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.

Also take a look at how to wear asymmetric clothing.

Rita @ritapalazzi above (read her style interview here) opts for a ruffled co-ord set.

Get her look with this similar top (other options here and here), pants, sandals, clutch and earrings.

Carmen @carmen_gimeno above shows how you can add some subtle ruching to your outfit with a ruched sleeve blazer.

Check out this graphic tee (another option here), similar blazer, pants, flats, tote and sunglasses.

Nikki @40notfrumpy above shows how you can add some subtle asymmetry to your outfit by choosing an asymmetric bag.

Recreate her outfit with this similar dress, pumps and handbag.

Draped, asymmetric and ruched clothes on the catwalks

Many designers chose to add draped clothes, ruching, and asymmetric hemlines to their catwalk looks this season. Below, you can see some designer inspiration.

Alexander McQueen – Philosophy di Lorenzo Serafini – Issey Miyake

1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7 / 8 / 9 / 10 / 11 /12 / 13 / 14

Ruching, asymmetry and drapes

Let’s look at some of the most stylish clothes we’ve spotted in stores. All of our choices feature ruching, cinching, draping or asymmetry.

tops

Starting with tops, choosing a ruched or draped top can be the perfect way to hide a bit of a tummy if that’s part of your body that you aren’t super keen on.

COS Asymmetric Brooch-detail Blouse – Significant Other Acacia Ruched Cowlneck Top – Santorelli Ruched Tie-Dyed Crepe Blouse – Sea Fabiola Silk Ruched Blouse

Kim @kimair above (read her style interview here) opts for a ruched top with her jeans and sandals. Note how adding a new top can give your favorite pair of jeans a different, more current look.

Get her look with this similar top (another option here), jeans, sandals, handbag, earrings and sunglasses.

Jackets and coats

Look for blazers with ruched sleeves. You can also ruch up the sleeves on your blazer, giving your look a more modern, nonchalant style. Other options to create a draped effect include draped collars and tie waists.

Cinq à Sept Khloe Crepe Ruched Blazer – Elie Tahari Stella Ruched Open-Front Blazer – Cinq à Sept Dale Ruched-Sleeve Jacket – Avec Les Filles Drape Trench Coat

Cinq à Sept Khloe Crepe Ruched Blazer – Significant Other Acacia Ruched Cowlneck Top – FRAME Pleated Silk Ankle wide Leg Pants – Circus NY by Sam Edelman Larissah Mules – STAUD Bean Ruched Leather Shoulder Bag – GelConnie Leather Cord Necklace

Pants and jeans

Choose pants with ruching at the knees or pleating to give them extra volume. It’s generally best to keep your top streamlined so you don’t have too much width everywhere.

Ser.o.ya Chelle Ruched Jeans – FRAME Pleated Silk Ankle wide Leg Pants – COS Paperbag Utility Pants – COS Gathered Wide Leg Pants

Sharryn @thestylishwoman above (read her style interview here) shows how you can choose pleating in your pants. A perfect vacation look.

Steal her look with this similar top, pants, sneakers, necklace, earrings and sunglasses.

Dresses and skirts

When choosing drapes or ruching in your dress or skirt, the key is to place the ruching in the most flattering place for you. You may want ruching to create some volume around the hips if you have an inverted triangle figure and you want to create balance, for example. Or, you may want to add some drapes around the tummy section to hide a belly.

Reiss Navy Cosette Linen Blend Drape Midi Dress – Reiss Coral Saffy Ruched Midi Dress – Ramy Brook Mable Chevron Ruched Midi-Skirt – Philosophy di Lorenzo Serafini Ruched Stretch Hi-Lo Skirt

Reiss Navy Cosette Linen Blend Drape Midi Dress – Söfft Chrissie Sandals – STAUD Bean Ruched Leather Shoulder Bag – Open Edit Polished Teardrop Stud Earrings –

ruched shoes

You can also add this trend to your outfit by choosing ruched shoes like any of the styles below.

Circus NY by Sam Edelman Larissah Mules – Söfft Chrissie Sandals – DREAM PAIRS Kitten Heel Sandals – AllSaints Sapphire Suede Loafers

Sheree @shesheshow above wears a beautiful draped shirtdress. We love the way she’s teamed orange with turquoise.

Recreate her outfit with this similar dress, sandals, bag, earrings and bracelet.

accessories

To add this style to your outfits, look for slouchy and ruched bags, or choose a draped scarf.

HOXIS Oversize Vegan Leather Tote – STAUD Bean Ruched Leather Shoulder Bag – pearlzone Hand-Woven Bread Clutch – GelConnie Leather Cord Necklace – Ettika Crystal Drape Fringe Earrings – Open Edit Polished Teardrop Stud Earrings – Micoop Infinity Pendant Scarf

COS Asymmetric Brooch-detail Blouse – COS Gathered Wide Leg Pants – DREAM PAIRS Kitten Heel Sandals – pearlzone Hand-Woven Bread Clutch – Ettika Crystal Drape Fringe Earrings

Draped capsule wardrobe

You can see the draped and asymmetric outfits from above together in one capsule. You can see how you could change around the tops and bottoms to create different looks, or add some ruching to your existing outfits.

Continue reading:

1. 2024 Fashion Trends: All The Best Outfits To Wear This Spring And Summer
2. How To Wear Asymmetrical Clothing – Asymmetric Dresses And Tops To Fall In Love With
3. How To Dress After 40 And Look Hip?

Like this article on draped clothes? Share it on Pinterest!

Feature image by Kim @kimair

The post Wearing ruching and draped clothes for the most flattering effect appeared first on 40+ Style.

How to tell if you have a rock style personality

There is a lot of crossover between rock style and other style personalities such as the street or urban style personality.

You may also find that you are drawn to such styles as bohemian which has many roots in musical culture.

What is rock style?

Rock style manages to be both daring and classic at the same time in that it combines edgy elements while also being timeless. You’ll find lots of tips and outfit ideas in this article on how to achieve or refine your rock style looks.

What are the characteristics of rocker style?

Below, you’ll find a list of the characteristics of rock style. Take a look and see if you tick the boxes!

Deborah @deborahgates_ above (read her style interview here) shows how you could rock a dress with a rock chick look.

Get her look with similar dress (another option here), sandals, sling bag and earrings.

Below are some signs that you have a rock style personality…

Not sure about your style personality? Take the fun style personality quiz!

Your wardrobe is full of black

If I were to open your closet, I’d see a lot of black, black and more black. It’s definitely the color that dominates your outfits.

Buckles and studs

While you won’t opt for overtly feminine embellishments like embroidery or frills, you do like to embellish your outfits and accessories with buckle and stud details.

Comfortable and edgy combine

Being comfy and edgy aren’t mutually exclusive when it comes to rock style clothing.

Your style is predominantly casual, but with an edgy twist.

Mel @bagandaberet above (read her style interview here) layers her jewelry, and adds an edgy element to her outfit with her pointed booties.

Recreate her outfit with this similar shirt, blazer, jeans, boots and necklace.

You like a band tee

You’re happy to show off your musical tastes on your t-shirt. But you won’t wear a band tee just to look cool.

It also has to authentically match your taste.

Read our ultimate guide to creating a capsule wardrobe that works best for you.

Celebrities with a rock style personality

It goes without saying that plenty of celebrities have a rock chick style – probably because many of them are bona-fide rock chicks.

Celebrities with a rock style personality include Chrissy Hynde, Pink (who combines elements of urban style), Stevie Nicks (who combines her rock chick persona with bohemian styling), Madonna, the late Dolores O’Riordan, Courtney Love, Debbie Harry, Janet Jackson and Tina Turner

Designers you like if you love rock and roll clothing

Alexander McQueen – Andreas Kronthaler for Vivienne Westwood – Junya Watanabe 

If you have a rock style personality, there are plenty of designers who match your aesthetic.

Saint Laurent, Alexander McQueen and ndreas Kronthaler for Vivienne Westwood are good options to look out for at the major fashion shows when you are looking for inspiration.

How to dress like a rocker girl?

Below, we’ve put together a special capsule wardrobe especially for you if you love a rock chick style, with lots of clothes, shoes and accessories you could use to create your look this season.

Tops for the rock style personality

When choosing your rock style personality capsule wardrobe, look out for slogan and concert t-shirts which will remind you of the bands you have seen live. We love the Mick Jagger t-shirt (below).

A plaid or animal print shirt will also fit in well with your style, and it’s always good to have a white shirt in your closet to layer over or under everything from moto jackets to dresses. Also look out for black print tops.

ANINE BING Avi Mick Jagger Tee – Ulla Johnson Kyla Poplin Sleeveless Top – ANINE BING Chrissy Shirt – 7 For All Mankind Emilia Stud-Embellished Denim Shirt

We love how Carmen @carmen_gimeno has mixed different textures and prints in her outfit (above).

Check out this similar coat, tee, pants, sneakers, handbag, necklace and sunglasses.

Rock chick look jackets and coats

When it comes to jackets and coats for your style personality, the leather moto jacket is the one item your closet definitely can’t be without.

You could also add a denim jacket as well as looking at faux fur coats, and a black blazer for when you want to smarten up your jeans. Animal print and check will work well with the other clothes in your closet.

ANINE BING Kaia Blazer – Cinq à Sept Khloe Crepe Ruched Blazer – Jild Lambskin Leather Moto Jacket – Kedera Oversized Pearl Embroidered Denim Jacket

Cinq à Sept Khloe Crepe Ruched Blazer – ANINE BING Avi Mick Jagger Tee – MOTHER The Rambler Flood Mid-Rise Distressed Jeans – Schutz Darla Sling Leather Flats – Madewell Essentials Crescent Studded Mini Crossbdy Bag – Vanessa Baroni Silvertone Flat Chain Necklace

You can also check out our list of the best leather jackets for women that you can wear with everything!

Rocker style jeans and pants

You probably have more jeans in your closet than you do skirts and dresses.

Good styles to look out for are dark denim, leather or coated jeans, animal print, striped, and utility pants.

Any of these could be dressed down with biker-style booties and your moto jacket, or up with heels and your blazer. You could also look out for print pants, including animal print and checked styles.

MOTHER The Rambler Flood Mid-Rise Distressed Jeans – Joe’s Jeans Trixie Wide-Leg Cuffed Pants – AGOLDE Nico Velvet Boot-Cut Trousers – Retrofête Tesla Pants

Melanie @melanie.rae.miller above opts for a long duster cardigan with her ripped jeans.

Get her look with similar top, jeans (another option here), cardigan, sandals, bag, belt (another option here) and cap.

For more inspiration on how to style leather pants, read our article on concert outfit ideas.

Rock and roll dresses and skirts

When it comes to dresses and skirts, you are unlikely to have anything too overtly feminine in your closet.

That’s not to say you don’t love a dress in darker shades or dark floral prints. You will simply style it with your moto jacket and boots.

Also look out for graphical prints and a classic leather skirt or dress. You could also look for tie-dye prints. Or, you can mix glamour with rocker chic by teaming sequins with leather and studs.

MICHAEL Michael Kors Leopard Jacquard Sleeveless Dress – Simon Miller Argan Sequined Midi-Dress – Karen Millen Leather Corset Detail High Waist Maxi Pencil Skirt – Soowalaoo Leopard Print Skirt Midi Silk Skirt

Jild Lambskin Leather Moto Jacket – MICHAEL Michael Kors Leopard Jacquard Sleeveless Dress – VANELi Zinky Studded Boots – Frye Corrine Crossbody Bag – Kenneth Jay Lane Chain Drop Earrings

For more inspiration read our article on leather skirt outfit ideas for women over 40.

Rock and roll fashion shoes

Your shoes, and most importantly boots, help to define your style.

So, while you may still wear a floaty dress, you are likely to put a rock stamp on your look with your Dr. Martens boots or combat boots and moto jacket.

Styles with zips, studs and buckles will suit your style personality. Or, you could add a rock chick touch to classic pumps or boots by choosing a print.

Schutz Darla Sling Leather Flats – Cole Haan Grandpro Rally Fisherman Sandals – Lucky Brand Piah Studded Heeled Sandals – VANELi Zinky Studded Boots

Suzie @suzie.richetti above shows how you can wear your leather moto jacket over a dress.

Steal her look with this similar top (another option here), moto jacket, skirt, boots and bag.

Rock ‘n roll style accessories

Accessories for the rock chick style include anything with zips, buckles and studs, just like your shoes and boots.

You could also look out for skull details, layered necklaces, sunglasses, fishnet tights, and a statement hat, all teamed with black eyeliner.

Marc Jacobs The Mini Shoulder Bag – Frye Corrine Crossbody Bag – Madewell Essentials Crescent Studded Mini Crossbdy Bag – Vanessa Baroni Silvertone Flat Chain Necklace – Shashi Lisette Hoop Earrings – Kenneth Jay Lane Chain Drop Earrings – FRAME Embellished Leather Belt – Halcyon Days Halcyon Days Oblong Oversized Scarf

Ulla Johnson Kyla Poplin Sleeveless Top – Retrofête Tesla Pants – Lucky Brand Piah Studded Heeled Sandals – VANELi Zinky Studded Boots – Marc Jacobs The Mini Shoulder Bag – Vanessa Baroni Silvertone Flat Chain Necklace

brands to look for if you have a rock style personality

• AllSaints
• Karen Millen
• Alexander McQueen
• Zadig & Voltaire
• MANGO

Here Are 9 Rock Outfits Created From The Wardrobe Choices Above

There are countless ways you can combine the clothes and accessories in the capsule wardrobe above to create lots of rock chic looks, but here are 9 options to get you started…

shop the pieces above here:

More rock style inspiration

Below is a previous season rock style capsule. You’ll see that while the rock style is an edgy choice, it is also a timeless one.

Continue reading:

1. Want To Discover Your Style Personality? Take This Fun Quiz!
2. Understanding The Different Styles
3. A Style Guide And Capsule Wardrobe For The STREET / URBAN Style Personality

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Feature image by Mel @bagandaberet

The post A style guide and capsule wardrobe for the ROCK style personality appeared first on 40+ Style.

As always with these guidelines for the body types, you don’t have to follow them. You can look wonderfully stylish just trusting your instinct or ‘breaking’ these guidelines. However, if you like to have some guidance for the inverted rectangle body shape, you’ll find our guidelines below.

Characteristics of the inverted triangle are:

• Top part of your body is larger that your bottom part and you usually wear a bigger size on top
• Shoulders are wider than the hip
• Bust tends to be proportionally large
• Hips are small
• Your legs are likely to be great

What looks good on an inverted triangle body?

In this article, you’ll find all the tips you need for dressing your inverted triangle body type. In general, you’re trying to create a balanced silhouette, which means choosing clothes that downplay the look of wider shoulders and instead add width at the hips.

Greetje @no_fear_of_fashion above (read her style interview here)

Check out these wrap tops from Karmamia and Endless Rose that you can wear with this similar pair of jeans, flats and bag.

Is an inverted triangle body shape attractive?

Of course. All body shapes are beautiful! If you look at the catwalks, you’ll see that lots of models tend to be either rectangles or inverted triangles because lots of clothes look beautiful on this body type.

How do you fix an inverted triangle body shape?

You definitely don’t need to ‘fix’ your body type. But if you want to create the illusion of an hourglass, then wearing wider bottoms like wide pants or a-line skirts to create width on your bottom half and downplay your wide shoulders is a good idea.

What are the disadvantages of inverted triangle body shape?

This is quite a desirable shape as many clothes will look good on you. In fact, many models nowadays have this body shape. However, you do need to dress carefully so you don’t look ‘top heavy’.

The aim of dressing this shape

If you desire to have what is considered to be the most ideal body shape, hourglass, you will want to draw attention away from your broad shoulders or big upper chest and draw attention to your slim lower body and often lean legs.

This will give the illusion of your waist going in before you create volume on your lower half so your hips look shapely.

Marie-Louise @mrsmlmode above shows off a halterneck and a pair of wide jeans, which is a great look for inverted triangles.

