4 Celebs To Look To For Style Inspo In Your 40s

Hitting 40 may mean adjusting to a whole host of new things, from tweaking your skincare routine to learning what types of undereye concealer older women should look for. But when it comes to fashion, you may think it's high time to switch it up and go for neutral color palettes and reserved styles. That is simply not the case, however, as these celebs in their 40s can attest to. For these fabulous women, turning 40 doesn't mean shying away from figure-hugging outfits or vibrant colors.

Instead, these celebrities effortlessly channel elegance and sophistication with their wardrobe picks, and would serve as the ideal style inspo if you're just entering your 40s. From Beyoncé to Kate Middleton, they prove that getting older is a time better spent dressing in not only what makes you look glamorous but what also makes you feel comfortable. Whether it's a well-tailored suit or a glittering masterpiece of a gown, it's a style blueprint worth following. 

Kate Middleton knows how to dress for every occasion

There is no denying that Kate Middleton is one of the most fashionable members of the British royal family. The Princess of Wales has certainly been leading the charge when it comes to dressing her best for public appearances, with Middleton even serving as the ultimate style inspo for wearing shorts over 40. And it seems that she has learned how to style herself from another beloved royal, the late Queen Elizabeth II, by selecting monochrome outfits with shoes and accessories of the same color for a cohesive look. 

Moreover, Middleton appears to favor tailored suits and dresses, as seen in the image above, which never fails to give the feel of sophisticated elegance. And it seems even her style evolution is worthy of note. "When you look at early Catherine, she was working out her style and was more playful with her clothes," Amanda Wakeley, fashion designer who has designed work worn by the Princess of Wales, exclusively shared with InStyle. "Now she is stylish rather than fashionable, and I can't think of one outfit that won't stand the test of time."

Beyoncé isn't afraid to be daring with her fashion choices

Beyoncé may be known for her singing talents and hit-making abilities, but the "Irreplaceable" singer is known to mix and match whatever materials and make it work. Although she triggers a media frenzy every time she switches her wardrobe for a new musical era, Beyoncé certainly knows how to maintain style while dressing casually. The "Cowboy Carter" hitmaker wears outfits that accentuate her figure, from wearing denim jumpsuits with a feather stole (as seen above) to a two-piece suit. 

And while Beyoncé is comfortable setting trends, the 35-time Grammy Award winner is also receptive to the recommendations of her long-time stylist, Zerina Akers. And Akers has her own tried-and-true advice for us that she's applied to the former "Destiny's Child" songbird herself. "The rule of thumb is to really be careful and be selective and pick things you like," Akers exclusively shared with Vibe. "Don't just kinda buy a bunch of stuff; pick things that really work for your body."

Meghan Markle is the embodiment of quiet luxury

The Duchess of Sussex isn't known to wear the most decorated or bombastic outfits, though Meghan Markle's expensive clothing and accessories have caused a stir before. Yet for Meghan, the quality and simplicity of her outfits speak for themselves, showing that she truly embodies the spirit of quiet luxury. It seemed the businesswoman really favored one-tone colors and classic cuts, which would be easy for anyone of any age to follow and emulate. 

And it seems Meghan only has herself to thank for her fashion triumphs, as the "As Ever" entrepreneur revealed that she has no stylist at the moment. What's more, Meghan's focus when choosing outfits for herself is to shine the spotlight on lesser-known labels. "I love being able to wear local designers and celebrate the craftsmanship that's happening in whatever region I'm traveling to," the Duchess of Sussex exclusively told The Australian Women's Weekly. "I really focused on smaller labels, female-owned brands, up-and-coming designers, and brands with purpose." Meghan really proves you don't need to look to designer brands for a fashion moment, inspiring everyone to make cost-effective shopping decisions.

Anne Hathaway is the perfect fashion template for older women

It seems being a part of "The Devil Wears Prada" franchise has taught Anne Hathaway a thing or two about high fashion. The "Princess Diaries" star consistently nails every red carpet moment, down to regular public outings. While Hathaway usually opts for a lapel collar blazer, a bodycon dress, or a woolen pencil skirt, that doesn't mean the star avoids wearing vibrant, eye-catching colors. Her looks show that getting older isn't a barrier to exploring with styles or being open to trying something new.

Hathaway's stylist, Erin Walsh, has her own advice she's willing to dole out after years of styling and dressing the "Interstellar" star. "Style is about confidence because it comes down to deciding to own and project in this world your very essence," Walsh exclusively shared with E! News. From polka-dots and sequins to feather and lace, Hathaway proves that fashion doesn't stop being fun when you turn 40.

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