4 Of The Best Youthful Fashion Trends For Women Over 40 This Winter

Once women reach 40, getting dressed becomes somewhat of a guessing game. Is wearing anything glittery off the table now? Can we still rock youthful colors like bubblegum pink? We know that there are no rules when it comes to fashion, but there's a fine line between wearing something age-appropriate and putting on clothing items that age you. Hitting a milestone birthday doesn't mean having to cover up completely or stay away from trendy items. In fact, Jordan Stolch, personal stylist at MiKADO Personal Styling, exclusively spoke with Women and highlighted two pieces that those 40 and above should look out for this winter. We then rounded out the list by adding a few other items you may want to include in your closet.

Fashion should be fun, no matter how old you are. Sartorial maven Victoria Beckham wore some iconic outfits we'll never forget, and she's in her early 50s. Jennifer Lopez is also right up there with older celebs who never shy away from a sexy look. Trends are not just for Gen-Z, who are unafraid of telling Millennials and Gen X folks what's in and what's out. This season, buck those notions and feel free to try these trendy pieces that'll leave you looking years younger.

The lengths of shirts seem to be shrinking over the years, and it's so hard to find a long enough top without it looking like a dated tunic. However, stylist Jordan Stolch thinks women over 40 don't have to be afraid of crop tops. "Cropped silhouettes can be incredibly flattering at any age. It doesn't need to be about baring your midriff, but about intentionally shifting proportions," she exclusively shares with us. The fashion expert points out that because you can layer pieces over each other, winter is the perfect time for trying out the trend.

"Try layering cropped knits over a silk cami or fitted long sleeve, and balancing the lower half of the body with high-waisted trousers and skirts. This draws the eye upward and creates the illusion of longer legs, giving your outfit a sleek, elongated look," she advises. Stolch continues, "You can think of cropped-on-top as a styling tool, not a youth-exclusive fad. When worn intentionally, it's one of the most universally flattering silhouettes you can choose." And, if you do want to show off your abs this winter, keep warm with a cropped sweater and a loose jacket for a laid-back look.

When you think of cargo pants, an image of a middle-aged dad might come to mind, but celebs like Katie Holmes and Dakota Johnson are two of many fashionistas who have made them look glam this year. Take the trend into winter, and you'll be just as stylish as them. Jordan Stolch tells Women, "Cargo pants may elicit an image of the early 2000s, but the new wide-leg trending styles are more refined and polished, and absolutely wearable for women over 40." She adds, "With cleaner lines and fewer pockets, they offer a youthful, utilitarian feel without feeling like they're trying too hard."

Cargo pants aren't going away, so you might as well learn to style them, and do it in a way that looks youthful and classic at the same time. "For winter, the key is pairing them with structured, polished pieces. Think ribbed turtlenecks, crisp button-downs, cashmere crewnecks, and tailored blazers," Stolch says. "Opt for high-rise styles that define the waist and create an elongated leg line, which balances out the volume of the pants and ensures they're flattering on all body types. This look is current, confident, and completely age-appropriate, proving that cargos can be both cool and grown up," she tells us. Comfortable, functional, and on-trend? You'll definitely want to invest in a pair this season.

There's nothing cozier than faux fur in the winter, and this season, the trend is everywhere. Fur coats were seen on the runways and in the audiences of various Fall/Winter 2025 fashion shows, so if you don't have one now, you'll want to get one ASAP. Faux fur in black or another neutral color is ageless, but if you want to go for a more youthful aesthetic, a dyed jacket in a fun color like dusty rose or mauve will instantly make you stand out.

Long faux fur coats are ultra-glamorous and will give you that Old Hollywood movie star feel. However, a long, fur-look coat in a non-classic color can feel overwhelming, so try one that falls at the waist so you can mix and match it with other shades. A jewel-hued skirt is the perfect complement to pink, or you can keep the rest of the 'fit neutral to make the jacket your statement piece. Whether you go traditional or opt for a playful shade, you can't go wrong with a faux fur jacket this winter.

The preppy look was another trend seen on runways this fall, and while the style harkens back to private school days, we're not just looking at pleated skirts and knee socks. If you're over 40, you'll want to elevate this aesthetic with chunky knit vests layered over button-down shirts, slim-fitting slacks, and long wool skirts. Instead of Serena van der Woodsen in "Gossip Girl," think New England college 'fits that scream "stylish librarian."

To nail the elevated preppy look, use your clothes to create a foundation, and then accessorize. Allow your plaid or argyle socks to peek out underneath your pants or skirt, and choose a pair of neutral-colored loafers as footwear. As for outerwear, an oversized blazer is always a good idea, but if it's cold, we suggest a long pea coat. Finally, a wool scarf and chic crossbody bag will complete your academic outfit.