Easy Casual Outfits For Women Over 40
We all have an idea of what “sexy” looks like, right?! For some of you, your mind might go straight to the super short, super tight dress with cleavage hanging out. That’s overtly sexy and not what we’re going for here! Below, you’ll find all of my little tweaks and tips to make your casual outfits just a little sexier. These make it much more casual, accessible, functional, and wearable for women over 40. Disclaimer: I always always always tell you that you should wear what makes YOU feel comfortable and confident… If these tips don’t speak to you, skip ‘em!
For more fall outfit ideas, make sure you check out this post with 10 ideas for every fall occasion you have coming up…
DRESS | BLAZER | BOOTIES | SIMILAR BOOTIES | SUNGLASSES
Tip #1) Strategic Cutouts
I LOVE cutouts! When they’re strategically placed, they can be subtly sexy, elegant, and sophisticated. I’m wearing this gorgeous Sundry midi dress that has long sleeves and a longer length that feels very appropriate for a woman over 40. But, it has a subtle, sexy slit on the side to show a little leg, and it has a strategic asymmetrical cutout at the neckline that adds just a touch of sexy. It is a more form-fitting dress, which is a consideration if you’re not comfortable with your stomach. But it also has a layer on the inside that creates more forgiveness. This is one of those fabulous staple dresses for women who want to stay warm but look sexy and sophisticated in the fall. Oh, and you can wear a regular bra with it!
I styled the dress with a pair of brown suede western-inspired booties by Dolce Vita that are very on-trend right now and are perfect for fall. I’ve already worn them a TON with jeans, dresses, and skirts. Layered over the dress is this cool faux leather blazer by Evereve. The faux leather looks and feels really high-quality and the color is gorgeous for fall. I also love the 70s-inspired look of it! Adding the third layer also helps conceal the tummy and create a more slimming look.
By the way, I recently shared a video about body love and where I am in my journey here if you’re interested.
Tip #2) Fitted Anything
Anything that highlights your shape is a simple and casual way to look sexy. This does NOT mean it has to be super tight! Body-skimming pieces like the dress I’m wearing in #1 are what you’ll want to look for. Another option is to go with a body-skimming top like this cutout top from Evereve. It’s a thicker ribbed material that helps with that body-skimming look and the cutout adds to the sexiness. It looks SO good with jeans and I’ll definitely layer a cool leather jacket over it for fall.
The jeans I’m wearing are by Citizens of Humanity. They’re super high rise, a great wash, and have a flattering flared leg. These are a great pair of versatile jeans for fall/winter if you’re ready to try the wider jean silhouette. On my feet, I’m wearing a cute pair of black pointed-toe mules by Sam Edelman. These are very comfortable, on-trend, and a great transition piece for fall.
Tip #3) Highlight Your Waist
Anything that highlights your shape and waist is sexy. I know many of you don’t like to highlight the waist because you have a tummy. So with that in mind, I’d choose a blouse that highlights the waist, but also hides a tummy…win, win! This Cloth & Stone blouse is paper thin, which makes it great if you’re experiencing hot flashes, but also great for transitioning into fall and wearing on its own or layered under jackets. But what I really love about this top is the wrap front, which is a very flattering style detail for anyone with a tummy. The drawstring waist combined with the mini peplum makes it the perfect top for hiding a tummy! I styled the top with the same jeans and black mules from #2.
SIMILAR BELT | TOP | JEANS | MULES | BLAZER
Tip #4) Highlight Your Waist – With A Waistbelt!
Another option for highlighting your waist is to wear a waist belt! Especially if you wear some killer high-rise jeans that come way up over your belly button. If you’re still weary of the waistbelt, throw on a third layer like I did with the faux leather blazer to create a slimming effect. You still get the waist definition in the front with the belt, but slim the sides and backside with the blazer.
Tip #5) Rock Some Leather
It doesn’t have to be real leather! Go with faux leather or vegan leather for a more budget-friendly option. This faux leather blazer is the same one I’m wearing in a few of the previous looks. You don’t have to go with a leather blazer…you can try leather pants, a leather moto, a leather shirtdress, etc. Adding leather makes a look inherently sexy without being too over the top.
Underneath the blazer, I have on a lace-trim camisole. This camisole is a wonderful basic with a twist. The lace detail contrasts with the leather blazer for a cool casual look. I’m wearing a pair of black Agolde jeans (run small, order one size up). These jeans are cropped, which I love because you can pair them with any shoes you want without having to overthink it. I’m wearing the Sam Edelman mules but you could swap them for black booties, sneakers, heels, etc.
Tip #6) A Hint of Lingerie
This doesn’t mean you have to show your bra off! A tiny touch of lace or satin will do the trick. The Evereve camisole is the perfect example, and the lace trim is already built in so it takes all of the guesswork out of it! Plus, it has adjustable straps, which is a must so you can control how much cleavage you’re showing. I love wearing lace camis under blazers, button-downs, sweaters…pretty much anything I can!
More Tips for Sexy, Casual Outfits Over 40
- Boots – The right pair of boots can really take your look up a notch. Anything stiletto, western-inspired, tall, knee-high, over-the-knee, pointed-toe, or on-trend toe shaped can make a big impact.
- Jeans – don’t underestimate the power of a great pair of jeans! Find a pair that gives you legs for days, style them with a pair of good shoes, and you’re good to go!
- Accessories – Don’t over-accessorize or compete with the sexiness you’re already working with. You can add some simple jewelry, but don’t go overboard.
Which of these tips are you going to try first? Let me know in the comments below!
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Erin
I watched the youtube video you mention in this post and i have to say thank you! Always thinking i’m the only one who thinks about me and my body the way i do and believing there to be something wrong with me, it was sad yet refreshing to hear your story and know i’m not alone. This is a really hard journey to be on going through postmenopause now coupled with the lack of self worth and self esteem i’ve struggled with my entire life. every single day is hard, every single day you feel like you hit restart to get through the day and it sux. to not want to buy clothes or get dressed, or leave the house because people have to look at you is, at times, debilitating yet i do it every day. i’m working on it i’m working on ME and so thanks again for being so honest and open.
I’m so sorry to hear you are struggling… as you stated, you are not alone, we are in this together. Sending light and love to you. ~Erin xo
Hi Erin!
Just wondering if you could share the lipstick you are wearing.
Thank you!
Hello, Kristin! The color is “B*tch Perfect” and here’s the link: https://rstyle.me/+u5eNPwcALYMrRtsSNryahQ ~Erin xo
Thank you, Erin. The color looks beautiful on you!
You’re welcome, Kristin! Thank you for your kind words… you made my day! ~Erin xo
Loving how these tips are small yet impactful. I am a lace cami fan, already wearing them everyday. Will continue to add the leather and suede textures to my look with Moto style jackets, shoes, and accessories to create the feminine, functional, and edgy look I like to rock. I’m ready to splurge on a suede bootie… loving the dolce vita here, as well as Vionic and Sam Edelman booties.
I am a HUGE cami fan as well, Marisa! Glad you enjoyed this one! ~Erin xo
I get so excited when I see you wearing some things I already have! I get new ideas how to style them. Today, you’re wearing my Dolce Vita western inspired booties. I love them. So comfortable and versatile!
I’m glad you are loving the booties and my content, Julie! ~Erin xo