11 Things I’ve Learned About Summer Style Over 50
Summer style in your 50s is a whole different ball game. When I first started this blog, it was because I realized how hard it was navigating fashion once you hit your 40s and beyond, suddenly, you’re not dressing young anymore, but you certainly don’t want to look old and frumpy! It seemed like everyone had an opinion on what we were ‘supposed’ to wear, and honestly, it just added to the confusion. These days, what used to work doesn’t always cut it anymore, and I’m all about staying cool, feeling comfortable, and still looking put together. Over the years, I’ve figured out a few things that have made summer dressing a lot easier.
Today, I’m sharing the summer style lessons I’ve learned the hard way, the ones that actually work when you’re over 50 and want to feel good walking out the door.
11 Things I’ve Learned About Summer Style Over 50
1. Comfort is Key
These days, if it’s not comfortable, it’s not coming home with me. When it’s hot and sticky outside, I want breathable fabrics, loose fits, and shoes I can actually walk in. My DIL and I were just talking about this over the weekend. She said she wore shoes even when they weren’t comfortable, just because they were stylish…but not anymore.
I’ve learned that style and comfort can go hand in hand. A breezy sundress, a soft cotton tee, or a good pair of sandals can look just as polished as something dressier. When I’m comfortable, I feel more like myself, and that always looks better than anything I wore just to suffer through.
2. Fabrics really do make a difference
For years, I didn’t think twice about what my clothes were made of. If it was cute and on sale, I was wearing it. But I’m trying to pay attention to the fabric that items are made from. Polyester and other synthetics might be fine in the winter, but in July? No thank you, unless it is really, really, cute. Lol! I’m still a work in progress, but I’ve finally understood why I felt hot and sticky every time I wore certain tops outside.
Now, I try to reach for breathable fabrics like linen, cotton, bamboo, and rayon, especially in the heat of summer. They let your skin breathe and keep you from overheating, which is half the battle when you’re trying to look polished in the middle of a heat wave.
I wrote a whole post about why linen dresses are the secret to looking pulled together in summer. Linen might wrinkle, but it always looks intentional and elevated. And if you haven’t tried a good pair of cotton pants lately, check out this post. The right pair makes all the difference when you want to stay cool but still feel put together.
3. You don’t have to hide your skin
For a long time, I thought that getting older meant covering up. I figured I’d be wearing long sleeves and capris forever. But honestly, the older I get, the less I worry about what people think.
If it’s hot outside, I wear a sleeveless dress. If I feel good in a pair of shorts, I’m wearing them. Nobody is keeping score. Showing a little skin in summer isn’t just okay, it’s practical. And there’s something empowering about embracing your body just as it is today.
Ready to shop for some shorts? Head over to The Best Length for Shorts Over 50: Finding a Flattering Fit or The Best Way To Style White Shorts For Summer
4. Color makes everything more fun
If you’ve been around here long enough, you know I don’t shy away from color. In fact, I’ve always been drawn to bright, happy hues. There’s just something about putting on a coral top or a turquoise dress that instantly lifts my mood. And summer is the best time to go all in.
If you’ve been sticking to safe shades, try stepping out with something a little brighter. You might be surprised how much you love it. If you’re ready to add some color to your closet, grab one of these Colorful Summer Dresses for Women Over 50.
5. No one’s really looking at you in a swimsuit
I used to worry about how I looked in a swimsuit. I’d think about my thighs, my tummy, or whether anyone would notice the parts of me I usually keep covered.
But the truth is, most people are too busy enjoying themselves to care. They’re swimming, relaxing, and chatting with friends. They aren’t analyzing what anyone else is wearing. And if they are? That says more about them than it does about you.
Find a swimsuit that fits and makes you feel good, then go enjoy your summer.
You can find some of my favorite flattering and affordable bathing suits for this year in this post and this one.
6. Accessories are your secret weapon
When it’s too warm to layer, accessories really shine. I love straw totes, raffia belts, and statement sunglasses this time of year. You can wear the same white dress over and over, but with different shoes and jewelry, it feels brand new.
