Summer outfit ideas for a comfortable, stylish look at 49

128 replies

cambiodenombre123 · 15/03/2026 15:02

Asking the mumsnet gods/goddesses to save my fashion woes. I want to feel comfortable, sexy and stylish this summer. To be able to go for city walks and sit in a beer garden and not worry about my belly, fat arms, weird elbows and crinkly neck. I'm 49, fine hair in a bob, hourglass shape with big boobs, 5'6" and slightly overweight. I want to look current and relevant if possible? Please give me some tips of what to wear.

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StylishAndBeautiful · 23/03/2026 18:26

Floisme · 21/03/2026 09:22

Dresses are only easy if they fit. Once I factor in all the time it takes to hunt down a dress that fits both my shoulders and arse then they're neither easy nor quick. The one exception were those stretchy jersey dresses which I did wear for a while till I got bored. Separates all the way for me: easier to get a good fit, far more versatile, especially if you're on a budget, and less washing.

The only problem I get is that many brands cut the shoulders too narrow, so I'd have to size up to get the right fit and they'd be too big everywhere else.
I stick to brands that are ok for me.

mixedpeel · 23/03/2026 20:42

Londonmummy66 · 18/03/2026 16:54

I'm a similar height and busty. My basic summer "uniform" is a v neck linen knit in black or navy over a white scoop neck t shirt with wide leg trousers in black or navy. I find being all one colour is slimming and detracts from the bust. The v neck on the knit draws the eye down which also detracts from the bust whilst infilling it a bit with a t shirt stops me looking too Bet Lynch.

I also have a number of jersey maxi dresses which I wear with a light cardigan or shirt knotted at the waist and a few smarter cotton dresses. Ive just bought this one https://atlastshop.co.uk/products/cotton-salcombe-midi-dress-in-black?_pos=4&_sid=97c9a2555&_ss=r which is a lovely soft seersucker. If you can wear patterns (I can't as I have a tiny head so everything wears me) then they have some lovely cotton dresses on the website - the quality is excellent. Also - I can highly recommend their cord Chelsea dress for the winter.

Just had to thank you for this recommendation, @Londonmummy66 .

I ordered the salcombe in navy and it’s pretty much the perfect dress! I’m a shortarse so it’s nearly a maxi, but looks fantastic on and is supremely comfortable. Also, staggeringly quick delivery. Worth others knowing I am not busty but it’s still flattering, so a design which will suit a variety of shapes.

Londonmummy66 · 23/03/2026 22:28

mixedpeel · 23/03/2026 20:42

Just had to thank you for this recommendation, @Londonmummy66 .

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Thank you so much - it is a lovely little business - I first came across them at Spirit of Christmas and bought the Chelsea dress in cord which was my live in dress all winter - I think the Salcombe will be the summer equivalent. I love their clothes but can't wear patterns due to a tiny head meaning they wear me instead but if they did more plains I'd buy the lot....

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