typically the little black dress gets all of the attention. it’s classic, versatile, and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. the silhouette may change from year to year, but it reigns supreme as the quintessential style uniform. the LBD was first introduced in 1926 by coco chanel. it was nicknamed the “model t” or “chanel’s ford” because the dress was accessible for women of all social classes. but many of us like to retire black once the warmer temps appear. so let’s talk about the alternative to the little black dress. the summer staple the little white dress.
while the little white dress might never be as popular as its famous cousin once summer arrives, i’m happy to exchange white for black. nothing says ‘hello warm weather’ quite like an LWD.
shirtdresses are a classic silhouette and are flattering for most body types. most shirtdresses come with a self-tying sash, although this one has a fitted waist. but one style trick i adopt with a shirtdress is simply to exchange the self-tie for a belt to add instant glamour and let your personality shine through.
white is a neutral that partners with nearly everything and looks great. the options are endless. today i chose a classic and chic summer neutral palette – white and brown. there is something so chic about this color combo. my little white dress is a tiered cotton shirtdress by ralph lauren (old, similar here, here, and here); the wide brown belt is also from ralph (old, similar here). a pair of wedge sandals (old, similar here, here, and here) elevates the outfit. yet the fisherman handbag (old, similar here) keeps the outfit grounded for a casual chic look. add a bangle of your choosing as well as a necklace. but don’t forget there’s no better way to finish off a stylish summer outfit than with a pair of sunglasses. these tortoiseshell sunglasses from Prada (old, similar here) have served me well for many years and continue to be one of my favorites. they look terrific with my summer staple, the little white dress.
dress (old, similar here, here, and here) | belt (old, similar here) | sandals (old, similar here, here, and here) | handbag (old, similar here) | sunglasses (old, similar here)
dress (old, similar here, here, and here) | belt (old, similar here) | sandals (old, similar here, here, and here) | handbag (old, similar here) | sunglasses (old, similar here)
day two of Amazon Prime Day continues. here are a few more beauty and fashion finds.
is the Founder and CEO of Style at a Certain Age. She writes Sundays-Fridays on all topics ranging from fashion, health, wellness, home design and more.
She’s 65, 5’8, and size 8.
beautiful dress, love Lauren
Very pretty sandals
like the necklace very much, that type is very hard to find.
Have a nice day
thanks for stopping by, gloria!
Might I suggest swapping out the leather belt for a straw one or self tie. That brown just looks too heavy to my eye with your other accessories.Other wise you look great. All the ladies of the 1800’s wore white as a standard and it always looked wonderful in the summer. Although I always wonder who got to iron all the lace and ruffles. Tries another one of your daughter-in-law’s recipes last night She is such a good cook-so creative!
so many options with accessories. that’s how we add our personal spin to an outfit. a straw belt would look a-ma-zing! yes, kelly is quite talented. i’m glad you’re following her blog.
https://djalalicooks.com/
Every last detail of your outfit today is simply gorgeous! What a glorious shout out to summer. You are a classy lady styling a classic dress.
Hello summer!
the first blush of summer is a magical time. enjoy!
What a great summer outfit. Is there anything more beautiful than a puffy white cloud? Possibly a white summer dress.
there’s something magical about puffy white clouds! and a cute summer dress isn’t bad either.
Cool smashing outfit, though it is too long for me. I’m short. Will have to look for something for my 5’3″ heigt
that’s when a good tailor steps in. i hope you have one on speed dial.
I wish you would stop with the music. I really like your style and comments however when that music starts to play i will escape.
just confused as to what music you are referring to? there isn’t any music on the blog post. only photos.
Hi Beth, I’m rather new to your blog (found you through Kay Harms). I think this looks so fabulous on you and I LOVE the wide tan belt! I am barely 5’2″ and have a hard time carrying off midi length & shirtwaist skirt volume, though. I also don’t have any belts I can use without loops. Any tips about how to keep the ends of belts from flopping? Thanks!! Enjoying your blog & videos!
welcome! i’m so happy you’re here. i use fashion tape to secure the end of my belt. it’s double-sided tape. here’s a link: https://shopstyle.it/l/bvFQq
Thanks, Beth! I will try that!
Little hello from Mauritius Island. You look gorgeous! Thanks for sharing.