How To Dress 15 Years Younger: The (Dreaded) Summer Cookout

Summer Cookout Outfit, Citizens of Humanity, Ray-Bans, Vince Sneakers, rag & bone Tee, Eileen Fisher Jacket
Once you are over 40, dressing up for a barbecue with family and friends on a hot summer day can become a dreaded task! That’s right, it used to be a thrill to put on shorts, a little halter top and sandals. Now you want to hide parts of your body, feel comfortable and look sophisticated – but still be stylish. Oh and not swelter to death.
Here is an outfit for an on-the-grass, bean-bag-tossing and running-after-kids-in-wet-bathing-suits sort of a cook out. By simply updating a few (or all) of your summer basics you will feel comfortable at the party, and possibly 15 years younger when your niece compliments your look.
Shoes: Let’s start from the ground up! There are a ton of sneakers available, including remakes of some of your favorites (remember Stan Smiths?). Slip-on styles look chic on women over forty. I like this pair of Vince Nelson Sneakers, $295 because they are a combo of a slip-on and a tie shoe.
Jeans: I recommend lightweight, cropped and loose boyfriend style jeans in a dark blue wash or white. You can wear these Citizens of Humanity Emerson Slim Boyfriend Ankle Jeans, $168 all summer and winter long.
Classic T-shirt: Classic T’s are “in” along with trendy stripes. Find a longer T-shirt, in basic white, black, a bright color or striped with a neckline and sleeve that flatters you. This  rag & bone/JEAN The Aria Short-Sleeve Striped Tee, is now $65 and will make you look crisp and comfortable.
Jacket: You may need a jacket for when it cools off, so find one that is lightweight and versatile like this Eileen Fisher Weather-Resistant High-Collar Coat, now $113. Classic jean and motorcycle styles jackets, fitted and oversize are on-trend, too. You may be able to revive one you already own!
Sunglasses: You can always feel cool in a new pair of shades. Add a twist to a classic with the bright green mirrored lenses on these Ray-Ban 58mm Aviator Polarized Sunglasses, $200. Or find a fun pair of summery white frames or cat eyes.
– Carol Calacci


 

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