I don’t know what it’s like where you’re at, but we’re just about to that point in the Midwest where the weather goes from frigid to boiling… and fast! Summer always seems to sneak up on us, and if you’re already dreading the humidity or heat, you’re certainly not alone. I’m more of a fall and spring girl myself! It can be a little tricky to dress for summer – especially when it’s sweltering hot. If you’re over 50 and in need of easy outfits that are both cool and comfortable for the summer season, you’re in the right place. Below are 9 tips to help you look put together in hot weather.
1. Embrace linen everything
hat | pants | espadrilles | bracelet | earrings | top
One of my favorite parts about summer dressing? Linen pieces. They’ll instantly give your look an easy, beachy vibe – even if you’re landlocked. And the best part is, swapping out your pieces for linen alternatives is a great way to stay cool, even during the hottest days of summer.
As a fabric, linen is highly breathable, moisture-wicking, and great for air circulation. Its natural fibers and loose weave allow air to move through with ease. And if you do start to perspire, it will dry quickly and won’t leave that damp, clammy feeling behind on your skin.
Another positive about linen? It’s a surprisingly durable fabric and will hold up well for many washes and wears. Plus, it’s eco-friendly compared to other material types. There are so many things to love about linen, and even more ways to style it for chic summer looks. From top to bottom, it will keep you cool all season long.
2. Create shade with a chic hat
espadrilles | hat | dress | necklace | bag
A stylish hat not only looks great, but also provides important sun protection. It will shield your eyes and skin, not to mention give you an on-the-go shade solution! Any type of hat will do, but you might want to prioritize a straw or raffia hat. They’re easy to clean, durable, and breathable. Plus, there are so many styles to choose from! You’re sure to find one that meshes well with your personal style.
Need styling ideas? Try a wide-brim sun hat to instantly elevate a chic swim look. Or, reach for a rancher style if you want to lean into this year’s Western aesthetic. Love the East Coast look? Complement a linen shirt and pair of pants with a bucket hat variety. No matter which you choose, it will only upgrade your summer style.
Below, create a look that’s garden party ready with a vintage-style sun hat, a polka dot linen midi dress, gold jewelry, and a pair of lace-up espadrilles for a feminine touch.
3. Choose clothes with a loose fit
top | skirt | sandals | bag | earrings
Summer is not the time to reach for skin-tight jeans or your snug tops! Loose-fitting clothes will serve you much better during the hottest months of the year. Not only will they feel more comfortable on your body, but they’ll also ensure that the fabric isn’t unnecessarily clinging close to you. The more space between the material and your skin, the cooler you’ll feel.
Look for bottoms or skirts with an elastic waistband, or a drawstring that’s adjustable. As for tops, flutter sleeves or balloon sleeves can be your best bet to avoid being too warm in the underarm area. If you’re comfortable doing so, wearing slightly boxier silhouettes can also be beneficial during the warmest months of summer! Don’t be afraid to play into the proportions of oversized pieces to stay cool.
4. Lean into light colors
button-down | t-shirt | shorts | bag (similar) | sandals | belt
When the sun is really beating down, it can be beneficial to reach for light colors. White and other light colors are reflective thanks to their higher albedo, which is the amount of light they reflect back into the environment. In addition to their reflective properties, light colors can actually help prevent UV from being absorbed by your skin. It’s like an extra layer of sunscreen!
Beyond just the practical reasons to wear light colors during summer, there are also aesthetic reasons. By the time warm weather rolls around, you might be sick of wearing dark, neutral shades. Light or bright colors can help to brighten up your mood when you’re ready for sunshine and days spent outside.
5. Go for breathable footwear
dress | cardigan | flats | bag | earrings
Just like breathable tops and bottoms are so important for keeping cool, breathable footwear is another key tactic to beating the summer heat. The great news is, there are plenty of chic options out there besides flip flops. From fisherman to strappy to crossover, there are a near-endless number of sandal types that will still offer great support and style.
