When it comes to summer style, women over 40 know what they like—pieces that feel effortless, flattering, and cool (in every sense of the word). But even the most well-loved outfit can fall flat if the shoes don’t match the vibe. Whether you’re pairing a breezy dress, tailored shorts, or wide-leg linen pants, the right shoes can pull the entire look together—and the wrong ones can throw it off completely.
The key? Finding footwear that’s equal parts stylish, comfortable, and age-aware without ever being boring. In this guide, we’re spotlighting the summer outfits women over 40 gravitate toward—and the exact shoes that make them shine. Because great style doesn’t have an age limit—it just gets better with time.
1. Striped Tank + Wide-Leg Jeans + Chic Slide Sandals
This outfit is a masterclass in effortless summer style — and yes, it works brilliantly for women over 40. The classic black-and-white striped tank adds a touch of French-girl flair, while the high-rise, wide-leg white jeans keep things cool, breathable, and flattering. But it’s the tan leather slide sandals that really pull this look together.
With their sleek, structured straps and slight platform, they anchor the wide-leg silhouette and add just enough modern edge without feeling overdone. They’re comfy enough for all-day wear, but stylish enough to say, “I know exactly what I’m doing.” Add oversized sunglasses and a woven tote, and you’ve got a go-to look that feels polished, fresh, and totally ageless.
2. Black Tank + White Button-Down + Relaxed Trousers + Sleek Sandals
This outfit is proof that neutral doesn’t mean boring — it means chic. The black tank and wide-leg trousers create a long, clean line, while the crisp white button-down adds that effortless layer of polish women over 40 nail so well.
But the real secret sauce here? Those black flat sandals with gold buckle detail. They’re sleek, minimal, and structured — exactly what’s needed to balance the relaxed silhouette without feeling overdone. Paired with a straw tote and oversized sunnies, this look is giving “summer city stroll with style to spare.” Comfortable and curated — exactly how warm-weather dressing should feel.
3. Cropped Denim Shirt + Full Midi Skirt + White Sandals
This look is a perfect example of how to blend structure and ease in a way that feels both stylish and age-smart. The cropped denim shirt adds a bit of edge and shape on top, while the full white midi skirt brings softness and movement — a beautiful contrast that feels intentional, not overthought. But it’s the white double-strap sandals that seal the deal.
Their slightly sporty, slightly luxe design keeps the outfit grounded while still feeling summery and light. They add just enough modern flair to keep the whole look fresh and elevated. Throw in the oversized woven tote and statement sunglasses, and you’ve got a daytime outfit that says: cool, confident, and totally in control of her style.
4. Crisp White Shirt + Bright Maxi Skirt + Lace-Up Sandals
This outfit is everything summer dressing should be: bold, breezy, and beautifully put together. The classic white button-down keeps things polished up top, while the vibrant fuchsia skirt brings a joyful pop of color and movement. But the genius is in the black lace-up sandals — they add a touch of edge and modern femininity that anchors the look without competing with it.
The ankle ties draw attention to the slimmest part of the leg, balancing out the volume of the skirt perfectly. This combo feels confident, fun, and fresh — proof that women over 40 can absolutely play with color and trends while keeping things totally elevated.
5. Tailored Shorts + Fitted Tee + Minimal Heels
Here’s a summer look that says “chic grown woman energy” without trying too hard. The tailored black Bermuda shorts give structure and polish, while the fitted charcoal tee keeps things sleek and simple on top. But the real power move? Those barely-there black ankle-strap heels. They add a touch of elegance, elongate the legs, and elevate the whole outfit from casual to editorial.
This combo is ideal for rooftop dinners, city strolls, or any moment when you want to look effortless but sharp. Add a black clutch and statement sunnies, and you’ve got the kind of look that turns heads quietly — the best kind.
6. White Maxi Dress + Kitten Heel Sandals
There’s nothing more timeless — or effortlessly elegant — than a crisp white summer dress. This sleeveless maxi version is clean, minimal, and softly structured, making it a go-to for warm days when you still want to feel put together. What truly elevates the look, though, are the strappy black kitten heel sandals.
They add just the right amount of height without sacrificing comfort, keeping the outfit sleek and subtly sexy. The contrast of black against white adds edge, while the brown woven bag softens everything with a bit of texture. It’s graceful, grown-up style at its absolute best — the kind of outfit you’ll reach for on repeat.
7. Tailored Vest + Wide-Leg Trousers + Brown Slides
This look nails the relaxed-meets-refined formula that stylish women over 40 do best. The sleeveless navy vest is structured and chic, giving shape and intention up top, while the flowy, ivory wide-leg trousers keep things light, breezy, and luxuriously effortless. But what seals the deal is the choice of flat brown leather slides — a minimal but grounded option that tones down the formality and makes the outfit totally wearable for summer days.
The earthy hue of the sandals echoes the woven tote bag, tying the whole look together in a warm, cohesive palette. It’s the perfect ensemble for city days, lunch meetings, or wherever the season takes you — comfortable but undeniably pulled together.