Summer Dresses to Flatter at Any Age

Finding summer dresses for older women should be a pleasure, not a compromise. The right one keeps you cool and skims where you want it to. You put it on and feel like yourself. After more than twenty years of dressing women here in Shaftesbury, I have a few pointers that never let us down.

Here is what to look for this summer, from the shapes that flatter to the fabrics worth choosing.

• What to look for in summer dresses for older women
• Flattering shapes: midi, A-line and the shirt dress
• Fabrics that stay cool and comfortable
• Sleeves, necklines and colour
• Frequently asked questions

What to look for in summer dresses for older women

Comfort matters most, then shape. Look for a dress that defines the waist gently and falls in a soft line. A little structure flatters far more than anything tight.

A waist that is gently defined, with a skirt that moves, suits most figures. A tie waist does it beautifully, as on this Lily and Me shirt dress. Easy to wear, and quietly polished with it.

Flattering shapes: midi, A-line and the shirt dress

A midi is the easiest length to wear in summer. It covers the knee and moves nicely, and it looks just as good with flats as with a low heel.

An A-line skirt skims the hips and is kind to most shapes. A shirt dress is another favourite of mine. The collar and button front draw the eye up, and a waist tie adds a soft, flattering shape.

If you prefer a little more cover, choose a relaxed cut with a defined waist, not a straight, boxy line. Movement in the skirt is always your friend.

Fabrics that stay cool and comfortable

In summer, it is worth seeking out natural fabrics. Linen and cotton breathe, and they feel lovely against warm skin.

Linen has a relaxed, slightly creased character that many women love. Prefer less creasing? A linen blend keeps the cool feel and stays easy from morning to evening.

Soft organic cotton is another good everyday choice. It washes well and holds its shape right through the season.

Sleeves, necklines and colour

Sleeves are a personal thing. A short or three-quarter sleeve gives a little cover and still keeps you cool. Plenty of our dresses come in both.

A V-neck or a soft square neckline is easy to wear and flatters most. For colour, choose whatever lifts your spirits. A navy or a soft neutral will go with everything. A print or a brighter shade just feels like summer.

You will find all of these styles in our summer dress collection, with lovely things from Sahara and Seasalt among many others. Not sure what suits you? Come and see us in the boutique and we will help you find it.

Shop summer dresses

Frequently asked questions

What makes a summer dress flattering for older women?

A gently defined waist and a skirt with movement flatter most figures. Look for a soft line that skims rather than clings. A little structure is far kinder than a tight fit. Natural fabrics help too, keeping you cool on warm days.

What length of summer dress is most flattering?

A midi is the easiest length to wear. It covers the knee and moves beautifully. It looks polished with flats or a low heel, and it suits most heights.

Which fabrics are coolest for summer dresses?

Linen and cotton are the best choices for warm weather. They breathe, and they feel lovely against the skin. A linen blend gives the same cool feel with less creasing.

Are sleeveless dresses suitable, or are sleeves better?

It is entirely your choice. A short or three-quarter sleeve gives a little cover and stays cool. A sleeveless dress is lovely on hot days, and a light cardigan handles cooler evenings.

What summer dress shapes suit a fuller tummy or hips?

An A-line skirt skims the hips and is kind to most shapes. A shirt dress with a waist tie adds soft definition. Choose a relaxed cut over a straight, boxy line.

Can I try summer dresses on at the boutique?

Yes, of course. Pop in and see us on the High Street in Shaftesbury and try anything on. Helping you find a dress that fits well and feels right is the best part of our day.