It may feel like you're closing the door on your young adult life when you hit the big 4-0—and in most cases, that's a good thing. Finally, you know what you like and what you don’t, which people energize rather than drain you, and how to make your career work for you—instead of vice versa. You may also find yourself with a bit more cash in the bank, now that your wild 20s and still-figuring-it-out 30s are behind you.
That’s why it’s the perfect time to start shopping at the kinds of stores that will help you fully realize your style and reflect just how far you’ve come. From clothing, accessories, and jewelry to home goods and décor, these are the top brands to keep on your radar as you head into your fifth decade! And to look as great now as you did in your 20s, check out these 15 Makeover Essentials You Can Buy from Sephora!
Best Life's editors have scoured the internet to bring you the best products out there, and we're hoping you'll love them as much as we do. Full disclosure: we may earn a commission for anything you purchase through links on this page, but that doesn't mean you'll pay more for them (we'd never do that to you!). Pricing and availability are accurate as of the piece's initial publication date, but it's the internet and we can't guarantee that these sweet, sweet deals will last forever, so scoop them up before someone else does!
1 | Club Monaco
Club MonacoForget what you think you know about Club Monaco: the brand has traded in yachting apparel and chinos for well-made, polished basics. The company has transformed itself in recent years to work the middle ground between luxury fashion and streetwear, serving minimalist sensibilities and tailored cuts at mid-range prices. This Grant Linen Blazer is a taste of the new Club Monaco style, and perfect for any guy over 40 who likes to keep his suiting casual.
2 | Nordstrom Rack
Nordstrom RackNordstrom Rack is, hands down, one of the best places to get amazing deals on top brands, with inventory pulled from Nordstrom’s line of apparel, shoes, and accessories at the end of each season. If you’re over 40, this gives you the chance to upgrade to luxury brand items without going into debt to do it. These Stella McCartney glasses, for example, are marked down to just $90 from their original $430 price tag! And to score more savings, check out these 30 Amazing Shopping Deals for February.
3 | Ozma of California
Ozma of CaliforniaOnce you hit the big 4-0, it’s a good idea to add a few higher-end pieces to your wardrobe—but that doesn’t necessarily mean trading in your signature style for a more formal look. If you lean toward the beachy and boho, Ozma of California can help you take your style to the next level by using only the finest materials. Try this 100 percent silk noil La Piedra Dress: it’s anything but stuffy, yet perfectly grown up.
4 | Sezane
SezaneIf you love timeless, elegant womenswear pieces, Sezane is the ultimate place to shop. They carry romantic dresses, flattering denim, and dreamy pullover knits with impeccable attention to detail. The Paulin Jumper gives off that effortless French girl vibe, which makes a perfect go-to look after 40.
5 | Catbird
CatbirdGreat jewelry collections don’t happen overnight: you have to build them lovingly, piece by piece. If you haven’t already begun, turning 40 is the perfect time to treat yourself to a high-quality piece that will become a signature part of your look. We love this 1976 Bracelet in 14 karat yellow gold: it’s simple and subtle but you can build on it with meaningful charms over the years without blowing your budget. And for more jewelry you’ll want to add to your list ASAP, check out these 15 Gorgeous Pieces of Gold Jewelry Under $100!
6 | Carhartt Work In Progress
Carhartt WIPOver the age of 40, most hoodies make you look sloppy—but this hooded Active Jacket from Carhartt WIP has just the right amount of structure to make your go-to look a bit more polished. Shop the entire men’s collection for handsome updates to your wardrobe: the clothes are decidedly more “streetwear” than the original brand, yet still give a nod to Carhartt’s rugged reputation.
7 | Williams Sonoma
Williams SonomaIf you’re over 40, it’s time to get your house in order—and there are few things that signal a fully realized kitchen more than an enameled Dutch oven from Le Creuset. This classic tool is perfect for even, slow cooking—the kind that takes patience, and possibly even a recipe. Find this and so many more kitchen supplies that’ll help you finally graduate to master chef, all at Williams Sonoma! And for more culinary essentials, check out these 25 Kitchen Gadgets Every Man Needs.
