Thinking about what to wear in summer can be challenging. You reveal more about yourself and your body than in any other season and have fewer layering tricks at your disposal to either cover up certain parts or create a nice silhouette. That’s why this article brings you tips on how to dress for summer with all the summer essentials you need.

Why is dressing well more difficult in summer?

Much more than in winter or any other season, many women over 40 just don’t look as good as they could in summer. I can think of a number of reasons as to why this is.

  • Perhaps you own less clothes for the summer season.
  • There is less reason to wear layers and clothes that were only meant to be worn with additional clothes are now worn on their own.
  • You want to be comfortable and cool first (style comes in second place).
  • You may be wearing capris, wide short pants, shorts, tops with cut-outs etc. even when they may not flatter your body type.
  • Perhaps you are in holiday or summer mode and your appearance isn’t as much of a priority when considering what to wear in summer.
  • It’s also harder to create a ‘new’ look every day, since you can’t really play too much with jackets, layers and scarves.

What to wear in summer – our tips for Putting together summer outfits

However, with a little thought, and some clever techniques, you can look stylish every day during summer.

In this article you’ll find our best tips and tricks for dressing during the summer season.

Plus, read on for the summer essentials you need in your closet, and a summer capsule wardrobe with summer outfit inspiration.

1. Use interesting design details for your summer clothes

If you are only wearing one layer, make it as interesting as possible. You can consider tops that have an interesting design detail.

All you need is a good basic bottom like some nice white trousers, crop jeans or your favorite skirt and you will look, modern, polished yet remain cool.

The Karen Kane top (below) features asymmetry which is useful to hide a belly, as well as being loose and cool to wear so it’s ideal if you are thinking about what to wear in summer while also covering a tummy. It comes in a choice of colors, and wearers say it is nice, airy, flattering, and can be dressed up or worn with jeans.

Karen Kane Asymmetrical Crepe Top | 40plusstyle.com

Karen Kane Asymmetrical Crepe Top

My top (below) has a twist detail which adds interest even though I’m simply wearing a gray top and white pants. Look out for an interesting drape, asymmetrical detail or pattern.

top with interesting detail | 40plusstyle.com

similar top, wide jeans and shoes

Here are some of my favorite tops to hide your belly and favorite asymmetric tops and dresses currently available in stores.

2. Dress in very thin layers

This is easy to do when you have a few very thin blouses or tunics. It doesn’t matter if they are see-through because you will be wearing it with either your bikini or singlet underneath.

You could wear a thin ruana or kimono over your outfit like a duster jacket. Then, if you are on vacation, you could wear over your swimsuit as a cover up.

What to wear in summer - wear a kimono as a jacket | 40plusstyle.com

Caslon Asymmetric Twist T-ShirtAllSaints Noche Animal Print RuanaAG Farrah Crop Bootcut JeansMunro Mel Metallic T-Strap SandalKarine Sultan Fleur de Lis Pendant Necklace

3. Hide those bra straps when wearing summer style

Bra straps will ruin your look, unless they are very fancy. If you are wearing a unique top, make sure that you have a bra that can be worn invisible underneath.

You can either buy a bra that can be worn in several ways or buy a bra clips. This can be used with almost every bra.

The Wacoal bra (below) for example would go well under racerback tops.

b.tempt'd by Wacoal Future Foundations Front Close Racerback Bra | 40plusstyle.com

b.tempt’d by Wacoal Future Foundations Front Close Racerback Bra

Of course panty lines should be avoided too. I regularly wear panties from Uniqlo and Marks & Spencer.

You can see our recommended no-show underwear to avoid visible panty lines in this article.

hide bras | 40plusstyle.com

4. Invest in a few good dresses

Nothing is as easy and glamorous and cool as a good summer dress. Ideally, you will have at least 5 dresses:

A high summer beach dress

This dress can be shorter than your other dresses and is easy to wash, doesn’t wrinkle too easily and is not too precious.