Recreate her outfit with this similar top (other options here and here), jeans, sneakers and earrings.

Getting the balance right

As with most things in life, dressing to suit your body shape is all about balance.

For the inverted triangle, you will want to minimize your upper body and create volume on your lower body in order to harmonize your silhouette.

You are basically trying to do the opposite to the guidelines for a pear shape. Women with a pear shape are likely to want to minimize their lower half and add volume to their top half.

You can apply the following guidelines to dressing for the inverted triangle body type.

How to dress for your inverted triangle body type

Upper body

• Create vertical lines with vertical stripes
• Wear open necklines and collars, like halter necks, v-necks and scoop necks
• Wear soft feminine textures to soften the shoulder line
• Avoid extra width and wear single breasted tailored jackets
• Wear jackets open to create a vertical line
• Wear jackets that are well structured at the shoulder
• Look for tops that accentuate the waist, like tops with banding or nipping at the waist or wrap styles
• Wear tops that accentuate a vertical line, so go for V-necks and keep your shirts unbuttoned
• Also find tops that balance the bust with your hips (if you have a large bust)
• Wear tops just below the hip bone
• Wear a darker color on top
• Wear strapless gowns and tops
• Use belts to define your waist even more

Lower body

• Create more width and overall balance below with A-line or full skirts.
• Use bold textures to create more bulk.
• Horizontal stripes will make the lower body wider.
• Fuller leg width in trousers, full or bootleg pants. Culottes will work for you too.
• If trousers don’t fit your waist or bum, get them altered at the tailor.
• Have pockets or embellishments on your trousers or skirts.
• Wear bold and eye-catching shoes.
• If you like to emphasize your lean legs, skinnies will work too when combined with tighter fitting tops or tailored jackets

Melanie @melanie.rae.miller above chooses a slimline halterneck which minimizes the silhouette of the upper body, and adds a flared skirt to create curves on the lower body.

Check out this similar top (another option here), pleated skirt, sandals, clutch, earrings and bracelet.

Celebrities with this body type

Celebrities with this body shape include Angelina Jolie, Demi Moore, Rene Zellweger, Naomi Campbell and Teri Hatcher, so you’re definitely in good company.

You will also see plenty of professional swimmers who have this body shape as they develop strong shoulders.

Tops for the inverted triangle

When choosing your tops and jackets for your inverted triangle shape, look for pieces which nip in at the waist which are tailored, or which have a waist tie.

Stripes will also flatter your figure, and halter neck tops are particularly good for the inverted triangle because they balance out your wider shoulders.

You will want to make sure that the collars on your jackets aren’t too wide as this will create extra width that you don’t want.

Avoid anything which creates extra width on your shoulders such as shoulder pads, epaulets, embroidery and buttons as these will draw the eye outwards and make your shoulders look even wider.

To make the upper part of your body appear smaller, wear darker colors on top and lighter or brighter colors on the bottom.

Loveappella Faux Wrap Top – Vince Double Layer Tank – MANGO Halter-neck Knitted Top – MANGO Lyocell Halter Waistcoat

Elie Tahari Helena Striped Linen-Blend Blazer – MANGO Halter-neck Knitted Top – Franco Sarto Tilly Cork Platform Sandals – See by Chloé Mini Hana Leather Saddle Bag – Nadri Cubic Zirconia Hoop Earrings

jackets to suit your shape

When choosing jackets, remember to look for single-breasted styles which won’t add bulk to your upper half.

Collarless styles will also work well for you. You can either opt for straight styles or those which nip in at the waist.

Tailored blazers will look perfect on you as it creates more shape for your lower half.

Look for coats in darker or muted tones and avoid detailing such as shoulder pads or epaulets.

Elie Tahari Helena Striped Linen-Blend Blazer – Karmamia Rex Satin Belted Blazer – MANGO Contrasting Trims Blazer – J.Crew Emilie Sweater Lady Jacket

Suzie @suzie.richetti above opts for a striped jacket and wide leg pants. This is a good style for inverted triangles as stripes can ‘mirror’ the angles of your body type while slimming your shoulders, and wide pants create width on your bottom half to give your silhouette more balance.

Recreate her outfit with this similar top, blazer (another option here), pants, sandals, necklace and belt.

Pants and jeans for inverted triangle shape

Opt for wide-legged and bootcut pants rather than skinny styles which will only emphasize your inverted triangle shape.

You might wish to either add some extra emphasis to your bottom half through choosing some volume, or you can do the opposite to a pear shape and choose a darker shade on top and a lighter shade, such as white jeans, or a print on the bottom.

PAIGE Portia High-Rise Seamed Wide Flare Jeans – MANGO Tie Wide Leg Trousers – MANGO Wide Leg Printed Trousers – Mac Duggal Pleated Wide-Leg Pants

Karmamia Rex Satin Belted Blazer – PAIGE Portia High-Rise Seamed Wide Flare Jeans – Tory Burch Howell Court Sneakers – Cult Gaia Estrella Leather Shoulder Bag – Majorica Tender Baroque Pearls Knot Necklace

Dresses, jumpsuits and skirts for inverted triangle figures

The idea of dressing for the inverted triangle is to create some volume on your lower body, so that you balance out your wider shoulders.

The best dresses to choose, therefore, are those which add volume at the hips such as flared styles or peplums.

When choosing skirts, opt for those with some width or volume rather than a pencil style.

The inverted triangle also tends to look fabulous in a jumpsuit, so if you don’t already have one in your closet, it may be time to add one.

Favorite Daughter The Standout Floral Halter Maxi Dress – MANGO Pleated Halter Neck Dress – MANGO Ring Halter Jumpsuit – L’AGENCE Landry Button-Front Midi-Skirt

Tanasha @letsrecreatethelook above wears a halterneck dress which is a beautiful style for inverted triangles, and anyone who loves their shoulders.

Check out these pleated halter dresses from L’Idée, MANGO, Petal & Pup and Amazon, and this similar handbag and earrings.

Shoes and boots for the inverted triangle

Of course, you can wear whichever shoes you like. But, there are certain shoe styles which will look great if you are an inverted triangle.

You can help to draw attention to your bottom half by choosing bright or metallic shoe styles.

You could opt for a pop or color or wear shoes which are embellished in order to balance your bottom half with your wide shoulders.

Rather than emphasize the triangle nature of your body by wearing a pair of stilettos, you could opt for block heels. As you are likely to have slim legs and ankles, you can also wear ankle straps without worrying about making your legs look shorter.

Boots which add some volume, such as slouch and cowboy boots could also be a good option.

Franco Sarto Greene Gladiator Sandals – Franco Sarto Tilly Cork Platform Sandals – Naturalizer Cody Ballet Flats – Tory Burch Howell Court Sneakers

MANGO Pleated Halter Neck Dress – Franco Sarto Greene Gladiator Sandals – MICHAEL Michael Kors Metallic Leather Convertible Crossbody Bag – Michael Kors Statement Link Curb Chain Cuff – Argento Vivo Sterling Silver Oval Stud Earrings

Accessories to wear when you have an inverted triangle body

The old saying goes that opposites attract and this is true when it comes to styling your inverted triangle body.

Choose bag shapes which are curved rather than angular, such as round and hobo bags.

But, you can also choose to mirror the angles of your body and opt for structured styles.

Choosing bags and accessories which feature stripes will compliment your figure and the rest of your outfits.

When it comes to necklaces and scarfs, wear them in a long pendant or loosely-tied style to draw the attention down.

Statement rings and bracelets will also be good for you as they will draw attention to where your hands rest at hip level.

Cult Gaia Estrella Leather Shoulder Bag – MICHAEL Michael Kors Metallic Leather Convertible Crossbody Bag – See by Chloé Mini Hana Leather Saddle Bag – Majorica Tender Baroque Pearls Knot Necklace – Michael Kors Statement Link Curb Chain Cuff – Chan Luu Pearl Drop Earrings – Argento Vivo Sterling Silver Oval Stud Earrings – Nadri Cubic Zirconia Hoop Earrings

Above is another look from Greetje @no_fear_of_fashion who lets her print pants be the star of her outfit.

Recreate her outfit with this similar shirt, pants (another option here), pumps, handbag, necklace and earrings.

What not to wear inverted triangle shape?

• Avoid shoulder pads or anything that accentuates the shoulders
• Boat necks
• Horizontal lines on top
• Oversized collars or lapels on jackets
• Very chunky knits (if you want to wear these, choose a dark color)
• Big bold pattern and graphics on top as these can have a widening effect
• Tapered skirts

9 looks using the clothes for inverted triangle body shape featured above

There are plenty of flattering ways you can wear all of the clothes, shoes and accessories featured here for the inverted triangle.

Here are 9 ideas to get you started.

shop the inverted triangle capsule wardrobe below:

More CAPSULEs for inspiration

Below are some capsule wardrobes we created earlier for the inverted triangle body shape. Although these items are no longer available in stores, these outfits can still provide inspiration for creating your own outfits.

If you like to know more about how to create your unique capsule wardrobe, read our ultimate guide to creating a capsule wardrobe that works best for you.

Want more tips on dressing for the inverted triangle body type?

Continue reading:

1. How To Determine Your Body Shape
2. The Best Dress Styles For Your Body Shape
3. How To Dress The Rectangle Body Shape

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Feature image by Greetje @no_fear_of_fashion

The post How to dress the inverted triangle body shape appeared first on 40+ Style.

Dawn Lucy @fashionshouldbefun above (read her style interview here) shows how you can transition into warmer weather by changing up your shoes and bag for a pair of sandals and rattan tote.

Get her look with this similar tee, cardigan, jeans, sandals, tote, earrings and sunglasses.

summer capsule

Let’s delve into how to create a capsule of beautiful summer outfits. Our choices include many new season trends, including stripes, florals, ruching, cargo styles, denim, and graphic prints.

Summer tops for women

Look out for tops featuring ruching and asymmetry. You’ll want a mixture of sleeved and sleeveless tops for the summer season. Prints that are particularly on trend inlcude florals and stripes.

Derek Lam 10 Crosby Alya Asymmetric Draped Top – rag & bone Fiona Stripe Cotton Top – Loveappella Faux Tie Wrap Top – Hevron Ivy Stripe Wrap Shirt

Angela @angelamashelle above (read her style interview here) shows how you can take a simple shorts and tank top outfit and elevate it with a pair of silver shoes.

Steal her look with this similar top (another option here), shorts, sneakers, belt, bag and earrings.

You’ll find lots more silver shoe inspiration in this article on the best metallic shoes for a hipper look.

Jackets and coats

Even in warmer weather, you’re likely to want a cover-up of some sort—for cooler evenings or just to add some interesting layers. A denim jacket or moto is perfect for popping over your summer dresses. Waistcoats are particularly on trend, and you can layer them without adding too much extra warmth.

Also take a look at lightweight jackets for summer.

M.M.LaFleur The Anh Jardigan – J.Crew Linen Blend Vest – Veronica Beard Holden Cropped Denim Jacket – BLANKNYC Suede Motorcycle Jacket

Veronica Beard Holden Cropped Denim Jacket – Milly Irene Zebra Pleated Dress – Bueno Clare Slingback Heels – HOBO Reeva Crossbody Bag – Kenneth Jay Lane Chubby Tapered Hoop Earrings

Jeans and pants

Update your jeans styles this summer by choosing denim with cargo pockets. Plus, choose loose, wide-leg pants with on-trend prints. Perfect to pack for your summer vacation.

Cinq à Sept Zola Denim Cargo Pants – AG Jeans Gatina Cotton-Blend Cargo Pants – Staud Luke Striped Wide-Leg Pants – MANGO Flowy Printed Trousers

Jas @thefashionstylefile above chooses a pair of floaty summer pants and a plain top.

Check out this similar top (another option here), pants (another option here), sandals, clutch and sunglasses.

Dresses and skirts

Summer is the perfect time to wear dresses and skirts, even if you are usually a jeans and pants person. Depending on the formality of the occasion, you can wear your dresses with sneakers, sandals, or heels. Simply pop one of the summer jackets on from above if you need extra warmth.

Weekend Max Mara Manche Draped Cotton Dress – Tanya Taylor Cody Striped Short-Sleeve Dress – Milly Irene Zebra Pleated Dress – Free People Come As You Are Denim Maxi Skirt

Diane @fashiononthe4thfloor above (read her style interview here) wears an on-trend maxi skirt with her shirt and sneakers.

Recreate her outfit with this similar shirt (another option here), skirt and sneakers.

shoes to go with your summer outfits

Choose a pair of chunky-soled sandals to be on trend for summer, or wear your summer shorts and dresses with a pair of sneakers.

FLY London Tull Sandals – Bueno Clare Slingback Heels – Franco Sarto Florence Slide Sandals – New Balance® 327 Sneakers

Derek Lam 10 Crosby Alya Asymmetric Draped Top – Free People Come As You Are Denim Maxi Skirt – New Balance® 327 Sneakers – Marc Jacobs The Mini Shoulder Bag – Adriana Orsini Naomi Deco J-Hoop Earrings

accessories for summer

Simply switching up your accessories can make a big difference to the season your outfit looks like it belongs to. Look for raffia and print bags as well as practical totes. Don’t forget to add a statement necklace or pair of earrings to give your outfits added impact.

HOBO Reeva Crossbody Bag – Dragon Diffusion Pom Pom Woven Leather Bucket Bag – Marc Jacobs The Mini Shoulder Bag – COS Freshwater Pearl Chain Necklace – Kenneth Jay Lane Chubby Tapered Hoop Earrings – Adriana Orsini Naomi Deco J-Hoop Earrings

Karen @styledbykaren above shows how you could layer a white shirt over your summer dresses, by knotting it at your waist.

Get her look with this similar dress (another option here), shirt, sandals, handbag and sunglasses.

Your summer outfits together in one capsule

Below, you can see the outfits from above together in one capsule, so you can think about how you would mix and match everything to create lots of summer outfits to last the whole season.

You could easily wear the waistcoats, moto or denim jacket over anything. You could team the yellow or floral shirt with the denim skirt, or wear the white tank top with the cargo pants for an all-neutral look.

Continue reading:

1. How To Choose Flattering Summer Tops
2. Lightweight Summer Jackets For Women That Are Perfect For Summer Layering
3. Summer Suiting: Taking Your Summer Suits For Women Beyond Workwear

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Feature image by Karen @styledbykaren

The post Get ready for summer with our brand new summer outfits capsule 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.

In this article, you’ll find all the most beautiful summer suits for women we’ve found this year, as well as lots of ideas about how and where to wear them. Let’s get started.

Why we love the summer suit trend

1. It’s unexpected

Rather than dresses you could wear a suit. If you’re heading to a special event like a wedding, it’s often expected that you will wear a dress, so it’s great to switch things up a bit and opt for one of the summer suits for women in our article.

Sylvia @sylviacolella above (read her style interview here) shows how you can mix casual with formal by wearing your suit with sneakers.

Get her look with this similar top (another option here), blazer, pants, sneakers, belt, necklace and bag.

2. You can wear summer suits for women in so many ways

Choose the right suit and it will take you to so many occasions. You can wear for summer events, to dinner, for vacation, or you can wear your jacket and pants separately to create lots of different outfits.

3. You can choose your suit to suit your figure

Choose your suit to suit your body type. For instance, single-breasted works well for most figures because it is slimming and elongating, while double-breasted can add width, and wide-leg pants can create shape.

Melissa @melissabultburns above looks fabulous in her neon suit. She keeps the rest of her outfit neutral.

Recreate her outfit with this similar tee, blazer, pants, sneakers and handbag.

What to look out for in summer suits for women

For this season, choose paler colors rather than shades like black, navy and gray that have more of a workwear feel.

Also, look for waistcoats and shorts, which are particularly on trend, and which will give you suit the summer feel you want.

Summer suits on the catwalks

Below, you can see how designers choose to style summer suits on the runways for the summer season. Note how they chose paler shades as well as short suits.