Looking to finish off your outfit with the perfect bag or hat? I’ve rounded up some go-to summer bags and totes, and stylish sun hats in these posts.
7. White clothes aren’t off-limits
A lot of women over 50 shy away from white because they worry it’s not flattering or it’ll add extra pounds. But I’ve found that a good pair of white pants or a crisp white top can actually be very flattering in summer. The key is finding the right fabric and fit. I look for thicker materials that aren’t see-through and cuts that give me room to move. *Wear nude colored undergarments so they don’t show through the fabric. Don’t wear white; it will show, which makes no sense to me.
Curious how I style white for summer? I’ve put together some white spring and summer outfits in these posts:
8. Don’t be afraid to size up
The number on the tag doesn’t mean a thing. If sizing up means the clothes fit better and I’m more comfortable, then that’s what I’m doing.
No one knows what size you’re wearing except you, and no one cares. What people do notice is when something is too tight, pulling, or riding up where it shouldn’t be. I’d rather wear a size that fits and flatters than squeeze into something just because the smaller number makes me feel better in the moment.
9. You only need one or two great sandals
I used to buy a bunch of new sandals every year, thinking I needed every color. Now I focus on finding one or two pairs that are really comfortable and go with everything. A neutral wedge and a flat sandal are usually all I need. Bonus points if they slip on and off easily and don’t leave me with blisters.
Need help finding a comfy, cute sandal for summer? I’ve got you covered, check out my sandal guides here.
10. Thigh chafing is no joke
I don’t know who decided we were all supposed to have a thigh gap, but I’ve never had one, and I’m doing just fine. Still, when the weather heats up and I’m wearing dresses, that uncomfortable rubbing can sneak up fast.
The good news is, there are easy fixes. I keep a few pairs of slip shorts on hand, and they make wearing a dress so much more comfortable. They’re lightweight, breathable, and stay in place. I’ve also used anti-chafing balms when I don’t want the extra layer.
11. Confidence is the best thing you can wear
The biggest thing I’ve learned? The way you feel in your clothes matters more than the clothes themselves. If you like what you’re wearing and feel comfortable in it, that energy shows up everywhere you go.
I don’t follow every trend, and I don’t dress like I did at 25. But I’ve figured out what works for me, and that’s made all the difference.
What have you learned about your summer style over the years? Drop a comment below and share your favorite tip, lesson, or outfit. We can all learn from each other.
Each time you share my posts on PINTEREST, INSTAGRAM, YOUTUBE, AND FACEBOOK, it not only helps other ladies who might be style-challenged find my blog, but it also strengthens our community. Furthermore, I appreciate every one of you and consider you a friend.
Are You One Of The GURLS?
You’ll receive a daily email reminder from me, keeping you updated when a new blog post is published. Additionally, a special email might occasionally appear in your inbox, so be sure to keep an eye out for it.
To GOD Goes The Glory!
Verse Of The Day
Romans 10:13 (NIV)
13 for, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”
🙂
CUTENESS!!!!
Great post for us older ladies. I had a mini skirt on once and my mom said to me; it’s your daughter’s time for short skirts,you had yours already.
Leave it to a mom to say something like that.
🙂 Sage advice Tania. Wear what’s comfortable, what fits and has colors that make you happy.
😊Love those green pants!
😁I love this post so much!!!! Very empowering ❤️
Found it😊
These are great tips for summer dressing. The slip shorts have been a lifesaver (or thigh-saver) for wearing skirts and dresses in the summer!
🙂
🙂 love the embroidered sleeveless top!
🙂 I bought the floral split neck elbow length top and I love it. Thanks for the info.
FOUND IT
You chose the nicest combos and always look together
🙂 good info
🙂 I found 2.
🙂 love the white tank dress
Found it.
🙂
Always a great reminder when you tell us to embrace the body we have and ignore the size on the tags!
