Fashion Over 50: Summer Classics Every Post50 Should Own

With Memorial Day long past and Father's Day looming, it's high time to switch into summer fashion mode. But whether you're concerned about "dressing your age" or just too wise to cede to the mercurial demands of current fashions, the revealing styles of the summer months can be a challenge for women over 50. So we've asked our style experts Jesse Garza and Joe Lupo from Visual Therapy to identify some classic warm-weather pieces that every woman over 50 can fall back on for elegance and function throughout the summer months.

They drew our attention to timeless accessories that serve multiple purposes, such as the bright pashima that not only lends a splash of color to an outfit but can double as a shawl in overly air-conditioned indoor spaces, as well as the staples, updated for summer, such as cropped pants. (We acknowledge there has been some debate over the cropped pants issue, but if you find the right pair...).

Check out the slideshow below for 15 pieces for summer fashion over 50.

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• 1. Safari Jacket

  Conceptualized by Yves St Laurent for the modern woman, the pockets come in super handy for travel; tickets, smartphone, etc. Very chic in khaki or white. Image: <a href="http://bananarepublic.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=45420&vid=1&pid=462729" target="_hplink">Banana Republic Linen-Cotton Safari Blazer, $130 </a>

• 2. Crisp White Shirt

  A fitted, crisp white shirt is a classic staple for any summer wardrobe. Roll up the sleeves and pop the collar ala Katherine Hepburn for a fresh modern look. Image: <a href="http://www.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=78054&vid=1&pid=890013&scid=890013012" target="_hplink">The Gap Perfect Oxford Shirt</a>, $49.95

• 3. Skinny Cropped Khaki

  A skinny, cropped and stretchy pant that will take you from run-around with flats to dinner with a high-heel sandal. Perfect in black, white and khaki. Image: <a href="http://www.theory.com/white-cropped-pant/C0404202,default,pd.html?dwvar_C0404202_color=100&start=12&cgid=womens-pants" target="_hplink">Theory Yanette Stretch Canvas Cropped Pant</a>, $225.50

• 4. Nautical Striped Tee

  What's more classic than a navy and white nautical stripe for summer? It's still a huge trend and great on it's own or under a blazer or cardi. You can go with the sophisticated model pictured -- the Saint James® Minquiers III Tee, $75.00 -- by <a href="http://www.jcrew.com/womens_category/knitstees/longsleevetees/PRDOVR~84486/84486.jsp" target="_hplink">www.jcrew.com,</a> or check out the $7.99 version at <a href="http://www.oldnavy.com/products/womens-tees-sale.jsp" target="_hplink">www.chicos.com.</a>

• 5. Summer-Weight Scarves In Color

  A splash of color around your face brightens your complexion and lends individuality to your style. Wear around the neck or use as a shawl during the battle of the AC. Image: <a href="http://www.qvc.com/qic/qvcapp.aspx/view.2/app.detail/params.item.A223672.desc.Solid-Wrap-Scarf-with-Detachable-Flower-Pin-by-VT-Luxe?&cookie=set" target="_hplink">QVC Solid Wrap Scarf with Detachable Flower Pin by VT Luxe</a>, $27

• 6. Pastel Cotton Cardigan

  Wear with sleeveless tops and dresses. Completes the look and provides coverage for the arms. Pastels have made a comeback - soft and feminine and the perfect update to your summer wardrobe. Image: <a href="http://www.anntaylor.com/ann/product/AT-Apparel/AT-Sweaters/Cotton-Blend-V-Neck-Cardigan/275426?colorExplode=false&skuId=10693490&catid=cata000011&productPageType=fullPriceProducts&defaultColor=1317" target="_hplink">Ann Taylor Cotton Blend V-Neck Cardigan</a>, $68.00

• 7. Lady Dress

  A shift dress is an easy breezy solution to one piece dressing. A must-have for summer. Image: <a href="http://www.zappos.com/product/8022278/color/8175?zfcTest=fw:1" target="_hplink">Ellen Tracy Kenya Shift Dress</a>, $98

