I spent an afternoon diving into designer fall 2023 ready-to-wear collections, searching for stylish looks that women over 40 can confidently wear. It turned out to be more challenging than expected.
High-fashion has always been a bit impractical for everyday wear, but this season took it to another level. Designers embraced extreme oversized silhouettes, bubble sleeves, sheer fabrics, and bold textures—alongside some uninspiring pantsuits for balance. Stella McCartney’s furry dresses were baffling, Marc Jacobs’ no-pants looks were amusing, and Tom Ford’s glitter-heavy designs seemed risky for daylight wear.
Despite the extravagance, I found a few runway-inspired outfits that real women can pull off. The outfits below are based on fall 2023 ready-to-wear collections, which are meant to be produced and sold, though they often appear in a more experimental form on the runway before being toned down for retail. Since fashion operates ahead of the calendar, fall and winter styles typically debut in spring, labeled as AW (autumn/winter), while spring and summer (SS) collections are showcased in the fall.
You might wonder why I bother with runway fashion if so much of it is impractical. The reason is simple: inspiration. Even the most over-the-top designs can spark fresh ideas for styling, color combinations, and silhouettes. My hope is that you’ll find something here that resonates with your personal style.
A fitted, monochrome suit is a timeless power look—sophisticated, confident, and effortlessly stylish. This ensemble strikes the perfect balance: a modest skirt length, structured shoulders without being overwhelming, and a flattering V-neckline. To recreate it, pair a well-fitted pencil skirt with a blazer or peplum top. Complete the look with a structured work bag, heeled loafers, gloves, and sheer black tights. While Versace’s version is all one color, you can mix hues and still achieve the same polished effect.
Another standout look from Versace features a full A-line skirt, a sleek top, a structured handbag, and gladiator-style footwear. While this might not be office-appropriate, it’s perfect for a night out. The biggest challenge in recreating this outfit is the shoes—gladiator sandals can sometimes feel too youthful. A great alternative is an ankle bootie with a similar strappy vibe.
Diane Von Furstenberg continues to champion the wrap dress, a classic that remains a wardrobe staple. A knit wrap midi dress in a rich color is perfect for date nights—just add a pair of stilettos for an effortlessly elegant look. While the original DVF dress costs $558, more affordable alternatives exist. Lulu’s offers a burgundy midi wrap dress for $69 and a chic black version for $49. Pair either with heels that highlight your ankles for a flattering finish.
A versatile dress that works for both the office and evening events is a must-have. This particular style is fitted but not too tight, striking the right balance between professional and stylish. If you can’t find one with built-in embellishments, opt for a simple black sheath dress and add a statement necklace. Finish the look with classic pumps and a sleek clutch.
The tie-neck blouse has shed its outdated reputation and is now a go-to for fashion-forward women. It’s essentially a blouse and scarf in one, making it both stylish and practical. H&M Studio pairs it with masculine trousers and an overcoat for a chic, work-ready look. Swap the trousers for a pencil skirt, and you’re ready for an evening out.
Sacai offers another polished yet modern outfit featuring bold white pants—yes, even in a fall collection. It’s time to retire the outdated rule about avoiding white after Labor Day.
Polo Ralph Lauren’s classic blazer and button-down combination is another timeless choice. To make it your own, look for affordable pieces online. A blue Oxford shirt with white collar and cuffs can be tricky to find, so a baby blue neck scarf can add a similar pop of color. Adjust the blazer length to flatter your body shape—generally, you want to avoid a hemline that cuts across your widest area.
Runway fashion isn’t just for models—it can inspire stylish, wearable outfits at any age. The key is to take elements that work for you and adapt them to fit your lifestyle. Think of it as a creative challenge, using high-fashion ideas to refine your personal style. When you put together an outfit that makes you feel confident, you’ll know you’ve nailed it—whether you’re heading to a meeting or just strutting down the grocery store aisle.