As the music pulsates and the strobe lights flash, the thrill of clubbing takes over – an experience that’s not limited by age. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or simply enjoying a night out with friends, don’t let anyone discourage you from embracing the excitement. Of course, it’s natural to want to look your absolute best, but comfort is also key, especially as we navigate life beyond 40.
I firmly believe in dressing according to one’s strengths and body type, yet often see women over 40 settling for attire that makes them appear older than they truly are. They tend to shy away from bold colors and patterns, opting instead for more subdued looks that can easily get lost in the night. Sometimes all it takes is a little nudge (and some creative styling) to realize that the perfect club outfit has been hiding in plain sight – right in your own closet.
To help you shine, we’ve curated 18 stylish yet sophisticated club outfits that will leave you feeling ravishing and elegant.
What to Wear Clubbing For Forty Plus Women
When it comes to dressing well, there are a few essential guidelines to keep in mind. Firstly, avoid clothing that is too tight or form-fitting unless you have an hourglass figure – it’s all about confidence and self-expression. Secondly, don’t feel pressured to follow the latest fashion trends popular among younger generations. Instead, opt for outfits that exude polish without being overly formal.
A great pair of shoes can also instantly elevate a bland ensemble, making it look stylish and put-together. Most importantly, remember to have fun with your wardrobe choices and be willing to step out of your comfort zone. After all, life is short – so why not wear those party pants you’ve been saving for special occasions?
↓ 18 – 40 & Fabulous!
Before you start, it’s essential to understand your personal style and what makes you feel confident and expressive through your clothing choices. Your wardrobe is a reflection of your personality, so don’t settle for anything less than fabulous. To achieve this level of fashion expertise, start with a timeless piece like a round-neck dress with flared hem and sleeveless design. Add some sophistication with pointed heels and a matching handbag to elevate the overall look.
For a more relaxed vibe, let your hair down and consider adding a bold lip color like red for an added touch of glamour.
↓ 17 – Date Night at the Club
Looking to elevate your weekend or commemorate a special occasion? Why not push your boundaries and treat yourself to a stylish pick-me-up? A sleek evening dress is the perfect way to add some much-needed self-affirmation to your routine, guaranteed to leave you feeling confident and beautiful. To take it to the next level, pair the dress with a long-line blazer for a polished look that’s sure to turn heads.
And don’t forget to add some extra flair with a statement ring and on-trend shades – after all, little details can make all the difference in completing your outfit.
↓ 16 – Kill It
When it comes to elevating an outfit, open-arm blazers are the perfect way to do so. They can instantly transform your look from ordinary to extraordinary. Pairing them with heels and a fun clutch can create a stylish ensemble that’s perfect for both clubbing and dinner dates. The combination of a statement blazer and bold shoes is a timeless classic that always works well together.
Additionally, an outfit featuring only black and white tones can be both bold and elegant, making it suitable for various occasions. For instance, you could rock this look at your next night out on the town and turn heads with your sophisticated style. Similarly, a neutral pink blazer would also create a stunning combination with white, and adding a metallic clutch would add an extra touch of glamour. Do consider trying this look as well.
↓ 15 – Girls’ Night Out
There’s something special about kicking off the weekend surrounded by your closest girlfriends. While it’s true that getting together with your girls is a chance to socialize and have fun, it’s also an opportunity to showcase your sense of style and prove you’re still got it going on – even as you get older. As women enter their 40s, they often feel the need to dress up more to stay competitive in the fashion game.
So, why not go all out and choose a glamorous outfit with a bold statement piece of jewelry? Keep your makeup look understated, but still polished. If you’re looking for inspiration, be sure to check out ’20 Best Dressing Styles for 40 Plus Women’ – a great resource to help you stay on top of your fashion game.
↓ 14 – Super Casual at the Club
To achieve an effortlessly chic look, all it takes is under 5 minutes. One effective way to elevate a simple black shirt is to pair it with sleek trousers that add a touch of luxury – think silky or high-end fabrics. This contrast will beautifully balance the relaxed vibe of the top. For added polish, consider adding accessories like a stylish belt or designer bag. Earrings can also lend a sophisticated touch. Alternatively, opt for a flowy floral dress and let your natural charm shine through.
