Summer usually doesn’t bring on as many new trends at spring, but rather, the trends tend to be a continuation of the spring season. There are a few trends and classics sprinkled in that allow you to put a fresh spin on a summer wardrobe. We are going to take a look at 10 summer fashion trends you can wear over 40.
Top- similar; skirt- Loft; buckle sandals- Old Navy; straw tote- Amazon; earrings- Amazon
Top Summer Fashion Trends for Women Over 40
1. Crochet/ open weave
If you love a bohemian style, then you are happy to see the resurgence of crochet clothing pieces. Whether you don a figure-hugging crochet dress, or a top, you will be on trend. If you only want to play with this trend in small doses, try adding a crochet bag to your outfit for summer vibes. Crochet detailing adds some unique texture and visual interest to your outfits. Another trend within this trend is granny square crochet tops and garments.
2. Tie front tops
We are used to tie-waist tops that tie at the hem. You can keep rocking those, but the new trend is a top the ties together down the middle instead of buttons or other fasteners. I’m probably too modest to rock this one without a camisole underneath, but there are some cute options, and some that are more modest than others.
3. Halter tops and dresses
If you love showing off shapely shoulders and remaining modest, rock a halter neckline. These are great for hourglass shapes, rectangle shapes and pear shapes who want to draw attention to the top half of their body. A crossover halter is very trendy this season.
4. Linen/ linen blend
Linen everything is trending. Of course, linen is always a popular choice for summer but it’s getting even more attention this year. In particular, the linen suit vest worn as a top, is a trendy item. Linen blazers and linen pants are still very trendy too, as well as linen button up tops. If you are concerned about the environment when it comes to your fashion choices, rest assured linen is one of the most eco-friendly fabrics out there. Embrace the wrinkles! It’s part of the casual vibe of linen.
5. Eyelet
This one isn’t groundbreaking because eyelet comes out every spring and summer. A white eyelet dress or white eyelet midi skirt is the trendiest way to wear it this season, as those pieces are having a moment too. But you can find eyelet in lots of other colors and in accessories and shoes. It’s feminine and cool, so it’s a great choice for summer. It’s perfect for those with a romantic style personality.
Top- Gap Factory; tank- Loft; linen blend pants- Old Navy; sandals- Kohls
6. Off shoulder/ one shoulder
These were popular last year and they are back again for 2024. Do not shy away from these because of age. If you have great shoulders, show them off. Pair an off-shoulder top or one shoulder top with an elegant midi skirt for a graceful way to wear this over 40. Pair them with wide leg pants. It’s all about balance. To keep from looking frumpy, you must show some skin. Just don’t show too much or else you look like you are trying too hard.
7. Gauze
This 100% cotton material is everywhere right now in skirts, pants, shorts, dresses and tops. It’s soft and breathable, making it a great choice for summer clothing. It has a crinkled texture to it, giving it the perfect casual vibes for summer. Gauze is often slightly oversized, which means you can run the risk of looking frumpy. However, it’s still a doable summer trend for women over 40. Don’t get carried away with it, and pair it with other more structured pieces.
8. Cargo/ utility
Cargo pants are a great option for getting that chill, cool girl aesthetic. Dress them down with sneakers or dress them up with heels. The cargo trend has also extended to shorts and skirts for the summer. Patch pockets on dresses and tops are also trendy this season.
9. White skirts/ dresses
A little white dress has long been a summer staple, as well as a maxi skirt in any color, but white dresses and white skirts are really having a moment. This is certainly a summer fashion trend you can wear over 40. If bright white isn’t best for you, forgo a dress and opt for a trendy white maxi or midi skirt
10. Straw and raffia accessories
A classic for summer, but sometimes the classics are trendy as well. Straw and raffia accessories add some much needed texture to summer looks.
Capri/ pedal pushers
Capri pants and pedal pushers are back as a trend. This is one I recommend you skip. They did nothing for me in my thirties when they were super popular, and I doubt they will help me in my fifties. The problem with these pants is that they tend to cut across the largest part of the calf, making them look bigger. Also, they don’t work well to create a pleasing golden ratio, especially for petites. Make sure you understand vertical body proportions before jumping on this trend.
Which of these summer fashion trends over 40 will you be adding to your closet?