Ralph Lauren – 3.1 Phillip Lim – Issey Miyake

The best summer suits for women in stores now

Let’s take a look at some of the suits we love in stores now.

1. J.Crew

The rope belt on the J.Crew suit (below) adds casual flair to a formal blazer.

Rope-tie Glossy Twill Blazer – Tapered Glossy Twill Essential Pant

Also from J.Crew, you could opt for the shorts suit (below), which would look great worn with flat or heeled sandals.

Vivienne Stretch Linen Blend Blazer – Sailor Pleated Stretch Linen Blend Short

2. mango

We love the pistachio shade of the MANGO suit (below). Wear with a white t-shirt and sneakers, or add a silky camisole and heeled sandals.

100% Linen Suit Blazer – 100% Linen Pants

Waistcoats are very much on trend. You can wear your waistcoat with or without the jacket.

Pinstripe Suit Blazer – Striped Linen Suit Vest – Striped Linen Suit Pants

3. Victoria Beckham X Mango

We love the Victoria Beckham collaboration with MANGO. The cream suit (below) is clean, timeless and great for minimal wardrobes.

Suit Blazer – Pleated Suit Pants

4. Ann Taylor

Ann Taylor is a great place to look for suits, no matter what the occasion. The cropped jacket and hook and eye fastening add interest.

The Cropped Crew Neck Linen Twill Jacket – The High Rise Pleated Wide Leg Linen Twill Pant

Or, you could opt for a dress suit for smarter summer occasions. You could always get the matching pants too to give you plenty of outfit choices.

The Long Cutaway Fluid Crepe Blazer – The Front Slit Pencil Fluid Crepe Skirt

5. M.M.LaFleur

The M.M.LaFleur dress (below) is super stylish thanks to the button-down style and can be worn in lots of different ways. You could also opt for the matching pants, dress and skirt and then you’d be able to create lots of different suit outfits.

The Twidwell Blazer – The Cassandra Dress

6. COS

For a fun, and more casual take on summer suits, look out for a print suit or one with short sleeves.

Botanical Print Short Sleeve Blazer – Botanical Print Pants

7. Polo Ralph Lauren

Ralph Lauren is known for timeless classics so it’s a great place to search for summer suits for women, and the white shorts suit (below) is no exception. You could wear year after year and know it will still be on trend.

Linen Patch Pocket Blazer – Linen Tailored Shorts

For an equally timeless, but more on-trend option, you could choose a waistcoat rather than a blazer.

Pinstriped Linen-Cotton Denim Vest – Pinstriped Twill Wide-Leg Pants

8. Cinq à Sept

Utility, or cargo styles are particularly on trend right now, and the Cinq à Sept suit (below) pairs the casual elements of cargo dressing with the more formal look of a suit. This would be a great one to wear as separates too.

Louisa Denim Blazer – Azure Cotton-Blend Zip Pants

For a more casual take on suiting, the zip-up jacket and jogger bottoms are a great choice. You could also wear the jacket with a denim skirt, or the pants with a t-shirt and sneakers.

Holly Puff-Sleeve Utility Jacket – Giles Twill Cargo Joggers

9. eileen fisher

If you do choose a darker color for summer, then choose a more casual style like the Eileen Fisher suit (below).

Organic Cotton Ripple Blazer – Organic Cotton Ripple Wide Leg Pant

10. H&m

If you want to dabble in the summer suiting trend without a huge budget, then H&M often has suits with lovely clean lines like the single-breasted suit (below).

Linen Blend Blazer / Linen Blend Pants

11. Alice + Olivia

For a smart take on shorts suiting that would be great with heels for dinner or summer events, the Alice + Olivia set (below) is perfect.

Breann Tipped Fitted Blazer – Esta Pleated Tipped Shorts

12. boden

For a bright suit that is sure to get you noticed for the right reasons, take a look at the Boden set (below). You could also choose the matching pants.

Marylebone Linen Blazer – Westbourne Linen Shorts

13. AllSaints

We love the print on the AllSaints set (below) which would be lovely for beach weddings or for dinner on vacation.

Aleida Rafaela Paisley Print Woven Blazer – Aleida Rafaela Paisley Print Woven Blazer Shorts

14. L’Agence

The L’AGENCE suit (below) looks beautiful for events like weddings, a day at the races or dinner.

Colin Double-Breasted Blazer – Pilar Wide-Leg Trousers

15. Veronica Beard

A more casual choice for you now. The Veronica Beard suit (below) taps into this season’s cargo trend.

Jada Silk Utility Shirt – Dallas Utility Midi-Skirt

16. Karen Millen

For a suit which is designed for events rather than work, look at the Karen Millen set (below), which features beautiful embroidery.

Linen Cutwork Detail Woven Top – Linen Cutwork Embroidery Woven Pants

17. Staud

You could opt for a cardigan rather than a blazer when choosing your suit, like the skirt suit (below).

Raft Striped Knit Zip-Up Sweater – Karina Knit Body-Con Midi-Skirt

18. Amazon

For an on-trend waistcoat style, take a look at the suit from Amazon (below) which has great reviews. Wearers say it is great quality, chic and comfortable. You could wear with just a camisole underneath for warmer weather, or with a turtleneck. It comes in a choice of 14 colors.

PRETTYGARDEN Suit Vest And Wide Pants Set

The PRETTYGARDEN set, which comes in a choice of 19 colors, gives a more formal look thanks to the waistcoat.

WHCQ 3-Pc Suit Set

How to wear your summer suits

Tanasha @letsrecreatethelook above looks fabulous in her red shorts suit.

Steal her look with this similar blazer vest set (another option here), sandals (another option here) and handbag.

What to wear with your suit

Now, let’s take a look at what you could wear to create a full outfit with your suit.

Tops and jeans

Choose t-shirts, tank tops for summer, and don’t forget you can create more outfits by wearing your jacket with your jeans, pants or denim skirts.

Vince Crewneck Pima Cotton T-Shirt – ATM Anthony Thomas Melillo Matte Silk Charmeuse Top – Xirena Robbie Linen Crop Top – PAIGE Genevieve Flared Jeans

shoes

For summer, wear your suit with flat or heeled sandals, or choose sneakers for a more casual look.

Miz Mooz Elias Sandals – Aerosoles Camera Heeled Sandals – Naturalizer Vera Block Heel Sandals – Victoria Berlin Fine Leather Suede V Sneakers

accessories

Changing your accessories will switch up the formality of your suit. Opt for a tote bag for casual days, or a clutch for evening and events. Don’t forget to add statement or more subtle jewelry.

REBECCA MINKOFF Darren Signature Carryall Shoulder Bag – Tory Burch Fleming Soft Metallic Quilt Mini Chain Tote – Kendra Scott Elisa Pearl Multi Strand Necklace – Majorica Tender Pearls Toggle Necklace – Madewell Delicate Collection Demi-Fine Small Hoop Earrings – Madwell Organic Molten Link Hoop Earrings – Kate Spade New York Floral Shimmer Stud Earrings

How to wear your summer suits

Below, you’ll find inspiration on how to style your summer suit.

1. For a summer wedding or event

A suit can be a great choice if you’re a wedding guest or have an event coming up. The satin finish to the suit (below) gives it a luxurious feel. Add metallic or neutral accessories.

L’AGENCE Colin Double-Breasted Blazer – L’AGENCE Pilar Wide-Leg Trousers – Naturalizer Vera Block Heel Sandals – Tory Burch Fleming Soft Metallic Quilt Mini Chain Tote – Kate Spade New York Floral Shimmer Stud Earrings

2. As separates

You can always wear your suit jacket with your favorite jeans to elevate your look from casual to more formal.

J.Crew Vivienne Stretch Linen Blend Blazer – PAIGE Genevieve Flared Jeans – ATM Anthony Thomas Melillo Matte Silk Charmeuse Top – Aerosoles Camera Heeled Sandals – REBECCA MINKOFF Darren Signature Carryall Shoulder Bag – Majorica Tender Pearls Toggle Necklace

Suzie @suzie.richetti above opts for a striped jacket with her jeans. She adds a touch of glamour with her jeweled shoes.

Get her look with this similar tee, blazer, jeans, pumps, belt and necklace.

7. With heels and a silk top

A chic outfit that will look great for any event is to team your suit with a silky top and a pair of heels.

Victoria Beckham x MANGO Suit Blazer – Victoria Beckham x MANGO Pleated Suit Pants – ATM Anthony Thomas Melillo Matte Silk Charmeuse Top – Naturalizer Vera Block Heel Sandals – Victoria Berlin Fine Leather Suede V Sneakers – Tory Burch Fleming Soft Metallic Quilt Mini Chain Tote – Kendra Scott Elisa Pearl Multi Strand Necklace – Kate Spade New York Floral Shimmer Stud Earrings

8. Mix your suits

You could pair a striped blazer or waistcoat with your plain pants or vice-versa.

Polo Ralph Lauren Linen Patch Pocket Blazer – MANGO Striped Linen Suit Pants – Xirena Robbie Linen Crop Top – Miz Mooz Elias Sandals – REBECCA MINKOFF Darren Signature Carryall Shoulder Bag – Majorica Tender Pearls Toggle Necklace

3. With a waistcoat

Choosing a waistcoat suit is a great way to ensure that your suit is on trend.

Polo Ralph Lauren Pinstriped Linen-Cotton Denim Vest – Polo Ralph Lauren Pinstriped Twill Wide-Leg Pants – Naturalizer Vera Block Heel Sandals – Tory Burch Fleming Soft Metallic Quilt Mini Chain Tote – Madwell Organic Molten Link Hoop Earrings

Nicola @40notfrumpy above shows how you could style a waistcoat suit for summer.

Recreate her outfit with this similar vest, pants, sandals and tote.

5. Combine with another trend

Make sure you’re on trend by looking for a suit that also has elements of another trend, such as cargo pockets or florals.

Veronica Beard Jada Silk Utility Shirt – Veronica Beard Dallas Utility Midi-Skirt –Aerosoles Camera Heeled Sandals – REBECCA MINKOFF Darren Signature Carryall Shoulder Bag – Madewell Delicate Collection Demi-Fine Small Hoop Earrings

6. Casually with sneakers 

A great way to mix formal and casual elements in your outfit to create interest is to wear your suit with sneakers.

Cinq à Sept Louisa Denim Blazer – Cinq à Sept Azure Cotton-Blend Zip Pants – Vince Crewneck Pima Cotton T-Shirt – Victoria Berlin Fine Leather Suede V Sneakers – Tory Burch Fleming Soft Metallic Quilt Mini Chain Tote – Kendra Scott Elisa Pearl Multi Strand Necklace

4. with shorts

A short suit is perfect for summer, whether you want to wear to a summer event, or for dinner in warmer months.

Alice + Olivia Breann Tipped Fitted Blazer – Alice + Olivia Esta Pleated Tipped Shorts – ATM Anthony Thomas Melillo Matte Silk Charmeuse Top – Miz Mooz Elias Sandals – REBECCA MINKOFF Darren Signature Carryall Shoulder Bag – Madewell Delicate Collection Demi-Fine Small Hoop Earrings

Jona @the50plusgirl above wears a stylish lilac shorts suit and teams with silver shoes.

Check out this similar top, blazer and shorts (similar sets here and here), pumps, bag (another option here) and sunglasses.

9. A short sleeve blazer for summer

Choosing a short-sleeve blazer is a great way to make sure your suit is summer-ready.

COS Botanical Print Short Sleeve Blazer – COS Botanical Print Pants – Victoria Berlin Fine Leather Suede V Sneakers – REBECCA MINKOFF Darren Signature Carryall Shoulder Bag – Madewell Delicate Collection Demi-Fine Small Hoop Earrings

Your summer suits for women capsule

Below, you can see many of the suit outfits and summer suits for women from above together in one capsule. You can see that you could mix and match many of the jackets and bottoms around the create different outfits.

shop the best summer suits here:

Continue reading:

1. 2024 Fashion Trends: All The Best Outfits To Wear This Spring And Summer
2. Lightweight Summer Jackets For Women That Are Perfect For Summer Layering
3. The Best Suits For Women To Feel Your Most Confident

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Feature image by Tanasha @letsrecreatethelook

The post Summer Suiting: taking your summer suits for women beyond workwear appeared first on 40+ Style.

If you haven’t, you may be missing out on an easy, everyday solution to give you a smoother silhouette.

Tummy control jeans feature built-in panels and special construction and stitching methods to give you the illusion of a flatter stomach.

You can also find shaping jeans especially designed for curvy women and those which smooth your thighs and behind, or which give you a curvier bottom (if that’s what you would like).

Why shaping jeans could work for you

Let’s face it, ageing can bring with it not only greater wisdom, but also a few lumps and bulges that we really don’t want.

Shaping jeans can help to smooth out the parts of your body you aren’t so confident about.

And, the best thing about them, is no one has to know that your jeans are shapewear.

Read more about the best pants and skirts to fit and hide your belly.

How tummy control jeans work

Tummy control jeans vary from brand to brand, but they all feature special panels to help to smooth out the parts of your figure you aren’t so keen on and to make your stomach look flatter.

Because denim is a heavier material than your usual shaping underwear, you will find jeans can offer more support, while being comfortable as they will also feature stretchy fabric such as lycra.

Plus, they’re definitely more comfortable than wearing your spanx under your jeans.

Read about what are the best body shaper for women over 40.

High-waisted jeans

Another good idea to hold in your tummy, even if you don’t opt for specially-designed tummy control jeans, is to go for high-waist jeans, which will naturally pull your tummy in, rather than those with a low rise.

Find out what other pieces will definitely work for you to hide your belly.

Dark wash jeans

If you want to draw attention away from your tummy and smooth out your figure, choosing a dark wash will be much more forgiving.

It’s much harder to notice any “imperfections” in a darker color such as black or dark blue.

what to look out for when choosing tummy control jeans

Make sure you’re choosing the right size for you. Don’t be too caught up by what the label says as denim sizes differ vastly by brand. Choose opt for the pair that holds you in without being too tight.

You’ll want to look for jeans with stretch, and those that are especially designed to give you a smoother silhouette, whether that’s because of the way they are cut or because they feature tummy control panels.

What jeans are best to hide a tummy?

Generally, darker shades of jeans are more forgiving, and a higher waist will keep you tucked in.

What kind of jeans are best for lower belly bulge?

Choose mid to high-rise jeans with shaping panels to keep your lower belly smooth.

19 best jeans for tummy control

So, which are the best tummy control jeans and the best brands if you are looking for control top jeans? Below are some of our favorites for you to choose from.

Don’t forget to let us know in the comments below if you have your own favorite shaping jeans that you wouldn’t be without. That way we can make this article an even better resource for women looking to streamline their tummy.

1. NYDJ

NYDJ (Nordstrom, Amazon) are well known for creating denim which is designed to fit and flatter women with curves, rather than your teenage daughter.

The Marilyn high waist stretch jeans are a classic style which you will usually always find in stock.

They have lift-tuck technology which is designed to help flatten the tummy and lift up your rear.

NYDJ Marilyn Straight Leg Jeans (NYDJ, Amazon)

2. Spanx

I’m sure you’re well aware of SPANX shapewear given that it’s one of the most famous shapewear brands on the planet, worn by many A-listers when they grace the red carpet.

But, did you know SPANX also makes jeans and leggings? The Spanx jeggings (below) team the power of Spanx with the look of jeans. Wear with longer tunics and boots.

SPANX Jean-ish Leggings

Or, choose the wide leg style jeans (below) for an on-trend option. They pull on, and have built-in hidden “gut check” shaping panels to streamline the tummy.

SPANX Cropped Wide-Leg Jeans

Find out our top picks for the best tummy control leggings and wide leg pants.

3. Levis sculpt jeans

Levis’ Sculpt range is designed to do as it says and sculpt and mold your figure with four-way stretch denim.

The shaping jeans (below) have more than 20,000, largely positive reviews. Women who have tried them say they are extremely comfortable and are figure-flattering without being tight or digging in.

