Do you know that sure prints can really make you look older?
It’s a refined type entice many ladies fall into—with out even realizing it! The fallacious print can throw off your entire outfit and go away you feeling frumpy, outdated, or simply… off.
As a former stylist who’s helped lots of of girls navigate this actual problem, I can promise you that the repair is straightforward, and it really works each time.
Let’s stroll via precisely what to search for relating to printed tops—and what to keep away from—so that you at all times really feel as polished and assured on the surface as you might be on the within.
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some shops are in opposition to you. no joke.
Some shops that declare to cater to ladies over 40 are literally doing us a disservice. You stroll in hoping to really feel impressed… and as an alternative, you’re met with types that scream dated.
(Living proof: the highest pictured above left.)
And after they’re not boring and shapeless… they’re loud, quirky, and completely over-the-top. As if we’re all imagined to stroll in and be dazzled by large florals, busy patterns, and vivid colours that virtually shout from the hanger.
Trend appears to assume we both need to disappear—or turn into a spectacle.
Iris Apfel is iconic, however that daring, eccentric type doesn’t work for 99.9% of girls—and it shouldn’t be the one “trendy” possibility we’re supplied.
Right here’s the good information… with just a few easy methods, you possibly can look fashionable and lovely at any age. You might be comfy and look polished. And sure, you possibly can put on prints that really feel fashionable, and 100% you.
The important thing? Being just a bit extra intentional about what you carry into your closet—and trusting your instincts when one thing feels off.
However earlier than we get into what works… let’s take a fast take a look at what undoubtedly doesn’t.
In case your closet feels off, it’s in all probability not you—it’s your styling technique. Subscribe to the publication for outfit inspiration and confidence-boosting type ideas delivered to your inbox.
PSA: Simply because it’s on the rack doesn’t imply it’s proper.
Living proof: the highest pictured above.
Busy, outsized floral print… test.
Loud, high-contrast colours… test.
Completely nothing flattering about it? Triple test!
That is precisely the sort of print that’s working in opposition to you. And also you deserve MUCH higher.
Tip #1 – Select Smaller Scale Prints
When you’re ever not sure whether or not a print feels fashionable or dated, go small.
Delicate polka dots, skinny vertical stripes, and stylish florals in softer, pure colour palettes are likely to really feel timeless and complicated.
Smaller-scale prints are additionally extra flattering—they don’t overwhelm your body or add visible bulk. As a substitute, they improve your look with refined curiosity and polish.
Take the polka dot shirt above the petite print feels refined, not loud. The cape-style silhouette and wrap-front element add stunning form, whereas the excessive neckline and light-weight mesh material make it extremely versatile. Pair it with denims for an informal time out, or gown it up with trousers for an elevated night look.
Tip #2 – Select Impartial Colours Over Daring, Brilliant Prints
Nothing will date your look sooner than a loud, high-contrast print in daring colours. These prints can really feel overwhelming and make your outfit seem busy and even costume-like.
As a substitute, go for prints in impartial or muted tones—assume ivory, taupe, comfortable grey, olive, navy, or deep brown. These shades really feel fashionable, elevated, and stylish. They’re additionally way more versatile and simpler to pair with the necessities in your wardrobe.
The beautiful Sandro shirt pictured above is an ideal instance. The deep brown base with a fragile white floral print feels comfortable, female, and attention-grabbing with out being excessive.
Model tip: You too can steadiness a printed prime with a solid-colored leather-based jacket or blazer. This not solely creates construction and distinction—it subtly slims the edges and retains the main focus proper the place you need it.
Bear in mind, prints naturally draw consideration—so being intentional with colour and placement is vital.
Florals might be stunning… however they will also be one of the growing old prints. The fallacious floral can really feel overly candy, outdated, or frumpy—and sadly, plenty of the florals marketed to ladies over 40 fall into that entice.
Right here’s what works:
Keep on with smaller-scale florals in muted or impartial colour palettes. Assume comfortable ivory, dusty rose, navy, olive, or heat browns on mild or darkish bases. These really feel refined and complicated—not juvenile or overpowering.
Keep away from giant, splashy blooms or overly vivid colour combos. They have a tendency to overwhelm your body and once more could make the whole outfit really feel costume-y fairly than stylish.
When unsure, ask your self:
Does this floral really feel contemporary and fashionable?
Does it mix nicely with the opposite elevated fundamentals in my wardrobe?
If it feels loud, dated, or like one thing you’d put on to a theme get together… it’s in all probability a move.
Under are some attractive floral printed tops which can be fashionable and trendy for you.
Ultimate Model Tip: Preserve the Remainder of Your Outfit Impartial
When carrying a printed prime—particularly one which makes an announcement—it’s greatest to maintain the remainder of your outfit easy and impartial. Assume clear traces, traditional denim, and stable tones like white, cream, tan, or black. This helps your print stand out in an elegant method—not a chaotic one.
Let the print be the star. Every thing else ought to assist it.
put on the prints
Probably the most great issues about style is that it may be so enjoyable! Prints, colour, and distinctive particulars aren’t one thing to concern—they’re one thing to embrace. And when styled thoughtfully, they’ll really feel extremely fashionable and stylish.
You don’t must overhaul your wardrobe—or overthink it. A couple of easy shifts can fully change how you’re feeling in your garments… and assist you to present up because the assured, polished type icon you already are.
PS: Occurring trip? All bets are off.
That’s the time to play—carry on the daring prints, vivid colours, and assertion patterns. The louder, the higher. Simply don’t overlook the sunscreen. 😎
