Do you ever find it stressful thinking of what to wear, especially something different than the comfy sweats or jeans and tees you seemingly gravitate towards? Do you find yourself searching for inspiration on finding classy dinner outfits?
Keep reading if you, too, want inspiration on classy dinner outfits for ladies over 40.
The other week, I was invited to my cousin’s birthday dinner. Her dinner party was at a nice upscale restaurant. And knowing her friends, they all have classy tastes. I wanted to dress up for the occasion and needed something nice and classy to wear.
Below are some outfit inspirations I think are both classy, updated, and comfortable. I’ll break it down by items.
Shoes
I’m starting off with shoes because this is quite literally the foundation to how you will feel for the rest of the night. And I don’t know about you, but not only do I want to feel classy and confident, I also want to feel comfortable.
On nights like this, I’ll opt for kitten heels. I rarely wear high heels anymore. The last time was at my daughter’s wedding back in January.
I feel more confident when I’m comfortable. If you, too, are like me, then kitten heels are a classy option. I’ve also seen them come around much more with the younger crowd as well.
I rarely have any luck with how Zara’s clothes fit me. However, their shoes are a different story. They have so many cute options that are dupes of designer brands at a more affordable price. I can also vouch that their shoes are pretty comfortable, too! A lot of their options are also super cute!
The style I chose for my cousin’s birthday dinner night at a fancy restaurant was a strappy pair of patent leather Mary Janes with a 2.5″ block heel. These were also comfortable enough to wear during a full night at the museum.
They do have a chunky heel, so if you want something a bit more sexy than this may not be the style for you. However, if you find block heels work best for you and still want some sexiness, look for clear shoes. They are so versatile and can be sexy depending on how you wear them and which style you choose.
Now, I know when some think of clear heels, classy is not your first thought. But hear me out.
If you choose, clear high heels with a high platform will necessarily fall into the classy category you’re trying to go for. A higher heel and platform can be uber sexy and more fun than classy.
But don’t worry, there are so many sexy, classy kitten heel options I have included in my flatlay for inspiration.
Bottoms
I wore a satin skirt that I got from Uniqlo. The skirt from Uniqlo is really great quality and fits really well. I also love the length and how versatile this skirt is. I opted for a deep blue color. In my opinion, darker tones tend to look more classy.
I also have a pair of black satin pants I love. Not only are these pants super comfortable, but they help elevate any look and help make the outfit look classy just because of the material.
If satin isn’t your thing, consider faux leather pants. I own a pair of faux leather leggings. If you pair them with a pair of boots or heels, this will instantly dress up any outfit.
Tops
Now this I think you can sort of get away with a bit more than pants and shoes. Only because if you created your outfit from the bottom up. The lower half of you should already have a good foundation. If you want to get away with a graphic tee, I think you can. Again, only because your lower half has already got the components of a classy dinner outfit for ladies.
However, if you still need inspiration, I like high-neck sleeveless tops for a classy dinner outfit. If you want to cover your arms like I do sometimes, you can opt for fun asymmetric long-sleeve tops.
Accessories
Accessories are where it’s at. This is where you can have fun. However, I want to point out that I’ve noticed when I wear a shoulder bag or clutch, I find this more appropriate for a classy dinner versus a crossbody bag.
This may be because I always wear a crossbody bag on regular days when I’m out and about for convenience. Small shoulder bags or clutches can look more dainty and classy for a night out.
I usually don’t wear a necklace, but if you can, you should. This is a fun way to spruce up your top. And I always wear earrings, but this is my time to again have fun and wear a statement earring.
When it comes to jewelry, I don’t think there are many rules. I know some may disagree and say if you wear statement earrings, you shouldn’t wear a statement necklace, etc., etc.
However, I’ve seen some people pull off both, and it just makes their outfit look fun and like they’re ready for a night out. But if you do want to continue keeping your outfit classy, then perhaps you should just choose one statement piece.
Don’t forget about rings and bracelets while you’re at it. Wear what makes you feel comfortable, confident, and classy. Because if we’re being real here, it’s all subjective.
Check out some of my flatlays below for inspiration. Keep in mind, you don’t need to have the exact same pieces. But use these visuals to help guide you in what to wear and see if you have something similar in your closet.
That’s what I do. I usually run to Pinterest and search for specific outfit ideas. If I come across an outfit where I have similar pieces, I will save the pin.
You can save my blog’s images too, so that you can refer to them again next time.
Want to buy second-hand? Here’s what to look for on online reseller platforms like Poshmark…
Also, be sure to click here and check out my blog post 8 Top Tips On How To Buy On Poshmark.
Check out some of my favorite picks below in the widget I created for you.
As always, thanks for reading.
Love, Sutivi.