Choose a dress that will be perfect for the beach but can also be used as a tunic worn over pants for casual clothes.

The Eileen Fisher shirtdress (below) is linen which should keep you cool.

Eileen Fisher Mandarin Collar Cap Sleeve Organic Linen Shirtdress | 40plusstyle.com

Eileen Fisher Mandarin Collar Cap Sleeve Organic Linen Shirtdress

When I go to the beach I prefer to cover up rather than expose all my upper skin to the sun. I could easily wear my tunic (below) with a pair of cropped pants, white jeans or leggings.

You can combine with either shorts or a long skirt if you like to cover up your legs as well.

wear thin layers for summer | 40plusstyle.com

similar kaftan and sandals

A summer day dress

This dress should be the perfect dress for casual get-togethers during the day.

This could be a nice wrap dress in cotton jersey or a casual shift or shirt dress. Asymmetry will add interest to an otherwise simply day dress.

If you opt for a plain dress, you could wear a statement necklace to add interest.

COS Gathered-Sleeve Mini Shirt Dress | 40plusstyle.com

COS Gathered-Sleeve Mini Shirt Dress

A work dress

A traditional shift dress that looks both professional and conservative and that can be easily combined with a jacket or cardigan. The zip on the sheath dress (below) adds interest. This dress could double up as an evening dress.

TAHARI ASL Side Zip Sheath Dress | 40plusstyle.com

TAHARI ASL Side Zip Sheath Dress

What to wear in summer - Sylvia wears a green dress | 40plusstyle.com

similar dress and pumps

A dress for the evening

A dress that is a bit more special than your day and work dress. Look out for luxurious fabrics like silk, or details like asymmetry.

The Chelsea28 dress (below) features an asymmetric hem, and could be dressed up for a summer event or dinner, or down with flat sandals and a denim jacket.

Chelsea28 Floral Print Asymmetric Faux Wrap Dress | 40plusstyle.com

Chelsea28 Floral Print Asymmetric Faux Wrap Dress

A maxi dress

You may also want to add a maxi dress to your summer outfit choices. They can be a particularly good option for vacation time as they manage to be easy-to-wear yet glamorous at the same time. You can wear casually with a denim jacket, or dress up your maxi dress with a blazer.

Caslon Sleeveless Jersey Maxi Dress | 40plusstyle.com

Caslon Sleeveless Jersey Maxi Dress

5. Don’t be afraid of silk when choosing summer clothes

We have mentioned silk a few times already. Together with good quality cotton it is a great material for summer.

It’s cool, has a beautiful natural shine and it looks and feels sublime. If you can combine that with tip number 2, you have a true winner on your hands!

A common complaint is that silk is too precious for summer and that it requires too much care. However, you can usually wash your silk items by hand. Yes, it’s more work, but not as expensive as dry cleaning.

Although all silk items will always have the ‘dry cleaning’ advice for washing, it is not always necessary so long as you purchase silk of good quality. Of course, you will have to do this at your own risk. We will not take any responsibility if this does not work for you! (just sharing how we personally manage our silk items).

It’s true of course that silk is more expensive. But it’s worth investing in one special dress or top that will make you feel wonderful. When you look after your clothes well, they can last for many years.

A big plus of silk is that the fabric is also super light weight, so you’ll be able to pack more clothes for your holiday!

The Massimo Dutti silk shirt (below) would look stylish with your white jeans.

Massimo Dutti Habotai Silk Shirt | 40plusstyle.com

Massimo Dutti Habotai Silk Shirt

floral silk top | 40plusstyle.com

similar dresses here and here, jeans and booties

6. Summer outfit ideas: Cover up in smart ways

In summer you need to be even smarter with the types of clothes you choose when you want to cover up certain areas.

I personally don’t believe in using shapewear too much as it’s far too hot and uncomfortable.

Instead choose smart tops, skirts and dresses that drape in all the right areas to cover up any bulges. Asymmetric dresses and tops are usually very good at doing that.

