Own Your Curves! Summer Style Guide for Confident Women Over 50

Summer is a great time to think about refreshing your style, but sometimes curvy women over 50 might struggle to find the right outfit. Whether because they’ve put on a bit of weight or simply because they feel stuck with their usual tried-and-tested outfit, they don’t feel comfortable with their look anymore. But looking and feeling good should not be defined by age or size.

If you’re not sure how to embrace summer style in a way that honours your body and your inner fashionista, these tips will provide you with the inspiration you need to help you navigate the good season with confidence and flair.

Never underestimate the power of a good bra

Let’s start with a great foundation! Many women wear bras that don’t fit properly, and that can negatively impact the fit and the look of your clothing. Your bust should “sit” about midway between your elbow and shoulder whether you’re wearing a blazer, dress, fitted sweater or tunic top.

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The best way to find a bra that does its job is by getting a professional bra fitting to learn your correct measurements and understand which styles flatter your body and lifestyle the most. The right bras will help you present a well-supported, smooth, and polished look, setting the stage for all your fabulous spring-summer looks.

Choose tops with open necklines

Tops with V-neck, sweetheart, keyhole, and other open necklines look great on just about every body type—and they’re particularly flattering on full-busted women. Open necklines break up the continuous flow of fabric, which can give a bulky and matronly appearance—especially if the fabric is heavy.

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If you’re comfortable exposing a little skin, choose necklines with a deeper plunge, or for a more modest look, layer a tank or camisole underneath.

Define your waistline, define your curves

Cinch your waist using your clothing to help balance your upper and lower body. Wrap tops, dresses, and jumpsuits are great for defining your waistline—especially pieces with adjustable belts because they allow you to customize the fit of your clothes. 

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Wearing tops with ruching around your waist is another great way to create an hourglass-like effect. If you’re broader on the top, balance your lower half by wearing fuller skirts and pants with pleating and side slash pockets.

Opt for the right fabrics

Lightweight breathable fabrics are your friend during the warmer months, and even more so for women whose body temperatures quickly fluctuate. Choose lightly coloured fabrics in cotton, linen, bamboo, and Tencel. The light colours won’t absorb heat and the breathable fabrics will allow air to circulate, allowing your body to cool down.

Athleisure pieces are also great for keeping it stylish while providing comfort when you’re working out, brunching with friends, on a date, or running errands. Today’s athletic clothing is modern, stylish, and often made from lightweight moisture-wicking fabrics to keep you cool. Some styles even provide UV protection, providing the perfect balance of fashion and function.

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Flowy styles, including palazzo pants and culottes, and gauzy dresses and skirts will keep you looking and feeling light and breezy. Pair them with lightweight and tailored t-shirts and tops to balance your silhouette. For a more polished look, add a structured blazer or denim jacket.

Colours, patterns, and prints

Take summer colours to the next level by selecting highly saturated versions of the traditional palette, including electric blue, tangerine, sunny yellow, coral, and lime green. For an impactful and understated look, wear a single accent hue like a bold blazer over a neutral outfit or choose one accessory as your statement piece.

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When we think of spring patterns, florals are an obvious choice, but if you want to mix things up choose graphic prints, including geometric shapes, animal prints, or abstract prints. Or choose optical illusion styles, with strategically placed blocks of colours or vertical lines, which can change the perception of your shape and create a slimming effect.

Monochromatic outfits are great for creating a sleek and cohesive look. Try combining slightly different shades in the same colour family,  wearing the lighter hues on top and the darker ones on the bottom, which can draw the eye upward. For example, pair a light blue top with a deeper blue skirt or pants, or a lavender top paired with a deeper shade of purple on the bottom. This works well with neutrals, like tans, camels, and creams.

Embrace trends in small doses

Embracing trends in small doses can help you maintain a current and fresh look. Western and country-inspired fashion is having a huge moment right now, and it’s easy enough to incorporate into your wardrobe. You can either pair a ruffled maxi dress with cowboy boots and cinch your waist with a western-inspired belt to define your shape or even take a simple pair of denim jeans or maxi skirt, add a white t-shirt, a cowboy hat and western belt and you have a simple, trendy, and chic look.

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If the western look isn’t your vibe, try denim in a trendy wash or style. Denim has evolved way past a functional wardrobe staple and has become a versatile canvas for creativity and self-expression. With all the available innovative cuts, and elevated fabrics and embellishments, there is a denim style and wash for you. Try a pair of denim Bermuda shorts, jeans with kick splits, and even styles with two-tone washes to stay current, comfortable, and cute.

Accessorize, accessorize, accessorize

While a great outfit can be the foundation, it’s the accessories that take it from good to fabulous, adding a touch of glamour or a pop of personality, making you feel amazing from the inside out. But remember, balance is key. Don’t go overboard. Too many accessories can be overwhelming. Choose one or two statement pieces to avoid looking cluttered, and keep at bay overly dainty or chunky pieces.

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A great pair of frames can elevate your entire look with minimal effort and can be embraced by every woman. Whether you wear readers, prescription lenses, or even if you simply want to make a fashion statement, select a style in an eye-catching colour or interesting pattern. Wearing unique frames is a great way to add a cool, stylish, or funky edge to your spring style.

Of course, a great pair of comfy statement shoes is essential, too. The days of teetering around in uncomfortable and impractical shoes are over. With so many stylish options that feel as good as they look, there is a ballet flat, a statement sneaker, a loafer, or a stylish sandal out there for you. You can absolutely be cute and comfy at the same time.

Remember, true style is about authenticity. These are just a few ideas to get you started. With a little creativity, you can find summer outfits that flatter your curves and make you feel like the best version of yourself.

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