There was a time when turning 40 felt like a quiet milestone—something to be acknowledged but perhaps not celebrated. Today? Fabulous is the new forty, and women everywhere are proving that life after 40 is where true confidence, style, and purpose collide.
In fact, research shows that many women experience meaningful shifts in self-perception as they enter their 40s. In a study of women in their early 40s and 50s, researchers found declines in self-criticism and dependence, and increases in confidence and decisiveness. Another study showed that women in their forties felt more powerful, more in control of their lives and more comfortable in their own skin than they did when they were younger.
While history has long suggested that women “over 40” fade into the background, the opposite is true today. More than 60% of women say they feel beautiful at any age, and those in older age brackets report greater freedom in how they express themselves through fashion, beauty, and self-expression. Fabulousness, it seems, is less about defying age and more about embracing your true self.
No one embodies that message more vividly than longtime TV host and entrepreneur Giuliana Rancic, who is hosting the fifth annual Fab Over 40 competition, an uplifting celebration of women and a major fundraiser for the National Breast Cancer Foundation.
Rancic brings her own story of strength and resilience to the spotlight, one that resonates deeply with women everywhere.
At 36, Rancic’s life changed when a routine mammogram led to a breast cancer diagnosis. Fourteen years later, the media and fashion powerhouse continues to advocate for early detection and women’s health, using her platform to inspire others. That same spirit of empowerment fuels the Fab Over 40 nationwide competition. Celebrating its fifth year, Fab Over 40—powered by Colossal—has raised more than $25 million to support early detection, education, and support services for those affected by breast cancer. Last year alone, nearly $7 million was raised.
Joined by co-host Dolores Catania, the competition underscores that fabulous can mean many things—but it consistently means owning your story, making community impact, and stepping into your best self.
Look to the women who’ve already worn the Fab Over 40 crown, and you’ll see that “fabulous” takes many forms. Past winner Gina De Simone, a 43-year-old licensed child psychologist, credits yoga as her fountain of youth, keeping her balanced while she runs marathons and inspires others to embrace movement as medicine. April Wilcox, an aesthetics nurse, has built her career on helping women of every age feel confident in their own skin, proving that beauty and self-belief go hand in hand. And Dr. April Black, last year’s winner, defines fabulousness as “living a life that is authentically and unapologetically my own.”
“Fab Over 40 continues to prove that confidence, strength, and beauty only grow with age—and that women supporting women can create a life-changing impact,” said Colossal CEO Mary Hagen.
So as we close out this month of awareness and empowerment, let’s remember that being fabulous at 40 isn’t about fighting age—it’s about owning it. Whether you’re stepping into a new chapter, finding your rhythm, or simply embracing who you’ve become, now’s the time to celebrate what makes 40 (and beyond) so incredibly fab.
Learn more at fabover40.org
