Look Casual but Stylish

Casual and stylish. It's a challenging combination, especially for women over 40. How do you find that middle ground between sweat pants and the latest hot trend? Here are 5 Tips for Casual, but Stylish dressing after 40.




1. Try Leggings and a Dress




Short flowing mini dresses worn with bare legs and heels look great on twenty and thirty year olds, but that doesn't mean they are off limits to women over 40. Many of these dresses look an awful lot like long tops, which means they work on many midlife women if you pair them with dark leggings, and ballerina slippers, or flat boots.




2. Throw on a Wide Belt




A quick way to look up to date over 40 is to add a wide belt to your casual weekend outfit. A wide belt worn loosely at the hip on a slight angle, will instantly add a touch of the wow factor. Worn at the hip a wide belt is also a fantastic way to camouflage a flabby belly which is so common after 40.




3. Slip on a Sweater Wrap




Transitioning into Spring or Fall has never been easier or more fun, than owning a wrap. Just putting it on will make you feel like you have more flare and sophistication. Whether its cashmere wrap shawl, a poncho or a sweater wrap jacket that cascades down the front a sweater wrap adds chic, grown up style to a very casual look.




4. Experiment with Flat Shoes




If you love to wear your jeans on the weekend, update them with a great pair of flats. Not only are the practical and comfortable, but they are and easy way to add personality to your outfit. Picture dark brown jeans and a top with a playful pair of leopard flats. Casual, but Classy!




5. Add some Costume Jewelry




A pair of jeans with a white shirt looks mild mannered and average, but add some bold costume jewelry and all of a sudden your casual look has gone chic. Look for bold, bright interesting necklaces, earrings and bracelets. The idea is to add color and fun dont be afraid to wear something a little more out there than that fine gold chain you wear all week.