How To Wear Joggers (Even If You’re Over 40)

A friend asked me whether it was appropriate for women over 40 to wear joggers. Her teenaged daughter wore them, and she wasn’t sure that she could wear them too. I told her that she absolutely could. I’m over 40, pear-shaped and petite and didn’t think joggers would be flattering on me. But after trying on several styles, I’ve figured out how to wear joggers…

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But First, What Are Joggers?

Joggers are loose-fitting pants that have a stretchy waistband and a tapered leg. Traditionally, they have a drawstring waist and cuffs at the ankles. They’re usually lighter than sweatpants, though lately, I’ve seen these labels used interchangeably. You may also see joggers in denim, silk, or other fabric.

How To Wear Joggers If You’re Over 40

Now, let’s tackle my friend’s question: can you wear joggers if you’re over 40? Absolutely, but there are a few tips you might want to follow:

Avoid Fast Fashion Stores

Fast fashion brands like Forever 21, American Eagle, and Hollister cater to teens, so joggers from those stores may make you feel like you borrowed your teenager’s clothes. If you’re on a budget, try these joggers from LOFT. Talbots traditionally caters to women over 40 and currently has these dressy Organic Cotton/Tencel™ joggers.

Avoid Popular Teen Styling

Teenagers that I know are wearing their joggers with cropped tops that show off their abs. As a mom of three, I prefer a top that covers my belly. So I wear my T-shirts tucked in or waist-length. This organic cotton T-shirt and black joggers are two of my favorite athleisure pieces.

How To Wear Joggers If You Are Pear-Shaped

Joggers that are very loose around the hips and tight at the ankles will accentuate a pear-shaped figure. If you want to look slimmer in the hip area, choose a jogger with less gathering at the waist. Drapey, clingy fabric (such as jersey) can also make you look bigger, so look for fabric with more structure. Find joggers in darker colors, and wear them with lighter tops. (Darker colors minimize, lighter colors highlight).

Joggers For Petite Women

If you are petite, look for brands that have petite sizing like LOFT and Athleta. You may also be able to wear joggers that are regular-sized ankle length. (I’m just under 5’4″ with a shorter torso and longer legs, so sometimes a regular ankle length is a better fit for me than petite sizes).

Choose A Jogger With Small Cuffs

A cuffed jogger will likely make you look shorter, as it breaks up the visual line from your waist to your ankles. It’s even more noticeable in a jogger that has cuffs in a contrasting color.

Wear Shoes That Add Height

Wear your joggers with chunky sneakers or boots to add height. Bonus tip: match the color of your shoes to your joggers to create the illusion of longer legs. Or choose a monochromatic look!

Joggers That Don’t Look Like Loungewear

You’ll find joggers in the sleepwear and loungewear sections of most stores. These styles are best for hanging around the house. If you’re looking for more polished joggers, I recommend staying away from super-soft jersey joggers. They’re so often used in sleepwear and loungewear, that it’s hard to dress them up. Look for dark colors, smooth fabric, and sophisticated prints.

Wear Structured Tops Or Jackets

Wearing structured pieces like a leather motorcycle jacket, blazer, or denim jacket will help you create a more polished look. If you need something more casual, try a cute puffer jacket or vest. In warmer weather, try a bodysuit or fitted t-shirt.

Oversized sweatshirts, hoodies, cardigans, and T-shirts will give you that sloppy, loungewear look.

Add Polished Shoes

If you want to dress up your joggers, skip the sneakers and wear loafers, flats, ankle boots, or sandals with heels.

The Latest In Jogger Style

What are some of the most updated looks for joggers this year? Cargo pockets, faux leather, cashmere, and jogger sets are currently trending.

How will you wear joggers this year?