What to wear in summer - draped tops | 40plusstyle.com

Karen Kane Floral Handkerchief Hem TankKaren Kane V-Neck Layered Asymmetrical TankStella Carakasi Island Hopper Top

For more style tips, read our articles on how to cover up your upper arms and how to hide your belly with the right clothes

7. Dress for your body type when choosing summer fashion

In this season in particular, it’s very important to dress for your body type.

Look at some of the guidelines in our articles on the pear, appleinverted trianglehourglass and rectangular shape.

Women with the apple body type for example look much better in tops that are fitted around the bust and wider around the tummy. The same counts for dresses. Here are also some tips on how to wear capris the right way.

What to wear in summer - Georgette wears print pants | 40plusstyle.com

Georgette @grownandcurvywoman flatters her curves by ensuring she shows off her waistline.

Get her look with this similar tank top, wide pants, sandals and crossbody bag.

8. Use accessories, shoes, color, pattern and graphics to make casual summer outfits more interesting

Accessorizing and playing with colors and patterns is the perfect way to make your summer outfit more interesting.

  • Play with color blocking
  • Add a belt in a print
  • Add interest with a brightly colored scarf
  • Use a scarf as a top
  • Add color with a bag
  • Use a statement necklace
  • Get some colorful standout shoes
  • When wearing flats make sure they are cute.
BaubleBar Kew Crystal Collar Necklace | 40plusstyle.com

BaubleBar Kew Crystal Collar Necklace

Bocar Acrylic Statement Necklace | 40plusstyle.com

Bocar Acrylic Statement Necklace

add accessories to your summer outfits | 40plusstyle.com

similar necklaces here and here

9. Have fun with sunglasses with your summer wear

Sunglasses are the perfect way to cover up your wrinkles and dark circles around the eye for a young and hip look.

Use them in abundance in summer, if only to protect your eyes of the sun and harmful rays and have fun with colors and shapes. A cats eye shape is always flattering for older women as it draws the eye upwards, defying gravity.

Polaroid 52mm Polarized Cat Eye Sunglasses | 40plusstyle.com

Polaroid 52mm Polarized Cat Eye Sunglasses

For more tips on wearing glasses read what glasses to buy after 40and how to pick the right frames.

10. Wear white in your summer outfits for women

all white | 40plusstyle.com

White is your best friend in summer. It is the most versatile color to wear and whenever I don’t know what to wear I turn to it.

Combine with almost every color and pattern in your closet for a clean, modern look! Or wear all white.

What to wear in summer - all white outfits | 40plusstyle.com

Vince Band Collar Silk BlouseMassimo Dutti Linen Double Darted Suit TrousersAimee Kestenberg Bali Double Entry Leather HoboMunro Mel Metallic T-Strap SandalKarine Sultan Fleur de Lis Pendant Necklace

For more tips check out how to wear white and how to wear white pants.

Summer essentials

We’ve already covered some summer essentials above, but what else might you need? Let’s take a look at the summer essentials to make sure you have in your closet.

Flattering T-shirt

Every wardrobe needs a great t-shirt. And this t-shirt (below) from the Caslon brand is a little bit different thanks to the twist at the hem, but it will go with just as many outfits as a “plain” t-shirt would.

Caslon Asymmetric Twist T-Shirt | 40plusstyle.com

Caslon Asymmetric Twist T-Shirt

What to wear in summer - Carmen wears a kimono over her jeans | 40plusstyle.com

Carmen @carmen_gimeno above shows how you could wear an otherwise relatively plain outfit of a pair of jeans and t-shirt, and wear your kimono over the top.

Check out this similar tee, jeans, kimono, sandals, handbag, belt and sunglasses.

Draped blouse

You’re also likely to want a dressier top in your summer closet. The silk blouse (below) is truly timeless and looks and feels luxurious.

Vince Band Collar Silk Blouse | 40plusstyle.com

Vince Band Collar Silk Blouse

tunic

A long tunic can be worn over your leggings or pants, or can be worn as a swimsuit cover-up on your vacation.

