Cutout Trend Over 40??
Last month, I was hiking with a friend, and we started talking about the super popular cutout trend that you’ve probably seen all over Instagram. Cutout tops, cutout dresses, cutout pants, cutout skirts, cutout swimsuits…you name it, there’s probably a cutout version for summer 2022! My friend said she admires all the cutout dresses that 20-somethings are wearing, but didn’t feel like she could wear something like that.
I shared with her that I totally get her concern, but that she absolutely can wear cutouts, and then I walked through my secrets to wearing them… Keep scrolling to find out what it is!
If you’re looking for more wearable fashion trends, make sure you check out this post with the best of 2022!
Secret #1 – Strategy
I have some simple, but VERY important tips when it comes to wearing cutouts over 40…
First, you need to be strategic! Look for pieces with strategically placed cutouts. Okay, so what does that mean exactly? It’s really quite simple, you can look for cutout details that are placed in a flattering spot on your body. And, there are definitely areas that are universally more flattering for most women. For example, if you place a cutout slightly higher than your natural waist, and a little under the bust, that is a great spot. It’s much better than right at the waist (normally in line with your belly button). Another great option is showing a little skin through a cutout on your back. Or even a top with a cutout on the shoulder or collarbone. When in doubt, go with the chest/shoulder area.
DRESS | HEELS | SIMILAR | SIMILAR | NECKLACE | NECKLACE IN SILVER | SIMILAR NECKLACE | SUNGLASSES | SIMILAR | LIPSTICK
Secret #2 – Looser Fit
Full disclosure, when I saw this white dress by Jonathan Simkhai online, I thought, no way this is going to look great. It was a wild card order. But, the images did not do it justice. I absolutely LOVE this dress! The cutouts are perfectly placed a couple of inches under the bust and above the natural waist so it definitely checks box #1 of strategically placed, flattering cutouts.
The second secret to nailing the cutout trend at any age is… Fit. The fit of the dress is so important. Tight, bodycon style dresses with cutouts may highlight loose skin or even an extra few pounds in an unflattering way, creating a muffin top effect wherever the cutout is placed, but elegantly draped, looser fitting dresses like this one provide maximum forgiveness. It may appear as though I have no loose skin or a belly, but I assure you… I DO. The last couple of months with COVID ravaging the family and non-stop kids’ sports have not been kind to my body or workout routine. But, I have zero confidence issues in this dress.
Other things I love about this dress… the coverage! It’s long. It has sleeves, but it’s still sexy! I have the coverage I want, with zero frump! It’s also wrinkle resistant which is like a holy grail feature for me, especially with a cotton dress. The fabric is lightweight and breathable, but again the cut and drape are very flattering. You can also wear regular undergarments, no problem!
Secret #3 – Confidence
The third secret to rocking the cutout trend at any age may seem a bit obvious, but it is so important… confidence! Wear your cutout trend with confidence. Hold your head high and keep your shoulders back. Smile while wearing it, knowing that you look amazing! And, the great news is that once you find ‘the one’ or that cutout dress or top that makes you feel sophisticated and sexy…confidence will be a cinch!
If you are still feeling hesitant and the same stories about ‘being too old’ or ‘not thin enough’ are swirling around in your brain, consider this: Fashion is a beautiful expression of you. It’s meant to be fun and sassy. Don’t be scared to try new things. And, taking small steps outside your comfort zone can be representative of so much more… your willingness to try new things. One day it’s a cutout dress, the next it’s traveling to Bali.
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Or Try Another Trend
Still not sure about cutouts? You can also start smaller. Platforms are another trend that are back in a big way. These See by Chloe sandals are SO comfy and despite the 4” block heel, with the platform (1.25”) they are really stable to walk in. I LOVE them cause they are modern and also add so much height! If you don’t see this pair in your size, here and here are other pairs that are very similar. They also come in a flat version! For more trend inspiration, you can checkout Saks’ curated ‘Now Trending’ section on their website to see what speaks to you. And, don’t miss the Elevated Essentials, Summer Dressing, and Vacation Wear edits.
Have you tried the cutout trend yet? Are you going to now that you have all the secrets to getting it just right?? Let us know in the comments below. Be brave! Try something that makes you a little nervous and see what magic unfolds….
Huge thank you to Saks Fifth Avenue for sponsoring this post. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Be sure to subscribe to my newsletter to receive some incredible style resources.
Thank you SO much for stopping by!
Hello Erin and fellow Busbee-ers! I commented on my trying cutouts this year in response to your Insta « cheeky » post 😉
I turned 59 this year and have #59andfit as my mantra. Since January, I have been more disciplined in terms of what and how much I eat, and am working out regularly (outdoor walks, treadmill runs, some mat work, etc.). Am getting leaner and more confident as the year progresses. I’m at a point now where I’m embracing showing a titch of torso skin, encouraged by all the cut-out and crop tops this year. I have to keep reminding myself to appreciate where I’ve come from physically and mentally as, when I’ve made strides in the past, I’ve tended to downplay or discount them. Not this year and, hopefully, never again.
I really appreciate all that I’ve learned about style (and many other things) since starting to follow you a few years ago. You are definitely one of the reasons that my style is more elevated and fun, and my wardrobe purchases more intentional. Xoxoxox
“Cheeky” post haha LOVE that! I’m glad to hear you are celebrating your hard work, Grace! Thank you for sharing your story and kind words with me. xo