• 8. Straw Fedora

  From the city to the beach, hats not only make a statement but they also protect you from the sun. A straw fedora is a chic way to top off your look. Image: <a href="http://www.target.com/p/mossimo-supply-co-straw-fedora-yellow/-/A-13896088" target="_hplink">Target Mossimo Supply Co. Straw Fedora - Yellow</a>, $12.99

• 9. Peeptoe Espadrille Wedge

  Can be worn with everything from shorts to crop pants to a dress. They are comfortable and give you height. Keep it neutral, as this will elongate your legs. Image: <a href="http://piperlime.gap.com/browse/product.do?pid=372476&locale=en_US&kwid=1&sem=false&sdReferer=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.piperlime.com%2Fproducts%2Fespadrilles.jsp" target="_hplink">Baja by Mia Limited Edition at piperlime.com</a>, $109.00

• 10. Canvas Tote

  Everyone knows totes are a must for summer, but this summer, keep it bright. Pick your favorite color and go for it! Image: <a href="http://www.target.com/p/pink-straw-stripe-tote/-/A-13975783" target="_hplink">Target Pink Straw Striped Tote</a>, $34

• 11. Floral Printed Blouse

  This essential is a whimsical and ethereal change from the usual basics. Try layering a sleeveless blouse under a cardigan as an alternative to a business or special occasion look. <a href="http://www.zara.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product/us/en/zara-us-S2012/189508/825853/PRINTED%2BTOP%2BWITH%2BELASTICATED%2BWAIST" target="_hplink">Zara Printed Top With Elasticated Waist</a>, $49.90

• 12. A Pendant Necklace

  Worn alone or layered with other necklaces, a statement pendant will give you a finished and sophisticated look. Wear with a white shirt for day, or your go-to summer cocktail dress for evening. Image: <a href="http://www.qvc.com/qic/qvcapp.aspx/view.2/app.detail/params.CM_SCID.coll.item.J266544.desc.Faceted-Crystal-Enhancer-on-Fancy-Chain-by-VT-Luxe" target="_hplink">QVC Faceted Crystal Enhancer on Fancy Chain by VT Luxe</a>, $39.82

• 13. The Printed Caftan

  Modern, bold, and on trend. No longer limited to the beach or poolside, this has become a must-have item. A mid-length caftan can be worn as a tunic with skinny cropped pants or as a summer dress and is perfect for special occasion or entertaining. Image: <a href="http://www.qvc.com/qic/qvcapp.aspx/view.2/app.detail/params.CM_SCID.coll.item.A223632.desc.Abstract-Animal-Print-Caftan-by-VT-Luxe" target="_hplink">QVC Abstract Animal Print Caftan by VT Luxe</a>, $41.12

• 14. Long, Flowy Skirt

  Effortless and chic, a long flowy skirt with a simple top is a great casual daytime look. Make this cool and easy look your summer uniform. Image: <a href="http://www.anntaylor.com/ann/product/product%3A282703/AT-Modern-Dance/Ballet-Maxi-Skirt/282703?colorExplode=false&skuId=11111511&catid=cata000016&productPageType=fullPriceProducts&defaultColor=5643" target="_hplink">Ann Taylor Ballet Maxi Skirt</a>, $178

• 15. Crossbody Bag

  Lightweight, comfortable, and secure. When you just want to carry the essentials and need to get around hands-free. Great for travel or day-to-day running around. Image: <a href="http://www.colehaan.com/colehaan/catalog/product.jsp?catId=100&productId=566930&productGroup=396416" target="_hplink">Cole Haan Village Sheila Crossbody</a>, $198.00

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Comments

[MindWithAView]

1 minute ago ( 7:29 PM)

Why are none of these models over 50? In fact, most look like they are barely over 20.

[KAALLISON48]

05:22 PM on 04/09/2013

I AGREE, I am looking for fashions for myself and you post an article about fashions for women over 50 and then use models that look 20???? What were you thinking? I don't want to look like a 20 year old and would have appreciated getting a better idea of how these fashions would have looked on someone MY age. Bad form! I will look for another site that gets it.

[Plaudertasche]

06:33 PM on 07/09/2012

why are the models at least over 40? So sick and tired of this forever 21 cult(ure)

[jts1949]

06:57 AM on 06/20/2012

I agree with the comments about where are the 50 and over models? Anything looks good on a young, cute model. Personally, I hope capri's / cropped pants never go out of style. Silly article. I would expect something a little more realistic from HuffPost.

