3 Easy Outfit Formulas Every Woman Over 40 Should Know

If getting dressed feels harder than it used to, you’re not alone—and you’re definitely not doing anything wrong. But here’s some good news: These 3 outfit formulas will change everything. They’re effortless, flattering on every body type, and give you that put-together look in seconds.

Hi, I’m Ada—designer, stylist, and someone who believes getting dressed should feel fun again.

I created this series because I hear this all the time from women—especially over 40:

“I know how to put on clothes… but I don’t know how to actually make it an outfit.”

Sound familiar?

You throw on a cute top and pants, but something’s missing. It doesn’t feel intentional. It doesn’t feel styled. So I’m breaking it down. In this series, I’m sharing over 9 outfit formulas you can use right now—with pieces you already own.

Today, we’re starting with three formulas that are going to completely shift how you look at your closet.

Outfit Formula #1: Monochromatic Dressing

What it is: Wearing one color head-to-toe.
This can be the exact same shade, or multiple tones within the same color family.

Why it works:
It creates one long, uninterrupted line. That means no visual breaks, no distractions—just sleek, streamlined style. This trick not only makes you look taller and leaner, but it also gives you that elegant, intentional feel instantly.

Great for:
Petites, curvy women, or anyone who wants to look effortlessly polished.

Examples:

• A soft beige tank with matching wide-leg pants and a nude wrap belt.

• An all-black outfit—black tee, black trousers, and a black leather belt to define your waist without breaking the flow.

Outfit Formula #2: Column Dressing

What it is:
Like monochromatic dressing—but with a twist. You wear the same color top and bottom, but add a contrasting third layer, like a jacket or kimono.

Why it works:
You still get that long vertical line from your matching base, but the outer layer adds dimension—softness, structure, or movement depending on what you choose. It's also a great way to experiment with layers without looking bulky.

Great for:
Women who want a little more midsection coverage or love the look of layers but want to keep it sleek.

Examples:

• White tank and white jeans paired with a caramel linen blazer, belted at the waist.

• Navy tank and skirt under a floral kimono, tied together with a navy wrap belt.
  (That belt is the key to keeping your shape—it prevents you from getting lost in fabric.)

Outfit Formula #3: The Rule of Three

What it is:
Top + Bottom + Third Piece.
That third piece can be a belt, scarf, jacket, vest, jewelry—whatever adds that extra layer of style and intention.

Why it works:
It shows thoughtfulness. It says, “I styled this,” instead of “I just got dressed.”

Great for:
Anyone who feels like their outfits are always missing something.

Examples:

• A white tee, jeans, and a colorful belt. Simple, but now it feels styled.

• Black pants, black top, and a cropped jacket with a wrap belt to emphasize your waist.

The Takeaway

These three outfit formulas build on each other:

• You start with a base (monochromatic),

• Add a layer (column dressing),

• Then finish the look (rule of three).

They’re simple, but powerful. And when you master them, getting dressed starts to feel like play again.

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Coming Up Next…

Next video, I’ll be sharing 3 more outfit formulas—this time using color, prints, and bold accessories to turn your closet into a style playground.

Make sure to subscribe to my channel or follow on Instagram so you don’t miss it!

And hey—send this to your most stylish friend (or the one who’s always texting you from the parking lot for outfit advice… you know the one 😉).

Until next time—style with confidence.
And don’t forget the belt. 💫