I'm in My 20s, But Celebs in Their 40s Are Inspiring Me to Try These Timeless Outfits

Fashion isn’t bound by age—it’s all about embracing what feels good, no matter the decade. As a 20-something, I look to women in their 40s like Katie Holmes, Victoria Beckham, and Meghan Markle for inspiration. These style icons prove that chic, effortless looks are timeless. Whether they’re rocking sleek, tailored suits for an important meeting or a casual ensemble for a late-night coffee run, they show us how to make every outfit feel elevated and perfectly put together. And let’s not forget their ability to mix high fashion with everyday staples, giving us all ideas on how to maintain that stylish balance as we age.

The best part? These women aren’t confined by trends—they embrace personal style with confidence. From Kerry Washington’s winter boho chic to Gisele’s effortlessly sleek denim skirt look, these fashion icons make it clear that style is a constant evolution. So, whether you’re in your 20s or 40s, the outfits that inspire us from these celebrities remind us that great fashion transcends age, always staying relevant and exciting.

woman in their 40s fashion trends

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Zoe Saldaña just showcased the power of a crisp monochrome moment, stepping out in a white matching set with effortless elegance. The tailored coat and oversize sunglasses add a hint of drama, while black boots provide a sleek contrast, grounding the look perfectly.

woman in their 40s fashion trends

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Gwyneth Paltrow just redefined quiet luxury with a cropped trench, slouchy trousers, and effortless sneakers. Statement gold jewelry and sleek opticals add the perfect touch of polish to her laid-back elegance.

woman in their 40s fashion trends

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Liya Kebede just mastered effortless tailoring, pairing crisp white pants with a striped shirt and a sharp cropped blazer. Pointed-toe pumps add a polished finish, proving that classic pieces can still feel undeniably fresh.

woman in their 40s fashion trends

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Katie Holmes just made a strong case for rich espresso tones by layering a glossy leather trench over perfectly tailored trousers. An unexpected pop of polka dots in her heels keeps the look effortless, proving that even the most polished ensembles can have a playful twist.

woman in their 40s fashion trends

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Alexa Chung perfected the “off-duty icon” aesthetic by pairing a sharp camel blazer with classic denim and a black blouse. With a nod to a young Harrison Ford, the look is equal parts effortless, timeless, and unmistakably cool.

woman in their 40s fashion trends

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Sienna Miller gives classic suiting a fresh, effortless twist by swapping a traditional shirt for a sleek tuxedo vest. Peep-toe heels and a relaxed pouch keep the three-piece white suit feeling undone in the chicest way possible.

woman in their 40s fashion trends

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Gisele Bündchen made a strong case for the denim midi skirt, choosing a mermaid-esque silhouette that feels both modern and timeless. We love that it’s styled with a sleek gray turtleneck, a classic camel coat, and knee-high boots, as it’s quiet luxury with a cool-girl edge.

woman in their 40s fashion trends

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Jessica Alba just delivered a masterclass in modern power dressing, effortlessly balancing sharp tailoring with elegance. The tuxedo-buttoned shirt and cropped blazer add structure, while the A-line skirt and pumps keep the look sleek and sophisticated.

woman in their 40s fashion trends

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Kerry Washington just served a masterclass in winter boho, pairing a flowing printed maxi with structured staples. A wool coat and knee-high boots add cozy sophistication, while her Aupen bag—and that radiant smile—tie it all together.

Sierra Mayhew
Fashion Editor

Sierra Mayhew is a fashion editor at Who What Wear, bringing a decade of industry experience to the editorial team. Since joining in 2021, she has made her mark by blending luxury and accessible fashion, decoding runway trends, and curating must-have shopping lists. Before joining Who What Wear, Sierra sharpened her skills at Harper's Bazaar and Elle, with bylines in Bazaar.com and collaborated with iconic brands such as Gucci and Ferragamo. A graduate of the University of Notre Dame, Sierra translates editorial expertise into viral social content, making fashion engaging for a new generation. Her unique perspective is rooted in her love for travel, music, and discovering the hidden gems that make New York City a constant source of inspiration.