The 3 Don’ts and 3 Dos of Wearing a Sweater: A Guide for Women Over 40 to Look Chic and Not Try-Hard

Sweatshirts have their perks: they’re simple, versatile, and ageless. However, women in their late 30s need to be selective with their choices to avoid a juvenile appearance. To elegantly rejuvenate your look with a sweatshirt, remember the “3 don’ts and 3 dos” rule.

The “3 Don’ts and 3 Dos” Rule for Wearing Sweatshirts Elegantly

1. Don’t: Baggy Fit, Do: Opt for a Tailored Fit

When it comes to choosing a style, the biggest no-no is an oversized, baggy fit. While it may be trendy and unique, and even provide some skin coverage, it’s not a good choice for women in their late 30s.

Instead, opt for a tailored fit that feels comfortable and stylish. Whether it’s a basic round neck or a hoodie, the right fit will make you look younger and optimize your figure, making your body proportions appear more flattering.

An overly baggy sweatshirt can make you look unkempt and take away the elegance that a woman in her late 30s should exude.

A sweatshirt that fits well and isn’t too loose or tight will create a more balanced silhouette.

2. Don’t Overdo It with Embellishments, a Little Goes a Long Way

Since sweatshirts are usually solid-colored, they can be embellished with designs like initials, cartoons, or patterns to make them more interesting. However, as women enter their late 30s, these trendy, embellished sweatshirts may not be the best choice.

Instead, opt for subtle designs on the chest, sleeves, or back. Keep it small and sophisticated.

While vibrant patterns may suit someone in their twenties, they can be a bit much for a woman in her late 30s.

Subtle patterns are the way to go for women in their late 30s, as they can easily “hack” their age without going overboard.

3. Don’t Go for Flashy Colors, Stick to Basics

When choosing colors, avoid flashy shades like yellow, green, or red. While they may be eye-catching and vibrant, they don’t suit the late 30s demographic.

Instead, opt for basic, soft colors that are more versatile and complementary to your innate elegance. Besides the classic black, white, gray, and earth tones, explore Morandi colors, which brighten the skin and flatter your figure.

Flashy colors can easily make a mature woman look like she’s trying too hard to be youthful.

Soft, basic colors are not only easier to style but also more suitable for mature women.

3 Techniques for a More Refined Look in Your Late 30s

1. Beyond Pants: Pair with Skirts for a Chic Edge

While pairing sweatshirts with pants is common, it can be rather mundane and requires a certain level of fashion sense to pull off stylishly. If not done right, you may end up looking too plain and ordinary.

Try something different by pairing your sweatshirt with a skirt, and embrace your feminine side to add a unique twist to your style.

While sweatshirts and athletic pants are a go-to combo, switch things up with a skirt for a softer yet youthful vibe.

A-line skirts are a perfect match for sweatshirts.

2. Layer with a Knit Scarf for a Cozy, Fashionable Look

As a basic style, sweatshirts demand more attention to detail when creating an outfit to avoid looking plain and to showcase your fashion sense. This year, layer your sweatshirt with a trendy knit scarf.

Draped over your shoulders, the scarf adds a cozy layering element, elevating your sweatshirt from ordinary to fashionable, showcasing your refined taste.

Knit scarves are the perfect layering accessory for sweatshirts this fall.

3. Accessorize to Elevate Your Look

Although small, accessories can make a big impact. When wearing a sweatshirt, consider statement earrings to enhance your aura and a patterned bag to add a touch of sophistication to your overall look, exuding class and elegance.

Choosing the right accessories with your sweatshirt is key to transforming this basic piece into a fashionable ensemble.