Signature by Levi Strauss & Co. Gold Label Totally Shaping Straight Jeans

4. good American

Good American builds its jeans with curves in mind. The straight jeans (below) come with a high waist to keep everything tucked in. They’re stretchy and gap-proof, so you won’t end up with the waistline gaping at the back when you bend or sit down.

Good American Good Icon Straight Super Compression Jeans

5. Wit & Wisdom

Wit & Wisdom has developed ‘Ab-Solution’ technology to slim, shape and lift. The crop jeans (below) have an on-trend raw hem and they are a great length for warmer weather.

Wit & Wisdom ‘Ab’Solution High Waist Raw Hem Skinny Crop Jeans

6. commando

Have you discovered Commando jeans yet? They have four-way stretch to keep them super comfortable during the day and the hems have some weight to them to keep them in place so they don’t creep up.

Commando Do It All Stretch Denim Flare Leggings

7. Jen7

From 7 For All Mankind, JEN7 jeans have an enhanceME sculpting panel, which is engineered to slim and sculpt curves. We like the white jeans (below) for summer.

Jen7 Sculpting Ankle Skinny Jeans

8. 1822 Denim

If you’re looking for a pair of skinny jeans to wear with longer tops and tunics, then take a look at the 1822 Denim pair (below) which have a mesh tummy panel.

1822 Denim Ab-Solve Skinny Jeans

9. democracy

Another slim leg option for you, the Democracy jeggings (below) could also be ideal to wear with your longer tunics and shirts. They have flattering Ab-solution technology to help sculpt the tummy. Wearers say they are true to size and are perfect for curvy figures.

Democracy Ab Solution Jeggings

10. wallflower jeans

For a classic bootcut style, the WallFlower jeans (below) are designed to hug and flatter curves. Reviewers say they have the perfect balance of stretch and tightness in all the right places.

WallFlower Luscious Curvy Bootcut

11. Vintage America

With slimming mesh panels for tummy control, the Vintage America jeans (below) also feature a hidden inner waistband for a no-gap waist. One reviewer described these as hands-down the best jeans she has ever owned.

Vintage America Blues F’ab Body Sculpt Bootcut Jeans

12. lee

If you like to wear skinny jeans, perhaps with a tunic top, try the Lee sculpting jeans (below). One reviewer said they made her feel slim and trim, while another described the sculpting high waist as awesome.

Lee Sculpting Skinny Jeans

13. angels forever young

Sitting above the hip, the Angels Forever Young jeans are designed to slim the tummy area. Reviewers say are ideal for bigger bums.

Angels Forever Young 360 Sculpt Bootcut Jeans

14. curve appeal

CURVE APPEAL’s skinny jeans are a great choice to wear with your tunics and booties or to dress up with a blazer and heeled sandals. They feature a concealed elastic waistband together with tummy tuck technology to flatten your belly, and a contoured back to add shape at the rear.

CURVE APPEAL Tummy Tucking High Rise Comfort Waist Skinny Jeans

15. lane bryant

For plus size choices, Lane Bryant is a good go-to. The Lane Bryant jeans (below) feature a no-gap stretch waistband designed to keep you tucked in and to move with you to keep you comfy.

Lane Bryant Tighter Tummy Fit High-Rise Boot Jean

16. everlane

Everlane’s high-waist jeans are designed to feature your true waist, which should be where your waistline is at its slimmest. They have great reviews from women who say they have just the right amount of stretch, making them comfy to wear all day, while still holding you in.

Everlane The Curvy Way-High® Jean

17. old navy

Old Navy’s jeans (below) have clever secret-smooth front pockets to hold you in for a smoothing effect. They have a shug no-gap waist to keep you covered.

Old Navy Curvy Extra High-Waisted Wide-Leg Jeans

18. iChosy

With pull-on styling, the iChosy jeans (below) have a hidden tummy control panel. Reviewers say they are comfortable and flattering, but do run large so size down if you are between sizes.

iChosy Shaping Pull-on Skinny Jeans

19. Plus size option

Many of the jeans above also come in plus size choices. You could also try the body-sculpting skinny jeans (below) which reviewers say they are the perfect fit for curvy women.

Vintage America Blues F’ab Body Sculpt Skinny Jeans

shop the best tummy control jeans in stores now:

What jeans are best for a big belly?

We’re sure this article has given you lots of options for the best jeans for streamlining a tummy. Denim designers have really woken up to the fact that they need to create jeans for all shapes and sizes.

How do you hide a belly bulge in jeans?

To sum up, you’re looking for jeans with stretch, and with built-in slimming technology. It’s also best to opt for a mid or high rise, so you don’t end up with the dreaded ‘muffin top’. Plus, if you do want to create more of a slimming effect, then darker shades of blue, black or gray usually work best.

Do you already have tummy control jeans in your wardrobe? Or might you invest in some?

Continue reading:

1. The Best Fitting Jeans For Women: Choose The Best Jeans For Your Body Type
2. How To Wear Jeans Over 40 – Guidelines And Lots Of Ideas
3. 14 sure-fire ways to hide the belly

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The post The best tummy control jeans to give you a smoother look appeared first on 40+ Style.

What are cargo or utility outfits?

So, first of all, what do we mean by cargo outfits? Well, cargo dressing stems from cargo pants, which were originally made from heavy duty material for workwear, and featured lots of pockets for tools.

What to look for?

This year’s cargo styles come in materials and types of clothing that you wouldn’t necessarily associate with cargo pockets. Cargo pants are still very much on trend, but look out for luxurious fabrics. Also look for dresses, skirts and shirts with cargo pockets.

Tank top from H&M, cargo pants from H&M (another option here), jacket from Tezenis (similar here), similar sneakers, earrings and sunglasses

What to think about

When choosing your cargo styles, think about what will be most flattering for your body type. For example, if you are a pear shape, you won’t want to add extra bulk with pockets at your thighs, but you could choose a cargo top or jacket. The opposite will hold true if you are an inverted triangle. Use the cargo pockets to add shape where you want it.

Cargo outfits on the runway

You can see below how designers elevated cargo styles by opting for cargo dresses, or by teaming smarter elements with cargo pants and jeans.

Saint Laurent – Schiaparelli – Max Mara

cargo outfits

Let’s move onto our favorite cargo styles in stores now, and how you can style them.

1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7 / 8 / 9 / 10

Cargo tops

Starting with tops, look for shirts with cargo style pockets and wear with your favorite jeans or denim skirts. Note that the cargo pockets will add shape so this is a great choice if you want to add some curves.

Karen Millen Cotton Sateen Woven Cargo Crop Shirt – Madewell Flap-Pocket Crop Poplin Shirt – Nordstrom Utility Shirt – H&M Textured-weave Utility Shirt

Madewell Flap-Pocket Crop Poplin Shirt – Hudson Jeans Denim Cargo-Style Skirt – SOREL Joanie™ IV Y Strap Wedge Sandals – Il Bisonte Classic Leather Crossbody Bag – Jennifer Zeuner Jewelry Cooper Stud Earrings

jackets and coats

Update your denim jacket by looking for a style with cargo pockets, add cargo details to your casual outfits, or combine formal and casual by choosing a blazer with cargo pockets.

HIDDEN JEANS Denim Crop Cargo Jacket – Cinq à Sept Katie Asymmetric Belted Denim Jacket – SIMKHAI Leora Denim Cargo Jacket – J.Crew Heritage Barn Jacket

Carmen @carmen_gimeno above wears a denim cargo skirt with her maxi skirt and sneakers. Denim is very much on trend this year, so combining denim with cargo pockets is a great way to wear two trends at once.

Get her look with this similar jacket, skirt, sneakers, bag, belt, sunglasses and brooch.

Cargo pants outfits

Cargo jeans and pants are a classic way to add utility dressing to your outfits. Wear with a t-shirt and jeans for a casual look, or mix up your style and wear with a silky blouse and heels for evening. Take a look below at our cargo capsule for more ideas of what to wear with your cargo pants.

Cinq à Sept Benji Cargo Crop Jeans – AG Jeans Gatina Cotton-Blend Cargo Pants – Capsule 121 The Antares Cargo Trousers – H&M Textured-weave Cargo Pants

Cathy @themiddlepageblog above (read her style interview here) shows how you could wear your cargo pants with a blouse and pointed shoes.

Steal her look with this similar blouse, pants, heels, bag, necklace, belt and sunglasses.

Cargo skirt outfits, dresses and jumpsuits

Wearing your cargo pockets on your dress or skirt is the perfect way to add a touch of the unexpected to your utility style. Wear with heels or sneakers.

Karen Millen Tailored Compact Cotton Utility Belted Mini Dress – Karen Millen Cargo Pocket Belted Wide Leg Tailored Jumpsuit – Hudson Jeans Denim Cargo-Style Skirt – Karen Millen Cotton Sateen Woven Cargo Midi Skirt

Emms @beautifuleveryday_uk above wears a utility style jumpsuit featuring puff sleeves.

Recreate her outfit with this similar jumpsuit (other options here and here), sandals, bag and sunglasses.

Shoes to go with your cargo outfits

You can wear your cargo outfits with everything from sneakers to heels and booties, depending on how formal or casual you want to look.

Vagabond Shoemakers Ines Sandals – SOREL Joanie™ IV Y Strap Wedge Sandals – Vionic Valencia Ankle Booties – New Balance 237 V1 Sneakers

Cinq à Sept Katie Asymmetric Belted Denim Jacket – Capsule 121 The Antares Cargo Trousers – Vagabond Shoemakers Ines Sandals – Ree Projects Mini Helene Leather Hobo Bag – John Hardy Classic Chain Sterling Silver Hoops

Accessories to go with your cargo outfits

You can, of course, choose handbags with cargo pockets to add utility style to your outfit, or you can contrast the formality of your bag with the casual pockets on your outfit.

Marc Jacobs The Mini Shoulder Bag – Il Bisonte Classic Leather Crossbody Bag – Ree Projects Mini Helene Leather Hobo Bag – Jennifer Zeuner Jewelry Cooper Stud Earrings – John Hardy Classic Chain Sterling Silver Hoops

Karen Millen Cotton Sateen Woven Cargo Crop Shirt – Cinq à Sept Benji Cargo Crop Jeans – Vionic Valencia Ankle Booties – Marc Jacobs The Mini Shoulder Bag – John Hardy Classic Chain Sterling Silver Hoops

clothes to go with your cargo outfits

You can opt for top-to-toe with your cargo style, but you’re likely to want to bring in other elements from your closet to go with your cargo pants, skirts or dresses. Look out for blazers, blouses and denim styles.

Cinq à Sept Khloe Boucle Blazer – Favorite Daughter Boyfriend Denim Crop Shirt – Kobi Halperin Nellie Silk-Satin Blouse – Equipment Oriana Off-The-Shoulder Silk Top

Kim @kimair above (read her style interview here) wears a jacket with cargo pockets with her white maxi skirt and silver shoes.

Check out this similar top, jacket (another option here), skirt, sandals, handbag, earrings and sunglasses.

Your cargo outfits capsule

Below, you can see the cargo outfits from above together in one capsule. You can see you can change around the tops, bottoms, jackets and accessories to create lots of different outfits. For example, you could dress up the denim skirt with heeled sandals and a blouse, or wear the jumpsuit with sneakers.

shop the best cargo outfits here:

Continue reading:

1. 2024 Fashion Trends: All The Best Outfits To Wear This Spring And Summer
2. Not Just For Jeans! All The Denim Outfits And Trends You Need To Know This Year
3. The Best Cargo Pants Outfits To Wear For Any Occasion

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Feature image by Cathy @themiddlepageblog

The post Elevate your casual wardrobe with these chic cargo outfits appeared first on 40+ Style.

What are leggings?

Before we get onto how to wear leggings, what exactly are they? Leggings are thicker than tights so they are nice and warm and give good coverage for your legs.

Generally skin tight, leggings tend to end at your mid calf or ankle. They’re stretchy so you don’t need any fastenings to get into them. And, depending on the style and material, you can wear leggings for everything from exercising to a night out.

So, exactly how should you wear leggings so they also look good? And which are the best leggings to buy?

In this updated article with new shopping options, I will give you lots of guidelines on how to wear leggings over 40, 50 and beyond and where you can buy the best leggings online.

You will also find a capsule wardrobe of the best leggings as well as tops, sweaters, coats, dresses, shoes and accessories to wear with them.

How to wear leggings so you look stylish?

Leggings are a great transitional option for spring and summer as you can wear underneath dresses or tunics, meaning you can continue wearing your favorite summer dresses even if the weather is still a little cool.

Meanwhile, for winter, you can wear your leggings with sweaters and boots.

In my opinion, you should not wear leggings like normal trousers unless they are made from a thick material or they coated.

I would not do that at any age, but it certainly does not look very classy when you are over 40.

I feel it is much nicer to wear leggings as a supportive element for the rest of your clothes, rather than as a main garment. You will find all our best tips on how to wear leggings below.

Alison @wardrobe_oxygen (read her style interview here) wears her leggings with a blazer.

Check out this similar tank top, blazer, leggings, sneakers, bag, cap, necklace and earrings.

Also find out our top picks for the best tummy control leggings.

What are the best leggings to buy?

You will want to make sure that your leggings are thick enough and have a good stretch, yet are still firm enough to give your legs a great shape.

For that reason, it’s wise to invest in a good pair.

Ponte leggings (a hybrid of leggings and pants) are also a good choice.

If you like even thicker leggings, you may consider jeggings or elasticated skinny jeans. I would steer clear of shiny or sheer leggings.

Leather or faux leather leggings are great for an edgier look and can be easily ‘softened’ with a silk tunic.

If the weather is still cold where you are, you can read our article on the best winter leggings for women over 40.

What is the correct way to wear leggings?

There’s no ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ way to wear anything. Wear what makes you feel at your most confident. But, as a guideline, leggings look good when you wear a longer top or tunic over them. In this article, you’ll find lots of outfit inspiration for your leggings.

Are you supposed to wear something under leggings?

Choosing to wear no underwear under leggings is a personal preference. Some leggings have a built-in underwear layer that make them more comfortable to wear without underwear. But if you would like to wear underwear and you’re worried about visible panty lines, then check out our article on the best seamless panties.

How to wear leggings in your 40s?

Take a look below at the best leggings to choose and what to wear them with.

Adaline @sdmomstyles above wears her leggings with an on-trend denim jacket.

Recreate her outfit with this similar shirt, denim jacket, leggings, sneakers and bag.

How to make leggings look classy?

Choosing a pair of leggings that aren’t see-through, and wearing a longer top over them will give your leggings outfits a classy look.

Some great brands for leggings

It can be tricky to find a pair of leggings which give great coverage, aren’t see-thru and don’t lose their shape. So before looking at how to wear your leggings, below are some of my favorite brands as well as recommendations from 40+ Style readers.

1. Zella live-in leggings

Zella Live In leggings have consistently good reviews. -These look just as good for everyday wear or for a workout.

Zella Studio Luxe High Waist Pocket 7/8 Leggings

2. Satina high-waisted leggings

Satina leggings come in several colors so you could always opt for a softer hue for summer if you already have black leggings in your closet or a winter shade like navy or burgundy. They have a high waist (making them perfect for hiding your belly)

SATINA High Waisted Leggings

3. NYDJ

NYDJ is well known for creating jeans for curves rather than for teenage girls. They also have a range of flattering leggings.

NYDJ Sculpt Her Pull-On Leggings

4. Alo

Alo is well known for classic and timeless styles that you can wear year-upon-year. So it’s no surprise, you’ll find the brand features some classic leggings and jeggings.

Alo Airlift High Waist Capris

5. Lyssé

Lyssé prides itself on offering foundational wardrobe essentials. After all, every great wardrobe starts with good foundations! You can read more about this idea in how to create the ultimate capsule wardrobe.

Leggings make a good foundation because of their versatility. You can wear under so many different items of clothing in so many different ways. Read on for outfit ideas as well as a capsule wardrobe based on leggings.

Lyssé Center Seam Ponte Leggings

5. spanx

SPANX is renowned for shapewear. But, you’ll also find some well-fitting leggings among its range.

