Elegant Accessory Styling Tips Every Woman Over 40 Needs

If you had to describe your dream style with one word, what would it be? If your answer is “elegant,” you’re in the right place! We write a lot on MCO’s site about how you can style looks in a classy and elegant way, but if you want to graduate to the next step, you’re ready to learn more about elegant accessorizing. No matter if you’re in your 20s or 50s, you can use your accessories to complement your classy look. But if you’re in your 40s or above and looking for inspiration created with your sophisticated style in mind, keep ready for tips about elegant accessory styling over 40.

1. silk scarf + white shirt + jeans + handbag + watch + loafers

An easy way to instantly look more elevated and put-together is by styling a monochromatic outfit – and you can apply that same strategy to your accessories, too! Wearing accessories in the same color can make your look appear more intentional – even though it doesn’t take much added effort. In fact, it’s usually easier to choose accessories based on their color palette.

The color you choose also matters! Neutral tones are always a safe bet, but if you want to venture outside your comfort zone, stick to deep shades if you like a more sophisticated look. Burgundy, dark green, and navy are all perfect examples of how to incorporate color while still maintaining an elegant look.

2. cashmere wrap + white tee + trousers + glasses + tote bag + pearls + heels

If you’re over 40 and prefer a timeless look, stick with classic accessories. You can even wear pieces that feel a little bit vintage! This way, the accessories you choose to invest in will never feel outdated. Classic styles are also the perfect investment pieces. You might decide to spend a little bit more on a watch, kitten heels, a cashmere wrap, glasses, etc., because these types of accessories never really go out of style.

Not only are they timeless, but these particular accessories are also ones you can wear regularly – from work to the weekend – to get the most wear possible out of them. For a day at the office, style a cashmere wrap with wide-leg trousers for a professional outfit that’s also extremely comfortable. Then, add in your other pieces – slingback kitten heels, tortoiseshell reading glasses, a leather watch, and a sleek work tote. Pearl stud earrings are the cherry on top.

3. sweater + midi skirt + long necklace + earrings + sunglasses + bag + boots

Styling accessories in an elegant way means that you typically stick to one statement piece that the rest of your accessories complement. This prevents your extra pieces from overwhelming your overall look! For example, if you reach for a statement necklace like the one above, complement the long pendant with accessories in a neutral color palette. It also helps to stick to one type of hardware – in this case, gold it is!

This Parisian-approved look can be recreated with a midi or maxi skirt, ankle boots, small gold earrings, oversized sunglasses, a small handbag, a turtleneck, and of course, your pendant necklace. This style of necklace is slated to be one of the big trends this year, but it’s one that you can also easily wear for years to come if it fits your style personality.

4. shirt + sweater + earrings + necklace + watch + heels

Next up: pearls are in the spotlight. If your dream style could be described as “elegant”, pearls are the perfect accessory to wear over 40. Pearls are dainty, feminine, and classic – they’ll never go out of style. They can dress up your more casual looks or complement an evening gown with ease. No matter what stage of life you’re in, pearls are always an elegant choice.

Because of their sophisticated look, pearls are a prime choice to wear in the office. Stick to small, minimalist pieces that you can wear every day, like a dainty pendant necklace, small hoops, and a pearl-faced watch.

5. red sweater + denim shirt + jeans + glasses + gold earrings + handbag + loafers

denim shirt, jeans, red sweater, glasses, suede bag, chocolate brown shoes

Accessories are the perfect way to add pops of color and texture to your look! If you generally prefer to style outfits based on your tried and true capsule wardrobe pieces, accessories can allow you to add small doses of bright colors, trendy pieces, or textured fabrics to your appearance.

For a fall afternoon at the winery, try styling an all-denim look. Next, use your accessories to incorporate more of your personality into your ensemble. Think a bright red cardigan tied over your shoulders for an eye-catching and French-inspired touch. Next, add texture and depth to your look with chocolate brown loafers and a suede shoulder bag. Finally, finish your look with a fun pair of glasses and small gold earrings. Now you’re ready to enjoy peak fall foliage in ca asual, but still elegant style.

6. vest + pants + bag + earrings + watch + skinny belt + ballet flats

If dressing up is part of your lifestyle, you’ll want to prioritize quality, timeless pieces that can beautifully complement your daily wear. The accessories above have a proven track record in their ability to elevate even your most elegant pieces, like a matching satin vest and trousers.

First, let’s start with the watch. A classy watch is one of my favorite pieces to style because it’s as practical as it is chic. Next, a thin belt helps to add definition to your waistline and provides the perfect amount of contrast with your lighter clothing pieces. Then, go for a pair of ballet flats for a feminine touch. Finally, finish your look with a sleek shoulder bag and simple gold earrings.

7. baseball cap + blazer + sweater + t-shirt + bag + boat shoes

Yes, it is possible to style casual accessories in an elegant way! As always, balance is everything. Although you can certainly wear them with your favorite sweatpants and sweatshirt, you can elevate the look of a baseball cap and leopard print tote with the right clothing.

First, start with a white t-shirt and a blazer. The blazer is the ideal layer for a more elegant look. Then, add dark-wash jeans, which tend to look a little more elevated than lighter-wash styles. Finally, suede boat shoes look enough like loafers to upgrade your footwear, while still being comfortable. Then, add in your casual accessories like a colorful baseball cap and a printed tote to tie it all together for a casual chic vibe. Whether you’re in your 30s or 50s, this is a great outfit formula to save for your casual fall Saturdays!

8. sunglasses + straw hat + earrings + shirtdress + woven bag + flats

black dress, hat, loafers, basket bag, earrings, sunglasses

Do you feel like you’re living your best life in the summertime? This next outfit idea is for all of you who name summer as your favorite season! You can embrace an elegant look in warm weather with the right accessories.

First, try styling a monochromatic look with both your dress and accessories. If you choose black, this also creates a flattering, slimming effect. Next, reach for seasonal pieces that also add texture to your outfit. Think woven flats, a straw hat, and a textured handbag. Finally, don’t forget your trendy oval sunglasses and a pair of gold stud earrings to round out your look that’s as cool as it is elevated for a hot summer’s day.

Year-Round Elegance

With the help of your accessories, you can style elegant looks all year long. Whatever your personal style may be, accessories can help incorporate your personality into every outfit you put on. And whether you prefer a classic look with nostalgic pieces, or you like to play around with trends now and again, accessories can be a great way to add variety to your favorite capsule wardrobe styles. You can get your most authentic and elegant style yet over 40 with the help of your accessories!

Want to learn more about how to shop for and style silk scarves? Read our latest post on this elegant accessory here: Your New Favorite Accessory: A Guide to Women’s Scarves