Massimo Dutti Line Maxi Oversize Shirt Blouse | 40plusstyle.com

Massimo Dutti Line Maxi Oversize Shirt Blouse

What to wear in summer - tunic over swimsuit outfit | 40plusstyle.com

Massimo Dutti Line Maxi Oversize Shirt BlouseMiraclesuit Rock Solid Avra Underwire One-Piece SwimsuitMunro Mel Metallic T-Strap SandalTumi Tyler Crossbody BagKarine Sultan Imitation Pearl Drop EarringsNordstrom Colorblock Wide Brim Panama Hat

cardigan

What could be more perfect for keeping the chill at bay on cooler evenings than a cozy cardigan? Ideal for nights at home, or for casual days, worn with white jeans. The Stella Carakasi cardigan (below) comes in a choice of colors and has a flattering draped shape.

Stella Carakasi Go To Cardigan | 40plusstyle.com

Stella Carakasi Go To Cardigan

Summer blazer

No matter where you live, you’re likely to need outerwear even if it is summer. This Open Edit blazer (below) is perfect for warmer months as it is made from breathable linen.

Open Edit Oversize Linen Blend Blazer | 40plusstyle.com

Open Edit Oversize Linen Blend Blazer

What to wear in summer - Susan wears a blazer and jeans | 40plusstyle.com

Susan @susan_unefemme above creates a summery look by adding sandals and a basket bag to her jeans and t-shirt outfit.

Steal her look with this similar tee, blazer, jeans, sandals, handbag and necklace.

Longline vest

Layering is often key to creating flattering looks. You can use layers to hide a belly, for example, or to look taller than you really are.

One way to layer in the summer without adding a lot of extra bulk is to opt for a sleeveless vest. You could either wear this Lock and Love vest (below) over your shorts and t-shirts. Sleeveless vests look best worn over other sleeveless tops or dresses, or with long sleeves underneath.

Lock and Love Sleeveless Draped Open Front Cardigan | 40plusstyle.com

Lock and Love Sleeveless Draped Open Front Cardigan

Denim jacket

A denim jacket is one of those closet staples that will always be on trend, particularly if you opt for a mid-blue in a classic shape, such as this jacket (below) from KUT from the Kloth.

KUT from the Kloth Helena Denim Jacket | 40plusstyle.com

KUT from the Kloth Helena Denim Jacket

What to wear in summer - denim jacket and maxi dress | 40plusstyle.com

KUT from the Kloth Helena Denim JacketCaslon Sleeveless Jersey Maxi DressSuperga 2750 Cotu Classic SneakerTumi Tyler Crossbody BagKarine Sultan Imitation Pearl Drop EarringsNordstrom Print Modal & Silk Scarf

Check out our list of the best women’s jackets for summer available in stores now.

white pants

Now onto the pants in this capsule! A pair of white pants or jeans is a summer classic that you can guarantee won’t date. The Massimo Dutti pants (below) will be on trend for seasons to come.

Massimo Dutti Linen Double Darted Suit Trousers | 40plusstyle.com

Massimo Dutti Linen Double Darted Suit Trousers

wide leg pants

A pair of wide leg pants are particularly on trend right now, and would look beautiful worn with your sandals, or dressed up for evening.

Caslon Wide Leg Pull-On Linen Blend Pants | 40plusstyle.com

Caslon Wide Leg Pull-On Linen Blend Pants

What to wear in summer - Sharryn wears a linen outfit | 40plusstyle.com

Sharryn @thestylishwoman above shows how you can add interest to a neutral outfit with the textures you choose and your accessories.

Recreate her outfit with this similar top, pants, shoes, necklace, earrings and sunhat.

Bright PANTS

Neutrals are fabulous and tend to form the base of any capsule wardrobe so you can mix and match plenty of different ways.

But you could also think about adding a pop of color, such as red to your summer capsule.

