5 Fashion Myths Holding You Back (and How to Break Them)

Are you a woman over 40 who feels limited by outdated fashion rules? It’s time to break free from these myths and embrace a stylish and confident wardrobe. Here are five common fashion myths that might be holding you back:

Myth 1. No White After Labor Day

This outdated rule is ready to be retired. I for one am here to break it. White is a timeless color that can be worn year-round, trust me. Pair a white sweater with dark-wash jeans for a chic winter look or pair white pants with your favorite fall color. In my case I pulled out my houndstooth cabi top and matched it with white jean from Madewell. Don’t forget an all over winter white look is chic to and with matching sets can be super chic! Not ready to quite break this rule? Try Ecru! Don’t be afraid to add lighter neutrals especially in fall!

Myth 2. Avoid Bold Colors

Why? Bold colors can bring out your best skin tones, bring out your eye, really make you shine! If you have had a color analysis, which I highly recommend! You will know the best bold colors for you! The worst thing we can do as we age is shroud ourselves in black. For most women, black casts shadows under our eyes, into those wrinkles and can actually make us look old. An added benefit to bold colors is the Dopamine hit color can give you, which is especially good during the darkest parts of winter. Get on the waitlist for my upcoming workshop, Exploring Dopamine Dressing: Harnessing the Power of Color for Mood Enhancement, coming in January. Easy ways to experiment with bold colors are with a colorful scarf, a statement necklace, or a brightly colored top.

Myth 3. Front tuck is out

Well, my friend this is a true myth and is getting a lot of traction right now. One thing that happens when you turn 40 is you stop listening to everyone else’s opinions and realize that you have the knowledge to make your own decisions. So, stop listening to Gen Z for fashion advice! A front tuck is an amazing way to create proportion. WHen you are styling you are always looking to create a 2/3 proportion. Either 2/3 on top or 2/3 on bottom. Without a front tuck, or a full tuck oir a belt, you cut yourself in half. WHile this may work when we are younger most of us trying to create long, lean silhouettes that make us look taller, and maybe slimmer. A tuck does that, so go for it!!

Myth 4. Skinny Jeans Are Out

See above for my thoughts on taking style advice as a 40+ woman from your Gen Z friends. This also applies to skinny jeans. Skinny jeans are a classic that can be worn at any age and will never go out of style. Will they be “the” jean of the moment- not always, but skinny jeans have a place in many women’s wardrobes. Skinny jeans are especially great for my apple or oval body shapes. Picking the right jeans for your body shape is key and that will always lead you to looking amazing in your jeans. Wonder what your body shape is? Every month I have an online body shape workshop called, The Confident Silhouette, that talks about all the body shapes and the best choice for each. for more information and to sign up click HERE

Myth 5. You Can’t Wear Trends

This is where wiser minds prevail. With age, comes wisdom. The wisdom to know that every trend isn’t for us. We can add trends but don’t have to add all the trends. However, trends are not just for millenials and Gen Z. You can incorporate trendy pieces into your wardrobe without looking out of place. Choose a few, key trendy items that you love each season, that work with your style and body shape and style them with classic pieces. Make the trends work for you, don’t try to work the trend. Some of my favorite trends right now are Leopard and Burgundy. Love these separately or together! Give this trend a try!

How to Break Free from Fashion Myths

Now we know the fashion myths, so how do you break free from them?

• Embrace Your Personal Style: Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what makes you feel confident and beautiful. You do not have to break free from any of them but just know that there really are no rules in fashion. What makes you feel confident is the best thing you can wear.
• Dress for Your Body Type: Choose clothing that flatters your figure and makes you feel good about yourself. This helps with all aspects of your wardrobe. It helps you make choices that make you feel confident and you don’t end up with clothes in your closet that you don’t wear.
• Invest in Quality Pieces: Quality clothing will last longer and look better over time. Pick quality classic pieces. Invest in great denim and a blazer. Those trendy pieces can be the less expensive blouse or t-shirt. The best wardrobes have a mix or high and low pieces. Need some help finding good basics? Download my Fall Essentials Capsule
• Accessorize: Accessories can add personality and style to any outfit. This is where you can really experiment with trends, colors or patterns. Use accessories to dip your toe into the bold color if you aren’t ready to dive in.
• Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help: If you’re unsure about a particular outfit let’s chat. I offer Free Style Consults that help you along the way. Along with my Instagram , Newsletter and website

By breaking free from these fashion myths, you can create a wardrobe that reflects your unique style and makes you feel confident and beautiful at any age.

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What are your favorite fashion tips for women over 40? Share your thoughts in the comments below!