The key to simplifying your summer style if you're over 50: long dresses. These pieces are both cool and comfortable, allowing you to dress easily by simply choosing a dress from your wardrobe and adding a few accessories.
Long dresses have been in fashion for a while now, but don't worry if you haven't bought one yet. For a long time, fashion magazines led many of us to believe that long dresses were reserved for tall, slim people. But don't believe the myth any longer: long dresses are suitable for everyone. We've collected our favorite tips from personal stylists on how to wear these dresses well when you're over 50. You might even prefer these elegant, long dresses to their shorter counterparts.
A flattering cut for everyone: the dress that tucks under the bust and gently flares out
When looking for a long dress, the first thing to consider is the cut. Michelle Barrett, stylist and founder of Garde-Robe Capsule, suggests choosing a dress that tucks under the bust and gently flares out. According to her, this cut highlights the slimmest part of your body and skims the tummy, an area many women are often uncomfortable with because menopause can add extra weight there. Carol Davidson, New York-based mature stylist and founder of Lifestyle Strategy, also recommends this style of dress. She points out that, as well as being figure-flattering, it also gives a visual boost to the bust, which her clients over 50 appreciate. If you don't want to opt for an empire cut, you can choose a dress with a waist between the under-bust area and the natural waist.
Show a little skin for balance
Since long dresses cover most of your legs, it's important to find balance by showing a little skin. Carol Davidson suggests opting for a off-the-shoulder dress if you love your shoulders, a plunging neckline to show off your bust, or a dress with thin straps to show off your arms. She also mentions that the slightly thicker tank straps cover the bra straps, which is an important consideration for her customers over 50, who often don't appreciate strapless bras. If you want more coverage, a floating sleeve is a feminine and seductive option that also offers some sun protection for the arms. If you opt for a shorter sleeve, a wider, diagonally cut short sleeve offers a shrinking effect that can be flattering.
Natural materials for the warmer months
Since long dresses are often worn in summer, the choice of material is important. Carol Davidson recommends natural materials such as cotton, linen and washable silk. These materials let the skin breathe during the warmer months and can also help regulate body temperature in the event of personal fluctuations. What's more, these materials are easy to care for. On the other hand, it's best to avoid lycra or other shiny fabrics, as they can highlight aspects you don't want to emphasize.
Chunky shoes to complete the look
With a long dress, you can wear just about any pair of shoes. However, if you really want to make a statement, opt for shoes that are both comfortable and chunky. If you're petite, platform or wedge sandals can give you that extra sense of height you need. Thinner heels risk getting lost in a long dress. If you prefer flats, sneakers, espadrilles or chunky sandals like Birkenstocks are excellent options. If you opt for flip-flops, make sure the dress doesn't get caught in them when you climb the stairs. This will avoid any risk of tripping or falling.
Versatile accessories to complete your summer look
Accessories are essential to complete your summer look. Opt for accessories that serve a dual purpose. Carol Davidson suggests adding expressive sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat to protect your skin from the sun. Also add a few gold bracelets, a larger cuff or ring, and a straw bag to keep up with this season's accessory trends. By choosing versatile accessories, you can easily go from casual to dressy in the blink of an eye.
With these tips from personal stylists, you can easily adopt long, elegant dresses for your summer style if you're over 50. Just remember to favor a flattering cut, strike the right balance between shown and covered skin, choose natural materials for comfort, complete your look with chunky shoes and add versatile accessories to perfect your outfit. Enjoy summer in style!
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