Age Appropriate Dressing at 40

When a woman turns forty she often forgets to stop shopping in the junior's section at the clothes store. It doesn't matter if your arms and abs are buff, a classy, mature woman shouldn't bare her midriff in clothes suited for a teenager! Tank tops that expose bra straps are also a no-no at any age. A better option is to wear a lacy camisole under a button-down blouse, leaving the top two buttons open (depending on one's cleavage), and the bottom two open to reveal the coordinating cami. Showing a little lace is much more attractive than tan lines.

Whether a woman is full-figured or slim, a tailored jacket worn over a sleeveless blouse works well in the summer heat or when the a/c at work or the mall is blasting. The way to tell if the jacket you are thinking about buying is tailored is to hold it out while it is still on the hanger and look at the back. If there are straight seams down the side, and it has a boxy look to it, put it back on the rack. However if there are what is known as 'princess seams' going down the back in two rows (one under each shoulder blade area), and the sides seem to turn slightly outward, this will be a flattering piece to add to your wardrobe.

I prefer to purchase jackets and dress shirts (also look for princess seams on them) in neutral, solid colors so that I can match a colored skirt or top with it, making for multiple outfits using the same key pieces. A thin stripe or a small monochromatic pattern can also work as a solid if the colors are subtle.

As for skirts, every woman should have each of these style skirts in a solid, neutral color: A-line, pencil, and flair. The A-line skirt is shaped like the letter "A," narrow at the waist, and a gradual widening as it flows toward the hem. The hemline should be no higher than just above the knee. This skirt works well with a top that is tailored, not flouncy. For a fun afternoon shopping or a night out.

The pencil skirt is fitted from waist to knee, and looks stunning with a cami and a fitted jacket. This skirt should fall either above the knee or below. Wearing flat shoes with this look is reminiscent of Audrey Hepburn, but heels will work too. Wear to work or play.

The flair skirt is one of my favorites because it sits close to the body, but has a 'lettuce leaf' hem that ruffles outward, creating a fun, flirty look without showing too much leg. This style looks best just above the knee, with a belted, tailored top, or a ruffled, Caribbean blouse.

Making a few changes to your wardrobe can ultimately change your life. Dressing age appropriate will win you the attention of every gentleman in the room, and the respect from your colleagues at work. Or you can continue wearing 'your daughter's' faded skinny jeans and skimpy tank tops that don't provide enough coverage or class.

Take a minute to view this slide show; it features a few cute separates I'd add to my collection (not crazy about the shoes, though - yuk!): http://www.westfield.com/us/style/askastylist/

I encourage any comments, questions or complaints.