Max Mara Elastic Waist Wide Leg Poplin Trousers | 40plusstyle.com

Max Mara Elastic Waist Wide Leg Poplin Trousers

PRINTED PANTS

Summer is also the perfect season to wear a pair of print pants. You could keep your top neutral, and let your print pants be the star of your outfit.

Mango Floral Palazzo Pants | 40plusstyle.com

Mango Floral Palazzo Pants

What to wear in summer - print pants outfit | 40plusstyle.com

Caslon Asymmetric Twist T-ShirtMango Floral Palazzo PantsRebecca Minkoff Megan Leather ToteNine West Kuna 9×9 Pointed Toe PumpKarine Sultan Layered Pendant Necklace

leggings

A pair of leggings are perfect for casual days. Wear with longer tunics for the most flattering effect. The Stella Carakasi leggings (below) are a 40+ favorite.

Stella Carakasi Second Nature Capris | 40plusstyle.com

Stella Carakasi Second Nature Capris

lattering shorts

Depending on the weather where you are, or if you manage to head somewhere warmer this summer, you’re likely to want to add a pair of shorts to your summer closet.

This high waist pair of linen shorts (below) from Karen Kane is timeless and would look just as good at home or on vacation, with sandals or sneakers.

Karen Kane Pleated High Waist Linen Shorts | 40plusstyle.com

Karen Kane Pleated High Waist Linen Shorts

What to wear in summer - Carelia wears a shirt and shorts | 40plusstyle.com

Carelia @carelia_medich above wears her jeans with a classic blue shirt.

Get her look with this similar shirt, shorts, pumps, handbag, sunhat and sunglasses.

Also take a look at the best women’s shorts that fitter and flatter women over 40 of any body shape.

jumpsuit

A jumpsuit is a perfect item to add to your summer capsule as it’s a full outfit in one. This Mango belted jumpsuit (below) is ideal as you can wear it casually with sneakers and a denim jacket, pair with sandals for warmer days, or add heels and a clutch bag for more formal evenings.

Mango Belted Linen Jumpsuit | 40plusstyle.com

Mango Belted Linen Jumpsuit

Asymmetric skirt

We love asymmetry in any outfit, so we couldn’t resist including at least one asymmetrical option in this summer essentials capsule. This Mango skirt below could be worn for summer with sandals. But you could also pair it with a sweater, moto jacket and booties for fall.

Mango Asymmetrical Skirt | 40plusstyle.com

Mango Asymmetrical Skirt

sandals

One pair of shoes that every summer capsule absolutely needs is a great pair of sandals. If you choose a neutral or metallic pair, they will go with everything in your closet.

Munro Mel Metallic T-Strap Sandal | 40plusstyle.com

Munro Mel Metallic T-Strap Sandal

What to wear in summer - blouse and shorts | 40plusstyle.com

Vince Band Collar Silk BlouseKaren Kane Pleated High Waist Linen ShortsMunro Mel Metallic T-Strap SandalTumi Tyler Crossbody BagNordstrom Colorblock Wide Brim Panama HatNordstrom Print Modal & Silk Scarf

See our top picks for the best sandals this summer.

Classic pumps

A pair of classic pumps are a style staple for any closet. Swapping your sandals for pumps can quickly take your outfit from day to evening.

Nine West Kuna 9x9 Pointed Toe Pump | 40plusstyle.com

Nine West Kuna 9×9 Pointed Toe Pump

sneakers

A pair of sneakers is another good shoe choice to keep in your summer capsule. Sneakers have never been so on trend, and you can wear them with everything from your jeans to your dresses.

Superga 2750 Cotu Classic Sneaker | 40plusstyle.com

Superga 2750 Cotu Classic Sneaker

tote

No matter what you are doing this summer, you’ll need a bag to carry your day-to-day essentials in. This Rebecca Minkoff tote is totally timeless, and choosing a tote in a pale color will give your outfit a summery look.