[Donnachloemarie]

02:50 AM on 06/19/2012

One of the best lists for the over 50 that I've seen; of course, the sleeveless top is a no-no for most women, but the linen shift is excellent with the short sleeves and well priced. The shoes are perfect, not too high, and in a great color. I would say forget the crops because I think crops look horrible on everyone except teenagers. If you want to see someone over 50 wearing down-to-earth fashions, go donnachloe.blogspot.com You do have to decide about the other pieces; no one would ever wear the lightest sweater anywhere in the summer where I live, but when I travel to Cape Cod, it's a must. The scarf is too hot for the day, but perfect, I think for night time.
Donnachloe
Donnachloe

[yogajan]

01:51 PM on 06/14/2012

Why aren't any of the clothes being modeled by women over 50? That was my first turn off, the second was the sleeveless tops. These clothes are more for the 35-50 age range. The real challenge for older women is combining comfort with style. Show us some of that and then I will pay attention.

[isisreptiles]

08:15 PM on 06/10/2012

About the only items I have are the cotton cardigan and wedge shoes.. The cardigan is nice when it's too cool for bare arms, but not something I wear to "complete" an outfit. I don't want sleeves in warm weather. The shoes go with everything, but mine are denim--I don't like that "nude" color.

I like the skirt, but I don't like anything long for summer wear. I prefer knee-length skirts.

Most of the clothes that I see for over-50 women aren't anything I like or would wear.

[viciousvirago]

02:24 PM on 06/10/2012

Cropped pants? Unless you're 5'8" tall and weigh under l25, you're going to look ridiculous. As to the straw fedora, NO.

The safari jacket? I live in the d.c. suburbs and it gets about l00 degrees with 60% humidity; I sweat as soon as I'm outside. A jacket? I'd be dead of heatstroke.

The lady dress: YES. I have about ll and wear them a lot. They missed the long chiffon, tiered skirt with heels. And what about the camisole-looking top?

[greymom]

09:43 AM on 06/09/2012

I like those wedgie espadrille type shoes. At 61, I just can't stand high heels but want something a little sexier than flats. I noticed that they were relatively flat but the style made them appear more arched than they were.

[RhiannonRings]

12:15 AM on 06/09/2012

Ick, I don't want any of those items. Sticking with tie dye and jeans.

[Claudette McCubbin]

03:33 PM on 06/08/2012

Very well curated collection. I would at a pair of Trendy BUT sensible, meaning comfortable shoes. It's nice to be trendy at times :p

[greymom]

09:44 AM on 06/09/2012

Did you notice the espadrilles with the ankle straps? I am going to search out a pair. So tired of wearing flats but the heels just kill me nowdays.

[Claudette McCubbin]

07:44 AM on 06/10/2012

heels are uncomfortable and flats too.l we need a middle ground

[Donnachloemarie]

07:19 AM on 06/19/2012

Try some of the lower wedges. The key is to get a pair where the foot base is basically flat and all the height is in the wedge itself. I have two pairs and they are about all I'm wearing right now!
Donnachloe

[Karmella]

02:51 PM on 06/08/2012

Don't care for the jacket. That style looks so dated. As far as the other clothing, I have some similiar my closet.

[Claudette McCubbin]

03:33 PM on 06/08/2012

Maybe a little black jacket instead?

[Karmella]

03:50 PM on 06/08/2012

A black jacket is a must.

[RoughCollie]

07:28 AM on 06/08/2012

Love the safari jacket but those cropped pants have got to go! Unless a woman has somewhat narrow hips and longish legs, those pedal-pushers make her look like a teapot, short and stout.

[AKansasComment]

02:49 PM on 06/12/2012

Spot on! And I might add... always long sleeves! I've seen maybe 3 women over 50 who can wear sleeveless. Sorry, but when you wave, your arms wave back.

[RoughCollie]

03:04 PM on 06/12/2012

LOL...still laughing!!!

[isisreptiles]

01:19 AM on 06/13/2012

There is not a dying chance I will wear long sleeves in summer.