SPANX Faux Leather Leggings

Abi @stealmystyle40 above wears her leggings with a longline blazer and knee-high boots.

Get her look with this similar top, blazer (another option here), leggings, high boots, handbag and belt.

6. Everlane

Everlane is a good go-to for your wardrobe basics. The Perform leggings (below) feature a flattering high waist, and come in a good choice of colors.

Everlane The Perform 24/7 Legging

7. Lands’ End

If you want a pair of slimming leggings, you could choose the knit leggings (below), from Lands’ End. They have great reviews from wearers who say they are incredibly flattering.

Lands’ End Starfish Mid Rise Knit Leggings

8. commando

If you’re looking to smooth out your silhouette with tummy smoothing leggings, then the Commando leggings (below) are a good choice. They have a control layer of fabric underneath and a high waist to keep everything tucked in.

Commando Control Top Faux Leather Leggings

9. vuori

For casual days and workouts, the Vuori Daily Leggings are a great choice. They come in a good choice of colors and have a jogger style with the feel of leggings.

Vuori Daily Leggings

10. hue

For a dressier choice for summer, take a look at the HUE leggings (below), which feature embroidery at the hem.

HUE Embroidered Hem Cotton Skimmer Capri Leggings

MORE LEGGINGS TO CHOOSE FROM

Of course, you don’t have to limit yourself to the brands above, the below leggings also have fantastic reviews.

1. Best leggings for women

When searching for the best leggings for women, another good option to choose are the 90 Degree leggings from Amazon (below) which have thousands of good reviews from women who say they prefer them over bigger brands.

90 Degree By Reflex Tummy Control Leggings

2. Best Amazon leggings

Another good choice from Amazon are the Heathyoga leggings (below) which are perfect for working out. One reviewer even described them as the best leggings she has ever owned.

Heathyoga Yoga Leggings

3. Best high waisted leggings

Leggings which fall down or which leave you at risk of flashing your underwear are definitely not flattering. So, to make sure everything is tucked in, opt for a pair of high-waisted leggings like the ones from FULLSOFT (below) which also feature tummy tuck technology.

FULLSOFT 3 Pack Tummy Control Leggings

4. Best plus size leggings

If you’re looking for the perfect pair of plus size leggings, the stretch jersey leggings (below) from Just My Size may be the answer. Reviewers say they are curve-hugging and stay put without being uncomfortable.

Just My Size Plus Size Jersey Leggings

5. Best faux leather leggings

If you want to add a little edginess to your outfit, a pair of leather or faux leather leggings is a good option. You could wear casually with a long sweater, or for evening with a tunic top or dress.

Retro Gong Faux Leather Leggings

6. Best jeggings for women

A pair of jeggings are another good style to think about. These are great for wearing casually with sweaters and boots.

Lyssé High Waist Skinny Denim Leggings

Jas @thefashionstylefile above shows how you can wear leggings with a maxi dress by choosing a shirt style dress and keeping the bottom buttons open to show off your leggings.

Check out these dresses from Favorite Daughter and Amazon that you can wear with this similar pair of jeggings, sandals, bag, earrings and sunglasses.

7. Best leather leggings

A pair of leather leggings can be a great option for evening. Add a silk shirt, blazer and heeled booties. Or you could wear casually with a sweater and booties.

Karen Millen Ponte & Faux Leather Zip Detail Jodhpur Leggings

8. Best cotton leggings

Cotton is a good choice for so many items of clothing, and leggings are no exception. If you’re looking at leggings for working out, cotton can keep moisture against your body rather than wicking it away.

But cotton leggings can be ideal for everyday wear.

HUE Cotton Ultra Leggings

9. Good leggings

When choosing leggings, quality is important. After all, you don’t want everyone to be able to see your underwear and every lump and bump.

The Colorfulkoala leggings (below) are available in a range of colors and have good reviews from women who say they are the best quality to be found at their price point.

Colorfulkoala High Waist Full Length Leggings

10. Best leggings with pockets

If you’re exercising or out for a walk, you might prefer to choose a pair of leggings you can fit your phone in like the Threads 4 Thought leggings (below).

Threads 4 Thought Rita High Waist Pocket Leggings

11. Best cheap leggings

Unless you have an unlimited clothing budget, you may be looking at good leggings on a budget. The THE GYM PEOPLE leggings (below) are well-priced but have good reviews from women who say they are amazing for the price point.

THE GYM PEOPLE Tummy Control Leggings

12. Most comfortable leggings

When looking for comfy leggings, how they stretch is important. The leggings (below) from Felina have four-way stretch, and they come in packs of two, making them good value.

Felina Velvety Soft Lightweight Leggings

13. Control top leggings

There are plenty of leggings which don’t just look stylish, but can also help to smooth out your silhouette. The Dragon Fit tummy control leggings (below) have good reviews on Amazon from women who say they comfortably hold everything in without feeling restrictive.

Dragon Fit Tummy Control High Waist leggings

14. best crop leggings

For walking, working out, and warm summer days, crop leggings can be a great option. The Zella crop style (below) is super stretchy and features a supportive mesh waistband.

Zella Studio Luxe High Waist Capri Leggings

15. print leggings

Plain leggings can be easier to wear with more options in your closet, but print leggings can be fun too. Just choose a plain top to go with them so your outfit doesn’t look too ‘busy’.

Beyond Yoga SoftMark Caught in the Midi Space Dye High Waist Leggings

How to wear leggings: What to consider when choosing your leggings

Zella Studio Luxe High Waist Capri Leggings

As you can see, the choice of leggings is endless. So now that you’re thinking about the legging brands to look for, what else should you consider?

Length

Just as with skirt hem lengths, or the arm lengths on your tops, there are a number of legging lengths you could opt for.

Your leggings could end just below your knees, at your calves or ankles or they could be full-length.

Choose ankle or full length to tuck into booties, or a shorter length for your summer sandals.

For an extra flattering look, opt for leggings which hit your legs at their slimmest point.

Fabric

By their very nature, leggings come in stretchy fabric so you can pull them on without any fasteners. Usually, they have a mix of lycra and cotton, but you could choose from all sorts of materials such as a leather look or denim depending on whether you are opting for a casual or evening look.

Claudia @glamupyourlifestyle above (read her style interview here)

Get her look with this similar top, cardigan, leggings (another option here), sneakers, bag (another option here) and necklace.

Color

Black leggings are clearly a complete classic that will go with everything you own. They are the perfect addition to a capsule wardrobe.

But you could also think about white for summer, or add some color or pattern to your outfit. However, if you do opt for colored leggings, you may wish to keep the rest of your outfit more subtle.

What to wear with leggings?

So, now that you have a few ideas for the best legging brands to choose and other factors to consider, what should you wear with them?

Leggings look best with longer tops and tunics. Short dresses can also look great with leggings.

So, if you do own a shorter dress that you have pushed to the back of your wardrobe, you could always try it with leggings before you decide to donate it.

Leggings work best when they act as a base for your other clothes. If you want to wear shorter tops I would recommend wearing jeans and other pants.

Find out some of our top recommendation for jeans.

The best tunics to wear with leggings

Leggings look better with longer tops. You still want to make sure that you create enough structure in your outfit though.

You can do that through the right tunics and longer asymmetrical tops.

The latter especially create flattering vertical lines and add a bit of extra style to your look.

Topdress Swing Tunic Top – Lands’ End Linen Split Neck Tunic Top – Misook Balloon-Sleeve Knit Tunic – rag & bone Holland Sleeveless Linen Blend Tunic Top

Joe’s Jeans Utility Cropped Denim Jacket – Misook Balloon-Sleeve Knit Tunic – Zella Studio Luxe High Waist Pocket 7/8 Leggings – Tory Burch Kira Sport Sandals – Aimee Kestenberg All For Love Leather Convertible Shoulder Bag – Jennifer Zeuner Jewelry Darla Drop Earrings

how to Wear leggings with a long shirt

Because a long shirt covers up your bottom and thighs, you can afford to go a little bit edgy with your leggings. You could opt for a pair in leather or faux leather.

All of these shirts (below) would look great with a pair of faux leather or coated leggings.

Treasure & Bond Oversize Short Sleeve Tunic – Eileen Fisher Organic Handkerchief Linen Classic Collar Long Shirt– MANGO 100% Cotton Striped Shirt – 7 For All Mankind Oversized Denim Button-Front Shirt

how to wear leggings with Short dresses

Instead of designated tunics you can also wear a short dress over your leggings.

An asymmetrical dress or draped dress will make a real statement.

If you have pushed a shorter dress to the back of your closet before you don’t feel confident about the length, it could be time to get it back out and try it with leggings.

WAYF Sally Satin Wrap Dress – Good American Luxe Suiting Executive Blazer Minidress – Cinq à Sept Arlette Striped Mini Shirtdress – Ramy Brook Susan Watercolor Puff-Sleeve Minidress

Cinq à Sept Arlette Striped Mini Shirtdress – Zella Studio Luxe High Waist Pocket 7/8 Leggings – Taos Plim Soul Lux Sneakers – Tory Burch Small Ella Bio Tote – Jennifer Zeuner Jewelry Darla Drop Earrings

Longer dresses

It can be tricky to wear a longer dress with leggings because you need to think more carefully about the proportions of your outfit. A great way to make sure you get it right is to wear a dress with a slit in it so you show off a little leg (or at least a little legging!). You could look out for a shirt dress, or a draped style would also work well.

MANGO Tie-dye Shirtdress – MICHAEL Michael Kors Zebra Belted Cotton Slit Maxi Shirtdress – Misook Striped Oversized Midi Shirtdress – Good American Fit For Success Denim Maxi Dress

MANGO Tie-dye Shirtdress – Zella Studio Luxe High Waist Pocket 7/8 Leggings – Lucky Brand Mofira Woven Peep Toe Booties – Longchamp Le Foulonne Large Leather Tote Bag – Swarovski Millenia Crystal Earrings

Layer your leggings with a cardigan or sweater

Leggings are definitely your friend when it comes to layering.

They look great worn under long tops and ponchos with ankle booties.

If you’re heading out for a walk or to run errands, slinging a lightweight coat over a pair of leggings, together with a long-line tunic, can be a stylish option

Or, rather than wearing a coat, as you are likely to be heading into spring, you could try teaming your leggings with a cozy knit?

When choosing a sweater to go with your leggings, opt for a long-line version which will cover up your bottom.

Or, if that is an area of your body you are confident about, you could always wear a pair of skinny jeans and a shorter sweater.

Varley Vine Half Zip Pullover – MELIFLUOS DESIGNED IN SPAIN Ruana – J.Crew Juliette Collarless Sweater Blazer – PULI Large Cross Front Poncho

Nora @juststylela above (read her style interview here) looks fabulous in her asymmetric poncho.

Steal her look this similar poncho, jeggings, pumps, clutch and earrings.

how to wear leggings with Lightweight cover-ups

Given that some of you will be heading into the warmer months, another way to wear your leggings could be with a lighter-weight cover-up.

That way, you can still take advantage of flattering layers while staying cool.

Pitusa Puka Shell Cotton Shirtdress – Eileen Fisher Délavé Organic Linen Gauze Caftan – Ramy Brook Sylvie Caftan Cover-Up – Agua Bendita Juana Boreal Floral Fringe Tunic

Eileen Fisher Délavé Organic Linen Gauze Caftan – Zella Studio Luxe High Waist Pocket 7/8 Leggings – Tory Burch Kira Sport Sandals – Longchamp Le Foulonne Large Leather Tote Bag – Jennifer Zeuner Jewelry Darla Drop Earrings

Leggings look great with jackets and long coats

Long cardigans can create lovely vertical lines which can help to elongate your figure.

But you can always wear a longer coat to keep you warm.

Another idea is to wear a longer top or short dress over your leggings and then to layer a moto or denim jacket over it.

Joe’s Jeans Utility Cropped Denim Jacket – Lamarque Monica Vegan Leather Biker Jacket – Kobi Halperin Leah Snakeskin Print Single-Button Overcoat – NIC+ZOE Longline Cotton Tunic

Melanie @melanie.rae.miller above shows how you could wear your leggings for cooler weather, with a hoodie and longer coat.

Steal her look with this similar hoodie, coatigan, leggings, sneakers, bag and cap.

In general, your ideal garments to combine with leggings include:

• Tunics
• Asymmetric tops and tunics
• Short dresses
• Knit dresses
• Long knitted sweaters
• Longer asymmetrical pieces
• Long cardigans
• Big wide sweaters
• Sweater dresses

what Shoes to wear with leggings?

As you will see from all the examples in this article you can wear a wide variety of shoes with your leggings.

I feel that open vamp shoes look the best as they will further lengthen your leg line.

But, with cooler weather, you can definitely wear your leggings with closed toe versions such as booties, sneakers and knee-high boots.

Tory Burch Kira Sport Sandals – Lucky Brand Mofira Woven Peep Toe Booties – Taos Plim Soul Lux Sneakers – Blondo Valli Suede Boots

Kobi Halperin Leah Snakeskin Print Single-Button Overcoat – rag & bone Holland Sleeveless Linen Blend Tunic Top – Karen Millen Ponte & Faux Leather Zip Detail Jodhpur Leggings – Lucky Brand Mofira Woven Peep Toe Booties – Tory Burch Small Ella Bio Tote – Swarovski Millenia Crystal Earrings

which Accessories to wear with leggings

Of course, anything goes when you are choosing accessories to wear with your leggings.

But generally, leggings invite a casual look, so you could opt for scarves and crossbody bags rather than anything too formal. However, if you choose a dressier pair of leggings, you might want a clutch bag or statement jewelry.

Longchamp Le Foulonne Large Leather Tote Bag – Tory Burch Small Ella Bio Tote – Aimee Kestenberg All For Love Leather Convertible Shoulder Bag – Ettika Golden Rays 2-Piece Necklace Set – Jennifer Zeuner Jewelry Darla Drop Earrings – Swarovski Millenia Crystal Earrings – NUWEERIR Womens 100% Large Mulberry Silk Scarf

Lamarque Monica Vegan Leather Biker Jacket –Topdress Swing Tunic Top – Zella Studio Luxe High Waist Pocket 7/8 Leggings – Blondo Valli Suede Boots – Aimee Kestenberg All For Love Leather Convertible Shoulder Bag – NUWEERIR Womens 100% Large Mulberry Silk Scarf

For which body type would leggings be suitable?

If you follow some of the guidelines above, all body types will be able to wear leggings.

If you have very thick calves though I would recommend you wear skinny jeans so the pants skim over your calves and will make them look slimmer. Make sure your leggings don’t end at the widest point of your legs.

Wide legged pants are also an option or you could wear leggings with nice knee-high boots.

Leggings can work especially well for the apple body type. 

Your long tunic or top covers your belly and the leggings show off your fantastic legs.

You could never tell that Anja @curlytraveller does have a tummy from these images (below).

Although women with the pear body shape can wear leggings as well, it is important that they choose a top with sufficient length over them.

If you are self-conscious about your tummy, it’s also worth taking a look at how to hide your belly with the right clothes.

Judith @stylecrone above (read her style interview here) wears her leggings with a print tunic and platform boots.

Recreate her outfit with this similar tunic (another option here), leggings, boots and hat.

How to wear leggings in summer and for travel

In case you live in warmer climes, below are a few travel looks with leggings.

Here is how I wore black and white leggings on holiday.

Above is when I wore a white long tunic over a pair of capri leggings.

Leggings with asymmetrical tunics

I especially love asymmetric tunics and tops as they create an interesting silhouette and lengthen you through additional vertical lines.

Also take a look at the best asymmetrical tops and dresses.

What not to wear with leggings over 40

I’ve spoken a lot about what TO wear with leggings, but what are some of the things to avoid?

