90s Mesh Tops Two Ways – Wear What You Love in Your 40s
Remember when mesh tops were everywhere in the 90s and you couldn’t wait to wear one? Well, guess what—your 40s is the perfect time to finally rock those trends you always loved. Now you can afford the quality pieces, you know your style. Also – You’ve earned the confidence to wear whatever makes you happy. Here’s how I’m styling two dynamite mesh tops with the same simple formula: high waisted flare jeans and nothing else competing for attention. Let’s get into it!
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. These are affiliate links. I am a Honeylove Partner.
Your 40s: The Era of Wearing What You Actually Want
Here’s what nobody tells you about your 40s—it’s liberating. You’re done trying to fit into boxes or following rules about what’s “age-appropriate.” You know what looks good on you, what feels comfortable, and most importantly, you’ve got the budget to invest in pieces you actually love instead of whatever’s on clearance. Am I right? When I spotted these mesh tops, that 90s nostalgia hit hard. But this time around, I’m not layering them over a raggedy tank top and low-rise jeans (none of that). I’m styling them with intention: high-waisted Levi’s flare jeans, simple bodysuits underneath, and letting the mesh do the talking. Same trend, elevated approach. That’s the magic of fashion in your 40s.
The Foundation: What Goes Under Matters
Before we get to the hero pieces, let’s talk about what makes these mesh tops actually wearable—a good layering tank. I’m wearing a sleek bodysuit tank underneath both looks (size large), and it’s a total game-changer. The bodysuit stays tucked, creates a smooth base layer, and gives you coverage exactly where you want it while still showing off that gorgeous mesh detail. It’s an elevated way to wear a trend that can feel a little too revealing. Plus, bodysuits eliminate that awkward bunching or riding up you’d get with a regular cami. Choose a bodysuit in a neutral tone that complements your skin or matches the mesh top’s base color, like black, and you’re golden.
My Shapewear Tank Top is from Honeylove. Use my promo code link for 20% off.
Look 1: Floral
Let’s start with the floral mesh top. This piece is absolutely stunning—a mix of pink roses, blue blooms, coral dahlias, and greenery all over a semi-sheer mesh fabric. I’m wearing this in a large, and the fit is perfect—not too tight, not too loose, just right for showing off the pattern without feeling constricted. The mock neck gives it a polished vibe, and those long sleeves with the subtle ruffle at the cuffs? Chef’s kiss.
The floral print brings all the 90s vibes but feels contemporary and romantic. I paired it with my Levi’s high-waisted flare jeans (size 32), and that’s really all this look needs. The jeans ground the outfit, the flares balance out the fitted top, and the whole ensemble feels put-together without trying too hard. No statement jewelry, no loud accessories—just a simple watch and maybe some hoop earrings. The mesh top is the statement, so let it shine.
Look 2: Leopard Print
Now for the leopard mesh top. If floral feels romantic, leopard feels powerful. We love that! This brown and black leopard print on sheer mesh is bold, it’s fierce, and it says “I know exactly who I am.” Same size large, same mock neck, same perfect fit. Leopard print is one of those patterns that never really goes out of style—it just takes little breaks and comes roaring back (pun intended).
Again, I kept the styling simple with the same high-waisted Levi’s flare jeans. The beauty of these mesh tops is that they do all the heavy lifting. You don’t need to add layers, scarves, or busy jewelry. In fact, less is more here. The sheer quality of the mesh gives you edge without feeling overly sexy, and the leopard print brings personality without being costume-y. It’s the kind of outfit that works for brunch with friends, a casual date night, or even a creative work environment if you throw on a blazer.
The Jeans That Tie It All Together
Can we talk about these Levi’s high-waisted flare jeans for a second? They’re everything. High-waisted jeans are incredibly flattering for midsize bodies, especially in your 40s—they define your waist, smooth your midsection, and create beautiful proportions when paired with fitted tops. The flare adds balance and gives that effortlessly cool, slightly retro vibe that pairs perfectly with 90s-inspired mesh tops. I’m wearing a size 32, and they fit like a dream. These are the jeans I reach for over and over because they work with literally everything.
Shop the Look
Shop the Items
Ready to embrace 90s nostalgia with a grown-up twist? Here’s everything you need to recreate both looks.
“Like tissue turtlenecks, these stretchy next-to-naked tops conform to your body, giving you a second-skin look and feel that’s cozy and sexy at the same time. “
Source: Glamour
Why This Style Works in Your 40s
There’s something really empowering about wearing trends you loved when you were younger, but styling them with the wisdom and confidence you have now. These mesh tops aren’t about looking 25 again—they’re about celebrating the fashion you’ve always loved while adapting it to where you are now. For midsize women over 40, this formula is perfect: a bold, trendy top paired with classic, well-fitting jeans. The high waist is flattering, the flare is forgiving, and the mesh adds just enough edge to feel current and fun.
The key is keeping it simple. Let the mesh be the focal point, choose one great pair of jeans, and skip the over-accessorizing. You’re not trying to recreate your 90s wardrobe—you’re honoring it while creating something that feels authentically you, right now.
Final Thoughts: Fashion Freedom in Your 40s
Your 40s should be about wearing what makes you feel good, not what digital magazines or trends tell you is “appropriate.” If you loved mesh tops in the 90s, wear them now—but do it your way. If leopard print makes you feel confident, rock it. If florals bring you joy, embrace them. You’ve earned the right to dress for yourself and no one else.
So go dig through those trend pieces you’ve been eyeing, pull out the styles that spark nostalgia, and style them with the sophistication and confidence that only comes with age. Because the best part about fashion in your 40s? You finally get to wear what you actually love. And we are so here for it!
My Promo Codes
Advertisements Want more outfit inspiration for women who know what they want? Follow me on Instagram @livbyviv for style tips that celebrate midsize fashion over 40. And if you loved this 90s nostalgia moment, check out my post on styling chocolate and black for more versatile outfit ideas!
Subscribe to Liv By Viv to get content sent to your email.
Type your email…
Subscribe
Join 3,702 other subscribers
Advertisements
#1990sStyle #amazonFashion #Levis #outfitIdeas #over40Fashion
Vivian Rodriguez
walmar
Dr. Vivian
MoeZine
MOE ZINE
