Fun In The Sun Redux
- On July 16, 2015
- 4 Comments
- 50+, age-appropriate, casual summer fashion, fashion, over-50 style, personal style, style, summer style, twin cities, wardrobe consulting
Previous post
My last post featured casual dressing for summer fun in the sun. Some reader feedback raised the question of “age-appropriate” summer clothing for 50+ women; namely, “Can I wear that?” To which I answered, “YES!”
“My arms are jiggly.” “My thighs have cellulite.”
“My knees look fat.” “My skin is wrinkly.”
I hear these mantras and more from so many women. I grapple with these thoughts too, but have worked hard (and still am) to see them for what they are: social “rules” that are not only arbitrary, but also ridiculous. Human beings are not robots – we are organic beings that age, and there’s nothing wrong with that. We shouldn’t feel shame about it, and we shouldn’t have to hide it.
My take on clothing
I feel that clothing should be context-appropriate rather than age-appropriate and that women should feel comfortable, both physically and style-wise, in what they are wearing. Proper fit and cuts are important, because they contribute to feeling comfortable and confident. But a woman should not think she can’t go sleeveless or wear shorts or sundresses just because she is “of a certain age.” If it’s hot out, why should we have to be miserable?
Some choices of more coverage are made because of style preferences. That I embrace fully. If you like wearing breezy linen tops with or without sleeves, great! If you prefer wearing walking-length shorts rather than shorter inseams because they are more comfortable, by all means do.
When it’s hot, cool comfort is of the essence. Here are some additional choices for summer fun.
Pair walking shorts with lightweight tops and comfortable shoes or sandals. Throw on a hat for sun coverage and accessorize simply with a necklace or bracelet.
Choose wide-leg palazzo pants or capris in bold patterns or white/bright trousers for cooler days or evenings. Pair them with a tunic or a gauzy blouse over a camisole, or go sleeveless. Add a flat or platform sandal and bring a sheer cardigan if the night gets chilly.
Wear a full knee-length or midi skirt or lightweight culottes with an oversized linen collared shirt loosely tucked or tied at the waist for definition or a sleeved or sleeveless belted shirt-dress. Throw on some comfort sandals, grab a straw tote and enjoy the sunshine!
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