Fall Trends Without the Fashion Victim: What’s Actually Worth Wearing After 40

Every September, fashion starts shouting at us: You need this! This is OUT! This is the new must-have!

And I’m over here saying… maybe. 😉

Because looking current and looking fashionable are not the same as wearing every trend that comes down the runway.

The goal—especially after 40—isn't to dress younger. It's to keep your personal style feeling modern, interesting and unmistakably you.

So instead of telling you what you have to buy this fall, let’s talk about which trends are actually worth inviting into your wardrobe—and which ones can stay very happily on Instagram.

Napoleon Jackets

This one is super fun and can work for almost any body type. Just keep in mind that the detailing and buttons across the front can visually add a little width to your upper body. My styling tip: balance it with a wide-leg bottom, like jeans or trousers. I also think it could look fabulous paired with a flowy A-line maxi skirt.

My verdict: BUY — if it fits your style personality.

Tracksuits

I’m sorry, but these immediately give me ’90s rapper vibes. 🤪 Wear them around the house if you love them, but as a fashion investment? In my opinion, there are much better places to spend your money.

My verdict: DON’T BUY.

Plaid

Fun fact: technically, the traditional pattern is called tartan. Tartan originated in Scotland, where different colors and patterns became associated with different clans. The word “plaid” originally referred to the large pieces of tartan fabric worn as outer garments.

History lesson over. 😉 Let’s talk fashion.

Plaid is an absolute classic. If it works with your personal style, I would absolutely invest in a beautiful plaid piece this fall. It comes back season after season, which means you don’t have to worry about it suddenly looking dated.

My verdict: BUY. Classic, chic and timeless.

Leopard Print Coats

Leopard print can work beautifully for many different style personalities and body types—but please don’t buy one simply because someone declared leopard “a trend” this season.

You know my rule: buy what you genuinely love and what reflects your personality.

Also pay attention to the coloring of the print. If you have a warm undertone, look for warmer camel, caramel and golden versions. If you have a cool undertone, try leopard prints with cooler beige, taupe, grey or black tones.

My verdict: BUY — but only if leopard feels like YOU.

Heeled Flats

I’m sorry. Either give me a heel or give me a flat. 😂

The combination of a ballet flat with a little block heel just doesn’t make much sense to me. If I want comfort, I’ll take the flat. If I want height, I’ll wear an actual heel.

My verdict: DON’T BUY.

Graphic T-Shirts

Did graphic tees ever really leave? I don’t think so.

They’re a fun way to show a little personality, share an opinion or simply make someone laugh. And they can be fantastic conversation starters. Style one with jeans, tuck it into a skirt or wear it underneath a beautiful blazer for that high-low mix I love.

If graphic tees fit your personality, I see absolutely no reason to stop wearing them.

My verdict: BUY.

Suits, Pantsuits & Skirtsuits -  Power Women

A beautiful, well-fitting suit is never a bad idea. It instantly makes you look polished and put together, but the best part is that you don’t have to wear the pieces together.

Wear the blazer with jeans, leather pants or a skirt. Pair the trousers with a leather jacket, turtleneck, blouse or simple T-shirt. Suddenly one suit gives you endless outfit possibilities—and you know how much I love when our wardrobes work as a team.

My verdict: BUY.

Burgundy Leather

I love this one. Burgundy is such a beautiful way to bring color into your wardrobe without feeling too loud. Compared with a bright tomato red, it’s richer and more understated, but it still gives your outfit that gorgeous pop of color.

I also personally prefer genuine leather over many faux or “vegan leather” alternatives. Quality leather can last for years and years when cared for properly, while many synthetic alternatives are plastic-based and may not have the same longevity or breathability.

A beautiful burgundy leather jacket, skirt, pants or handbag can become a true wardrobe classic—if, of course, it fits your style personality.

My verdict: BUY.