Leveling Up

For most women, the 40s are about hitting your stride in work and life — leveling up to the mega promotion, being Supermom, becoming that budding philanthropist. It’s also a time when women come into their own, making it easier to embrace philosophies like “less is more” and practice a general state of letting go. It’s a magical decade when life performs at peak levels, which is the ideal time to up your wardrobe game. Here are 5 tips to ensure you look your best for some of life’s sweetest moments:

1. Signature style
   The 40s is when women embrace who they really are, which should also apply to their personal style. Now is the time to determine a signature look that represents your authentic self, so figure out what makes you you and lean in to it — a unique accessory, a certain shape or maybe it’s a particular color. Whatever it is, own it and stick with it.

2. Uniform dressing
   Time is the ultimate commodity and uniform dressing is a smart trick that will keep you chic and punctual. First determine your power silhouette by considering your best fit, proportion, colors and shapes. Next, build a capsule wardrobe to support it — 2 jackets, 4 bottoms and up to 5 tops that yield over 40 outfit combinations. Be sure to consider your signature style throughout to ensure all looks are cohesive and personalized. Keeping with this formula will save on time and money, allowing you to focus on what matters most — firing on all cylinders.

3. Multi-function, multi-purpose wardrobe
   Ladies, it’s time to win the race against the clock by outsmarting it. Multi-function, multi-purpose clothes allow you to win this game time and time again. Find intelligent garments that transition in both function and attitude, allowing you to seamlessly transition from desk-to-dinner with style and ease. The EveryBody Wrap® is perfection when it comes to all-in-one dressing, but of course I’m biased (see swimsuit worn as bodysuit in cover photo).

4. Investment pieces
   Now that you’ve simplified your wardrobe, it’s time to focus on investment pieces. Midlife is the perfect time to acquire timeless statement pieces that add flair and interest to your look. For the working woman, consider a power suit (hello, Chanel), diamond stud earrings or a designer handbag. For the Supermom, maybe it’s a shearling winter coat, yummy cashmere sweaters or a statement boot. And for the budding philanthropist, a designer LBD goes a long way (read: Dolce & Gabbana). Regardless, it’s time to make every purchase count by being selective and smart. Start thinking quality over quantity, ladies.

5. Easy care fabrics
   Machine washable, wrinkle-free fabrics will simplify your life, so consider care instructions with every purchase. Many apparel brands are designing businesswear in easy care performance fabrics which is (thankfully) becoming the modern day alternative to dry cleaning. Knits are also ideal wardrobe fabrics because they are breathable, packable, great for layering, easy care and typically wrinkle-free.

See BestLifeOnline.com press feature here.