Wearable Beautiful Trends for Summer 2023

I lead with love. And before you take that as being deeper than it is, let me explain. Whether it comes to style or to dessert, I always go for what I love, first, and then try to make it fit my lifestyle. Often, this can backfire, like the time I talked Kevin into letting me pack my favorite wedges for a trip to the Pyramids rather than the sneakers he wanted me to take.

Let’s just say they were not as stable on the rocks as I thought they would be.

That said, that was a long time ago, and I’ve since learned to make concessions for practicality. I still want to love what I wear, but I also want to not regret wearing it. It’s a fine line, and I hate being forced to choose between practicality and comfort.

Fortunately, this season, I don’t have to. Don’t you love it when you can have your shoes and wear them too? 🙂

Here, some practical, wearable trends for 2023 that check all the boxes. I hope you love them as much as I do!

You can find everything in this video/post right here.

Wedges

The wedge is back, and it’s not just my beloved espadrilles anymore. Now we’re seeking sculptural modern wedges and sleek and simple ones. There’s a wedge for every wedding, garden party, or barbecue you’re going to. We all know that they are more outdoors-friendly, but this season’s styles are also really chic.

TRY

There are, of course, wedges that aren’t cute or modern, like this micro-wedge with a peep toe, reminiscent of a style Cole Haan made back in 2011.

SKIP

Cropped Jackets & Tops

I’m not talking belly-baring here, but sometimes a shorter top or jacket can be just the right length to flatter a waistline and not swallow you up, particularly if you’re short, like me. The items that look intentionally cropped but still tailored are going to be around for at least a couple of seasons, so let’s enjoy them while we can find them. On the other hand, the jackets and tops that look like they are sheared off at the bottom (often with unfinished hems) are a flash in the pant trend and one we should probably skip.

Ladylike Jackets

Little tweed Chanel-esque jackets are a flattering and stylish choice for many women, as long as they are worn in a more modern and casual way. Skip the suit and style them with jeans and other casual basics.

Tie Front Dresses

Not only do they define (or add) a waistline, but these tie-front wonders do a great job at concealing or minimizing a belly on many body types. Plus, they’re cute and comfortable.

Sheath Dresses

It’s back, and it’s hard to believe this classic dress silhouette was ever gone. With the profusion of midi and prairie dresses in recent years, the simple ladylike sheath has been hard to find, but now it’s everywhere, from work-friendly options to formal styles to casual versions.

Slingbacks

Part sandal, part pump, the classic slingback is back in style, but with an update. The newest versions are either flat or low heels, with an often strappier style. If you go for the square-toe versions, keep it in patent, suede, or a bold color.

Vests

Whether worn buttoned-up as tops or unbuttoned as a simple, casual layer, a vest is a fun new way to add interest to outfits. Unless you style it like I did, here, in my video on how I fix aging outfits. (One viewer rightly compared this look to an outfit from the old sitcom, Maud).

And while I still love the above vest when styled properly, these slim linen versions will not give you Maud flashbacks.

Ruched Dresses

Ruching is so flattering, and also looks modern when done right, but for the last few years, ruching was only found on maternity clothes. I’m so glad it’s back to add an element of flattery and detail to dresses.

Jumpsuits

Like sheaths, a jumpsuit is wearable, practical, and you’ll find one for every dress code, from formal to beachy. They’re also super-flattering when they fit properly, and are a fabulous alternative to dresses when you don’t want to show your legs.

3 Trends To Approach With Caution

Sure, these are practical and have their uses, but these trends are tricky at best, so choose carefully.

Tie Front Tops

The modern versions of these tops are flattering and fun, but if you throw in a floral, some extra volume at the tummy, and ties that are too long, they can be a fashion disaster. Let’s start with a bad version.

This style from Karen Kane has too much volume in the tummy, a dated print, and ties that hang down awkwardly pointing to the crotch area (a problem with many of these tops).

If you like this style and want to try it for flattery in the tummy area, try one of these sleeker versions instead.

Square Toe Pumps

I think these should come with a warning label, They’re practical and comfortable and even trendy, but over 40, some of these pumps look downright frumpy. Skip the nude, basic styles and go with something in a color, or in suede and patent, for maximum style.

Dress With Jacket

I’ve warned about these many times before, but the style I’m referring to here isn’t matronly or mature. It’s the opposite. It’s cutesy and a little costume-y. The combination of vintage styling, color, and cut makes it more appropriate for a 60s sitcom then real life.

What did you think of the wearable, flattering, and practical trends shown here? And what about the not-so-cute versions? Let me know in the comments!