We often turn to women over the age of 40 for top-notch style advice. Yes, age is just a number (and you should always wear whatever you want), but it’s women in this bracket that are often considered sartorial experts, as they've been able to really hone in on their personal style over the years. And given their expert status, they’ve more or less developed a wardrobe of timeless essentials as a result. While we recently highlighted the going-out basics this set swears by, we thought we’d shift the focus next to the shoe staples women over 40 can’t live without.
Because we look to celebrities in general for shopping inspo, it seemed appropriate to showcase the footwear A-listers like Jennifer Lopez, Victoria Beckham, and Katie Holmes love. With all that in mind, keep scrolling to check out the seven basic shoes some of the chicest women out there never forget to buy—and shop the coolest selects in each category as well.
On Katie Holmes: Khaite Blythe Trench Coat ($2401); Jimmy Choo Romy Mesh Pumps ($750)
It’s impossible to think about a flawless shoe wardrobe without the ideal pair of black pumps. As one of the most elegant and versatile footwear picks out there, these beauties look as sophisticated with jeans on the weekend as they do with dresses for work.
On Tracee Ellis Ross: Balenciaga bag
As just about every fashion girl and celeb (including Ross) agrees, knee-high boots add a polished and fashion-forward spin to a look. Try your pair with skirts, dresses, jeans, or trousers.
On Victoria Beckham: Victoria Beckham blazer and leggings; Balenciaga boots
You simply can’t go wrong with the perfect pair of black booties. They’re timeless, chic, and work with a range of ensembles.
On Jennifer Lopez: Hermès bag; Alexander McQueen Sneakers ($440)
When it comes to the standard sneaker choice among this fashionable set, classic white trainers reign supreme. They can legit go with anything—from a dress-and-jacket situation to a look like this with leggings and a crew-neck.
On Nicole Kidman: Prada dress and shoes
While colorful heels might not seem like basic footwear, solid-colored iterations have really become staples in many wardrobes, as they have the ability to add a playful, dressed-up feeling to formal outfits.
On Jennifer Aniston: The Row bag; Gianvito Rossi boots
A pair of flat motorcycle boots not only are comfortable for a day of running around but also have the ability to instantly add interest to any outfit. Try them with an all-black look like Aniston is showcasing here.
On Sarah Jessica Parker: Cynthia Rowley dress; SJP by Sarah Jessica Parker pumps
Sure, classic pumps and stilettos will always be shoe-closet heroes, but chunkier Mary Janes—similar to these stunners on SJP—will elevate any look.
Next, check out the outfits women over 40 swear by.
-
Tracee Ellis Ross Just Proved Stylish People Prefer Big Pants Over Tight Denim, PeriodCelebrity-approved.
-
7 Expensive-Looking Outfits to Wear With Fall's Most Iconic Shoe TrendLet your outfit do the talking.
-
Forget Lace-Up Boots: This Casual and Easy Boot Trend Is About to Be EverywhereMake this your first boot purchase for the season.
-
Basic Jeans Aren't Out, But This Denim Trend Feels Way More 2025It's not white, dark wash, or chocolate brown.
-
In Istanbul, J.Lo Wore a Matching Set With the Shoe Color Trend That's Guaranteed to Make Outfits Look RichMoney.
-
When Traveling to Europe, This Dress Trend and Heel Trend Will Ensure You Don't Look Out of PlaceTake it from Jennifer Lopez in Poland.
-
Katie Holmes's Tip for Looking Rich? Lose the Flip-Flops and Wear These Classic Flats (in *This* Color) InsteadA shoe trend to take from summer to fall.
-
The Pretty Dress Trend L.A. It Girls Are Bringing Into Fall (and the "Basic" Style They Already Forgot About)It's finally time to part ways with boring linen dresses.
