Hey there, gorgeous!
So, you’ve been hit by the dog days of summer, and you’re wondering how to keep up the cute factor without melting into a puddle. I totally get it! When the temperatures start hitting the 100-degree mark, it can feel like mission impossible to stay cool while looking like hot mom summer. But fear not! If there’s a will, there’s a way, and I’ve put together this go-to guide just for you.
Here are some tips, tricks, and trends geared toward women over 30 to help you beat the heat with confidence and class. Whether planning a sunny beach getaway, a romantic summer night out, or just wanting to keep your cool while running errands around town, this guide has got you covered.
From linen sundresses to sunscreen, this is all about staying chic, cute, and radiant – even when it feels like you’ve accidentally landed on the sun. So, grab yourself an iced coffee, a big ol’ fan, and let’s chat scorching-hot summer fashion for us fabulous over-30s.
The Importance of Choosing the Right Fabrics
First things first: let’s talk fabric.
The first fabric to make friends with is linen. Linen is a game-changer for the summer heat. Light, breathable, and perfectly imperfect with natural crinkles, linen screams summer chic. Pair a soft linen sundress with a wide-brim straw hat, and you’ve got a classic and trendy look. Linen trousers paired with a cute, loose top make for a great outfit to look more put together while still fighting off the heat. The natural weave of linen allows heat to escape from the body, helping you to keep cool.
Next up is our faithful friend, cotton. But not just any cotton – you want lightweight, organic cotton for the summer months. Cotton is light, breathable, and absorbs sweat, allowing it to evaporate from the surface of the clothing. This helps to keep you cool and dry. Cotton tees and tanks are not only versatile, pairing well with almost anything, but they’re also comfortably casual and cute. Combine them with a pair of wide-legged pants or a floaty midi skirt, and you’ve got a trendy, heat-proof ensemble.
Trending Summer Outfits for 2023
Tennis Skirts/Dresses:
Tennis skirts have become a summer staple for women who love combining comfort with a chic, feminine look. These skirts are super versatile and can be dressed up or down depending on your mood. This year, we’re seeing them in all sorts of lovely pastel hues – think soft lilacs, baby blues, and muted pinks.
For a cute and casual daytime look, pair your pleated skirt with a simple white cotton tee/tank, some new balance sneakers, and a baseball hat for that extra sun protection.
SHOP WHITE TENNIS SKIRT LOOK HERE
Swap traditional tennis shoes for trendy block-heel mules or strappy sandals to elevate the look. The key to elevating a tennis skirt is what you wear it with. Pair your skirt with a sophisticated button-up shirt for a chic and youthful look. You could even pair it with a lightweight, knitted tank top for a cooler, more relaxed look.
Remember, fashion after 30 is all about wearing what makes you feel confident and comfortable. If a trend like the tennis skirt appeals to you, don’t let age limit your choices. Just adapt it to your personal style, and you’ll look fabulous!
Cotton Tees and Linen Pants:
If one outfit combination shouts summer, it’s a crisp cotton tee paired with loose, breezy linen pants. A match made in heaven, this outfit ensures maximum comfort without sacrificing style. This year, wide-legged linen pants are taking center stage. Available in various colors, from earthy neutrals to bold statement shades, they are the epitome of effortless chic. Pair these with a simple cotton tee tucked in to define the waist, and you have a casual yet polished look. Play around with colors, mix and match your tees and pants!
These are two key summer outfits that are not just trendy but also practical and breathable.
SHOP WHITE TEE AND DEMIN SHORTS HERE
Essential Summer Accessories
Now, let’s move on to accessories. You might be thinking, “Accessories? In this heat?” But, believe it or not, the right accessories can actually help you beat the heat!
A stylish straw hat, for example, can protect you from the sun and keep you looking fabulous. They exude a certain old-world charm while keeping your skin safe. Pair your straw hat with a linen dress or a cotton tee and pleated skirt combo, and you’re all set for a chic summer day out. The first photo with the white house is from our trip to 30A; it was gorgeous. Read the blog post here. The second photo is from Charleston. I will finish that blog post soon.
And let’s remember sunglasses – a summer necessity! Not only do they protect your eyes from harmful UV rays, but they also instantly elevate your outfit. This year, it’s all about the oversized frames and retro styles. Choose a pair that complements your face shape and reflects your style.
SHOP MY FAVORITE SUNGLASSES HERE
Next up: footwear. This is the season for breathable sneakers, cute sandals, and open-toe flats; keep it simple! Here are some of my favorite summer shoes.
The Underrated Role of Sunscreen in Summer Fashion
Let’s talk about that unsung hero of summer fashion – sunscreen. I promise not to go all “Estethican Terra” on you, LOL, but it plays a significant role in your summer beauty routine.
Sunscreen is an absolute must-have when spending time outdoors! It’s the ultimate age-defier and skin protector, blocking the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays, which can lead to premature skin aging and, more importantly, skin cancer. It’s also essential for preventing hyperpigmentation and maintaining an even skin tone. If you want your skin to remain as timeless as your sense of style, incorporating sunscreen into your daily routine is non-negotiable.
Firstly, always aim for a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against UVA and UVB rays. This will protect you from sunburn (courtesy of UVB rays) and skin aging or cancer (courtesy of UVA rays).
Secondly, SPF matters. Go for an SPF of 30 or higher for everyday use. If you’ll be out in direct sunlight for extended periods, opt for SPF 50.
Thirdly, consider your skin type. If you have dry skin, a moisturizing sunscreen with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or ceramides could be beneficial. For oily or acne-prone skin, a non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores) sunscreen is the way to go.
Many formulas now offer a sheer, lightweight finish that sits beautifully under makeup. Some even come tinted, offering a subtle glow and sun protection.
So there you have it, my style-savvy friend! Your comprehensive guide to staying cute and chic in the summer heat.
The next time the weather forecast calls for a sizzling 100-degree day, you’ll be ready with an outfit that doesn’t compromise on comfort. After all, being over 30 doesn’t mean you can’t be fabulous, even when the temperatures are soaring!