Rebecca Minkoff Megan Leather Tote | 40plusstyle.com

Rebecca Minkoff Megan Leather Tote

What to wear in summer - Jas wears a floral dress | 40plusstyle.com

Jas @thefashionstylefile above shows how you could choose a tote in a darker shade and keep a summer feel to your outfit by pairing it with sandals.

Recreate her outfit with this similar floral dress (another option here), sandals, tote, necklace and sunglasses.

crossbody bag

If you’re looking for a travel bag, or just a day-to-day bag, this Tumi Tyler crossbody (below) is perfect.

Tumi Tyler Crossbody Bag | 40plusstyle.com

Tumi Tyler Crossbody Bag

Take a look at the best travel purses for your vacation or every day.

necklace

Of course, every capsule needs its finishing touches, and a statement necklace will give a contemporary look to your summer outfits.

Karine Sultan Layered Pendant Necklace | 40plusstyle.com

Karine Sultan Layered Pendant Necklace

What to wear in summer - linen suit | 40plusstyle.com

Open Edit Oversize Linen Blend BlazerCaslon Asymmetric Twist T-ShirtCaslon Wide Leg Pull-On Linen Blend PantsSuperga 2750 Cotu Classic SneakerRebecca Minkoff Megan Leather ToteKarine Sultan Layered Pendant Necklace

drop earrings

Do you tend to wear earrings everyday, or just for special occasions? Either way, these Karine Sultan drop earrings (below) will go with pretty much everything in your closet.

Karine Sultan Imitation Pearl Drop Earrings | 40plusstyle.com

Karine Sultan Imitation Pearl Drop Earrings

what to wear in summer – a flattering swimsuit

If your summer will include time in the pool or at the beach, you will need a great swimsuit. The Miraclesuit one-piece (below) is a timeless classic.

Miraclesuit Rock Solid Avra Underwire One-Piece Swimsuit | 40plusstyle.com

Miraclesuit Rock Solid Avra Underwire One-Piece Swimsuit

What to wear in summer - Claudia in a shirtdress and bikini | 40plusstyle.com

Claudia @beafitmom.nl above wears a shirtdress over her high-waisted bikini.

Steal her look with this similar shirt, swimsuit (another option here) and cap.

You will find more swimsuit inspiration in our article on the most flattering swimsuits for women over 40.

summer scarf

A scarf looks just as stylish for summer as for the winter months. Simply choose a lightweight material and you can drape around your neck for a nonchalant look, or use as a wrap around your shoulders.

Nordstrom Print Modal & Silk Scarf | 40plusstyle.com

Nordstrom Print Modal & Silk Scarf

summer hat

A summer hat is vital for protection from the sun, and can definitely add the “cool” factor to your outfits. So don’t forget to add a wide-brimmed hat when thinking about what to wear in summer.

Nordstrom Colorblock Wide Brim Panama Hat | 40plusstyle.com

Nordstrom Colorblock Wide Brim Panama Hat

Your summer Essentials capsule wardrobe

Below, you can see many of the summer essentials we have shown you, together in one capsule. You can mix and match the clothes to create different looks.

For example, you could wear the denim jacket or blazer over any of the outfits, you could wear the tunic over the white jeans, or you could dress up the jumpsuit with the heeled pumps.

Summer capsule wardrobe | 40plusstyle.com

shop the items above here:

What are you looking forward to wearing most this summer? What are your best tips for what to wear in summer?

Continue reading:

  1. The Best Bathing Suits For Women Over 40 – Swim Suits That Make You Feel Fabulous!
  2. The Best Women’s Sandals For Summer 2023
  3. How To Choose A Summer Coat + The Best Women’s Jackets Available Online Right Now!

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What to wear in summer - my top 10 tips & tricks | 40plusstyle.com

Feature image by Jas @thefashionstylefile

Sylvia

Sylvia is 40+style’s editor-in-chief and has been helping women find their unique style since 2011. An alumni of the School of Color and Design, she is devoted to empowering women of any age to look and feel their best. Read more about Sylvia and 40+style on this page.

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