• Unless your leggings are thick, avoid any tops that are higher than mid-thigh. Or use an asymmetrical top (as shown below) that is long at the back.
• Don’t wear tops that are too tight. leggings look better with wider tops as it creates a contrast between fitted and lose.
• Avoid animal prints (unless you are opting for skinny jeans instead of leggings) and disco fabrics for your leggings and remember that the classier the top, the better leggings will look. The luxury fabric of silk, wool or cashmere will create a great contrast with the comfortable jersey leggings.

What is the ideal length of your leggings

You can never go wrong with full-length leggings. These elongate and will make your legs appear longer.

Ankle-high leggings can also look sexy, especially with heels or booties.

If you are short, though, mid-calf and short leggings should be worn with caution as they will make you look smaller.

Leggings that stop just below the knees are a great option too and good for summer days.

As you may have seen from the images above, it is great to wear a shoe in the same color as your leggings as it elongates your legs even further.

Tall flat boots can work really well with leggings, but short booties and ballet flats can work equally good.

For more info on what kind of shoes to wear with what pants check out this article.

What about jeggings and skinny jeans?

I’m also a big fan of looser fitting leggings, jeggings or skinny jeans. Check our articles on the best jeggings or the best skinny jeans.

Above is a look I wore while traveling. Also, take a look at travel outfits for women over 40.

These will not show every curve in your legs, but will provide nice vertical lines and make your legs look long and slim.

Depending on the kind of jeggings and skinny jeans you choose, your tops can be shorter for these pants although, just like leggings, they will also look good with longer tops.

They can be a great asset for any wardrobe of women over 40.

Skinny jeans are usually a bit thicker and roomier so can be worn with shorter tops.

Be sure to wear the right underwear though, so there is no clear VPL (visible panty line). (Featured below are myself and Greetje).

Below is another look with skinny jeans featuring an asymmetrical top.

A capsule wardrobe with 9 ways to wear your leggings

Of course, there are so many ways you could put together the leggings, tops, sweaters, dresses, shoes and accessories in this article to create many, many outfits. But here are 9 outfits to get your started.

Let me know which of these outfits you would wear.

shop leggings outfits here:

Read our ultimate guide to creating a capsule wardrobe that works best for you.

Below, you can see a previous season’s capsule wardrobes for more inspiration.

If you want to make sure, you never miss an article and to get the best tips straight into your inbox as well as a free guide on how to find your style, be sure to subscribe to the weekly newsletter.

I hope you got some more clarity on how to wear leggings! What do you think? Do you like wearing leggings and how do you usually wear leggings?

Continue reading:

1. The Best Tummy ControlJeans To Give You A Smoother Look
2. The Best Pants And Skirts To Fit And Hide Your Belly
3. 14 Sure-Fire Ways To Hide Your Belly With The Right Clothes

Like this article on how to wear leggings? Save it on Pinterest!

Feature image by Claudia @glamupyourlifestyle

The post How to wear leggings over 40 – a complete guide with the best leggings and tops and shoes to wear with them appeared first on 40+ Style.

What’s on trend when it comes to denim this year?

While jeans are still on trend, you can be much more adventurous when putting together denim outfits in the coming months. Let’s look at all the key denim trends.

Jacket from Tezenis (similar option here), skirt from Weekend Max Mara (similar options here and here), tee from SKFK (similar here), similar pumps, necklace and sunglasses

Video – all the ways I styled denim this season

Add a touch of the unexpected

The beauty of wearing clothing that wouldn’t usually be made in denim, such as a long skirt or a tailored jacket, is that you have a touch of the unexpected in your outfit, and that helps you showcase your fashion credentials.

An affordable way to update your outfit

Denim is absolutely everywhere this season, so you can update your look at a high-end or high-street store. The beauty of denim is that because so many stores have their own take on it, you can update your look at an affordable price point or choose to invest in something that you will wear for many seasons.

Cargo pants

Cargo or utility styles are particularly on-trend. So, if you want to add an instant update and you do want to stick to jeans, then choose a pair of denim pants with cargo pockets. Or just wear your denim with cargo pants as I have done below.

Below, you can see some ways I wear my denim cargo pants this season.

Cargo pants from H&M (another option here), similar shirt, sneakers, earrings and sunglasses

Jacket from H&M (another option here), tank top from H&M, cargo pants from H&M (another option here), similar sneakers, earrings and sunglasses

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

Tunic dress from H&M, cargo pants from H&M (another option here), similar sneakers, earrings, sunglasses, belt and hat

1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7 / 8 / 9 / 10 / 11 / 12 / 13 / 14

How to wear denim

Let’s look at some of the catwalk looks featuring denim this season. Many designers chose top-to-toe denim, so you can wear as much or as little denim as you want and know that you will be on trend.

Chanel – Emilio Pucci – COS

Denim capsule wardrobe

Here are some of the best denim clothes, shoes and accessories we’ve spotted in stores. And, read on for lots of inspiration about how to wear your denim this season.

Denim tops

While denim shirts are the classic choice when it comes to denim tops, this season, you’ll find denim tops of all styles from puff sleeves to lace-up tops and tank tops.

FRAME Sonder Denim Puff-Sleeve Blouse – J.Crew Denim Pullover Shirt – luvamia Tie Front Denim Shirt – rag & bone Ultra Featherweight Fiona Top

luvamia Tie Front Denim Shirt – J.Crew Denim Trousers – Franco Sarto Tyra Slingback Flats – Tory Burch Small Convertible Shoulder Bag – Adriana Orsini Naomi Linear Earrings

jackets and coats

Dries Van Noten – Ralph Lauren – Schiaparelli

Slipping on a denim coat or jacket can update any existing outfit. Traditional denim jackets are still on trend, but look out for more usual choices like blazers, trench coats, and duster jackets.

Cinq à Sept Katie Asymmetric Belted Denim Jacket – J.Crew Frayed Denim Lady Jacket – Splendid Dane Denim Coat – chouyatou Long Denim Jean Jacket

Shirt from H&M (similar options here and here), jacket from H&M (another option here), skirt from H&M (other options here and here), similar sneakers and sunglasses

Tank top from H&M, cargo pants from H&M (another option here), vest from slowlove (similar option here), similar sneakers, earrings and sunglasses

Dress from H&M, cargo pants from H&M (another option here), jacket from Tezenis (similar here), similar sneakers, sunglasses, earrings, belt and hat

Denim pants and jeans

Ralph Lauren – Schiaparelli – Valentino

Of course, denim pants and jeans never go out of style. But, if you want to be particularly on trend for the new season, then choose cargo styles, wide legs, or embellished jeans.

Hudson Jeans Petite High-Rise Cargo Wide-Leg Jeans – J.Crew Denim Trousers – Hudson Jeans Tie-Waist Denim Trousers – Ramy Brook Adley Floral-Embroidered Denim Wide-Leg Jeans

Tank top from Parker (similar here and here), blazer from Zara (similar here), jeans from renatta&go (similar here and here), boots from Russell & Bromley (similar here), similar hat, earrings and sunglasses

Jumper from renatta&go (similar), jeans from renatta&go  (similar here and  here), boots from Russell & Bromley (similar here), similar hat, earrings and sunglasses

Shirt from Adolfo Dominguez (similar here and here), jeans from renatta&go (similar here and here), boots from Russell & Bromley (similar here), similar hat, earrings, belt and sunglasses

how to wear denim dresses

Etro – Area – Mame Kurogouchi

Denim tends to be a casual fabric, so it’s probably not the first material you think of when you’re searching for a dress, and that’s the beauty of it. A denim dress combines the casual nature of the fabric with the formal nature of a dress in the best way. choose midi or maxi styles. If you choose a full button-down style, you can also wear your dress as a duster jacket.

rag & bone Ultra Featherweight Soraya Denim Midi-Dress – Veronica Beard Ruben Seamed Denim Shirtdress – COS A-Line Denim Dress – Favorite Daughter The City Denim Shirtdress

Dress from H&M, cargo pants from H&M (another option here), Denim shirtdress from John Lewis (similar here), similar sneakers, earrings, sunglasses, hat and belt

Tunic dress from H&M, cargo pants from H&M (another option here), similar sneakers, earrings, sunglasses, belt and hat

Shirt from Adolfo Dominguez (similar here and here), denim shirtdress from John Lewis (similar here), jeans from renatta&go (similar here and here), boots from Russell & Bromley (similar here), similar hat, earrings and sunglasses

how to wear denim skirts

Etro – Ralph Lauren – Mame Kurogouchi

Denim maxi skirts are particularly on trend right now. You can wear your denim maxi skirt with everything from a t-shirt and sneakers or sandals for casual days, or dress up your denim with a silk top, heels and a clutch to mix casual and formal for a dinner date.

Hudson Jeans Reconstructed Denim Midi-Skirt – MANGO Vent Midi Skirt – LoveShackFancy Risia Denim Maxi Skirt – Farm Rio Denim Wave Skirt

Shirt from H&M (similar options here and here), skirt from H&M(other options here and here), similar sneakers and sunglasses

Tee from SKFK (similar here), skirt from Weekend Max Mara (similar options here and here), similar pumps, necklace and sunglasses

denim shoes

Choosing a pair of denim shoes is a great way to introduce more of this fabric into your outfits. Wear with your summer dresses, or team your denim with more denim by wearing with your jeans.

COACH Nikki Denim Sandals – BZees Everly Strappy Sandals – Cole Haan Mylah Heel Pumps – Vans Old Skool Threaded Denim Shoes

J.Crew Frayed Denim Lady Jacket –Theory Linen Boxy Sleeveless Top – Hudson Jeans Drawstring Wide-Leg Pants – Cole Haan Mylah Heel Pumps – Coach Willow Shoulder Bag – Dean Davidson Nomad Hoop Earrings

Denim accessories

Sling a denim bag over your shoulder, a denim scarf around your next, or choose a denim hat to add extra denim elements into your existing outfits. Denim accessories look beautiful against your white summer outfits.

Coach Willow Shoulder Bag – rag & bone Belize Mini Bucket Bag – Tory Burch Small Convertible Shoulder Bag – DALUDALU Denim Braided Hoop Drop Earrings – VOBOOM Washed Cotton Cap – Exclusive Handcrafts 100% Pure Linen Scarf

COS Linen T-Shirt – LoveShackFancy Risia Denim Maxi Skirt – Sam Edelman Ethyl Sneakers – rag & bone Belize Mini Bucket Bag – DALUDALU Denim Braided Hoop Drop Earrings

What to wear with your denim

You can wear denim top-to-toe if you like. Denim-on-denim is very much on trend. But you’re likely to want more options to pair with your denim clothes and accessories.

Milly Avril Crystal-Trim T-Shirt – MANGO Cotton Striped Shirt – COS Linen T-Shirt – Rails North Checked Drawstring Jacket – Theory Linen Boxy Sleeveless Top – Hudson Jeans Drawstring Wide-Leg Pants – Sam Edelman Ethyl Sneakers – Franco Sarto Tyra Slingback Flats – Dean Davidson Nomad Hoop Earrings – Adriana Orsini Naomi Linear Earrings – Ettika All The Chains Layered Necklace

Jacket from Tezenis (similar option here), dress from C&A (similar options here and here), Fly London Bani sandals, similar sunglasses

Your denim outfits together in one capsule

Below you can see the denim outfits from above together in one capsule, so you can easily see that you could mix and match any of the denim pieces, or the separates to create so many different looks for the new season.

shop the best denim pieces in stores now:

Continue reading:

1. How To Wear Jeans Over 40 – Guidelines And Lots Of Ideas
2. How To Style A Denim Skirt With The Best Denim Skirt Outfits To Try
3. How To Wear A Denim Jacket

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The post Not just for jeans! All the denim outfits and trends you need to know this year appeared first on 40+ Style.

Why would you want to hide your belly?

Many women after 40 experience weight gain on their bellies, especially after going into peri-menopause or menopause.

Your waist may disappear and you will start to develop more characteristics of the apple body shape

If you are trying to cover up a tummy, it can be easy to do the opposite and make yourself look bigger than you really are.

Thankfully there are many things you can do to hide your belly, so that it doesn’t get in the way of looking fabulously stylish!

Check out my 15 tips below on how to hide your belly with the right clothes.

Read our article on the best shops for the apple body shape.

Hiding your belly in spring and summer

Many of you will be heading into warmer weather now, which is something to look forward to. It can be easier to hide a belly during the cooler months when it is natural to add plenty of lovely layers too create long, sleek lines.

However, that’s not to say you can’t use many of the tricks below during warmer weather too. You can still opt for draped, asymmetrical styles, wrap styles where you can alter the belt for the most flattering effect, or long cardigans and lighter weight ruanas for an elongating effect.

Alison @wardrobe_oxygen above (read her style interview here) looks stunning in her print jumpsuit. Wearing a print is a great way to ‘confuse’ the eye and disguise a belly. Wearing colorful shoes is another good tip as that draws the eye in a different direction to the tummy.

Steal her look with this similar jumpsuit (other options here and here), sandals and earrings.

For more inspiration, read our top tips and tricks on what to wear in summer.

Now, onto my 15 tips. Read on for more flattering layering tips.

1. Don’t wear tight or clingy garments over your belly and choose tops with ruching or drape

If you want to look stylish and highlight your strengths, it is best not to wear tight tops.

They will accentuate every fat bubble you have and draw attention away from you and your fabulous clothes.

Rather choose tops that have some draping or ruching.

Hide your belly with the right tops

A crossover top is very effective and this one creates asymmetrical vertical lines which is an extra bonus.

Plus, you can choose a top which comes in new season colors.

Karen Kane is a good brand to look out for to find flattering, layered, crossover tops.

Karen Kane Asymmetrical Crepe Top

Below is a wrap blouse that is also effective at hiding bellies as it doesn’t cling to your tummy. It also has a flattering v-neck which can help to lengthen (rather than widen) your silhouette.

Karmamia Ines Satin Wrap Blouse

2. Wear leggings or skinnies with longer, draped or asymmetrical tops

Leggings or stretchy pants that tuck in the tummy will be your best friend.

They will fit comfortably around your belly and tuck it in a bit.

Also, with so many wonderful tunics and long tops to choose from, you will look fabulous. No-one will notice your belly!

For more tips and examples see how to wear leggings.

Choose the right leggings that tuck in your stomach

A favorite amongst 40+style readers are the Zella leggings.

Zella Live In High Waist Leggings

For a very affordable option that has 1000s of good reviews on Amazon, you can’t beat the Satina high waisted leggings. Wearers say they keep their shape all day.

Find out our top picks for the best tummy control leggings

Choose the right tunics that make you look good in your leggings or jeans!

Look out for long or asymmetrical tops and sweaters.

Wearing leggings underneath can let your hero pieces stand out.

The tunics below can easily be layered with a longer cardigan or shorter jacket and will help to distract the attention from your belly.

Below are some tunic tops you could try.

Ro’s Garden Tokyo Ikat-Inspired Cotton Tunic

Donna Karan New York Rustic Chic Graphic Tunic Shirt

Roamans Asymmetric Ultra Femme Tunic Shirt

Made By Johnny Swing Tunic Top

Susanne @textelle above (read her style interview here) wears a longer top with her slim jeans.

Recreate her outfit with this similar tunic shirt (another option here), jeans, sneakers, bag and sunhat.

Also, check out these recommendations for the best shops for women with the apple body shape.

3. Create vertical lines to hide your belly with long cardigans, jackets and ponchos

Layering is very effective to disguise a belly and is much easier to do during fall and winter, when you will want to use layers to stay warm. You can add a cardigan or a jacket.

However, it is definitely still possible to use this technique during spring and summer depending on where you live. Rather than a coat, you could opt for a lightweight cardigan, a sleeveless vest or a kimono.

Waterfall or straight designs can both work and will create a nice vertical line which will create the illusion of length and distract the eye from your belly.

Or you could wear a block color such as navy, red, black or gray underneath this cardigan style below, thus creating a slimming column effect down the center of your outfit.

Begonia.K Maxi Sheer Duster Cardigan

Misook Long Colorblocked Cardigan

ANRABESS Open Front Jacket

Below are more examples of outfits where you create a long lean line and hide the belly.

