15 fashion rules you should know by the time you’re 40

Certain styles can seem like a faux pas waiting to happen and so unapproachable that even trying them on seems off-limits. But some bold styles can actually yield big surprises. Case in point: over-the-knee boots. This style actually directs attention below the knee and tricks the eye into slimming the whole leg. To achieve this look, opt for a boot that hits a few centimetres above your upper knee area, and pair them with skinny jeans or sweater dresses. Pick a brand that has a stretchy and roomy top and you are on your way to the chicest cold-weather outfit imaginable.

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We’ve been conditioned to position belts at our hips because that is where traditional belt hooks are found. But this positioning creates an optical illusion that can widen us. Instead, slide your belt higher, at the waist, to create an hourglass shape that cinches your waist and accentuates your breasts and hips. How’s that for a double whammy? Wide belts are a particularly good idea since they will make the hourglass illusion even more pronounced.

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Certain looks are synonymous with youth, and that’s definitely true when it comes to playing with accessories. But our accessories game seems to get less and less adventurous the older we get. That’s a mistake! Tap into a layered style to achieve a youthful look. You don’t have to be an expert stylist to get this right – many brands offer pre-layered styles that are as easy to put on as one single necklace. Pro tip: make sure the necklace combination you choose lands right between the beginning of your breasts and your collarbone. This will draw eyes to your décolletage and help you flaunt a sexy style. Make your life easier by ensuring that your new necklace doesn’t get tangled when you’re not wearing it.

A lot of women bundle up in a scarf during warmer weather because they believe this accessory hides a perceived problem area: the neck. Don’t fall into this group—step away from that scarf! Adding on this unnecessary layer will actually create more bulk in the neck and chest area. Instead, pick a bold accessory above your neckline to draw attention to your face. Big drop earrings will do the trick, as will statement necklaces. Although necklaces sit in the neck area, they provide negative space around the collarbone, which can help slim and glamorise the whole area.

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In addition to hiding sleepless nights and under-eye wrinkles, as well as protecting your eyes and the delicate skin around them from damage, sunglasses can jazz up an outfit like no other. You can also play with a frame’s shape to help accentuate your facial features. Cat-eye shapes slim your face, while larger frames can add volume to a gaunt jawline.

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Although you’ve promised yourself countless times that you would cut back on the athleisure, now is not the time to swear off leggings. These stretchy pants got a bad rep as they migrated from a gym necessity to a closet staple. But when worn correctly, leggings can slim your legs. They are also incredibly versatile. Pair a shiny black pair with heels and a big sweater for a night out, or wear them with ballet flats and an Oxford shirt for a shopping trip.

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Source: RD.com