Women in their 40s should embrace trends—it’s a hill I’m willing to die on. Keeping up with style and trends in fashion or beauty keeps things fresh and modern, making us feel part of a society that insists we’re aging out of it. I promptly retired the skinny jeans in favor of barrel pants, upgraded my no-show socks, and kept my ankles warm all winter—what a perk! With that said, I don’t think the task is to jump on every trend, because there are certain ones that just don’t earn a spot in my real-life rotation.
Call it wisdom, experience, or just simply knowing what works, but this season, there are trends I’m skipping, not because style has an age expiration date but because I think we can do better. Here are my picks for what to skip and what to invest in instead for this season.
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Skipping: Jelly Sandals
I’m skipping jelly sandals this time around. I’m old enough that I’ve already worn them, loved them, and moved on. As fun as they are in theory, they don’t offer the comfort, support, or staying power I’m looking for right now.
Wearing Instead: Mesh Ballet Flats
Instead, I’m reaching for the mesh or woven ballet flats I’ve had since last season that are still very much on trend. Both feel a little more elevated but still easy, with better structure and comfort for all-day wear. I own these mesh flats in several colors and can report they are incredibly comfortable and work with any spring outfit.
Skipping: Bandana Print
Whenever I spot a trend that ends up everywhere instantly, I feel like it’s going to fade just as quickly. While I did buy a pair of these paisley print jeans, I don’t think I’m going to be adding a lot of bandana-inspired prints to my wardrobe.
Wearing Instead: Silk Scarves
Instead, I have been loving the addition of a silky scarf, especially for spring and summer as a headpiece, tied around a tote for some extra flair, or to add visual interest to a neutral outfit. Plus, you can wear it as a bathing suit cover-up, too! We love a multipurpose fashion item.
Skipping: Polka Dots
Polka dots are having a moment, but they’re also everywhere right now—which is exactly why I’m passing on them. I’d rather invest in timeless silhouettes and versatile tops that won’t feel dated after one season, but instead work year after year with a simple swap of accessories or layers. Plus, as a serial outfit repeater, polka dots are just too memorable and won’t quite work as a capsule item.
Wearing Instead: Stripes
Instead, I’m leaning into stripes, which are more wearable and timeless, in my opinion. Bonus points for striped knit tops, which are also having a moment right now. Plus, you can wear them again in the fall!
Skipping: Peplum Tops
Maybe it’s because I spent way too much time wearing business casual outfits to the club back in the day, but peplum tops and chunky necklaces will not be making a return to my closet.
Wearing Instead: Structured ’90s-Style Tops
Instead, I’m opting for structured, ’90s-style tops that feel chic and effortless. These tonal tops with clean lines, subtle tailoring, and silhouettes work with everything already in your closet. These strike that perfect balance between polished and relaxed, making even the simplest jeans-and-sneakers combo feel intentional.
Skipping: Capri Pants
Capri pants are the pant of the season, but I’m sitting this one out. Capri pants are hard to style for everyday life, and I just can’t imagine making them work for my kids’ school drop-off or pick-up. Despite a few “It” girls that do manage to make capris look amazing, for everyday mom life, they are not on my radar.
Wearing Instead: Linen Pants
Instead, I’m reaching for linen pants that feel elevated and effortless and much more doable for everyday. They can be paired with a linen button-down or a tee and still work all season long.
Skipping: Satin Sneakers
I’m skipping satin sneakers in favor of colorful, fun sneakers for practicality, not necessarily fashion. I can’t imagine trying to keep satin sneakers clean on the playground or soccer field.
Wearing Instead: Colorful Sneakers
Instead, I’m opting for low-profile (another easy-to-incorporate trend), colorful sneakers as a way to add a pop of color and visual interest to casual outfits. I’m also loving Mary-Jane sneakers, which feel like a great compromise and totally on trend in 2026.
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The Everygirl Media Group has brought valuable content to our readers for 12+ years. In 2018, The Everymom set out to ensure that all moms know they’re not alone. If you find yourself seeking advice on how to style the latest fashion trend or searching for the best kid-friendly coffee table, we have the answers. And if you’re wondering what’s actually worth it from a sale or looking for a review of the hottest new kids’ product, we’ve got that covered too. From our annual Registry Awards and beloved holiday gift guides to the shopping round-ups you find on our site every day, The Everymom commerce team is well-versed in sifting through thousands of products to curate a digestible list for you. We combine our own experience with in-depth research to bring you a selection that meets our high standards for both fashion and function.
Alina Orozco, Commerce Editor
Alina Orozco is the Commerce Editor at The Everymom, where she combines her editorial experience with a love for finding products that make everyday life easier and more stylish. To The Everymom, Alina brings over 10+ years of editorial publishing and digital storytelling experience, as well as snippets of her real-life mom style, making fashion trends accessible and fun for every mom. She now lives in a cozy beach town in Southern California with her husband and their two boys, but she’ll always be a Philly girl at heart.
Feature images credited to Leah Tackaberry | Dupe Photos. Products included in graphics linked within the article.
