As spring turns into summer I reach for dresses more and more. They’re just such an easy one-and-done outfit choice. But they also look feminine, feel comfortable and keep me cool. Yes, as we get older we sometimes feel less confident about features such as our legs, feet and arms – all which show more when we wear dresses and sandals. But I’ve learned that if I choose the right dress, I can still look pretty and feel confident in a dress. So today I’m doing a round up of stylish summer dresses for women over 60.
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Throughout today’s post I’m modeling a large selection stylish dresses that are definitely appropriate for women over 60. But more importantly, these are dresses you can feel confident, current and cool while wearing. Keep in mind as you look at the dresses that I am 5’8″, about 160 pounds and generally wear a misses 10 or medium. I have an hourglass shape and even proportions.
You can shop these dresses and the accessories I’m wearing with them by clicking through to the post where it was originally shown or by clicking on the words in the captions of the photos. You’ll be taken directly to the retail store where you can shop.
How to Choose the Most Stylish Summer Dresses for You
Tip #1: Look for summer dresses in cool, lightweight fabrics that feel great on your skin.
I suggest looking for summer dresses in cool cottons, luxurious linen, soft silk or a blend of any of these. You may also find blends that include synthetics and elements such as elastane for ease of movement and moisture-wicking properties. These can also be very breathable and cool to wear if they are made well.
Tip #2: Look for dresses in the length that best suits your frame, body proportions and height.
At 5’8″ and with even proportions, I prefer dresses to either hit me just above or at the knee or to be a definite midi or maxi length. I try to keep the hemline from hitting at the widest part of the calf because lines like that do emphasize the width of that area. The dress above and below hits just below that place on me.
Truly, we are all unique and it only stands to reason that we will each prefer different dress lengths. I think most of us have two or three different lengths that can look great on our frames. I always cringe a little when I see women insist that another woman’s dress is too long or too short or, worse yet, that “no one should wear a dress that length.” Dress lengths are as unique and personal as eye color or foot size. Simply choose the lengths that make you feel your best and enjoy!
Tip #3: Look for a dress that is perfect for the occasion.
You’ll find summer dresses for every occasion, from the most formal to very casual. A dress is a smart option for the office during the summer.
If you wear a dress to work, you may prefer to complete it with closed toe shoes, such as slingbacks or ballet flats or pumps. Here I’ve worn sandals, but I don’t go to an office. Choose footwear that is stylish and comfortable, but also appropriate for your work environment.
Tip #4: Complete your dress with pretty shoes that fit the occasion and vibe you prefer.
You can wear anything from sandals to ballet flats, slingback pumps to sneakers with your dress and look stylish and on trend. The most important factors in your choice are comfort and the style vibe you want to achieve.
If I’m wearing pumps of any kind with a dress during the summer, I almost always opt for shoes in a flesh tone. These Naturalizer slingback pumps come in several nice skin tones; I’m wearing the opal leather. They’re marked down nicely right now and sizes are disappearing. These stay on my feet so nicely as I walk, and they’re very comfortable and soft on the foot.
When I wear heeled sandals I might still opt for a nude tone. But if they are strappy and show a lot of foot, you don’t have to worry about the color as much. You’re still going to get the visual feel of an uninterrupted line because the shoes are so strappy. This summer I’ll be wearing my cognac chain link sandals the most undoubtedly.
The third type of shoe I enjoy wearing with dresses during the summer is a metallic sandal. Metallics are really always spot on for summer, but they’re definitely on trend right now. Wearing a bright gold or silver shoe is a smart way to add subtle interest to a basic outfit of neutrals. But it also looks perfectly festive and fresh with a bright patterned print dress like the one above.
The fourth type of shoe I like with summer dresses is flat sandals. Whether you wear a slide or thong sandal, these look effortless and relaxed. Just keep in mind that a flat sandal like this will definitely make your one-and-done outfit look more casual, while a heel will elevate the look.
A fifth kind of shoe you can confidently wear with a dress is a comfort or athletic sandal. These shoes were made for walking. They will give you dress a decidedly casual vibe, but that’s not a problem. Especially if your goal for the day is to cover some miles in your pretty dress.
And finally, I do love a sneaker with a dress. I don’t wear my running shoes with my dresses, however. I leave those for pounding the pavement when I’m knocking out the miles. When I’m wearing a dress I choose a shoe that is either flesh toned, like the Keds sneakers above, or white.
