When it comes to summer fashion, you don’t have to choose between comfort and style just because you are over 40 or over 50—this season is full of fresh trends that blend both beautifully. From breathable fabrics and bold prints to chic silhouettes that flatter mature figures, there’s something for every style personality. Whether you’re easing into a trend or ready to make a statement, this guide will show you how to wear summer’s hottest looks with confidence, elegance, and your own signature flair. Let’s dive into the wearable trends that make you feel as good as you look.
These are the things I’m seeing over and over at every retailer as I browse and shop. Summer trends are generally a continuation of spring trends with a few new summer twists thrown in. Spring and fall are the biggest seasons for new trends but that doesn’t mean there aren’t some things to pay attention to for summer.
Top 12 Summer Trends to Wear Over 50
You don’t have to sit on the sidelines when it comes to summer style. The trends this season are not only fun—they’re totally wearable for women over 50. Whether you love to experiment or keep it classic, here are twelve summer trends that work beautifully for mature women, along with tips on how to wear them with confidence and style.
1. The Color Red
Red is bold, energetic, and empowering—perfect for women who want to make a confident statement. Whether it’s a red sundress, blazer, or a swipe of red lipstick, this color adds instant polish and vibrancy. Bonus: it flatters a wide range of skin tones.
I’ve noticed lots of options in red bottoms, but you can wear red any way you choose. I added a graphic tee with a pop of red and some red linen trousers to my summer wardrobe.
2. Butter Yellow
Softer than neon and warmer than pastel, butter yellow brings a subtle glow to your summer wardrobe. It feels cheerful without being overpowering and pairs beautifully with neutrals like white, tan, or denim for a fresh, refined look.
3. Bold Prints
Bold prints—think florals, abstracts, or even geometric—add personality and flair. These prints work especially well in flowy blouses or dresses, helping to camouflage areas you’d rather not highlight while adding visual interest and modernity.
These prints tend to be large so they are better suited for taller and larger women. Large prints are not petite friendly, as you tend to look best in prints that match the scale of your features. That’s not to say there aren’t any prints out there that you can’t pull of, just be aware.
4. Matching Sets
Matching sets are a dream for easy dressing. Coordinated tops and bottoms offer a streamlined look, elongate the body, and require zero guesswork when getting dressed. Choose lightweight fabrics like linen or cotton blends for summer comfort. Opt for solid color matching sets or fun prints. Buy separates that match or buy sets.
Get extra mileage out of them by wearing each piece separately with other items in your closet.
5. Side Tie Tops
Side tie tops create shape and definition without clinging. They highlight the waist in a soft, flattering way—ideal for creating curves or balancing proportions. Pair with high-rise pants or skirts for a stylish, age-appropriate silhouette.
I’m throwing in a few tie waist tops too, not just side tie.
6. Sea-Inspired Jewelry
Seashells, pearls, coral motifs, and ocean hues are all part of the “marina-core” trend, and they’re incredibly wearable. These accessories bring a breezy, coastal feel to your outfit and are a subtle nod to summer.
Beachy and sea themed jewelry is big, but you can find clothing with lobsters and sardines on them if that’s your thing.
7. Fruit and Veggie Prints
Playful yet surprisingly chic, fruit and veggie prints are making a fresh comeback. Look for pieces with small-scale or stylized versions (lemons, cherries, or tomatoes) for a whimsical touch that feels grown-up and fun. Fruit is always a summer trend, just bigger some years than others, but the veggies and tomato thing is a new spin this year.
While I wouldn’t invest a lot in this trend for a tshirt or small item to have fun with, this is definitely one that can look cheap quickly, especially in cheap fabrics, so I’d forgo the Amazon knit dresses and pick a more substantial cotton or poplin piece. I’m going to dip my toes in with a more mature sophisticated piece like this blouse or this one.
8. Skorts
Skorts offer the best of both worlds—comfort and coverage of shorts with the polish of a skirt. They’re especially flattering and practical for women over 50, whether you’re sightseeing, running errands, or heading to brunch.
If you are into the sporty chic or athleisure looks, there are plenty of active wear skorts and tennis skirts around and on trend. If your style is more classic or preppy, there’s a skort for you too, and it’s in the form of a faux wrap skort. These are everywhere. I’m on the fence because even though they have shorts, the inseam is around 3 inches for most and I don’t like my shorts quite that short.
Note: this is a personal decision and not about age. If you are comfortable rocking these mini skorts, go for it.
9. Skirts
Skirt- Old Navy; top- Amazon; shoes- Similar
Skirts are trending again, especially a full white midi skirt. A white skirt is a timeless summer staple. It feels crisp, cool, and pairs with nearly everything. Opt for midi or knee-length styles in structured cotton or poplin for a modern, flattering fit that keeps you cool and classic.
10. Longer Shorts
Longer shorts—think bermuda or mid-thigh lengths—are stylish and confidence-boosting. They offer coverage without sacrificing trendiness, especially when made in fresh colors or elevated fabrics like linen or twill. But don’t go rushing off to get your bermudas just yet. If you have short legs or are petite, this might not be the best for your vertical proportions. Shorts that are too long can make you look frumpy.
I’m pictured in a 7 inch short and my best look is in a 5- 6 inseam.
11. Vests as a Top
Tailored vests worn on their own as tops are trending—and they’re a surprisingly sophisticated way to show a little skin without feeling overexposed. Pair with wide-leg pants or denim for a chic, modern summer look.
12. Poplin Material
Poplin is crisp, lightweight, and structured just enough to hold its shape—making it perfect for summer. Poplin dresses, button-downs, and skirts feel fresh and breathable, while still offering a polished, put-together look.
Final Thoughts
Trends aren’t just for the twenty-somethings—and these prove it. Whether you embrace them head-to-toe or sprinkle them in with your basics, these summer styles are proof that women over 50 can absolutely wear what’s trending—and look better than ever doing it.