8 | Everlane
EverlaneA luxury wardrobe at a fair and transparent price? Yes, please! Everlane takes the hand-wringing out of high-end purchasing, because you know you’re getting the most for your money. This Cocoon Coat is the perfect spring accessory, thanks to its cheery lavender color and a flattering, oversized fit.
9 | Sephora
SephoraYes, you might have already converted to a Sephora evangelist in your teens, 20s, or 30s, but your 40s will give you a new appreciation for the beauty giant. Focus your attention on their many skincare products, which are about to become your new best friends in your 40s if they aren’t already. We recommend this Estēe Lauder night serum, which can work wonders for fine lines and wrinkles!
10 | Lo & Sons
Lo & SonsYou’re in your 40s and people are finally acknowledging you as the boss you are. Shouldn’t your wardrobe look the part? This luxurious leather tote from Lo & Sons is the perfect way to elevate your office attire, plus it’s got all the convenient storage compartments you’ll need to keep your work life organized!
11 | Sur La Table
Sur La TableIf you love to cook, now is the perfect time to add a real knife or two to your kitchen—after all, few things should be a priority in your 40s quite like your personal health and nutrition. This Wusthoff Classic Hollow Edge Nakiri is ideal for prepping your veggies, allowing you to take your healthy home cooking to the next level.
12 | Clarks
ClarksThe Clarks Desert Boot has been around since the 1950s, and there’s a reason the design has barely changed since. The iconic look—favored by an exhaustive list of A-listers over the past several years—is a must-have for any guy that likes to keep his style casual, but pulled together. If you haven’t already added them to your lineup, now is the perfect time to elevate your post-40 look by pulling the trigger on a pair.
13 | Zara
ZaraZara is known for tapping into the most popular trends of the moment, but it executes those concepts with a maturity and restraint rarely found in other mid-range retailers. That’s exactly what makes it a great place to shop in your 40s: you’ll feel relevant but not faddish in their clothing line. This tiger-print satin effect blouse is the perfect example of what they do so well: yes, it’s en vogue, but hardly predictable.
14 | Cuyana
CuyanaCuyana is a clothing and accessories company that lives by the motto, “fewer, better things.” They pride themselves on products with an acute attention to detail and “precise silhouettes” in timeless color schemes. If your 40s have inspired you to Marie Kondo your closet, Cuyana is the perfect place to pare down and reimagine your wardrobe with pieces that will last you years. This Folding Panama Hat, for one, might spark some joy!
15 | Bloomscape
BloomscapeIf you’re in your 40s, chances are you can finally take care of something other than yourself. You may not have chosen to have children, or even a pet for that matter, but at the very minimum, you can handle keeping a plant alive. This monstera “Swiss cheese” plant from Bloomscape is the perfect starter plant: it’s easy to care for, but its large, tropical leaves will transform any space!
16 | Crate & Barrel
Crate & BarrelWhen you hit your 40s, your idea of the perfect evening might consist of dinner in with friends or family instead of a wild night out. That’s why it’s worth it to invest in serveware that kicks your dinner parties up a notch. Try this black marble cheese board—and coordinate with matching cheese knives—to show your guests that even a night in can have a touch of glamour.
17 | Glossier
GlossierAs you get older, wearing lots of makeup can begin to work against you. Where once your foundation enhanced your natural glow, you may now find that it sits heavily in areas with fine lines and wrinkles. Luckily, Glossier has a perfectly pared-down makeup set that gives you everything you need (and nothing you don’t) to showcase your natural assets: brow gel, highlighter, lip balm, and their famous “cloud paint” cheek tint.
