The Best Accessory Trends Over 40

Most women wouldn’t dream of getting dressed without accessories. I mean, we’re not neanderthals. We have standards. 🙂 And accessories are definitely the spice of life. Or at least of an outfit. Which is essentially the same thing.

Growing up, my mom focused at least as much on what I wore with my clothes as the actual clothes themselves. Accessories, especially shoes and jewelry, were critical to every look. And there’s a definite shift in accessories this year.

Shoes and bags have continued to hog the spotlight (along with clothes) in recent years, but jewelry has taken a back seat. This year, however, that has changed, with statement jewelry like chokers and shoulder-duster earrings getting their share of press.

Of course everything mentioned here is in this catalog.

Here, some of the chic-est, most wearable (in most cases) and most relevant accessory trends of 2023 for women over 40.

Stilettos

Don’t shoot the messenger. Even if she is excited because this is her very favorite style of shoe. Stilettos, and especially pointy-toe pumps, are having a moment this year, although for some of us they never really went anywhere. If these are out of the question for you (as they are for many of my clients), you’ll skip this of course, but if stilettos intrigue you (even for short spurts of time), then you’ll find plenty to choose from this year. Here, a few of my faves:

Knee High Boots

While we will continue to see lug sole boots and short boots and booties, the boot of the year is undoubtedly the knee-high boots. Whether you prefer a riding boot, a cowboy boot, or a sleek stiletto boot, there is something for everyone, and at every heel height and type, from flats to wedges to pointy heels.

Shoulder Duster Earrings

Long dangly earrings are a key trend this year, and show up in delicate and statement versions alike. They are a pretty alternative to a necklace (I usually wouldn’t wear both) and elevate any outfit.

Corsages

The flower motif, particularly the rose, shows up everywhere this season, and reminds me of it’s last big moment in the early 2000s Sex & The City Era. From fabric corsages to rosy adornments on dresses, bags, and blouses, you’ll find a rose for almost any personal style.

Statement Sunglasses

One of the most wearable trends on this list, sunglasses combine practicality and style. They are an instant outfit elevator, a great substitute for eye makeup, and of course protect your eyes from the elements. This season, we’re seeing oversized statement styles in pretty colors and strong shapes.

Chokers

After years of delicate necklaces, chunky chains, statement styles, and chokers are making a comeback. This pretty style is best reserved for ladies who don’t mind the emphasis on the neck, but if that’s you, you’ll find lots of pretty styles to choose from this year.

Bucket Hats

Another trend that combines practicality with style, the bucket hat offers sun protection and an instant outfit update. You’ll find sunny reversible styles and chic leather versions as well. Crochet hats are also having a moment this year.

Wedges

If a stiletto isn’t your kind of heel, a wedge just might be. We have seen this beloved style creep into stores in recent seasons, particularly in the always popular espadrille, but this season, wedges of every description, from slides to sandals, boots to sneakers, are popping up in stores. They offer a wearable way to add height and glamour to an outfit.

Big Bags

After years of teeny-tiny bags, the big back, that workhorse item that many women have never given up, is back in a big way. Pun intended. From gargantuan to merely oversized, there’s a style and size here for every woman.

Ballet Slippers

I’m loving the whole Balletcorps trend this year, with its floaty skirts and body suits and of course, the ballet slippers. When chosen well, this is a key feminine, wearable, and comfortable look of the season.

Which of these trends is your favorite? And which would never dream of wearing? Let me know in the comments!