↓ 13 – Club Outfit with Culottes Pants
Culottes pants are a game-changer when it comes to comfort and style. Their versatility allows you to easily take them from day to night, whether you’re heading to the club or just running errands. The volume created by wide legs adds a playful touch to any outfit, while the cropped hem provides an opportunity to showcase your favorite shoes. For example, a pair of beautiful nude heels can add a sophisticated finishing touch.
To elevate this look further, try pairing the culottes with a silk shirt and adding a pop of color with a red handbag or accessory. While a watch would be a nice addition, it’s not necessary – the outfit is already well-balanced and stylish. And let’s be honest, everything does look better in red!
↓ 12 – 40 Plus Celebrity at the Club
As I’ve added this column to the article, I’m reminded that there’s no need for women to over-dress when heading out to clubs. The reality is that even celebrities like Katherine Heigl and Malin Akerman, who are now in their 40s, opt for chic yet understated styles while socializing. When you’re younger, you’re naturally drawn to things that feel new or different, experimenting with bold statements as you navigate your personal style.
However, as you mature, you develop a greater sense of what works for you and what doesn’t, becoming more confident in your choices. While it’s essential to strike the right balance between elegance and youthful flair, simplicity can also be incredibly effective. In fact, some of the most stylish women opt for understated designs that exude confidence rather than trying to make a bold statement. Long boots can even add a touch of sophistication to any outfit.
↓ 11 – Formal yet Chic
When celebrating with colleagues after work, break free from your usual formal attire and have fun with fashion! A pink knee-length dress is the perfect canvas for experimenting with trends. Add a bold belt and a stylish bag that complements each other rather than clashing. Let your hair down and refresh your makeup for a polished look. Elevate the outfit with classy heels if you can pull off the transition from work to play.
And don’t worry about grey hair – it only adds to the sophisticated charm, so consider skipping dyes altogether.
↓ 10 – Glitz and Glam
Red has taken on a new level of significance, transcending its traditional role as a bold accent to become a staple in many modern wardrobes. Whether you opt for a head-to-toe monochrome look or incorporate it as a pop of color into an otherwise minimalist ensemble, the key is to choose trends that flatter your personal style. To create a chic outfit, consider pairing a pair of red pants with a vibrant printed blouse – the goal is coordination rather than competition.
Add some trendy accessories and you’re ready for a photo shoot-worthy moment.
↓ 9 – Night Clubs
Get ready to make a statement! A show-stopping dress is a wardrobe essential that instantly elevates any outfit. When selecting the perfect dress, consider a knee-length option that balances sophistication and fun, catering to your age group. To complete the look, don’t forget to add some flair with a fabulous hairstyle – curls are always a great match for dresses.
↓ 8 – Show off your Skin
There’s nothing wrong with showcasing a little skin – after all, what are clubs for if not to have fun and maybe even break a few hearts? To achieve this effortless style, try pairing a simple yet chic dress with an unexpected twist. This could be achieved through an off-the-shoulder design, unique material or statement embellishments.
For a truly show-stopping take on this look, consider swapping traditional bottoms for floral trousers – they’re sure to elevate your outfit and make you stand out from the crowd (as seen in the image below). To add a touch of sophistication, accessorize with elegant loop earrings that complete your overall look.
↓ 7 – Ageless Fashion
Embracing experimentation is a hallmark of youthful energy, and there’s no exception in the world of fashion. The thrill of trying new things keeps us feeling fresh and vibrant. When it comes to accessorizing, don’t be afraid to add a pop of personality with a statement neckpiece. Just remember to balance your outfit by choosing a design that flatters your figure without revealing too much skin.
Meanwhile, highlight your best feature with a bold lip color or styling your hair in a way that makes you feel confident and radiant.