Layering for any season – use a long cardigan or a short jacket

Creating vertical lines with cardigans (as discussed above) works really well, but you can also wear shorter jackets to hide a tummy.

If you pop a biker jacket over a longer top, you confuse the eye so that the different hem lengths hide your belly.

Layers are definitely your friend when it comes to hiding a belly.

PAIGE Rowan Cutoff Denim Trucker Jacket – Chiara Boni La Petite Robe Tremarz Asymmetric Top – Wit & Wisdom ‘Ab’Solution Frayed High Waist Ankle Flare Jeans – Söfft Women’s Liv Platform Sandals – Madewell Soft Lid Shoulder Bag – Kenneth Jay Lane Geometric Drop Earrings

Below, the longline cardigan will create nice long lines, drawing the eye away from your belly.

Made by Johnny Draped Cardigan – Vince Crop Muscle T-Shirt – Wit & Wisdom ‘Ab’Solution Slim Straight Leg Jeans – Aerosoles Cosmos Heeled Sandals – Marc Jacobs The Small Tote – Majorica Tender Knot Necklace

The longer your cardigan, the longer and leaner you will appear, although you usually don’t want to go longer than 2/3 from the height of your shoulders to the bottom.

Short straight cardigans will hide your belly too, but will have an overall more boxy silhouette so you need to be more careful when styling these.

You can layer in summer and winter

You can still layer in spring and summer depending on the weather where you are, you just need to choose lighter fabrics.

Instead of a cardigan, you can also choose a vest. A long vest is perfect for creating long, lean vertical lines, but you can opt for a shorter waterfall vest too.

Layer your (sleeveless) top with a sleeveless vest. It work well for all seasons. This vest cardigan from Amazon can be combined with many tops and will look great over skinny pants and jeans. You can also wear with a tank top and shorts for summer. For winter, you could wear over a long-sleeved sweater.

It has the benefit of being asymmetrical too which makes it even more flattering.

Made by Johnny Draped Cardigan

If it’s very warm where you are, or if you’re on a summer vacation, you could look out for a draped crochet cardigan, which could also double as a swim cover-up.

WESURE Crochet Cardigan

For more options on wearing vests you may like to check out this article for lots of options on how to wear a long vest.

4. Dresses that hide belly bulge – Choose dresses that don’t cling and/or have a draping element

Make sure that your dresses don’t cling around the tummy area. Dresses with a draping element around the tummy area often work.

Asymmetrical dresses work well too as they draw attention away from the belly and create a vertical line.

Dresses that don’t cling and which also have patterns are also great to hide the tummy area.

The dress below is draped just right to draw attention away from the belly and creates a flattering vertical line.

If you add a statement necklace at the top, you will further distract the eye from the belly area as the eye will be drawn upwards.

Karen Kane Cascade Faux Wrap Dress (plus size)

Rails Lacey Striped Tie-Waist Midi-Dress

Diane von Furstenberg Dorothee Printed Jersey Wrap Dress

You may also like our article on how cover up your arms if you prefer to wear a dress with sleeves.

Eugenia @theeageofgrace (read her style interview here) wears a belted dress and statement shoes.

Steal her look with this similar shirtdress (another option here), sandals, bag and sunglasses.

5. Don’t emphasize your tummy by adding accessories like belts right on top of them, rather belt higher

When choosing a coat, top or cardigan, you don’t have to avoid belts altogether.

Simply make sure that the belt sits a bit higher, so you aren’t drawing attention to your belly at its widest point.

Again, patterns can help to take attention away from a larger tummy too and in combination this can do the trick.

Play around with where and how you fasten your belt to see what looks most flattering for you.

Below are belted styles you can try.

Toccin Remi Satin Wrap Blouse

ACEVOG Wrap Draped Cardigan

The patterns on the Allegra K top (below) will also help to confuse the eye, which can be another effective technique for hiding the belly.

Allegra K Wrap Peplum Top

6. Wear tops over your skirts and pants and don’t tuck them

Tucking draws attention to your (non-existing waist again) so better to avoid that.

This is because if you tuck in your shirt, you will create a line across your tummy at its widest part.

Instead, leave your top outside of your skirt or pants.

However, pay attention to overall balance and don’t let your top end at the widest point of your hips, as that may also be unflattering.

A short blouse that loosely falls on your tummy will also work really well for many women.

Hope for Flowers Gradient Gathered Blouse

Boden Sienna Viscose Shirt

7. Flattering clothes for big stomach – Don’t wear garments that are bulky around the tummy area

You don’t want to make that area even bigger with pockets or other embellishments.

However, a vertical loose drape like this cardigan below could work as it elongates and does a good job at hiding. Reviewers say it is beautiful, comfortable, and reasonably priced.

Lock and Love Draped Open Front Cardigan

8. What to wear to hide a big stomach – Choose asymmetrical tops to hide your belly

Asymmetrical tops create vertical and diagonal lines and break up your silhouette so they are great for disguising tummies.

Star Vixen Hanky Hem Top

Naadam Asymmetric Patchwork Button-Front Shirt

Chiara Boni La Petite Robe Tremarz Asymmetric Top

You could also add a poncho over the top of your outfit like the one from Amazon (below) which is available in a huge choice of colors. Reviewers say the fabric is soft, and it elevates any outfit.

Fomolom Poncho Sweater

Deborah @deborahgates_ above (read her style interview here) opts for a high-low top and teams it with a statement necklace layered over the top.

Recreate her outfit with this similar tunic (another option here), shorts, sandals, clutch, earrings and necklace.

9. Use tops with prints

Prints are very effective in hiding bellies and you should definitely consider adding a few in your wardrobe.

If you combine a printed top with one of our belly-hiding tips above, no one will notice your tummy!

Elie Tahari Sloane Silk Floral Asymmetric Blouse

Carolina K Peacock-Print Satin Shirt

Masai Copenhagen Becca Printed Blouse

You can find many more asymmetrical tops and dresses here.

10. Use pants that tuck the tummy in

The pants you wear can make a huge difference to how big your belly will appear.

Be mindful of not buying pants that end in the middle of your belly and create a huge bulge.

Instead, you want to wear pants that have a higher rise and that are capable of tucking your tummy in.

Find out what are the best tummy control jeans in stores now.

I already mentioned some of my favorite leggings that are strong enough to do this under #2 above, but skinny pants can do this job too.

You can also consider tummy tucking jeans. Some of these jeans have an elastic waistband, and some have a regular fastening but are made from stretchier fabric with clever control panels. Reviewers say the secret sculpting jeans (below) are classy enough to wear for work but can be dressed down for casual days.

Lee Sculpting Slim Leg Pull On Jean

Wit & Wisdom ‘Ab’Solution Slim Straight Leg Jeans

Wit & Wisdom ‘Ab’Solution Frayed High Waist Ankle Flare Jeans

Want more ideas on how to tuck your belly with the right pants, check out the best pants to hide your belly here.

11. Use shapewear

Of course, shapewear like these shorts that tuck the tummy, is very effective too in hiding the belly but, as I personally find it uncomfortable, I only use it for very special events.

Spanx Thinstincts® Breathable Shorts

For options on shapewear please read my article on the best shapewear for women over 40.

12. Highlight something else

When you think about how to hide your belly, it’s easy to become so focused on doing that you forget about everything else.

You may not be confident about your tummy, but what about the parts of your body that you do like?

Could you show off some cleavage, highlight your shoulders or showcase your lovely legs?

The top below for example, shows off the decolletage and draws the attention away from the tummy.

Karmamia Satin Wrap Top

Santorelli Floral Georgette One-Shoulder Twist Blouse

If you like your legs, you could place the focus there instead of your tummy. That doesn’t mean wearing a mini skirt, but you could wear some lovely printed jeans to show your legs and a plain top so that the eye is drawn to your legs rather than your belly.

Chiara Boni La Petite Robe Skyla Zebra Print Pants

Or, rather than drawing the eye up, you could draw it down (or, of course, you could do both). A pair of bright shoes or on-trend booties will put the attention on your feet and legs rather than your tummy.

It’s all about hiding what you don’t like and drawing attention to what you do like.

Aerosoles Cosmos Heeled Sandals

Georgette @grownandcurvywoman above (read her style interview here) looks stunning in her stripe dress. Note that the dress draws the attention to the bust, while the diagonal stripes are slimming. The yellow accessories add a pop of color and draw the attention away from the tummy.

Get her look with this similar dress (other options here and here), handbag (another option here) and earrings.

13. Think about where your sleeves end

When you are thinking about hiding a tummy, you are probably focused on whether your top or dress drapes over your belly area or whether it clings.

However, don’t forget about your sleeves. If your sleeves end right at the point where your belly is at its widest, you will only draw attention to this area.

Look instead for sleeves which end above your belly or below at your hips. The right sleeve length for you will depend on your arm length and where your belly is biggest.

NIC+ZOE Petal Bloom Top (plus size)

14. Choose flattering brands

It goes without saying that some stores and brands are more focused towards women with supermodel-type figures, while others are better at designing for women who want to skim over certain parts of the body.

Some of my favorite brands which create clothes to hide a belly are.

• Chaus
• NYDJ
• Karen Kane
• Alex Evenings
• Eileen Fisher

15. Use accessories to hide your belly

I’m not suggesting you carry a handbag in front of your tummy to hide it! However, accessories can be a great tool to hide or distract from your belly.

You could, for example, wear a colorful scarf to draw the attention upwards to your face. Or, you can leave your scarf loose so it drapes down and creates a column effect to disguise your tummy. Statement necklaces are another good way to draw the attention upwards.

Madewell Soft Lid Shoulder Bag – Marc Jacobs The Small Tote – Majorica Tender Knot Necklace – Kendra Scott Kinsley Drop Earrings – Kenneth Jay Lane Geometric Drop Earrings – Kendra Scott Oliver Hoop Earrings – MK MATT KEELY Newsboy Hat – Millie & Boo 100% Pure Silk Scarf

You could also draw the eye upwards with your earrings or a stylish hat.

When it comes to your handbags, think about where they sit when you carry them. If, for example, you have a shoulder strap bag which ends at your belly, this will draw the attention there.

Choose a bag which sits further up or further down, or a bag that you carry in your hand as you can draw attention to your lovely legs. Don’t opt for a bag which is too small as this will look out of proportion.

Barb @barb_styling above wears her blouse untucked over her pants. A v-neck is flattering as it creates vertical lines, and draws attention to the neckline.

Steal her look with this similar top (another option here), pants (another option here), pumps and woven handbag.

A tummy-hiding capsule wardrobe

Below are some of the clothes and accessories used in this article, together in one capsule wardrobe. You’ll see, there are plenty of ways you could mix and match to create countless outfits.

SHOP the tops to hide a belly below:

More tummy-hiding inspiration

The capsules below are from previous seasons, but will give you lots of outfit idea.You may have many of these items already in your closet.

A winter capsule wardrobe to hide your belly

A capsule wardrobe for spring to camouflage the belly

Last year’s winter capsule wardrobe to hide your belly

Do you want to hide your belly or are you happy to flaunt it? And if the latter what are your best tips to hide your belly? 

Further reading:

1. The Best Tops To Hide Your Tummy
2. The Best Dresses To Hide Your Tummy
3. The Best Tummy Control Jeans To Give You A Smoother Look
4. How much should I weight for my height and age

P.S.: If you carry most of your weight around your belly, you are most likely an apple body shape. Check our tips for the apple body shape here and download our extensive guide for the apple body shape.

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Feature image by Susanne @textelle

The post 14 sure-fire ways to hide your belly with the right clothes appeared first on 40+ Style.

How do you wear a longline vest?

In this article, you’ll find plenty of tips and outfit inspiration for wearing a longline vest as a layer. You can wear your sleeveless vests over tops and pants or skirts, or over your dresses. As a general rule, longline vests look better worn over either sleeveless or long sleeve tops. Let’s take a look.

Natalia @odin.stylish.me above opts for cream and pink.

Get her look with this similar top, vest, skirt, sandals, bag, earrings, necklace and sunglasses.

Eugenia @theeageofgrace above (read her style interview here) shows how you could wear a puffer vest, which are particularly on trend at the moment. While puffer vests can add bulk, note that she keeps hers relatively slimline.

Steal her look with this similar dress, puffer vest, boots, tights, tote and sunglasses.

Here are just a few reasons why the long vest works so well

• Long vests create a long lean line.
• Perfect for hiding bellies and distracting attention away from them.
• Great to give you some extra warmth and a fabulous transition piece for fall.
• Easy to layer. Wear over a variety of tops and wear cardigans or jackets over them when it gets really cold.
• You can play with different fabrics.
• They come in a variety of fabrics and weights and sometimes allow you to create an architectural look.
• You can create various looks depending on your vest. From edgy to bohemian to minimalist to casual chic.

Rita @ritapalazzi above (read her style interview here) teams a long vest with her print jumpsuit. This is a great way to break up the look of a print, allowing you to create different outfits from the same jumpsuit.

Check out these jumpsuits from Kivari, Norma Kamali and Amazon that you can wear with this similar vest, sandals, clutch and earrings.

The best long vests to choose in stores now

We’re going to show you lots more long vest outfit inspiration. But first, let’s look at some of the most stylish long vests to choose.

Long blazer style vest

A blazer style vest like the Sam Edelman option (below) is a stylish, smart choice. You could easily wear for work, or dressing up your jeans. Leave the buttons open or closed to create different effects.

Sam Edelman Double-Breasted Longline Vest

Boma @mrs.gaf above shows how you could wear your long vest for work.

Recreate her outfit with this similar shirt (another option here), pants, vest, pumps and handbag.

single-breasted vest

While double-breasted styles can add width, a single-breasted vest can create a more streamlined effect.

Kobi Halperin Reagan Padded Single-Breasted Vest

satin vest

If you want to wear your vest for the evening, look out for luxurious materials like silk or satin.

Kobi Halperin June Satin Longline Vest

leather vest

A trench coat is a timeless classic, and a sleeveless trench will also stand the test of time. Wear it for work over your white shirt, or layer over your knitwear when the weather gets colder.

Karen Millen Leather Sleeveless Belted Trench Coat

cargo vest

Cargo or utility style clothing is very on trend at the moment. Take a look at our round up of 2024 trends for more cargo-style dressing. Note the cargo pockets will add curves at the waist, so this is a great style for athletic figures like the rectangle or inverted triangle, but wouldn’t work so well for pear shapes.

Ramy Brook Paloma Cargo Vest

knitted vest

An open vest works very well to streamline and slim your figure. So, if you want to look taller and slimmer, wear one ‘column’ of color underneath and then top with a different color vest. The cardigan vest (below) comes in a choice of eight colors, and reviewers say it gives a stylish and classy look.

A2Y Open Front Knitted Cardigan Vest

Nora @juststylela above (read her style interview here) shows how you can wear a vest over a pair of wide pants and a shirt. We love her chic all-neutral look – perfect if you have a classic style personality.

Get her look with this similar shirt (another option here), vest, pants, sandals, handbag, necklace, scarf and sunglasses.

asymmetric vest

Asymmetry can add interest to your outfits. The Lock and Love open front vest (below) comes in many color choices, and wearers say it is perfect for adding stylish layers without looking bulky.

Lock and Love Sleeveless Draped Open Front Cardigan

halter vest

Halter neck styles work brilliantly for rectangle and inverted triangle body shapes. You could wear this over any style of pants or your favorite jeans for a night out.

French Connection Harry Halterneck Waistcoat

Open front cardigan

The lightweight cardigan vest (below) comes in a huge choice of colors and prints, so you’re sure to find one you love. Reviewers say the material is soft, and it’s perfect for warmer weather.

Urban CoCo Open Front Vest

duster vest

If you want to create lovely long lines, perhaps to look taller and slimmer, then a longer vest like the duster style (below) is perfect.

Simply Ravishing Full Length Duster

Co-ordinated sets are very much on trend at the moment, so choosing a vest and matching pants is a great idea this season. Sharryn @thestylishwoman above (read her style interview here) shows off a perfect look for vacations.