18 | Urban Stems
Urban StemsIn your 20s, you might send a text to wish someone a happy birthday, express your thanks, or let them know you’re thinking of them—and that would be perfectly acceptable. In your 40s, it’s much nicer to say it with flowers. Urban Stems delivers absolutely beautiful bouquets straight to their home—like this delicate assortment of all-white blooms, which features roses, ranunculus, hypericum berries, and more.
19 | Pottery Barn
Pottery BarnPottery Barn is home to so much more than throw pillows and bedding: they’ve got everything you need to transform your home with timeless furniture and eye-catching accents. Entertain in style with a celebration-ready home bar, beginning with this Monique Lhuillier rose gold ice bucket.
20 | Ferko’s Fine Jewelry
Ferko's Fine JewelryIn your 20s or 30s, it might’ve seemed impossible to buy yourself quality jewelry, but by the time you reach your 40s, your career may finally allow you to indulge in a bauble or two. Ferko’s makes heirloom quality pieces at transparent prices, so you can treat yourself to just the right amount of bling, without breaking the bank. We recommend this stunning stackable baguette ring!
21 | West Elm
West ElmWhen you cross the threshold into your 40s, you’re officially a grown-up—and that means it’s time for your home décor to reflect a more mature side of you. In other words, gone are the days of shopping for homewares with a side of meatballs at Ikea (RIP). By adding a few accent pieces from West Elm, like this beautiful globe chandelier, you can transform your space without spending a fortune on a renovation.
22 | J. Crew
J. CrewIf J. Crew has been a staple in your closet for the last decade, there’s no reason to stop now that you’ve hit your 40s. In fact, now is a great time to embrace the brand’s clean lines and polished cuts, which can help you dress your age in style. Grab this hooded camo rain coat to add a pop of fun to that dull, rainy day.
23 | Lou & Grey
Lou & GreyAnn Taylor may have been a go-to shop for the 40-somethings of yesteryear, but today, we have Lou & Grey. Another company under the Ann Taylor umbrella, Lou & Grey casts a wider net with a focus on activewear and loungewear that suits women in their 20s and 40s alike. This cozy two-tone turtleneck hits the mark for its soft knit cotton and flattering cut.
24 | Art Finder
Art FinderIf you’ve been on this planet for four full decades, you may have already figured out which kinds of art speak to you most—but if not, your 40s are the perfect time to explore your taste and incorporate art into your life and home décor. Art Finder is a great way to buy original art pieces without the high-end gallery price tags. This signed and numbered collage of Frida Kahlo is a limited edition, and comes conveniently ready to hang the moment it arrives.
25 | LOFT
LOFTUpgrading your workplace wardrobe is as easy as a trip to your nearest LOFT. They carry flattering options for women of all shapes and sizes, with looks that run the gamut from boss babe to boho. This floral button dress can be styled either way!
26 | Banana Republic
Banana RepublicIf you’re seeking a polished new style for your 40s, look no further than Banana Republic. Streamlined, flattering cuts that skew modest and mature are balanced out by more youthful accents like the bold color scheme of this season’s line. This fit and flare dress is the perfect example of what the brand has in store for your wardrobe.
27 | Malin+Goetz
Malin+GoetzFellas, if you’ve spent your 20s and 30s neglecting to style your hair, your 40s are about to be a revelation. Using just the smallest amount of product like this firm-hold pomade from Malin+Goetz can subtly transform you into your most presentable self. But don’t stop there: the company has great cleansers, moisturizers, deodorants, and more—so you can finally unleash your inner Clooney.
28 | Target
TargetWho says that shopping for furniture should cost an arm and a leg? Target has expanded their home goods collection to include stylish statement pieces, like this elegant marble-top hairpin side table—just right for your next home upgrade!
29 | Allbirds
AllbirdsWhen it comes to your wardrobe, your 40s should be as much about comfort as they are about style—and that’s exactly why Allbirds should be at the top of your over-40 list. Their Merino Wool Runner Mizzles are weather-proofed to handle a misty drizzle (hence the portmanteau name), and have merino wool-lined, bouncy foam insoles that make them a dream to walk in.
