15 Summer 2024 Fashion Trends For Women Over 40

As we get older, it seems like it gets harder to keep up with fashion trends. Not only does what's hot seem to change so quickly now — thanks to the likes of social media and an ever-accessible news cycle telling us about the latest looks — but it's also harder to invest the time, effort, and money into staying ahead of the game. Following the latest fashion can be particular tough in our 40s, when we're trying to balance work, family time, and so many other commitments. There's not exactly a lot of time left over to scroll the internet and find out which shoes are in and which aren't. If that sounds like you, then you've come to the right place. 

We know you're busy and don't want to spend hours sorting through hot new trends, especially ones designed for 20-year-olds that you'd never actually wear. So, we did all the hard work for you! We've rounded up some of the biggest summer 2024 fashion trends you can rock at any age, hand-picking the very best in everything from clothing, colors, and accessories. With this list, you can spend the hotter months looking absolutely fabulous in the most stylish (yet still practical) trends of the season.

Love it or hate it, summer 2024 is bringing back yet another return of all-denim ensembles(as we warned). We love this look because it can be super comfortable and also easier than you think to pull off. Not to mention, when the fit is right, denim can actually be really flattering. Hey, it's a classic for a reason! For summer, we'd recommend a cool and casual denim jumpsuit to beat the heat, or a denim skirt with a denim jacket for those cooler summer nights.

Sometimes, when you're over 40, there are occasions when you want an outfit that's more comfortable than super fashionable. But high-rise (aka high-waisted) pants offer both this summer. Super high bottoms are set to be in as the temperature rises, and, we can't lie, we're kinda happy to see the back of the 2023 low-rise trend, which was more suited to Gen X than anyone who was around when low-rise jeans were first trendy in the 2000s.

Another trendy material keeping you "cool for the summer" (in the words of Demi Lovato) is crochet. Though crochet has a bad rep for being super see-through, it's not always so revealing. If you want something with a little more coverage in your 40s, opt for a crochet maxi dress that's closely woven. It's a little more modest but still totally modern and fashionable.

Though there's nothing wrong with flashing a little skin in booty shorts at any time of life, in your 40s, sometimes longer shorts are just a little more chic and confidence boosting. That's why long shorts are the perfect summer 2024 fashion trend if you're in your fourth decade. Long shorts are super versatile because you can rock more tailored bottoms to the office when you need to beat the heat, but opt for something slouchier and lighter on those fun summer days out. Oh how we love an easily wearable and practical trend!

Floral prints are also set to be hot for summer 2024, which is music to our ears because they can be so universally flattering and versatile, as well as being an easy-to-wear classic. How you wear your floral prints is totally up to you, but if you're more petite, a smaller print may be more flattering as it will be more in proportion with your body. If you're a gorgeous plus-size fashionista, then try a larger print to keep your silhouette more balanced.

If you're anything like us, you'll be thrilled to know that the pajama aesthetic is back in for summer 2024. You may remember that pajama-inspired clothing was a big trend in 2021, and now it's returned, in all it's comfortable oversized and slouchy glory. One way to do the trend is to get your hands in a cute vertical striped two-piece (a button-down shirt and shorts works great) in a summer-friendly fabric like silk or linen, so you'll really keep cool in the heat.

We know, we know. When you hear metallic clothing, you probably think of a 20-something at a festival, rocking a super skimpy crop top. But hear us out on this shimmery summer trend. There are plenty of ways to bring metallics into your wardrobe in your 40s, and one of the most elegant is a metallic midi-skirt. Something pleated and flowy is very flattering and a great way to inject a little fun into an outfit, too. Pair it with a white t-shirt for a more casual look, or a fitted black square neck top for something dressier.

You may remember that the tenniscore aesthetic was a big trend last summer, and it's not letting up this year, either. This trend literally goes from our head to our toes, since tennis-esque sneakers will be in for the heat of 2024 (and ready to give us all the comfort we need). Think light colors and footwear that's more slim (not too bulky as chunky sneakers are out, remember) to get this look.

It's time to bring a little sparkle to your shoes! For summer 2024, embellished shoes are in, and in your 40s, a little extra something on your footwear is a solid way to add some bling to your look without it being too distracting. Embellished flats or sandals are perfect if you prefer to dress for comfort. If you're a fan of a heel, try a shimmering stiletto to add some glam to your hot weather wardrobe.

Also set to be hot as the temperature rises this summer is thong footwear. This trend is one we're particularly excited about, because it's so versatile. Thong footwear can literally include anything from the most simple, basic flip-flop (which goes with almost everything) to a cute wedge summer sandal. It's super easy to be on trend with this style without really having to think about it.

We're thrilled to tell you that the Mary Jane shoe trend we saw in 2023 is back for summer 2024. The reason? Because they're just so darn comfortable and go with so many different outfits. We've already looked at several different ways you can style Mary Janes, but much of their versatility comes from their ability to be worn with bare feet, socks, or hosiery. Perfect for those who suffer from things like blisters or those who just don't want to be without socks in the summer.

There are plenty of hot colors trending for summer 2024, but daffodil yellow is one of the most popular. Wearing the super vibrant shade will instantly bring a sunny, summer vibe to any outfit (whether you're wearing yellow clothes or rocking a fun accessory). It's also a very accessible way for people of any age to have some fun with their look without too much planning or effort. Why not incorporate the shade into your swimwear for the summer?

We love when there's a trend that's super easy to do, and the summer 2024 pop-of-red movement is one of those. This hot look is literally as easy as it sounds, since all it involves is wearing a simple outfit (black usually works best, but, in the summer, white may be the way to go) with the addition of one bright red accessory. The best part? A lot of people in their 40s will probably already have at least one red accessory lying around somewhere, so this should be quick and easy to pull off.

Yet another way to be on trend in the hotter months is to ditch your plastic rimmed sunglasses and pick up a pair with metal frames instead. That means embracing styles like classic aviators and thinner, rounder glasses. Not to mention, sunglasses with a gold, silver, bronze, or a rose gold edge can instantly make any outfit look that little bit more expensive.

Say sayonara to structured pocketbooks and hello to slouchy bags. This trend is a big favorite of ours because, as we get a little older, we tend to find that super rigid bags without a lot of movement just don't cut it anymore. But a big slouchy bag will be your best friend when it comes to carrying all your belongings (and those of your nearest and dearest). It's great news, seeing as these all-purpose bags are trending for the summer.