I read an interesting article the other day about how our approach to dressing as we age has evolved, and it got me thinking about fashion for those of us over 40.
Back in the day, young women looked forward to reaching an age where they could dress more elegantly. Fashion designers knew how to create clothes that flattered older women. Turning 30 was something to celebrate because it meant you had the confidence, curves, and likely marriage, to wear clothes that enhanced your figure.
One iconic figure back then was Mrs. Exeter, who graced Vogue covers as a stylish older woman. She wore classy outfits like structured styles, pearls, and sophisticated blouses. Mrs. Exeter even had a regular column where she shared fashion tips for older women.
Then came the 60s, and everything changed. Youth culture took over, bringing looser, shift-style clothing and a loss of traditional sewing skills. Fashion became more about celebrating youth, and older women were left with little to look forward to fashion-wise.
Fast forward to today, and it feels like we’ve come full circle. Fashion has once again become a way for older women to express themselves. Unlike the structured styles of the past, we now have the freedom to dress how we like. Style icons like Iris Apfel, Lyn Slater, Deborah Gates, and Diana Gabriel are perfect examples of women over 40 rocking their unique fashion sense. These women are being recognized by fashion magazines and companies, showing that older women are no longer ignored by the industry.
What’s more, younger generations are looking to older women for inspiration. Fashion now bridges the gap between generations, bringing us closer together.
Being part of a supportive fashion community, like the 40+ Style Club or Facebook group, helps too. Women over 40 offer each other support and advice, helping each other find their best styles.
When we’re younger, we often stick strictly to trends and end up looking like everyone else. But as we get older, we gain confidence and use fashion to express our unique personalities. If you gave the same skirt to ten different women over 40, each would style it in her own way, showing off her individual flair.
While Mrs. Exeter might be a relic of the past, we now see ourselves as each other’s Mrs. Exeter. We guide, inspire, and support one another in our fashion journeys.
Do you find that fashion becomes more important to you as you get older? Do you think your style has improved with age?