Spring & Summer

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 thing, no worries. I’ve just rounded up some of the best sundresses for gals our age that are cute, classy, and comfy. But before I share my favorites…..

sundresses - green palm tree maxi

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Best Sundresses for Women Over 40, 50+ Going on Vacation

 

What is the difference between a Sundress and a Summer Dress?

This can be confusing because the terms sundress and summer dress are often used interchangeably. A sundress is a casual, colorful summer dress meant to be worn on 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, too, which I’m sharing here.

Black Floral Sundresses for Women

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Challenges of Wearing Sundresses at 40, 50, 60+

Here are some of the problems I find with wearing sundresses over 50, 60, (even 40 sometimes, too), 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 gals find them too jarring (especially busy, bright prints) next to their aging complexion.

So what’s the solution? Look for these types of sundresses:

blue and white striped linen wrap dress

Blue and white striped linen sundress

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.

 

sundresses - yellow floral
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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.

 

purple print sundress with built in bra

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.  I love the color and print, too! More colors when you click the shop link.

sundresses - pink flowy

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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. And the beauty of this particular dress is that it doubles as a swimsuit coverup!

 

pink Sundresses for Women

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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!

 

One shoulder midi Sundresses for Women

One shoulder midi

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.

 

white sundress with scarf

White sundress with a scarf

 

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

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.

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7 thoughts on “Best Sundresses for Women Over 40, 50+ Going on Vacation

  1. 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!

  2. 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

  3. 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?