Best Sundresses for Women Over 40, 50+ Going on Vacation
A cute, summery sundress makes me feel like I’m walking on sunshine and is the secret sauce of my winter vacation wardrobe. But finding just the right one takes me a little longer now, as I find myself asking, “Where are the sundresses for women over 50?” Sundresses are meant to be pretty and a little playful, but many seem too bare or junior-looking.
If you’re headed off on a vacation to Florida or somewhere else tropical and you’ve been asking yourself the same question, no worries. I’ve rounded up some of the best sundresses for girls our age that are cute, classy, and comfortable. But before I share my favorites.
Style Snapshot
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Opt for styles with wide straps, longer lengths, and built-in bras for comfort and support.
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Choose dresses with sleeves or neutral tones for a more polished, modest look.
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Pair sundresses with coverups like cardigans or scarves for added warmth or style.
Best Sundresses for Women Over 40, 50+ Going on Vacation
What is the difference between a Sundress and a Summer Dress?
This can be a bit unclear because the terms “sundress” and “summer dress” are often used interchangeably. A sundress is a casual, colorful summer dress designed for the hottest days of summer.
Sundresses can be long or short and are very lightweight and breathable. They are often made of cotton or linen. They are also typically sleeveless, with a fitted bodice, thin straps, and a flowy skirt. However, there are other variations as well, which I’m sharing here.
Challenges of Wearing Sundresses at 40, 50, 60+
Here are some of the problems I’ve found with wearing sundresses over 50, 60, (and even 40 sometimes), and you may have experienced these too. Some sundresses are:
- Too bare – I see a lot of sundresses with tiny spaghetti straps or open backs, which leave me feeling cold or stressed about a bra.
- Too short—Above the knee is perky, but a thigh-high mini can leave you feeling too exposed, especially when you have loose, crepey skin, age spots, veiny legs, and the rest—LOL!
- Lack of support – many sundresses are made for going braless, which is hard to pull off as “the girls” head south. Or maybe you find a strapless bra uncomfortable.
- Sleeveless – some of us prefer to cover the arm jiggle, or our arms get cold, but most sundresses are sleeveless.
- Too junior – frills, smocking, ruffles, ditsy floral prints – all these things can make sundresses appear too little girly, and there is a lot of this type out there these days!
- Too colorful/loud – Bright, bold colors are fun, and I love them, but some mature women find them too jarring (especially busy, bright prints) next to their aging complexion.
- Doesn’t breathe – doesn’t keep you cool when you are having hot flashes.
So what’s the solution? Look for these types of sundresses:
1. Sundresses with Wide Shoulder Straps
No worry about having to go braless or wear a strapless bra with this cheery blue and white striped sundress. It is pretty and practical in cool cotton. The wider straps make it easy to wear any bra.
2. Long Midi/Maxi Sundresses
Many women 50+ (myself included) have times when they feel like wearing a sundress, but we prefer to have some leg coverage for whatever reason ( pale legs, veiny legs, heavy legs, modesty). In this case, a midi or maxi dress looks fabulous.
There are plenty of pretty maxis with tiers, ruffles, and smocking, but they often look like something I wore when I was 10. (LOL!) This floral halter style, above, is simple, pared down, and more sophisticated.
3. Sundresses with a Built-in Bra
Sundresses can be flimsy and unsupportive, so a brilliant idea is this gorgeous orchid-colored sundress with a built-in bra. It will give the girls the lift they need, and since it’s stretchy, it’s super comfy. Love the color and print, too! More colors when you click the shop link.
4. Sundresses with Sleeves
Prefer to cover your arms? Some sundresses, such as this breezy, boho-inspired, peasant sleeve sundress, are a great way to camouflage arms. The beauty of this particular dress is that it doubles as a swimsuit coverup.
5. No Fuss Sundresses
Ruffles, bows, and other girly embellishments have been in style for quite some time now. These make for many very “sweet-looking” sundresses, but they don’t seem mature enough for my taste.
If you want a more chic look, a simple sundress in a strong shape and modern color will keep you from looking like you went shopping in the teen department. That doesn’t mean you will look old. This perky pink V-neck shift-style sundress is fab!
4. Sundresses in Neutral or Darker Colors
Sundresses are meant to be playful and fun-type dresses, which means they are usually bright and bold. If you like colorful sundresses, like I do, by all means, wear them!
However, some women find bright colors a bit harsh on their aging skin or hair, or they prefer a more toned-down look.
If bright, bold sundresses are not your style, a neutral sundress in white, tan, olive, khaki, black, or brown can look lovely. I’m crazy about this olive green one. The earthy green shade, combined with the elegant one-shoulder neckline, gives this sundress a more grown-up feel.
5. Coverups to go with Sundresses
If you find a sundress you love and it’s rather a bare top, you can buy it and wear it with whatever bra you want, so long as you add a layering piece. Layer it with a
- Scarf or Pashmina
- light summer Cardigan
- Under a Denim jacket Jacket
- With a button-up shirt open or tied in a knot at the waist
The Last Word
What kind of sundresses do you wear? Which of these I’ve shared is your favorite? I’m curious. Comment below and let me know!
Want to see more sundresses? Check out my other post on cute summer dresses for women over 50.
QUICK Q&A
A sundress is a casual, lightweight dress often worn on the hottest days of summer. It is typically sleeveless, made of breathable fabrics like cotton or linen, and has a fitted bodice with a flowy skirt. A summer dress, on the other hand, can refer to any type of dress worn in warm weather, including sundresses and other styles.
Common challenges include sundresses being too bare (with tiny straps or open backs), too short, lacking support, being sleeveless (which some may not prefer), appearing too youthful with frills or ruffles, or having loud, bold colors that may not complement mature skin tones.
The best sundresses for mature women include those with wide shoulder straps for added support, long midi or maxi styles for more leg coverage, dresses with built-in bras for extra lift, sundresses with sleeves for arm coverage, and simple, chic designs in neutral or darker colors for a more sophisticated look.
Layering sundresses can help add warmth and style. Pair sundresses with light summer cardigans, denim jackets, scarves, or a pashmina for coverage. You can also layer with a button-up shirt tied at the waist for a more casual and chic look.
Look for sundresses with built-in bras, as they provide extra support without needing a strapless bra. Dresses made from stretchy, supportive fabrics will also ensure comfort and lift, especially for those seeking a more structured fit while maintaining a breezy look.
Love the one shoulder print!!!!
This selection of sundresses for women over 50 and 60 is wonderfully refreshing! It’s great to see styles that combine elegance and comfort, catering to all body types. The emphasis on vibrant colors and flattering cuts makes it easy to find something for every occasion. These dresses not only celebrate age but also embrace the joy of summer fashion!
These are great! Finally, a site that does not show frumpy shapeless options. I’m 62, not dead! LOL
Hi Deborah…I will be going on a Mediterranean Cruise this September…and the weather will be pretty warm. I am trying to decide what to wear. I want to look stylish, but I am 73 and don’t look good wearing shorts, skirts, or capris as my legs are not my best feature. I am about 5′ 3. These are great suggestions. Thank You
Most older women do not want to show their upper arms or knees. When will all designers wake up? I’m not just speaking for myself, but for every woman, I know.
Arms are not as firm, and legs are smartly showing wrinkles around the knee. Can we mention the scars from knee replacements?
Preach.
I love the blue one!!!! Great roundup of dresses.
I LOVE wearing summer dresses; those are super cute ones you have here!