Especially If You’re Over 40
Every new season brings a wave of trends—some exciting, others bewildering. And if you’ve ever found yourself wondering, “Should I be wearing this?” you’re not alone.
A lovely reader recently asked, “How do I incorporate new trends into my existing style?” It’s a brilliant question—and one that taps into something deeper: How do you stay current without feeling like you’re betraying who you are?
If you’re a woman over 40, especially one who’s spent years dressing for roles, responsibilities, or others’ expectations, you may feel torn between curiosity and caution when it comes to trends. Let’s unpack a grounded, values-led way to approach them.
1. Not Every Trend Is Your Trend, and That’s a Good Thing
Start with this simple truth: You don’t have to chase every trend to be stylish.
In fact, the most stylish women are rarely obsessed with trends. They’re discerning. They know what works for them, and what doesn’t.
Ask yourself:
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Do I actually like this trend—or am I just seeing it everywhere?
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Does it reflect who I am today—or who I used to be?
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Will I feel confident, comfortable, and visible in this?
This kind of self-inquiry helps you filter trends through the lens of your personal style values, not social pressure.
2. Try It Small Before You Commit Big
Here’s a smart strategy: experiment with trends in small, low-risk ways first.
Think accessories, nail colour, a scarf, or a budget-friendly version of the piece you’re curious about. That way, you can test the waters without diving headfirst into something that might end up gathering dust in the back of your wardrobe.
And if it lights you up? That’s when you invest in a higher-quality version that earns its place in your wardrobe.
Sometimes you want to add in a trend for fun and to try something different, and that’s completely OK. For example, I recently purchased a pair of barrel-leg jeans. I know they’re not my best silhouette (better for those A and X shapes than my H shape body), but not everything in fashion and style is about figure flattery unless that’s your core style value.
Another fashion trend that I’ve also recently incorporated in my wardrobe is fun crew socks – thanks to Gen Z who have brought back the sock my ankles can stay warm and I’m enjoying adding them to outfits.
3. Silhouettes Change, But You Still Get to Choose
One of the trickiest parts of trend cycles is silhouette shifts. One year it’s wide-leg pants, the next it’s slim cuts. Oversized jackets dominate one season, then the tailored waist makes a comeback.
When silhouettes change, remember:
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Trends often prioritise newness, being different or drama over flattery.
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Your body doesn’t need to adapt to the trend—the trend needs to work for your body.
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You can always modify a trend to suit you: go for a less oversized look, add structure with a belt, or pair voluminous bottoms with a fitted top to maintain balance.
Style isn’t about sacrificing yourself to fashion. It’s about translating fashion through your unique aesthetic and proportions.
4. Know What You’re Attracted To, and Why
Your emotional response to a trend matters.
If something delights you—if it sparks joy, nostalgia, or curiosity—it’s worth exploring. That inner nudge is your style intuition guiding you.
But if a trend leaves you feeling “meh,” unattractive, or disconnected from yourself? Give yourself full permission to opt out. Letting go of what doesn’t resonate is just as powerful as choosing what does.
5. Sustainability Starts with Self-Awareness
Blindly buying into trends leads to overflowing wardrobes and underwhelming outfits.
Instead, when you incorporate trends with intention:
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You buy less, but love what you buy more.
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You reduce waste—both in terms of money and environmental impact.
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You build a wardrobe that evolves with you, not against you.
Trends can be fun. They can even be empowering. But only when they align with your values, your body, and your sense of self.
A Gentle Reminder…
Fashion is fast. Your style is foundational.
Let the trends swirl around you like a storm—but stay rooted in who you are. You’re allowed to try new things. You’re allowed to say no. And you’re allowed to evolve—on your terms, at your pace.
Your wardrobe should never feel like a costume. It should feel like home.
Would you like to explore your personal style values and how to align your wardrobe with them? My 7 Steps to Style program is designed to help you rediscover confidence, clarity, and joy in getting dressed—no matter what’s trending.
