What to wear for summer holiday post 40 year old? Not sure I still look good in short shorts?

[Puygo]

I know people may say wear what you like and feel comfortable in. But when I look in the mirror I feel I now understand the saying you are as old as your knees. My go to summer holiday wear has always been short shorts - denim or otherwise. Along with a pretty vest or sleeveless top. But they just don’t look right any more. So I am pondering alternatives.

knee lengths shorts
three quarter length trousers
knee length skirts
maxi skirts

i feel maxi skirts are the most stylish of these but I am a mum of sporty kids and always in the go so maxi skirts aren’t really practical.

knee length skirts look really old fashioned to me
although could maybe work

which are most stylish out of knee length shorts vs three quarter trousers?

many advice greatly welcomed

I’m in my 40s and live in dresses summer and winter. Obviously different weights. But if you still want to tock your shorts, you go girl!

I'm over 40 and my knees are a bit chubby, but even so I think short shorts are more flattering than knee length ones.

For unfussy everyday dresses that don't look ott at the side of the football pitch or whatever, I like this style (this one is reduced too - I might order it myself!)

And for trousers, ankle grazers look more up to date than shorter ones.

Of the options you list I think three-quarter length trousers are the least stylish. Maxi skirts are ‘in’ this summer apparently but as you say not always practical. I think longer shorts are really hard to wear well and to style but if you like them that might be a good option. Would you consider wide leg ankle grazers?

Yes wide leg ankle grazers could be something to consider. I used to be quite stylish in my 20s but feel I have no clue now at all!

I live in northern Scotland so at home I am mostly in jeans. Rarely a need for shorts at home. It’s only for the 2 weeks abroad that this problem arises !

Do we think I might look ridiculous now in short shorts? I am also very pale (Scottish skin ) which probably doesn’t help either

Oh wear the shorts. Nobody will be looking at your knees except for you, and you will only feel self conscious for the first 30 minutes!

I'm 48 and have disproportionately short chubby legs. I'm going to florida this summer where it will be hot, humid and wet. I'm just going to suck it up and wear shorts, they'll keep me cool and not cling to my legs after a downpour.

My arms have become meaty this past year. But vests will keep me cool.

Nobody will look twice, because I'm 48.

That said, I am going to the gym and trying to improve both these things rather than just accept that my body is on a downward slope.

I'm 54 and always wear shorts and short dresses in the summer. It never crossed my mind that people would find me ridiculous. How short is short though? Mine end half way down my thigh.

Oh and I recommend bondi sands self tan mousse in light. Easy to apply and helps me feel a bit better about my flesh being on show.

I have just bought a skort, it’s a combination of shorts and a skirt and I’m 58, bought in Decathlon and very comfortable. honestly wear what you like. It’s about half way down my thigh. Look stop worrying about skin colour. The culture I’m from people that are darker are seen as lower class field workers and pale skin is valued. So it’s hilarious to me how in the UK it’s the opposite. I now have a tan, my English friends are envious. I just think of my Grandma who would tell me I look common.

@AngelsWithSilverWings my friend always says ‘you can see what she had for breakfast’ in other words knickers are out.

I have found some great beach dresses on EBay. My favourites are from Pink City Prints and a great throw-on tunic from One Hundred Stars.

Almost everyone over the age of 12 looks ridiculous in short shorts. However on holidays abroad no one cares, wear the shorts if they are comfortable, just don't wear them in the supermarket after the holiday. I wish I had the courage to wear them on hot days

Only the maxi skirt is stylish from your list. Three quarter length trousers top every what not to wear list.

What about full length loose/flowy/palazzo style trousers? In light fabric.

I’d say wear the usual shorts but if they don’t feel right to you that’s a different thing.

Yes I think I will research loose trousers as hadnt thought of those. It’s frustrating that there isn’t a stylish and practical solution really. Men’s board shorts/cargo shorts and T-shirt are so easy for men to wear

Would midi denim skirts look ok?

Something like this?

https://www.marksandspencer.com/denim-midi-skirt/p/clp22581990?prevPage=srp#intid=pid_pg1pip48g2r8c2|prodflag_Online%20Only

I just ordered these Shorts. I’ve seen lots of people wearing these looser baggier shorts rather than short hot pant style shorts.

Also some lightweight Trousers could be an option?

Just wear the shorts if you are comfortable in them. No one cares, they are far too busy obsessing about their own choices. Women over the age of thirty tend to be pretty much invisible anyway.

In Scotland, only wear the short shorts around the house and garden.

Abroad - wear whatever you like. Everyone else will be wearing short shorts and not caring what they look like while they have fun, why shouldn't you? There will be plenty of older, broader, wrinklier people than you, all just relaxing.

Linen trousers, culottes? Jumpsuits?

Would anyone be able to give me an opinion on these?

https://www.mountainwarehouse.com/fowey-womens-lightweight-trouser-p55343.aspx/Blue/?gad_source=1&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI6OODy52DhwMV4JdQBh0TBQ0pEAQYHiABEgJOm_D_BwE

I’m almost 50 and I wear tailored shorts with a looser vest style top and I look much the same as everyone else on holiday !
nobody cares, everyone has legs, all
different shapes sizes and shades !! Get them on !!

I've got a couple of pairs of these - really comfy and not too short... and I'm much older than you!

I have ordered a couple of beach trousers - loose with patterns which I like the look of. Hopefully will be ok.