Fashion writer Joanne Hegarty, contributing to The Chic List in YOU Magazine, says age should not stop personal style, but some cuts and fits are less flattering on a 40-something frame. In her latest column, she identifies five trends she plans to avoid this season and offers practical alternatives for readers who want to stay current without sacrificing comfort or proportion.
First, knee-length Capri pants are out for many women over 40. Short here means knee length, and Hegarty argues the cut can look unflattering on mature silhouettes. A more flattering approach is to choose crops that hit above the ankle and pair them with something structured, such as a blazer or a leather jacket, to balance the line. Second, the hit-the-knee skirt—an autumn staple with a 90s vibe—reads as frumpy on older figures, she notes. The suggested substitutions are midi pencil skirts or shorter minis worn with opaque tights and knee-high boots for a sharper, age-conscious silhouette. Third, fitted short sleeves on tops or dresses can draw attention to the upper arms. The columnist advocates sleeveless or full-length sleeves as more flattering options. Fourth, tight or skinny jeans, once a go-to, are described as less comfortable for mature bodies. She favors denim with more room to move and avoids the all-snug look that “knee faces.” Fifth, trainers worn with dresses—an experiment that felt edgy for a younger audience—are deemed better reserved for exercise and casual outings. For dresses, a pointed flat, a low heel, or a chic sandal is recommended.
The column also touches on seasonally minded styling cues and product notes, illustrating how readers can adapt these ideas in real outfits. It cites items such as a blazer by LouLou de Saison, a skirt from Cos, sunglasses by Saint Laurent, a belt by Zimmermann, a bag by Demellier, and shoes by Khaite as examples of the kinds of pieces that align with age-aware styling. Layering ideas appear in accompanying styling notes, including a burgundy cape layered over a light roll neck and a leather pencil skirt for a sleek autumn/winter look, and the use of snake-print kitten heels to elevate new-season outfits.
Beyond the piece’s specific guidance for trends, readers also see contemporary examples of how designers and celebrities navigate style after 40. For instance, actress Ayo Edebiri, known for her role on The Bear, was spotted at the Venice Film Festival in balloon trousers paired with a Chanel ensemble. The moment underscores how high-fashion houses are balancing comfort and proportion, a theme echoed in Hegarty’s recommendations.
Overall, The Chic List column emphasizes that fashion can be joyful at any age, so long as cuts, fits, and proportions are thoughtfully considered. The piece, originally published in YOU Magazine and syndicated through Daily Mail platforms, reflects a broader trend in culture and entertainment coverage toward age-inclusive style discourse. While trends evolve, readers are encouraged to adapt while prioritizing ease of movement, confidence, and personal taste, rather than chasing every new silhouette.