How to Dress to Look Youthful and Modern
No matter what your style, the shortcut to looking more youthful after 40 is to dress a little sportier. What is sporty dressing, and how can you incorporate this style while still being true to yourself? Let’s take a look.
Short and Bright is Sporty
Trench coats are an excellent staple in any wardrobe, but as they are quite traditional and conservative, they can sometimes make you look old and boring after the age of 40. That’s not the case with this one!
What keeps this trench looking young and hip?…. The bold blue color (primary colors are sporty), the short length (shorter is sportier than long), and the youthful knotted belt, instead of the typical flat belt. A great addition to any 4wardrobe over 40
Linen is sporty
Sporty people are active (active=young), so, naturally, their clothes are lightweight, loose, and comfy. If you want to add that dash of youth to your look, try a pair of casual linen pants with a sporty drawstring waistline.
Rolled or pushed-up Sleeves are sporty
Rolling up or pushing up a sleeve adds a dash of sportiness to your look. It sends the message I’m ready for action, which is youthful. Some women who have always been the traditional or elegant types may find it hard to incorporate sporty into their wardrobe because it’s too casual compared to what they are used to. This dress is excellent for those women because, although it is sporty ( shirtdress style, bright color, woven natural belt, and rolled up sleeves), it still looks very “neat and tidy.” (Nordstrom)
Totes are Sporty
One way to add a dash of sporty is with your choice of handbag. Totes symbolize sportiness. What we like about this tote is it is not boring-sporty. Instead of just a plain neutral-colored tote, this one has some personality. It’s great for someone on the creative side who wants to inject a little sportiness ( youthfulness) into their wardrobe.
Sporty Stripes
Certain materials evoke a sporty vibe (cotton, linens, natural fabrics, knits), and so do specific patterns and prints, such as stripes. This fitted top with the deep V-neck is on the sexy side. The stripes, combined with the shorter sleeves, add a definite sportiness (or youthfulness) to the look. The result is sexy/sporty.
Denim is sporty
The ultimate in sporty is denim. This shirt conveys a sporty message, but not in a rough, teenage way. The smooth, soft wash on this shirt, combined with the streamlined fit, gives it a much more refined, grown-up look. The metal jewelry also kicks it up a notch.
She looks like the ultimate California girl with her sun-streaked hair, natural makeup, sporty aviator glasses, jeans and tees, or short and sexy minis.
Jennifer Anniston is an excellent example of a gal who epitomizes sporty.
I’m a happy, proud, 43 yr old, 5’6″, 135#, modest, work-from-home mom. I have been to an image consultant, read Carol Tuttle’s book, watched her videos, and scoured your site.
I know what colors are best for me, the length of the skirt, neckline, sleeve type, and to avoid black, but I am having a terrible time finding clothing that fits these parameters. Our town is small, have spent hours searching brands/stores online. Thanks so much.
This site is a walk-through for all the tips you wanted but didn’t know who to ask. Thanks for the great post.
I dress for myself–shorts, white tee or colored tee with a white long sleeve shirt, button down collar over the top. I get my glamour from within. YEA! 53!!
Hi Diane,
OOOH, I love the all-white look! So classic and looks good on everyone! I have found that I enjoy buying and wearing all white to my yoga classes! Most people seem to wear black, but when it is summer, and I put on my all-white outfit, I feel so fresh and happy!!
I love linen pants. They’re cool and matched with the right top; I can still wear them to summer business meetings. Then after work, I can switch to a tank or t-shirt for casual fun.
Hi Andrea,
Good points! So many women are afraid of linen, but it is such a cool and natural fabric that it is super comfortable! If you can find linen pant that has a little lycra in it, they do seem to hold up a little better!
I love dresses but hate my varicose veins and spider veins caused by standing at attention for years in the military. What can I do to camouflage–either leg makeup or clothing or???? I’m 5′ 3.5″ tall. Is there anything that works without surgery? I’m on a very tight budget.
Hi Brenda,
You are not alone; many have started seeing veins as we age. Yes, leg make-up or spray tan does work to even out the legs. However, for dressy occasions, you might want to wear sheer pantyhose, but please with pumps only, not sandals.
Hi Brenda,
Great to hear from you! We look forward to hearing your voice on our site!