Summer Event and Festival Fashion for Women Over 50: Stay Cool & Stylish

We love a good summer block party, concert or other outdoor event where the dress code is flexible but festive (and appropriate for 90 degree days). 

However, this type of event poses a challenge. What do you wear when you’re past your Coachella or Lollapalooza days, but still want to wear something fun and stay cool when you’re at street fest, block party, concert or similar event?

Summer Festival Fashion for Women Over 50

It can be a challenge to reconcile fun and festival-worthiness with practicality at any age, but it does get a little more challenging for women over 50. After all, you may want a bit more coverage and prioritize comfort over sex appeal—but there’s no reason you can’t have a bit of both. 

Here are some of our favorite ways to bring a little fun and style to your summer event looks in 2025:

Open Weave

The crochet trend isn’t going anywhere, and a summer festival is the perfect time to bring it out. Layer a crochet top or tank over a cami to keep things opaque but still flirty. We like this simple sleeveless option from the Gap, or add some color with this flattering vertical striped number from 525 at Nordstrom Rack. 

Pair either of these open weave tops with wide leg pants and some interesting accessories and you’re all set. 

Painterly Prints

Think of these vibrant watercolor prints as a more grown-up version of tie-dye. We love a maxi dress in eye-catching print for a festival or outdoor gathering in hot weather; something like this linen Banana Republic style or this Desigual x Christian Lacroix number are just about perfect. 

With prints this bold, we suggest keeping the accessories minimal and low-profile, but a simple cuff bracelet or hoop earrings wouldn’t be out of place. 

Fringe Trim

There’s nothing more fun than a little fringe, so if you love the look why not bring it out for a summer event? We love a bit of fringe on a sophisticated silhouette, like the sash on this beautifully draped asymmetrical top from I.N.C. at Macy’s. It would look amazing with flowy pants or even a maxi skirt for something more dressed up. 

Studded Details

If you love anything with a bit of an edge, this is where your favorite pieces can come out to play. A studded jacket like this one from River Island is a great option to throw on if things get chillier at night.

Studded bags, shoes and even jeans are all perfectly festival-worthy as well and can add some toughness to an otherwise simple outfit.

Polka Dots

Dots are trending again, so if you’re a fan that big summer event is a good reason to bring them out. For a more avant-garde take on polka dots, we’re fans of this Commonsense skirt. If you like something more classic, this Renee C. skirt is a steal at Saks Off-Fifth. 

Either one just needs a fitted tee or tank—may we suggest black or white, and add a pop of color with your jewelry, bag or shoes? 

Summer Festival Fashion: Major Accessories

This is the time to bring out your most amazing and creative accessories. Huge statement earrings, armfuls of bangles, stacks of necklaces, and your most fun hats or or hair accessories if that’s your thing. 

Regardless of what you wear, the footwear should be sturdy and likely closed-toe (if you’ll be in a crowded situation), your bag should be cross-body or otherwise hands-free, and don’t neglect the sunscreen. 

What do you like to wear to big summer festivals and parties? Any epic outfits or experiences that you still recall fondly?  Do you love an outdoor concert or street fest, or do you prefer air conditioning? Let us know in the comments or on our Growing Younger Facebook page! 

–Jacqueline Zenn

You may also like to read Spring 2025 Must-Haves: How to Upgrade Your Two-Piece Sets and The Top Swimwear Trends 2025 for Women Over 50.

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