Last week, I challenged everyone to take a runway look and make it your own. Many of you think runway styles aren’t relatable, but I’m here to show you that women over 40 can totally pull them off.
Take these two images I picked out; they feature a classic feminine look with an A-line skirt and a blouse. The blouse is tucked into the skirt in the pictures, but if that’s not your style, you can always try a different way.
I love A-line skirts because they’re flattering and easy to wear. It’s great to see them back in style. They suit almost every woman, as long as you choose the right length for your height. Petites might want theirs a bit shorter, while taller women can go for skirts that hit below the knees. Generally, the best length for women over 40 is just above the knees.
So, why are A-line skirts so fantastic?
1. They hide any bulges, eliminating the need for shapewear and making them comfortable.
2. They highlight your waist, giving you a nice hourglass figure.
3. They’re very feminine.
4. You can dress them up or down depending on the fabric and what you pair them with.
5. They work with a variety of shoes—pumps, high sandals, and even booties. In winter, they look great with long boots.
6. They go well with jackets and jumpers. Short cropped jackets give them a modern touch, and wide oversized jumpers are trendy too. Just make sure the jumpers aren’t too long, so a bit of your waist still shows. Longer jackets can be belted to maintain that hourglass shape.
Things to watch out for:
– Choose your tops carefully. The wrong top can make your A-line skirt look frumpy. Short fitted tops or well-fitted blouses that are tucked in generally work well. If you prefer untucked tops, make sure they aren’t too long or consider belting them. Be careful with wide jumpers or blouses—they’re more challenging to pull off, so check the mirror to see if the look works for you.
– Pick the right length. It’s crucial. The skirt shouldn’t be too long for your height.
– Pay attention to your shoes. They set the vibe for your whole outfit—girly, modern, or casual.
Let’s see how others are wearing their A-line skirts:
– Any from Mrs. American adapts a 50’s inspired look with an A-line skirt and a silky top, making use of a defined waist to complement her curvy shape. She likes black skirts and tights, which give the illusion of longer legs. At 5’3”, she often wears shorter skirts to appear taller.
– Heather from The Style Confessions loves wider skirts and pairs a beautiful flower-printed skirt with a basic black top. She also shows off some A-line dresses that work just as well.
– Alice from Happiness at Midlife opts for a shorter version, pairing it with a tucked white shirt and cardigan.
– Greetje showcases many tips, turning a red dress into a skirt with a cropped cardigan and a belt for added waist emphasis. She also shows off a longer top that works well when it sits at the hip and isn’t too low, with the belt helping to define the waist.
Here’s how I like to wear A-line skirts:
– Black skirts are my favorite and I can mix and match endlessly. The shorter versions feel more flirty and girly, while longer ones look dressy and classic. For example, you don’t always have to tuck in your top or belt it. As long as the tops are short enough and hint at a waist, they still look good.
– I also love white skirts just as much. One of my favorites looks best with tucked-in tops to show off its unique belt and design. Inspired by the Guo Pei show, I tried a top with a big upstanding collar to complete the look.
– I adore my pink silk A-line skirt too. If the skirt is wide enough, you can get really creative with how you wear it.
Need more ideas? Check out my fashion inspiration board for some colorful combinations and prints.
I hope by now you see that runway looks can be tailored to fit your style. Let’s keep having fun with this, and I’ll share another runway look soon. If you have a look you want help with, just drop a link in the comments.
Do you enjoy wearing A-line skirts? How do you style yours?