I need a new look.... What's in fashion for 40 year olds?

[Onanightlikethis]

Hi- I'm looking to replace my wardrobe.... Or some of it anyway. Usual style is jeans/ bubble tops/converse...maxi dresses and flats.
I'm a size 12 but short. Bought some skinny mini khakis in gap yesterday but am at a loss as what to wear with them, ESP on feet.
I need a couple of dresses, to dress up or down, summer trousers, shoes, and a change from converse.
Need basic t shirts, sandals and something for work - usual fall back is linen trousers.
Also need a bag- have looked at zatchels- are these hip?
If anyone old point me in the right direction I'd be grateful....

Wtf is a bubble top

Bubble top ? Sounds scary. Stop wearing it.

Can't you wear flip flops ballet shoes or sandals?

Exactly my point. I'm stuck in a fashion time warp

calm down everyone! a bubble top has an elasticated bottom hem, like this

With your khakis why not a floppy linen t shrt or a tailored shirt (depending on your look)

Think you're asking a lot. Just go and buy a t shirt fgs. It's not hard

Nehru are you usually this rude?

She says"I need shoes trousers and dressss"

She's not giving us much to go on

And yes.

I've been through a tough time and want to feel better about myself by buying some clothes that are not in my usual style. All I was asking really is what is currently fashionable - when I shop I just tend to go for my default clothes- jeans and top. What's an alternative to converse?
I get stuck in looking at next, marks and Spencer's and debenhams as they are in my town. Any good online retailers?

Thanks for the blog ideas

When I know I need to get out of a rut, I start to pay attention to what other people my age who look good are wearing. Forget actual fashion, or you'll end up in dungarees or some other faddy thing. So find a good people watching spot, get a coffee and take notes. This works better than going round the shops looking for thinks that catch your eye, which tends to deepen your rut. Then try on things you wouldn't normally wear.

If you're nervous about spending a lot of money on mistakes, try charity shops. I find I'll try something new (to me) more easily when I feel there's less risk, financially.

this trouser style is really nice and can be worn with flip flops/flat sandals for daytime and heels for evening. There's a lot of them around in different colours/prints at the moment

what about a soft jersey blazer like this?

I like those trousers! And they're not jeans...
But polyester, I'd have to find them in cotton or I'd be all sticky and sweaty.

I'm sure someone does similar in cotton.

Try some lovely accessories, primark do shed loads that are super cheap!

not these though

A bubble top just means gathered at the hem, doesn't it? There are a few out and about right now, especially featuring Aztec, boho embroidery, and some are really nice.

One thing I'd say to OP is don't try to get your bearings based upon age - just continue to search for what suits you and makes you happy. 40 isn't much different from your 30's, so don't fall into the trap of thinking you suddenly have to abide by new rules - there are none. You will know intuitively when something works well for you.

I like the idea of some tan leather sandals to go with those new GAP pants. Like these, perhaps

www.zara.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product/uk/en/zara-neu-S2013/358009/1183541/BLOCK+HEEL+STRAPPY+SANDAL

...which would go well with any colour from your summer wardrobe.

I love the Zatchels saddle bags, and so many colours to choose from, so that sounds lovely too.

Are you drawn to any particular style (classic, french, boho, etc)? Also consider who's stlye you might like to emulate in your own way, this can give you a fair bit of guidance. Also, Pinterest!

here is that damn link

www.zara.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product/uk/en/zara-neu-S2013/358009/1183541/BLOCK+HEEL+STRAPPY+SANDAL

I agree with toasted, nothing changes just because you're 40. I'd be wary though of buying anything too fashionable as you're better off getting things that suit you rather than on trend. The blogs, Pinterest and people watching are all fab ideas.

I live in my converse and then go for Birkenstocks in the summer. Fashion marmite on here but they suit my life of SAHM doing the school run. I have also just bought these for when I need something dressier. I'm also going to get some Havianas.

T shirt wise, it all depends on your budget. I've bought recently from dorothy Perkins, h&m and next.

Peg trousers are v difficult to wear.

I think those elasticated hem tops can be quite unflattering and make people look bigger than they are (well, me anyway).

Summer trousers - how about some slim legged cropped or 7 eighths trousers in cotton with a bit of elastane to help keep their shape? or some ankle length skinnies? Or some rolled up boyfriends (but I am a short size 12 and find that the latter make me a) look bigger than I am and b) make me feel a bit like a Playschool presenter).

Dresses - how about a denim or chambray shirt dress somewhere between above the knee and mid-thigh depending on how happy you are about your legs? Tan sandals would look nice with this for warm days.

Thank you everyone - both the blogs mentioned are my style- I'm thinking I need some new trainers, but not silver converse which have been my default purchase.
Some silver flat sandals, a soft blazer, lots of scarves, basic t shirts, and new skinny jeans.
Maybe a couple of dresses, my legs are good so I can do above knee....
And a couple of new bags.

I've just bought
these
To wear this summer with boyfriend jeans.

Pinterest is your friend! Spend some time on there pinning outfits you like and you'll soon come up with a huge shopping list.