How To Look Slimmer When You Are Over 40

One of the most disappointing things about aging can be how difficult it is to keep any extra weight off. And we all know the Jane Fonda line “when you get older, you have to choose between your a** and your face”. Which can be true. When you lose too much weight your face will look scrawny and haggard, but being heavier isn’t exactly healthy or desirable either. So staying slim or just looking slim after forty can be complicated. But we do have some styling tips that will help you stay looking slender and elegant. Here’s how to look slimmer when you are over 40.

How To Look Slimmer Over 40

Keep It Monochrome

Whether you go for all black, all white, or something bolder like all bright red, creating one long column of color with your outfit is always a good way to flatter your shape and look slimmer at any age. This Connected Apparel jumpsuit is ultra-chic and ultra-flattering at any age, while this white one by Talbot Runhof is super dramatic and the type of drama that you can only carry off when you have the gravitas of being over 40!

Pay Attention To Your Underpinnings

We all know the importance of wearing a bra that fits properly at this point (seriously, get a fitting at a real lingerie store, not Victoria’s Secret if you’re not sure of your bra size). Of course, a good bra makes a huge difference in your appearance and posture, but the right panties, slip or shaping undergarments can also make a huge difference. A body-shaping slip like this one from Commando can be a great investment that will make all your dresses lay better and you look slimmer and more comfortable and confident.

Showcase Your Best Features

Chances are that your back, collarbone, shoulders and calves or ankles are still looking good. Cropped pants that are well fitted, shirts that show off your assets, and anything else that draws attention to the slimmest parts of your body are good.

Create Long Lines With Your Accessories

Longer necklaces, long scarves, and even longer cardigans or blazers can make you look lean. Something like this Soko Hewa pendant necklace would be easy to toss on over almost anything, or if you prefer silver tones, this Gorjana necklace is a wonderful choice.

Look Slimmer with Vests

What’s more, long line vests or sleeveless dusters like this white number from Amazon or this black orgasninc linen cap sleeve one from Eileen Fisher work well as layering pieces all year round.

Watch Your Rise

Higher rise pants are trendy now, so you’re in luck if you’re looking for new jeans or trousers. High waist bottoms visually elongate your body, especially your legs. These straight leg jeans from 3.1 Philip Lim have a great high rise, cropped length and vertical lines due to the zippers running down the sides.

Use Color Blocking Wisely

Dresses, shirts or pants with side panels like this one will help create an hourglass silhouette. This Calvin Klein sheath is a perfect example of a dress that will help to visually trick the eye into thinking your body is longer and narrower, but any dress with similar color blocking can work.

Don’t Cut Yourself Off

Cross body bags or the currently popular belt bags might be convenient, but they can cut across the lines of your body in an unflattering way. A hand bag, a tote, or even a backpack is a better choice. The Nisolo Lori totes come in a variety of neutrals, are sustainably and ethically made, and are incredibly comfortable to carry (plus they can hold a laptop and a tablet along with all your other essentials).

Know Your Diagonals

There’s a reason that asymmetric silhouettes and styles like wrap dresses that create diagonal lines across the body are perpetually in style. This Jessica Howard Asymmetrical Neck Side Tuck Gown would be ideal for attending a wedding or black tie event.

Use Highlighters Wisely

While a poppin’ highlight looks great on teenagers, it can actually be aging as you get older. A subtle highlight on the inner eye or upper cheekbone can be a magnificent way to draw attention to your features in a sophisticated way, however. We love the Nars Multiple in Copacabana shimmering pearl for an all purpose soft shimmer.

What are your favorite tips and tricks for looking slimmer and like you’re growing younger? Are there any styles that make you feel particularly long, lean, slim and fabulous?

Shop To Look Slimmer Over 40

–Jacqueline Zenn

You may like to read more of Jacqueline’s styling tips like The Best One Piece Swimsuits To Wear When You’re Over 40 and How To Wear Shorts When You’re Over 40.

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