From time to time, a little wardrobe refresh is necessary to make getting dressed in the mornings easier (and more stylish). For women in their 40s, that means choosing elegant pieces that seamlessly work with existing favorites hanging in the closet. Depending on your preference, that might include a classic pair of jeans or a timeless button-up shirt — but if you don’t have either, this list is a good place to start shopping.
To ensure we’re helping you build a no-fail wardrobe, we focused on fashion pieces that won’t look dated by the end of the year. With any luck, these finds from Amazon, Nordstrom, Quince and more will become everyday wears. Better yet, we only chose options that are under $100, so you can build reasonable outfits at a good price.
21 Elegant Fashion Pieces for Women in Their 40s
1. Our Favorite: A classic single-button blazer is an easy way to make an outfit appropriate for the office. This Amazon option comes in 23 colors to work best with your wardrobe.
2. Runner-up: Jeans will never go out of style, so it’s worth investing in a pair of high-waisted Levi’s that are just a bit relaxed. We appreciate the 99% cotton and 1% elastane makeup for breathability and stretch.
3. Modest Midi: It looks like two pieces, but this under-$40 midi dress is a singular item that makes getting dressed simple. It comes in short- and long-sleeve options, and a range of skirt designs.
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4. Classic Cashmere: The Quince cashmere sweater is just $50, so it’s no surprise that it continues to make waves. Available in 15 colors, this quality crewneck will stay in your closet for years to come.
5. Pretty Pleats: This pleated chiffon skirt has a comfortable elastic waistband and a flattering below-the-knee length. Now you just have to choose which of the 35 colors to go with.
6. Sweet Shawl: Whether you’re shopping with chilly offices or cold weather in mind, this open-front shawl wrap will come in handy for either. We love the easy loop closure, too.
7. Office-Ready: Meet your new favorite clean-cut work pants that have simple creases down the front. They offer side pockets and a bit of stretch.
8. Button-Up Beauty: You’ll always find a reason to need a long-sleeve button-up shirt. This option has a slightly longer length, so you can tuck it any way you please.
9. Must-Have Maxi: The long-sleeve top is ribbed and the bottom features flattering vertical stripes. Couple that with the long length, and this dress with a waist tie was made for women in their 40s.
10. Sweet Set: The most comfortable way to look put together is with a matching sweatsuit set. This option includes a half-zip sweatshirt and elastic-waist pants.
11. Everyday Wear: An all-year-round blouse? We appreciate the three-quarter sleeves, button-up style and V-neck look to make this ruffle-trim top a winner.
12. Trendy Tweed: Wear this tweed plaid jacket to work or as a polished weekend look; it’s fully lined, has a stand collar and an open-front style that makes it feel a bit more casual when you need it to.
13. Silky Skirt: Don’t be intimidated by this 100% mulberry silk skirt. Quince made it safe for the washing machine, so it’s easy to keep looking its best.
14. Easy Eyelet: This collared maxi shirtdress looks like an average one until you get to the bottom. The eyelet details add some fun while the elasticized waist adds comfort.
15. Valuable Vest: You’ll be thankful you have this high-neck vest shirt when the warmer weather hits. It’s sleeveless yet professional to wear to the office.
16. Cute and Cropped: These wide-leg cropped jeans come in various washes, but we have a thing for the white pair. Just imagine how cute they’ll look with a pair of sandals!
17. Perfectly Puffed: Available in 23 colors, this short-sleeve sweater works for a variety of seasons. The sleeves are puffed for a bit of volume that makes this top stand out among your other ones.
18. Optimal Outerwear: Amazon shoppers love this hooded rain jacket for its roomy silhouette and lightweight design. It’s sure to come in handy the next time showers are on the horizon.
19. Smartly Smocked: The smocked cuffs are just the kickoff to this three-quarter-sleeve shirt’s comfort. Choose among the solid colors and fun patterns (if you can only manage to snag one, that is).
20. Cool Cargo: Want something besides jeans or dress pants? These Gap pull-on cotton pants are a comfortable option that have a flattering mid-rise fit.
21. Cozy Cable-Knit: There’s something so classic about a cable-knit crewneck sweater. With a relaxed fit and non-bulky style, you can’t go wrong here.
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