30 | Frye
FryeA good pair of shoes can last you a handful of years—but if they're from Frye, they'll likely look as good at the end of the decade as the day you bought them. The company makes especially durable leather shoes and boots, so you can invest in the looks you love, knowing the quality will keep. These Melissa inside zip boots look just as great with a pair of jeans as they do with something more formal, so you’ll have reason to wear them again and again.
31 | H&M
H&MH&M tends to skew young, with most items falling unabashedly under the category of “fast fashion.” That said, their website allows you to search denim by quality, and this, dear readers, is the key to enjoying your post-40 H&M experience. Tick the boxes for “premium quality” and “conscious,” and you’ll open a portal to a very respectable selection of long-lasting and sustainably made jeans (all at still-reasonable prices). Try these Embrace ankle jeans, which pair ultra-flattering slim stretch denim with cute raw-edge hems.
32 | Ralph Lauren
Ralph LaurenBesides a plain white tee, there are few men’s wardrobe essentials more ubiquitous than a simple oxford shirt—but this is just the tip of the iceberg at Ralph Lauren, which has high-quality suiting, denim, accessories, and more. You’ll find everything you need to look your most dapper at any age!
33 | Hygge and West
Hygge and WestHygge and West carries a curated collection of homewares like bedding and bath accessories—but their most notable achievement by far is their gorgeous selection of wallpapers. With both removable and traditional paste papers, you’re sure to find just the right design to transform your space, like this luxe Piedmont wallpaper.
34 | Thursday Boot Company
Thursday Boot CompanyYour life doesn’t have to slow down after 40. Whether it’s camping, hiking, or urban exploring you love, your gear should be up for the challenge. Luckily, these handcrafted Captain boots from Thursday Boot Company are made with Goodyear Welt Construction and premium leather to withstand your toughest wear.
35 | Joybird
JoybirdIf you love mid-century modern furniture, but don’t love the hefty price tags often associated with the look, Joybird is here to make your design dreams come true. This low riding rattan Vienna chair is an ode to '70s decor, but it’ll update your living room in a flash.
36 | Anthropologie
AnthropologiePost 40, there’s no reason you can’t look as youthful as you still feel. Anthropologie has clothing, accessories, and home goods that bring the fun, while still giving a nod to a more grown up aesthetic by using quality materials. This electric, three-tiered maxi dress buzzes with confidence—perfect for a date, a day out, or brunch with pals.
37 | Away
AwayWhere before, vacations may have meant throwing a few essentials in an overnight bag, these days you might strive for a more luxurious style of holiday. Upgrade your travel gear with this carry-on suitcase from Away, which has reimagined the traditional suitcase to include the most modern amenities, like 360-degree spinner wheels, a built-in laundry compartment, USB ports, and phone chargers.
38 | Birdies
BirdiesMeghan Markle loves them—that much you’ve probably already heard. But Birdies is so much more than the velvet shoes you’ve seen on the cover of British tabloids. The iconic Starling flats are like clouds to walk on, with quilted satin insoles and layers of memory foam to keep you comfy—and they’re now available in more colors, materials, and prints so you can make the look your own!
39 | Prose
ProseThe perfect hair products aren't just right for your hair type, they're right for you. Prose makes customized hair formulas that are blended and bottled just for you, from shampoos to hair oils, and beyond. Try this pre-shampoo hair mask, which is made-to-order to address your personal hair concerns like safe-guarding color, promoting growth, or improving texture.
40 | CB2
CB2With a cool, modern aesthetic, CB2 has all the accents and accessories you need to upgrade your space—after all, the devil’s in the details when it comes to home decorating. These white marble towel bars streamline the look of your bathroom with clean lines and sleek materials—an easy upgrade that’s sure to make an impression.