One of my personal favorite styles for summer is a woven sandal. You can find woven loafers, mules or ballet flats that can complete any look. Plus, they add texture to your outfit to make it look more interesting. If you want to recreate the look below, pair a patterned midi dress with woven flats. Then, tie a cardigan over your shoulders for a French girl-approved look. If it gets chilly at night or inside the air conditioning, you’ll be prepared! Finish the look with a woven shoulder bag and a pair of gold stud earrings.
6. Layer lightly
sandals | dress | bag | blazer | sunglasses
When you’re over 50, you might not want to beat the heat by putting on a crop top and a pair of short shorts. You certainly can, but chances are you might be looking for a more elevated style to express yourself in summer fashion. Just because it’s hot doesn’t mean you have to automatically wear less! Light, breathable layers will give you a modest look that’s elegant and chic, even when the temperatures rise.
Want to elevate your simple midi dress? Try adding a linen blazer. Whether you’re dressing for work or meeting friends for lunch on the weekend, this is an easy go-to outfit formula to save for the warmer months. Keep your accessories simple for a minimalist look. All you need is a pair of sunglasses, a structured bag, and a pair of sandals.
7. Go with the flow
vest | skirt | bag | sandals | earrings
If you still want to look put together when the temperatures are in the 80s, 90s, or 100s, one of my favorite ways to stay cool is with a flowy skirt or dress. These pieces make an immense difference in keeping you cool, without having to sacrifice style. I find them a million times more comfortable than most pants. You can dress them up or down, wear them on the weekend or to work, and choose from a variety of lengths that fit your comfort level.
8. Consider cotton basics
t-shirt | jacket | shorts | shoes | bag | hoops | pendant
Cotton is another great fabric to consider for your summer pieces. It’s breathable, soft, and absorbs sweat well. If you want a material that’s comfortable and cozy to wear all season long, cotton is a great choice! And in general, cotton is the perfect fabric to choose when selecting your capsule wardrobe basics over 50. Cotton t-shirts, pants, and shorts with a high percentage of quality cotton will hold up well and be low-maintenance to wash. Plus, they’ll transition well from season to season, ensuring that you can wear them all year long.
For a cute and casual summer look that will still help you feel put together, reach for a striped cotton tee and pull-on cotton shorts. If it’s not too hot out, add a denim jacket for texture and interest. Then, accessorize with a gold pendant, hoops, a crossbody bag, and leather crossover sandals to complete the look.
9. Elevate your look with accessories
linen top | linen pants | sandals | bag | earrings | bracelet cuff
Accessories can transform your look in the summer months and make you look put together while dressing to beat the heat. Even if you’re just wearing a simple tank top and shorts, the right extras can help elevate your outfit to a whole new level. Chunky gold jewelry, straw and raffia bags, chic sandals, and cotton neck scarves are all great options to include in a summer capsule wardrobe. And, don’t forget a chic hat and a classic pair of sunglasses!
If you want to add interest or personality to simple summer outfits, accessories are the way to do it. Don’t be afraid to experiment more with your extras in the summer. Because you’re wearing fewer layers, they’ll really be able to shine in summer looks!
Beating the Heat with Great Style
Beating the summer heat is no easy feat (the rhyme was too good to pass up). If you’re over 50, you most likely want to dress for summer in a way that’s comfortable, but still elegant and sophisticated, just like you. The good news is that these 9 tips will help you achieve that! Go by these guidelines, and you’re sure to have your most stylish summer yet.
Ready for more summer outfit inspiration? Up Next: Breezy, Beautiful & Ageless: Casual Summer Outfits for Over 50
I love your posts Cassie.
Just curious. Haven’t seen much from Carolyn lately. Hope all is well.
Hey, Judi! Thanks for checking in. 🙂 I’m still here and all is well! I’m still writing here occasionally and I send out the weekly newsletter. That’s a great place to stay connected if you aren’t already.
Hi Carolyn,
I just LOVE your posts! I’m 43 and am in that process of trying to dress less like a teen and more like the sophisticated woman I want to be. Your posts give me so many great ideas and a lot of the items I have in my closet already. I decided to delete my Instagram account recently so having another place to get inspiration is so helpful!!
Thanks, Stacy! I am so glad that you are finding helpful inspiration. So thrilled you are here!