↓ 6 – Plus Size 40+
The plus-size fashion industry is making significant strides towards inclusivity. To cultivate confidence in your wardrobe, prioritize garments that make you feel empowered and comfortable. If desired, incorporate shapewear to subtly enhance your silhouette. For a striking evening look, select an outfit that accentuates your curves and celebrate them with confidence! A belted waist or a statement piece like a cut-shoulder top paired with a shimmering skirt can create a show-stopping ensemble.
To elevate the overall aesthetic, add a pair of sleek patent loafers. Finally, finish off the look with a pop of color from a lip gloss, such as Fenty Beauty’s popular formula.
↓ 5 – Accessorize Accordingly
There’s something truly special about elevating a simple outfit with a stylish accessory or two. Fashion has a remarkable ability to transform our everyday look into a statement-making ensemble. By incorporating accessories like belts, jewelry, handbags, and hats, we can effortlessly add depth and personality to our overall style. Take, for instance, the way this woman carries herself – it’s as if her confidence is reflected in every detail of her outfit.
I wholeheartedly endorse both of these evening looks, perfect for a night out at the club.
↓ 4 – Dresses Go a Long Way
Creating a stylish outfit for a night out at clubs can be a challenge. To avoid looking too formal when wearing a long dress, keep any embellishments subtle and opt for a comfortable design. The versatility of a dress makes it an easy choice to carry off, and a striking pattern will certainly turn heads in the crowd. Meanwhile, statement earrings are a must-have accessory that adds a touch of glamour to your overall look.
↓ 3 – Pair with Black
When heading to a party where beer spills are likely, dressing strategically is crucial. Black remains the timeless choice for club outings, as it’s sure to never go out of style. While I’d suggest incorporating colorful accessories to add visual interest, finishing with a swipe of black liquid liner provides a cool and effortlessly chic vibe. For a casual night out, low-heeled ankle boots are perfect – they exude a sense of sophistication without being too formal.
Adding a scarf creates subtle volume, while pearl earrings provide an elegant touch. The overall look is polished and put-together, as demonstrated by the Instagram-worthy red nail polish.
↓ 2 – Cheetah/Leopard Print at the Club
When it comes to pulling off bold animal prints, it can be overwhelming to decide how to style them. However, embracing the daring and mixing and matching different pieces is now a widely accepted approach. To ease into this trend, pairing the print with neutral elements like black clothing can create a chic and cohesive look.
For those who want to dip their toes into the trend without fully committing, there’s a solution: many of the season’s greatest accessories feature animal-inspired designs. Adding a bold pop of color, such as bright red lipstick, can bring the entire outfit together.
↓ 1 – You Go Girl!
Embrace your inner power by being unapologetically yourself. For many women, their smile is their most powerful accessory. When it comes to accessorizing, a stylish handbag with a chain can add a touch of sophistication to any outfit. Its versatility also makes it an excellent choice for both casual and formal events. Stripes are another versatile print that never go out of style. They’re perfect for creating a polished look that’s easy to pair with other pieces in your wardrobe.
To take your outfit to the next level, add a touch of glamour with a statement shirt that shows just the right amount of skin. And remember, it’s okay to let loose and have fun – life is too short to not enjoy yourself! See you again soon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What do you wear to a club at 40?
When it comes to dressing for a night out at the club, a sultry and seductive outfit is a must-have. For women, a dress is often the go-to choice – think flowy A-line dresses, body-hugging bodycon dresses, or daring slit dresses that show off your toned legs. If you don’t have a dress in your wardrobe or prefer not to wear one, a blouse paired with formal pants or a pair of high-waisted jeans and a cheeky crop or tank top can still make for a stylish and alluring ensemble.
Q. What should a 40 year old woman wear for a night out?
When it comes to night outs, we often find ourselves wanting to make a stylish impression. These special events provide an opportunity to dress up and feel like the boss. A classic combination would be a sleek black blazer paired with formal pants, exuding confidence and sophistication. Alternatively, a chic jumpsuit with heels can create a glamorous look, while a pencil skirt with a crisp collared shirt offers a timeless and polished appearance.
