Pre-Fall Trends for Women Over 40

Many of the pre-fall trends are good news for women over 40. A bad economy continues to keep the focus on the practical in fall fashions for 2010. This is a look at one hot color and 5 more trends for older women.

Pre-Fall Trends for Women Over 40: Green

Blue is giving way to green as the most popular color in 2010 fall fashions. It's another great choice for its staying power and versatility. Many shades of green mix and match as easy as black. They even look great with black. For older women, it's a smart choice for updating your wardrobe and refreshing all the black separates you've accumulated over the years.

Pre-Fall Trends for Women Over 40: Military Influence

My older skin needs something softer than bright gold buttons in high contrast to a dark background. On the other hand, sophisticated khaki pieces are great for older women. This Burberry military pencil skirt in moss brown is a feminine look with a flattering shape ($395).

Pre-Fall Trends for Women Over 40: Pantsuits

Pantsuits are brilliant for older women. They make dressing easy and provide coverage without looking frumpy. I'd avoid extremely wide legs that look too conspicuous and will get dated too easily. There are still lots of worthy investments like this Donna Karan stretch wool wrapped jacket ($1995) and side-zip trousers ($895). It's done in charcoal and looks as comfortable as pajamas.

Pre-Fall Trends for Women Over 40: Capes, Ponchos and Vests

At five foot two, I now avoid structured pieces that require the high heels I no longer wear to make them work. Much better are knit wraps that make the simplest outfit look glamorous and last for decades with proper care. Try this Jil Sander one-button cashmere wrap ($2875) in black interlock with a navy reverse.

Pre-Fall Trends for Women Over 40: Lace

Touches of lace make everything look more feminine and give your old clothes a fresh look. This Robert Rodriquez tank adds a little black lace insert at the neck of a basic heather grey tank ($155).

Pre-Fall Trends for Women Over 40: Pearls

Pearls always look elegant and will make the make the most subtle fall fashions of 2010 feel more special. For older women looking for an alternative to the classic strand of pearls, try a David Yurman Oval Figaro Link and Pearl Necklace ($2100). The 18 inch length is more comfortable than a choker. It features a sterling silver and 18-karat yellow gold link chain with white freshwater cultured pearl stations.