comfortable and chic.

Lucky Brand Wallinda Booties
Amazon / Zappos

cole haan

Sleek and modern, the Cole Haan booties (below) are a timeless classic style that will never go out of date.

Cole Haan Holis Buckle Booties
Amazon / Zappos

Nine west

The elastic goring on the Nine West booties (below) gives them an on-trend feel that will add an edge to any of your outfits.

Nine West Leriv Boots

Boden

Boden’s booties (below) feature a snaffle trim that gives them a designer look for a high-street budget.

Boden Snaffle-Trim Ankle Boots

ANINE BING

For a dressy option that will go with your evening outfits, the heel on the ANINE BING boots (below) is perfect. Wear with anything from your bootcut jeans to your dresses.

ANINE BING Hilda Boots

Eileen Fisher

Eileen Fisher’s booties feature a crossover design and a stacked heel. They come in either black or tan.

Eileen Fisher Melrose Boots

animal print

Of course, you don’t have to opt for plain shades when it comes to your booties. If you want a print, animal print will always be on-trend.

Kenneth Cole Reaction Side Way Ankle Boots
Amazon / Zappos

lug boots

Lug soles are another big trend this year. Chunky soles have been in style for a few seasons now, and the great thing is they’re both trendy and practical as they will help you keep your grip in wintery weather.

Fly London lug sole boot

In a choice of 11 colors, the Fly London Tope boots (below) feature a platform lug sole.

Fly London Tope Boots
Amazon / Zappos

steve madden

You could choose black, or taupe in the Steve Madden boots (below). The lug sole gives a comfortable way to add a little height and suede will add texture to your outfit.

Steve Madden Colletta Ankle Boot
Amazon / Zappos

naturalizer black boots

The Naturalizer boots (below) come in a choice of neutrals. Reviewers say they’ve had lots of compliments when they wear them, and the contrast stitching adds a stylish contrast.

Naturalizer Darry Bootie Water Repellent Ankle Boots
Amazon / Zappos

Marc Fisher LTD

The toe cap on the Marc Fisher boots (below) adds interest, and the elastic detailing will make them easy to get on.

Marc Fisher LTD Hadria Ankle Boot
Amazon / Zappos

SoftWalk

Looking for comfort booties, then SoftWalk is a good brand to take a look at. The Novato ankle booties (below) have a cushioned footbed and a casual style that will be perfect with your jeans and sweaters.

SoftWalk Novato Ankle Boot

Blondo

Blondo is a great go-to if you’re looking for waterproof booties. We love the contrast detail on the sole, and the chunky soles on the Blondo Chelsea boots (below).

Blondo Mayes Chelsea Boots
Amazon / Zappos

waterproof boots

Another choice of Blondo waterproof boots for you (below). The cuffs and buckles will add a point of difference to your outfit.

Blondo Roary Waterproof Ankle Boots

Cole Haan also has a waterproof option that comes in either beige or black. They have a hiker style that will be ideal for your casual outfits.

Cole Haan Zerogrand City Wedge Waterproof Boots
Amazon / Zappos

rain boots

A pair of wellington boots is always a practical option when it’s raining. Or you could choose a lower style of waterproof snow boot.

The Michael Kors rain boots (below) look stylish with their low heel.

Michael Kors Karis Rain Boots

snow boots

If you are looking for a pair of boots to really keep your feet warm and cozy, it’s worth investing in a stylish pair of snow boots.

UGG Ashton Addie Tipped Boots

lace-up boots

A key trend for 2023 is the lace-up boot, whether you choose a casual hiking-style boot or a dressier option.

Claudia @glamupyourlifestyle above (read her style interview here) opts for lace-up boots that blend the look of boots and sneakers.

Recreate her outfit with this similar jacket, jeans, sneaker boots and sling bag.

Söfft

For a different take on lace-up details, take a look at Söfft’s knee-high boots, which have laces at the back.

Söfft Sharnell Heel Waterproof Boots
Amazon / Zappos

SOREL

SOREL’s lace details are very on trend. You can wear it with your jeans, or to give your dresses a ‘tougher’ winter look.

SOREL Joan Now Lace Boots
Amazon / Zappos

Boden

For a hiker style that is practical and stylish, take a look at the Boden lace-up hiker boots (below). The contrast with the tan leather and laces is striking, but you could always swap laces so you can change up the look of your boots.

Boden Lace-up Hiker Boots

wedges

If you like to wear wedge sandals or espadrilles in the summer, you don’t have to keep up your wedge heels during cooler months.

Eileen Fisher

Eileen Fisher’s wedge heel knee-highs (below) will give you height without wearing uncomfortable thin heels. They’re smart enough to wear for work or evenings out.

Eileen Fisher Kasana Knee-High Boots

Pelle moda

For a low shaft wedge option, Pelle Moda’s booties (below) come in black or beige. Wear it with your jeans or pants.

Pelle Moda Erla Booties

ruched or slouchy

You’ve already seen many trends for 2023 and ruching is another one.

Eric Michael

The ruched booties (below) have a biker style that would be perfect if you love a rock chick look.

Eric Michael Noelle Boots
Amazon / Zappos

Miz mooz

For subtle ruching, we love the slouchy details and the zip on the Miz Mooz ankle boots, which come in a choice of 9 colors.

Miz Mooz Luna Ankle Boot
Amazon / Zappos

peep toe booties

If you’re looking for a pair of booties to wear as summer turns to fall, or winter turns to spring, peep-toe boots could be a good option.

söfft

The Söfft booties (below) would look good with your casual jeans, or with your summer dresses so you can wear them longer into the year.

Söfft Carleigh Peep Toe Bootie
Amazon / Zappos

coutgo

The Coutgo open-toe booties (below) will go with everything in your closet and they come in a great choice of colors. Reviewers say they are a great wardrobe stable.

Coutgo Open Toe Cutout Bootie Sandals

macrorepublic

For a dressy choice, you could wear the MARCOREPUBLIC peep toes (below) with any of your evening outfits.

MARCOREPUBLIC Moscow Peep Toe Sandal Booties

ZAYNSIA

The knit booties (below) are stretchy, giving them a great fit. They come in three colors and have great reviews. One wearer said she would give them 10 stars if she could.

ZAYNSIA Peep Toe Knit Boots

Women’s wide calf boots

Of course, just as with clothing, there’s no one-size-fits-all. If you are struggling to find tall boots which fit your calves, you may be more comfortable in a pair of boots specially designed for wide calves.

naturalizer

For a heeled pair of wide-calf booties, you could look at the Naturalizer boots which come in a good range of neutral shades. They’re well-reviewed from women who say they are comfortable and easy to walk in.

Naturalizer Kalina Knee High Boots
Amazon / Zappos

lifestride

Lifestride is another good option for wide fitting. The riding boot style (below) is a classic.

LifeStride X-Felicity Wide Calf Boots
Amazon / Zappos

For more stylish wide calf options take a look at the best boots for wide calves this winter.

shop the best wide-calf boots here:

What boots or booties do you like to wear during fall or winter? What do you think the best winter boots are for women?

Continue reading:

1. The Best Wide Calf Boots For Winter And Fall
2. Best Shoes With Arch Support – Comfortable Walking Shoes To Walk In All Day!
3. The Best Winter Coats For Women This Season And How To Choose A Coat

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Feature image by Yvonne @funkyforty

The post The best winter boots for women: stylish winter boots that you can’t wait to wear appeared first on 40+ Style.