This happens every time!  I have a special event coming up and I found myself struggling with what to wear.  Everywhere I look I found beautiful dresses that would be a good fit…that is if I were in my twenties!!! Since that time has passed a long time ago, and since I am not willing to spend thousands of dollars on a dress, I am left with only a handful of choices. Sounds familiar?

One great thing about aging is you get to know yourself and your body’s limitations.  I am well aware that because of my varicose veins, I can’t pull off a miniskirt unless it’s with dark tights and booties. I‘m also well aware that I can’t wear a super low-cut top. I breastfed  two babies and let’s be honest, who wants to see that?  And don’t let me start on the crop and backless tops! 

I somehow find it sad when I see a woman past her forties in a dress that would be difficult to pull off by a model in her twenties.  No matter how beautiful she might be, I just want to go over, give her a hug and tell her it’s OK to age. That’s not to be said that if you have a stunning legs or shoulders, you shouldn’t flaunt them.  If you have toned legs, it’s OK to wear shorts or shorter dress.  If God blessed you with amazing shoulders or toned arms and you want to wear a halter top dress, go for it!  Just maybe not all at once…

There are certain styles of dresses I think are universally flattering to women over forty:

• Halter top dresses can be very slimming 
• Cold-shoulder dresses give it a touch of sexy but still classy
• Sheath dresses are sophisticated and the perfect look to take from office to an evening event
• Three-quarter sleeve length dresses are ideal for cooler nights and for covering the not-so-perfect arms
• Scoop-neck dresses are always a classy choice for women in their forties, think Audrey Hepburn
• One-shoulder dresses are fun and elegant
• Peplum dresses are perfect for covering the mid-section
• Midi and maxi length dresses work for most women

And how about color choices for women over forty?  I would stay away from too many patterns and colors mixed together.  In this case, less is more.  Black or white is always a classy choice.  But one thing I noticed, many women past forties start embracing deep, precious stone colors like sapphire, emerald, jade, and ruby. I think the reason behind it is, that as our skin gets duller, we look better in something colorful.  I also think some women feel more confident in their forties and are not as afraid to stand out in a room.

There are a few websites and stores that are my go to.  If your budget is in the $100 plus range, I recommend Net-A-Porter, Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, Macy’s, REISS and Saks OFF 5^th.  For dresses under $100, I personally like Revolve, ASOS, Lulu’s and VICI.   The less pricey options tend to cater to younger women but if you type “midi or halter dress” in the search window, you’ll found a few options.

You know your body the best, so whatever you decide to wear, make sure you feel good and confident wearing it.  After all, it is the confidence that makes the dress, not the other way. 

What are your rules when dressing for a special occasion and what shops do you like?  I would love to hear your thoughts.