The 2026 Fashion Trends That Women Over 40 Will Want In Their Closet

2026 is bringing a slew of new trends into what's sure to be a big year for fashion, as meaningful outfit expert Ariana Grande is set to serve up tour looks for the first time in years, and Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce will (maybe) get married in what's sure to be one of the most fashionable events in years. And, there are plenty of trendy aesthetics women over 40 will want in their closet, too. Women exclusively spoke with Cynthia Kennedy, personal stylist, image consultant, and creator of Your Style Transformation Academy, about what to expect as we enter the second half of the 2020s, and it looks like there will be plenty to shine about.

Kennedy exclusively shares that the minimalist pieces that ruled supreme over the past few years will fade away. Instead, 2026 will be about eye-catching metallics, chunky accessories, and statement outerwear. It will also be on trend to get wrapped up in glamorous faux fur pieces, marking a perfect moment for those in their 40s and beyond who enjoy fun yet practical garments to revamp their wardrobes.

Metallic accessories are back, as metallic shoes (one of 2025's biggest trends) will continue to be popular in 2026. "For women over 40, metallics are most flattering when they're refined and sophisticated," Cynthia Kennedy exclusively tells us. "They're being rewritten as a neutral, and a metallic handbag or shoes can instantly add intention to a simple jeans and tee combo," she adds, encouraging older women to incorporate just one metallic piece into their outfits to avoid overdoing the trend. Try a muted finish, like the RISANTRY belt in Gold or the Blowfish Malibu Women's Walk On sneakers in Silver.

Cynthia Kennedy also recommends tailored and structured knitwear for those over 40, as 2026 is predominantly about softer pieces. "They have structure, but without that stiffness, and they're much more refined than your average hoodie. Look for medium-weight, stretchy knits that keep their shape, especially those with cleaner seams and a hint of tailoring," she tells us. Kennedy recommends teaming a knitted blazer (like the Grace Karin Sweater Blazer or Ahlaray Blazer) with jeans or a skirt. "It instantly makes you look polished with zero effort," she says.

Cynthia Kennedy exclusively tells us, "Your accessories this year will be all about extra personality, not minimalism. Think oversized scarves, bold sunglasses, wide belts, chunky bangles, and all the other finishing touches that add to the fun of styling." She also recommends pairing one statement piece (or stacking one or two bangles), such as the Golden Waterdrop Bangle from GREICHFAN or the BMYCM Chunky Bangle, with more subtle outfits to keep your look modern. Adding a loud accessory is one of the easiest and quickest ways to be on trend, making it perfect for busy over-40s.

Column dressing involves choosing longer or matching pieces that draw the eye down the body, and, fortunately, Cynthia Kennedy let us know it's a massive trend for 2026. "That streamlined style of dressing is very flattering for women over 40," she exclusively shares. "Stick to one color family from top to bottom, then add shoes or a bag in a similar tone," she adds. So think monochromatic looks, which are great for even the laziest of days. "Mixing textures within the same color is always a modern way to stop things from getting dull," she says.

Faux fur jackets are officially back. The warm pieces were declared a youthful trend for women over 40 for winter 2025, and that won't be changing in the cooler months of 2026. Faux fur pieces are great for dressing up casual outfits and will keep you super warm, plus, you can go as bold or as subtle as you like. For something more understated and sophisticated, try the Amazon Essentials Oversized-Fit Cropped Faux Fur Jacket in Dark Brown. To go bolder, make a statement in the PRETTYGARDEN Long Sleeve Faux Fur Jacket in Khaki.

2026 is also all about upgrading outfits through subtle texture. "Ribbing, pleats, leather, lace, sherpa, brushed cotton, satin finishes, or lightweight suede are timeless and bring that little something extra to make any look shine," Cynthia Kennedy says, exclusively. "Keep the color palette simple and let different textures add visual interest and dimension," she adds. This trend is ideal for over-40s because textured garments can look classy without giving the illusion of chasing youth. Liyinxi's Relaxed Wide Leg Ribbed Knit Pants or the Wenrine Ribbed Sleeveless Sweater Dress will add texture in an easy-to-wear way.

When it comes to outerwear in 2026, go bold. "We'll see saturated jewel tones, sherpa textures, quilted details, plush faux fur trims, exciting prints, and brushed wool that'll add luxury, energy, and depth to your outfit," Cynthia Kennedy says, recommending pairing a statement coat with a more neutral outfit to allow it to have its moment. That could include the Leyoutx Store Single Breasted Wool Blend Coat in Blue or the Escalier Wool Trench in Wine Red. "Look for wool blends, quilted cottons, or soft faux suede, which feel elevated and age-appropriate," she adds.

Power dressing will also be huge in 2026, but in a softer way than we've seen it before. The trendy aesthetic, which involves demonstrating power through corporate-leaning clothing, is ideal for women over 40 as it's practical, sophisticated, and can be a serious confidence booster. Feminine power suits like the PRETTYGARDEN Two-Piece Sleeveless Suit in Rose Red or the Casly Lamiit Two-Piece Business Suit Set in Wine Red can work in and out of the office and can take the guesswork out of dressing, so you can make it out the door faster.