🙂Love this post I have always been afraid of linen and the wrinkles. Comfort is also key for me!
I’m retired so tshirts and shorts are summer essentials combined with cute sandals.
Found it 😊
😊great tips! I’ve been telling my daughter and dil for years to wear what you like with confidence and you’ll feel great! It took me a long time to realize that
😀 all of these are so pretty. I especially like the navy shorts with white top a d blue trim.
.
😎 Great thoughts!
🙂 you are right about comfort.
🙂 I like the white dress.
Tania, those slip shorts are a total game changer!!! I wear dresses all the time, and they are so light and comfy!!! Happy Tuesday❤❤❤
😃 All great points, Tania! Your style tips are the greatest!
😀 Found it and you are right on in this post!
😊What a great blog!
Love this post; so helpful and something I will refer back to:)
😊 great post today, Tania. Excellent advice. Nothing looks as pretty as being confident (and comfortable) in your own skin especially in the summer 😎.
😊 I’m all about comfort too. Especially in the heat we have had. So many great outfit options.
😊 Love the white dress and short set!
😊 I love linen in the summer! I will have to try the brighter colors.
:)I’m all in for comfort but I still want to look stylish. You show outfits that do both. Thanks
😊Yay summer! I like the turquoise tank dress.
🙂 Great insight.. I love the “no one is looking at you”! True !!
😀Yes to all of these!
😀 Love your 11 things! You look great in the bold colors for sure!
😊. At 68, I still can’t put on a swimsuit!
🙂 Good thoughts, and timely, this is a hot steamy summer. Have a blessed week!
Great post. Sound advice and so true. Thank you 😊
Love your posts and I found the 😊 today!
🙂 I’m late to the linen party but am loving the one dress I have.
‘Confidence is the best thing to wear’…..GREAT advice Tania!!
: ) Still working on the sizing up part but practice everything else.
🙂 I completely agree with you that comfort is important. The older I get the more sensitive I am to how clothes feel. I like your suggestion of wearing bright colors.
Tania,
Thanks for my gift card! It sure is fun to wake up with a notification that I won!
😀 Found it! I agree 💯 Comfort is KEY!
🙂 Good advice on wearing a swimsuit!
😊Love the white dress!!it screams summer !!🥰
My grandmother used to tell me you don’t wear the size tag on the outside!
Exactly!
🙂
near the chair
love the pjs
🙂 So many nice items and suggestions!
🙂 Great tips that I live by! And all the ladies at the beach are either worrying about the kids or stressing over how they look in a bathing suit to even give you a second glance. <3
😊
I like the crinkle topper from Kohl’s but it’s sold out.
I agree Tania, the older I get the less I care what people say about what I wear. Especially on vacation where I’ll never see them again!
😀 very pretty you look great in that white dress and with all your skin care
😊 very much enjoyed your post this morning. Lots of really pretty clothes.
Like the dresses you style:)
Great article! Linen blouses are itchy on me so no more linen tops. I really like the no-iron tops I buy from Chico’s – tuck it in or not. Looks great worn on top of pants. I purged a lot of stuff from my closet recently and most of the linen blouses went out. At this age in my life, comfort is key.
😊. Your choices are perfect. Really like the navy short set.
😀the best tips and advice!!
☺️ Love this and agree with it all except the showing your skin part! haha Still haven’t turned that corner yet!
lol! 😂
🙂 Found it. I am in my 60’s and follow many of these suggestions.
🙂 So many great items in this post! Thank you!
Great tips! 😊
Love the white tank dress. Can you give info on the earrings you’re wearing with it?
Sure, they are from Amazon. https://amzlink.to/az0WgMdK0m1J0
I agree with everything you said.
You look nice in all these outfits.
About the chat skin care—what happened to the RF you were using? Do you no longer use those products?
I still have them, but the only thing I’m using right at the moment is Lash Boost and the Redefine toner. I want to see how these Chat products work.
Found it 🙂 I bought the shorts to wear under dresses! I love them. Thanks.