Tip #5 – If there’s a chill, carry a jacket or wrap when wearing a dress.
During the summer there is still the chance of a chill in the air. If I’m dining outside or stepping out into the night air, I carry along or wear a jacket or wrap.
I think a denim jacket is always a fun choice for a casual look. But for a more elevated option, choose a linen, cashmere or gauze wrap. I’ve linked several options in the shopping widget below.
Tip #6: Don’t forget to add some pretty jewelry.
Even minimal jewelry – which is generally what I prefer in the summer – will help make your summer dress look a little more special. Accessorizing our outfits indicates that we have taken some time with them and made some choices.
Tip #7: Take dresses on vacation!
Definitely pack a dress or two when you go on vacation. Even when I go camping, I take a casual dress along. They’re perfect for throwing on to go out to dinner or brunch. And remember, shoe options are endless.
And if your vacation will include finer dining, a pretty dress will be just the right choice.
I hope you’ve gotten a little style inspiration today. Thank you so much for dropping in. If you enjoyed today’s post, you may also enjoy the following:
- Be surprised by a splash of color in My Favorite Elevated Spring Outfit Formula.
- Check out these Mother’s Day Outfit Ideas for Women of Every Age.
- Learn how to Make the Best Style Choices with 10 Questions.
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Blessed for My Day
Want to turn your anxious thoughts into peace of mind? If you try to work your way through those anxieties so that you come out feeling on top of things, good luck with that. I’ve tried it over and over. It just doesn’t work. There’s always another bend in the road, kink in your plans, fire to put out.
But if we will pray to God with grateful hearts about our concerns, He has promised to give us His peace. And that amazing supernatural peace will actually stand guard over our hearts and minds as we dwell in Christ. Take your concerns to the Lord, sweet friend. And leave them there, trusting that He can take care of your every need much more beautifully than you can.
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and pleading with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. ~ Philippians 4:6-7
Thank you for the shoe ideas wo wear with summer dresses.
I love the colours in the dresses you showed in the post but always struggle with the different types of shoe needed to compliment the summer look
Great to see so many choices of styles
Love your videos and blogs
Hello from Wales
Regards Gloria
Have a safe flight into NYC! You’ll be fine I’m sure.
I hope you have some comfy shoes to wear with your great clothes if walking is on the agenda! 😘
You showed so many cute and beautiful dresses! I too enjoy wearing dresses, especially in the Spring and Summer. I always have and it is nice to see they are so popular right now. I said a little prayer for you on your trip to New York. Have a safe trip and have fun!
I always love your posts with dresses! Enjoy your trip to New York. You are much braver than I am.
Such nice dress options today!
Thank you for the Blessed For My Day about our anxieties and concerns. I had just said a prayer before reading this asking God for wisdom and guidance on how to deal with some things. So timely for your post!
I also said a prayer for your travel to NY. I hope you have a great time!
I appreciate you Kay and all you do for us ladies! 😊
Beautiful dresses Kay and you look great in each one! Safe travels on your flight today. Sounds like an exciting day!
I love the look and feel of a simple, pretty dress, But, they often sit in the closet, getting very little wear time. Perhaps I feel overdressed or maybe it’s the wrong shoes. You’ve inspired me to “get over it” and wear the dresses.
Hey Kay. Thanks for another great post. You have shown us so many beautiful dresses and shoe options! Enjoy your time in NYC. Praying all goes well with the conference!
Such a nice assortment of dresses! The BFMD is so timely. Having anxiety over my younger brother’s scary brain cancer diagnosis .
Beth….. So sorry about your brother. I’ll pray for him and you. God is right there by his side and yours. Hang in there.
Thank you for your sweet reply and your prayers! Already seeing answers to prayer for him.
My oldest brother had brain cancer 3 years ago and had a tumor removed. I am happy to report he is cancer free now. He also had prostate surgery first and it traveled to his brain. I am praying for your brother that his surgery is successful, and he too is soon cancer free.
You look beautiful in dresses. I’ll be praying for all your travel and trip. I’ve only flown once alone and prefer not too. You will do great. Have fun.
Beautiful dresses! And yes, so hard not to be anxious about things! For some of us, it’s a way of life. Interestingly, my husband is never anxious – if there is something he can do about a situation, he does it, and if there is nothing he can do, he gives it to God.
Pretty dresses. I find it hard to find dresses since I got older. I don’t want to show my legs and upper arms anymore. I did find a pretty dress for my grandson’s graduation. I love the devotional message.