Spring Skirts for Women Over 40: Chic, Flattering Styles & Easy Outfit Ideas

After months of jeans, leggings and winter layers, I am so ready to lighten things up—and nothing does that better than a great skirt.

If you’ve been wondering whether skirts still fit into your lifestyle (or flatter your shape) after 40, 50, or 60, I have good news. When styled well, they can feel so modern and good that you’ll want to kick up your heels and do a little happy dance.

So today, let’s talk about this underrated spring wardrobe staple,  why I love skirts, which styles are most flattering, and how you can wear them with confidence and ease.

blue ribbed top | blue satin skirt | similar sandals

Satin Drawstring Skirts

Spring Skirts for Women Over 40

Why Skirts Are a Great Choice for Spring After 40

When the weather warms up, skirts just make sense. They’re cooler than pants, they’re comfortable, and they give your outfit a touch of femininity without feeling too fussy.

And they’re just easy. Throw on a cute top, add sandals or sneakers, and you’ve got a look that’s put-together but still comfortable. Skirts also pack well for travel, which makes them great for spring and summer trips.

Skirt vs. Dress: Why a Skirt Might Be the Better Choice

Don’t get me wrong—I love a good dress. But skirts give you a little more freedom to mix things up. You can change your top depending on your day or your mood, and that makes a big difference when you’re dealing with fluctuating temps or just want a little variety.

Plus, if your weight fluctuates (hello, midlife hormones), it’s easier to adjust a skirt-and-top combo than a fitted dress.

Wrap Skirts

The Most Flattering Skirt Styles After 40

Here’s what I look for when I want a skirt that makes me feel confident:

• Soft, flowy fabrics like chiffon, cotton, or linen—nothing stiff or clingy

• Waistbands that move with you—think elastic, wrap, or drawstring

• Length that flatters—just above the knee to midi is always a safe, chic bet

• Details that elevate—a slit, a button-front, or a soft pleat can do wonders

white denim skirt | striped tee | belt | shoes 

White Denim skirts

The Best Spring Skirt Styles for Women Over 40

Some go-to silhouettes:

• Midi skirts – Chic and versatile. They pair well with everything.

• A-line skirts – Always flattering, especially if you’re curvy like me.

• Wrap skirts – Great for defining your waist and adjusting the fit.

• Denim skirts – Try one in white or light blue for spring.

• Pleated skirts – Just be sure the pleats are soft, not stiff.

• Printed skirts – Keep the prints modern and the rest of your outfit simple.

How to Style Spring Skirts to Look Modern and Chic

The key to looking current is all in the mix. Balance is everything—especially with proportion. If your skirt has volume, go for a slimmer top. If it’s a more fitted skirt, you can do something softer or more flowy up top.

Here are a few easy pairings I like:

Shop the look

A Lightweight knit top + Wrap or Pleated skirt

This open-knit Polo sweater with the preppy collar adds a sporty vibe to this feminine, floral pleated patio skirt. Accessorize with gold and white shoes, a bag, and jewelry for a classy summer look.

shop the look

A Gauzy Blouse + Denim and Rope Sandals

A soft gauze top like this keeps you cool and gives a breezy beach look to this short pink denim skirt. Don’t you love the romantic scalloped hem?

The front tie detail keeps the look casual and is a great way to define your waist if you are feeling that midlife middle. (More about gauze tops for summer here)

Shop the look

A Flowy Floral Blouse + Linen Midi Skirt

Floral blouses are natural, with skirts in spring and summer. This smocked style blouse is a perfect match for this breezy coral linen button-up skirt. Leave a couple of buttons undone to look more youthful, and then add woven accessories to play up the summery vibe.

Shop the look

A Stretchy Tank or Tee + a Long Tiered Skirt

This pretty ruffle hem faux wrap skirt is light and airy, but the tiers and wide shape of the skirt require something fitted on top.  To counterbalance, pop on a stretchy white boat neck top.  Don’t like sleeveless? No problem. Add a denim jacket, blazer, or cropped cardigan to layer this skirt or any of these outfits.

Common Skirt Styling Mistakes (and What to Do Instead)

Even a great casual skirt can go wrong if the styling is off. Here are a few quick don’ts:

• Too short or too tight? You’ll feel self-conscious instead of chic.

• Too much volume on top and bottom? Balance a fuller skirt with a more fitted top.

• Outdated prints or stiff fabrics? Opt for soft movement and clean lines instead.

• Dressy high heel shoes– casual skirts need casual shoes. Think white sneakers, ballet flats, casual block-heel sandals, and espadrilles.

Brands I Count On for Great Skirts

When I’m shopping for skirts, these are the places I always check first:

• Madewell – Modern styles that still feel age-appropriate
• Nordstrom – There are so many brands and sizes in one spot.
• J.Crew – Polished classics with great color options
• Anthropologie – Whimsical but still sophisticated. 
• Boden – Feminine, cheerful, and easy to wear.
• Banana Republic – Sleek, chic, and elevated basics

(And don’t forget to check out my [LTK shop] for my current faves!)

Final Thoughts

Skirts might not be the first thing you reach for but don’t overlook them this spring. They’re cool, comfortable, and surprisingly versatile—and a welcome change if you have been stuck in a jeans and tee rut.

Let me know in the comments: are you into skirts this season? Have a favorite style or brand? I always love hearing what’s working for you!

Meet the author

Deborah Boland

Deborah, a former Fashion & Lifestyle TV host and Image Consultant, understands the style challenges women face in their 40s, 50s, and 60s. As the founder of Fabulous After 40, she helps women tweak their chic and embrace fashion with confidence—so they always look and feel amazing.

Learn More About Deborah Explore Her Latest Posts