Check out this similar tank top, duster, pants, sneakers, woven tote, earrings, necklace, belt and sunglasses.

printed vest

Big floral patterns are one of the major trends for 2024. Keep the rest of your look neutral.

Kobi Halperin Georgia Floral Long Vest

crochet vest

A crochet vest is an ideal choice if you love a boho look. Or, you want to wear a long vest in warmer weather. The crochet vest (below) would look good with a tank top, shorts and sandals.

GLEAMISS Crochet Lace Vest

puffer vest

You can wear long vests during any season. For instance, the crochet vest above for summer, and the puffer vest below for cooler weather.

MANGO Quilted Vest

belted vest coords

If you have a slim waist that you want to show off, choose a belted option. This is a great choice if you have an hourglass figure.

PRETTYGARDEN Vest And Wide Leg Pant Set

Beth @styleatacertainage below (read her style interview here) looks beautiful in her co-ordinated set, which would be perfect for any summer events you have coming up.

She is wearing a vest (another option here) and pants from Talbots (similar set here). Check out this similar pair of sandals, earrings and sunglasses to complete the look.

How to wear a long vest – outfits & ideas

Which is your favorite long vest from above? And, how should you wear it? Below are  just some ideas on how you can wear the long vest this season.

With a dress

The beauty of long vests is they look great over either pants or dresses. Wear yours with a dress. Look for a vest that is about the same length, or longer than your dress. Or opt for an asymmetric option that creates interesting lines.

Lock and Love Sleeveless Draped Open Front Cardigan – Another Tomorrow Sleeveless T-Shirt Dress – Lucky Brand Mofira Peep Toe Booties – Tory Burch Fleming Soft Bucket Bag – ZENZII Chunky Matte Beaded Collar Necklace – ZENZII Beaded Hoop Earrings

with shorts for summer

Just because the weather is warmer, that doesn’t mean you can’t layer. A lightweight vest looks stylish worn with your shorts and sandals. Leave your vest open.

French Connection Harry Halterneck Waistcoat – Proenza Schouler White Label Finley Stripe Tie-Dye T-Shirt – FRAME Pleated Cotton-Linen Shorts – EuroSoft Gionna Sandals – Tory Burch Crochet Raffia Large Tote – Kendra Scott Chandlier Huggie Earrings

with your favorite jeans

Your jeans are such a versatile part of your wardrobe, that you can wear them with anything, including a long vest.

Kobi Halperin Reagan Padded Single-Breasted Vest – Proenza Schouler White Label Finley Stripe Tie-Dye T-Shirt – MOTHER The Insider Flood Jeans – Lucky Brand Mofira Peep Toe Booties – Tory Burch Fleming Soft Bucket Bag – Dean Davidson Nomad Drop Earrings

Fonda @savvysouthernchic above shows how you could wear a long vest to update a simple outfit of jeans and a white shirt.

Recreate her outfit with this similar shirt, trench vest (another option here), jeans, flats and tote.

With a tunic top and pants

For extra coverage if you have a tank top or a tunic, you can always pop a long vest over the top. Dress up with a clutch bag and heels.

Sam Edelman Double-Breasted Longline Vest – rag & bone Holland Linen-Blend Tunic – J.Crew Kate Linen Blend Straight Leg Pants – Vagabond Shoemakers Lykke Leather Slingback Pumps – Lilly Pulitzer Benton Clutch – Kendra Scott Chandlier Huggie Earrings

with leather pants

Leather or coated jeans are perfect for cooler months, and look great with a long vest layered over them. You can dress your coated jeans and vest up with heeled booties, or down with sneakers.

Karen Millen Leather Sleeveless Belted Trench Coat – J.Crew Wren Cotton Poplin Shirt – Karen Millen Leather Straight Leg Pants – Vagabond Shoemakers Lykke Leather Slingback Pumps – Marc Jacobs The St. Marc Mini Top Handle Bag – Kendra Scott Chandlier Huggie Earrings

With a blouse 

Wear your vest over any of your long sleeve blouses. If your blouse has details on the arms, then a vest is perfect over a blazer as you can show those details off.

Kobi Halperin June Satin Longline Vest – Karen Millen Cutwork Twill Button Through Woven Shirt – J.Crew Kate Linen Blend Straight Leg Pants – Vagabond Shoemakers Lykke Leather Slingback Pumps – Lilly Pulitzer Benton Clutch – Kendra Scott Chandlier Huggie Earrings

Combine with a jumpsuit

To add interest to a jumpsuit, you could slip a vest over the top. The look below picks up the red color of the jumpsuit in the print.

Kobi Halperin Georgia Floral Long Vest – Karen Millen Premium Linen Utility Belted Woven Jumpsuit – Vagabond Shoemakers Lykke Leather Slingback Pumps – Tory Burch Crochet Raffia Large Tote – ZENZII Beaded Hoop Earrings

similar jumpsuit, vest, pumps, tote, necklace and sunglasses

As a swimsuit cover up

A long crochet vest can also make the perfect swimsuit cover-up on the beach.

GLEAMISS Crochet Lace Vest – Lilly Pulitzer Kailanie One-Piece Swimsuit – EuroSoft Gionna Sandals – Tory Burch Crochet Raffia Large Tote – Dean Davidson Nomad Drop Earring

Layered with other knitwear for cooler weather

As long as you aren’t expecting rain, then a long vest worn over a sweater can keep you just as cosy as wearing a coat.

A2Y Open Front Knitted Cardigan Vest – Eileen Fisher Linen & Cotton Crewneck Sweater – MOTHER The Insider Flood Jeans – Reebok Lifestyle Classic Nylon Sneakers – Tory Burch Fleming Soft Bucket Bag – Dean Davidson Nomad Drop Earrings

What do you wear under a long puffer vest?

Long puffer vests have been particularly on trend for a few seasons now, and are great for adding warmth if it’s still cool where you are. But, because puffer vests do add bulk, it’s best to keep the top you wear underneath relatively slimline.

How do you wear an oversized vest?

If the vest you have chosen is an oversized one, then keep the rest of your look streamlined so as to avoid adding extra bulk.

How do you wear a long vest in the winter?

A long vest can be enough of a layer to keep you warm in the cooler months. Choose a puffer vest or one made of warm material like wool. Then, add to your jeans, sweater and boots.

vests capsule wardrobe

Below, you can see the outfits from above together in one capsule. You could easily mix and match the vests around to create lots of different looks.

Shop the pieces above here:

Below, you can see an earlier capsule. While many of these items are past season, it should still give you extra inspiration.

For even more inspiration on how to wear a long vest, you can also check my how to wear a long vest Pinterest board.

Do you like the long vest look? What are your own tips on how to wear a long vest? How will you wear your sleeveless vest this season?

Continue reading:

1. 14 Sure-Fire Ways To Hide Your Belly With The Right Clothes
2. How To Look Taller And Slimmer
3. How To Layer Clothes Like A Pro

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Feature image by Rita @ritapalazzi

The post How to wear a long vest – you will love all these options and ideas! appeared first on 40+ Style.

Why we love stripes

There are so many reasons to add stripes to your closet. These are just some of them.

1. stripes are never out of style

Stripes have been worn for centuries. First, they were worn by the ‘outsider’ and as part of uniforms. But they’ve come full circle and are now an absolute classic. From the sailors of the French navy to iconic striped designs by Chanel, stripes have a timeless appeal that transcends trends. If you invest in stripes, you can be sure it’s a pattern that won’t date.

2. Stripes are figure-flattering

Stripes can help to balance out your silhouette or can make you look taller and slimmer.

Tanasha @letsrecreatethelook above opts for a beautiful red and white outfit.

Recreate her outfit with this similar top, pants, sandals, handbag and earrings.

3. Striped outfits bang on trend

While stripes are always in style, they are particularly on trend right now, as you can see in our round up of trends for 2024.

4. Stripes look great with denim

Stripes are easy to combine with any kind of denim for a relaxed but hip casual look.

Shirt from H&M (similar options here and here), skirt from H&M (other options here and here), similar sneakers and sunglasses

What to think about?

Because stripes are so effective at balancing out your silhouette, you can be really strategic about how you wear them. For example, wear horizontal stripes to create width, and horizontal to slim and add length. If you’re pear-shaped, for example, you can wear stripes horizontally across your top to balance out wider hips.

Who should wear them?

Everyone! Stripes look fantastic on all body shapes. They can be particularly good for rectangle shapes as the stripes mirror the athletic shape of your body. It’s all about how you wear them for the most flattering effect.

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 fedora hat

which style personalities are stripes good for?

You can adapt the way you wear your stripes to fit into any style personality. But they work especially well for classic and preppy styles.

Alison @wardrobe_oxygen above (read her style interview here) shows how you could mix your stripes.

Check out this similar dress, 2-pc set or this top and skirt that you can wear with this similar pair of sandals, bag and earrings.

Stripes on the catwalks

There were stripes of all different colors and all different directions on the catwalks for this summer season, so you can be sure every type of stripe is on trend. Just choose the stripes that look best on you.

Louis Vuitton – Bottega Veneta – Chanel

Striped outfits

Now let’s move on to look at some of the most stylish stripes we’ve found in stores.

1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7 / 8 / 9 / 10 / 11 / 12 / 13 / 14 / 15

Striped tops

Starting with tops, you really can’t get any more classic than a striped shirt. But we love the fact that rag & bone had given the classic striped shirt a twist with the overlapping hemline. We also love the way that Proenza Schouler has combined the feel of stripes with tie-dye, and the little twist at the waistline from Tanya Taylor.

Plus, while you might think stripe is a choice of horizontal or vertical, diagonal stripes are also a great choice because they have an asymmetric feel and draw the eyes down and across, creating a visual slimming effect.

Proenza Schouler White Label Finley Stripe Tie-Dye T-Shirt – Tanya Taylor Jacobs Striped Knit Top – rag & bone Indiana Striped Twisted Shirt – Tanya Taylor Imara Striped Tie-Waist Long Sleeve Blouse

Carmen @carmen_gimeno above shows how you can mix your stripes with other patterns. You’ll find more advice on print mixing in this article.

Steal her look with this similar shirt (another option here), pants, sneakers, handbag and sunglasses.

Striped jackets and cover-ups

Adding a striped jacket or cardigan is a great way to update your jeans and t-shirt outfits. You can go as subtle or as bold as you want with your stripes. You could also think about a striped caftan as a swimsuit cover-up or to wear over your tank top and shorts on vacations or warm days.

J.Crew Collection Linen Blend Tuxedo Blazer – NIC+ZOE Fringe Knit Cotton-Blend Jacket – ba&sh Massimo Striped Cotton & Wool Cardigan – Vince Oversized Stripe Cotton Caftan

ba&sh Massimo Striped Cotton & Wool Cardigan – Cinq à Sept Kylen Ruched Jersey T-Shirt – L’AGENCE Ruth Mid-Rise Slim-Straight Jeans – adidas Grand Court Alpha Cloudfoam Sneaker – Think Royln The Original Crossbody Bum Bag – HSWE Statement Collar Necklace

pants and jeans

Striped pants are fantastic for creating a leg-lengthening effect, and you can opt for whatever color or shade best suits your figure. For instance, pear-shaped women can go with dark-colored pants with a pale stripe. Inverted triangles can do it the other way around, where you will want to balance your body out to create width at your bottom half. Stripes also work well if you are petite and want to create the illusion of height.

FRAME Le Crop Striped High-Rise Cropped Boot-Cut Jeans – FRAME Le Slim Palazzo Bardot Striped Pants – Loulou Studio Enyo Stripe Linen-Blend Pants – Simon Miller Jabber Striped Wide-Leg Pants

Cinq à Sept Kylen Ruched Jersey T-Shirt – Simon Miller Jabber Striped Wide-Leg Pants – Bernardo Goldy Sandals – Longchamp Le Pliage Marinière Recycled Nylon Canvas Travel Bag – Madewell Droplet Hoop Earrings

Striped dresses and skirts

A striped dress or shirt is perfect for vacations. Look out for shirt dresses and full skirts. We also love the way that the Tanya Taylor dress (below) uses stripes in different directions for a stylish effect.

J.Crew Striped Cotton Poplin Midi Dress – Tanya Taylor Cody Striped Sleeveless Dress – J.Crew Pleated Skirt – Marie Oliver Sasha Striped A-Line Midi-Skirt

Cathy @themiddlepageblog above (read her style interview here) opts for subtle stripes with her belted green and blue dress, and adds a blazer over her shoulders. This outfit would be perfect for summer events.

Check out these dresses from Knitss, Staud, Tanya Taylor and Amazon that you can wear with this similar blazer, sandals, bag and sunglasses.

shoes

You don’t have to wear stripes on your clothing. Instead, you could update your outfits by adding a pair of striped shoes. You can opt for any style, whether you prefer sneakers, sandals, or loafers.

Aerosoles Pastel Wedge Sandal – Dolce Vita Halley Loafer – AMBELIGHT Striped Pump – adidas Grand Court Alpha Cloudfoam Sneaker

ATM Anthony Thomas Melillo Matte Silk Charmeuse Top – L’AGENCE Ruth Mid-Rise Slim-Straight Jeans – Dolce Vita Halley Loafer – Tory Burch Ella Print Tote – HSWE Statement Collar Necklace

accessories

Or, add striped accessories to your existing outfits to update the looks you already have from your closet. Look out for striped tote bags, clutches, and scarves. Or, combine two big trends in one by choosing a baker boy hat with stripes.

Tory Burch Ella Print Tote – Longchamp Le Pliage Marinière Recycled Nylon Canvas Travel Bag – Kurt Geiger London Medium Kensington Convertible Crossbody Bag – Nordstrom Tissue Print Wool & Cashmere Wrap Scarf – HSWE Statement Collar Necklace – Lauren Ralph Lauren Tortoise Shell Hoop Earrings – Brixton Fiddler Baker Boy Cap – Burberry Caroll Checked Square Sunglasses

J.Crew Striped Cotton Poplin Midi Dress – Dr. Scholl’s Shoes Felicity Too Block Heel Sandals – Kurt Geiger London Medium Kensington Convertible Crossbody Bag – Lauren Ralph Lauren Tortoise Shell Hoop Earrings

What to wear with stripes

You can mix and match your stripes. Wearing stripes in different widths and different directions is particularly effective. But it’s unlikely that you want to dress completely in stripes. Below are some classic ‘basics’ that you can wear to partner with your stripes. Look out for flattering jeans, as well as other trendy clothes such as cargo pants.

Cinq à Sept Kylen Ruched Jersey T-Shirt – ATM Anthony Thomas Melillo Matte Silk Charmeuse Top – L’AGENCE Ruth Mid-Rise Slim-Straight Jeans – Hudson Jeans Cotton Wide-Leg Cargo Pants – Think Royln The Original Crossbody Bum Bag – Dr. Scholl’s Shoes Felicity Too Block Heel Sandals – Bernardo Goldy Sandals – Dean Davidson Nomad Drop Earrings – Madewell Droplet Hoop Earrings

Kim @kimair above (read her style interview here) puts together an unexpected and super stylish striped outfit. Note how she teams a striped blazer with a graphic print t-shirt.

Check out these blazers from Boden and Amazon that you can wear with this similar tee, jeans, peep toe sandals, handbag and earrings.

Your striped outfits together in one capsule

Below, you can see the striped outfits from above together in one capsule, so you can see how easy it is to mix and match stripes and put together many different outfits. For example, you can pair any of the blazers with any of the pants, the pink striped shirt with the white cargo pants, or the tie-dye stripe t-shirt with the black striped pants.

shop the best stripeD outfits in stores now:

Continue reading:

1. Stylish Graphic Print Outfits To Create A Hip, Modern Look
2. Modern Florals: Floral Outfits And Dresses To Wear This Season
3. How To Print Mix Black And White Outfits

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Feature image by Alison @wardrobe_oxygen

The post How to wear striped outfits this season 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

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Feature image by Emms @beautifuleveryday_uk

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