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:

• My Summer Style Formula Over 50: Easy White Outfit Ideas
• The Ultimate Guide to Wearing White for Spring and Summer (Over 50 Style)
• Best White Shorts for Women Over 50 That Actually Flatter

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.

• The Best Sandals for Women Over 50
• The Most Comfortable Walking Sandals To Buy Now
• Best Vionic Sandals for Women
• The Best Casual Sandals With Arch Support

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.

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