This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I will make a commission at no extra cost to you.

Even if you’ve never concerned yourself much with saving money on your clothing purchases before, it’s likely that our current recession and inflation rate have caught your attention. EVERYTHING costs more these days, including clothes.

There are always lots of clothing sales. But the challenge is buying what your really LOVE and NEED and not just purchasing because it’s a great deal. How many times have we done that and ended up never wearing the item because it just wasn’t right?

Here are my 4 Top Ways to SAVE MONEY or EARN MONEY on Clothing Purchases

 

Buy the Right Clothes for Your Body Type

Have you ever seen a friend wear a really cute outfit that looks great on her? Then when you buy something in that same style and put it on, you hate how it looks?

Or you see something on a mannequin that is fabulous and you take it in the dressing room to try it on and think it looks horrible on you?

And who do we blame for that? US. There is something wrong with our shape, size, weight, skin color, length of hair or something. It has to be US – certainly not the clothes.

That’s what I thought until I took the Adore With Your Wardrobe course. This e-course teaches you how to determine your body shape and dress in a way that flatters it.

You can read about my full experience with Adore Your Wardrobe here.

So how did I save money by SPENDING money on a course?

Once I learned the styles of jeans, blouses, pants, blazers and dresses that were the most flattering, I started shopping only for those types of pieces.

I felt GREAT in the pieces I bought because they looked good on me.

I actually WORE everything I  bought instead of having a bunch of OK or unflattering clothes in my closet that I never wore.

If you have clothes in your closet that you DON’T wear, you are wasting money!

The $199 I invested in Adore Your Wardrobe has paid for itself over and over again.

Check out the testimonials and before and after pictures.

Next class starts September 21!

 

Put Together a Capsule Wardrobe

So what is a capsule wardrobe?

Generally speaking, it is a collection of clothing that can be put together in different combinations that maximize the number of outfits you have with just a few pieces.

Some people, like my daughters, are very good and coming up with different outfits by combining pieces they already have in their closet.

That is not my skill.

And especially coming out of the pandemic where my daily uniform was a t-shirt and jeans.  When it was time to get out in the world again, I was stuck.

Enter Outfit Formulas.

Outfit Formulas is a program that helps you cultivate a wardrobe for every season by suggesting pieces to buy and ways to put them together.

Their whole philosophy is about CULTIVATING your closet instead of having just a bunch of random items.

How it works:

You purchase a guide based on your style or season.

Each guide includes a shopping list, daily outfit formulas, and resources to help you make substitutions, color coordinate and more.

From the shopping list, you will shop your closet FIRST and check off any items you already have.  Then you fill in any gaps  by using their helpful online guide or shopping on your own.

Style your outfits using the daily prompts and your own creativity. Each prompt also features suggestions on how to dress up the outfit for a professional setting or dress it down for something more casual.

Here are some of the outfits I made from my Summer 2022 Capsule Wardrobe:

 

So how does a capsule wardrobe save me money? I purchase fewer clothes and have more outfit options!

The Fall 2022 Capsule Wardrobe goes on sale September 2.

 

Get Cash Back On My Purchases With Rakuten

Kohl’s cash, VIP points, Nordy Club, Credit Card points….there a lots of ways to “earn” while you spend. And if you shop carefully and keep track, you can do well with all of these incentives.

My favorite one is Rakuten because it’s simple. You make a purchase and get a percentage of that purchase back in cash. They keep track of it and send you a check or make a deposit to your PayPal at the end of the month. Easy Peasy.

I’ve downloaded the Rakuten extension to my browser. So any time I type in a participating retailer, this window will come up.  I click “activate’ and start shopping. Rakuten does the rest.

 

Other ways to access Rakuten:

• Shop through the app.
• Shop directly from the Rakuten website.
• Connect a credit card to your Rakuten account and shop at brick and mortar retailers.

 

I’ve been a Rakuten member (it used to be eBates) for several years and have received a total of $810 in cash back.

This month my BIG FAT CHECK will be $60.86!

 

Buy and Sell Clothes at Online Poshmark

Poshmark is a social selling site where you can buy and sell new and used merchandise.

Selling on Poshmark – Make money on your clothes and accessories!

If you have new or gently used clothing in your closet that you are not wearing,  list them on Poshmark.

In just a few clicks, you can set up your Poshmark shop and start selling.

Take a picture of your item and upload it with a description and your price. They make it easy to share your listing on their site, to social media or through texts to your friends.  You choose how you want to share and with whom.

Once your item is purchased, Poshmark provides you with a pre-paid, pre-addressed label ready to put on the box.

Package your item and drop it off at a USPS mailbox or have it picked up.

Receive your earnings either by direct deposit or you can request a check.

 

Purchasing from Poshmark – Save money on your clothes and accessories

It’s easy to shop on Poshmark. They have filters for size, brand, type of item so that you can easily see what you are looking for.

However, purchasing from an online picture is different from actually purchasing at a resale shop where you can see the item.

Poshmark will give you a full refund if your item never ships OR does not match the listing description. They do not release payment to the seller until you tell them that your order has arrived as described.

You can read more about their refund policy here.

Another level of protection is that each seller is rated by those who buy from them, so you can see the track record of those you are purchasing from.

Take a look at my Poshmark closet!

If you are interested in “thrifting”, my friend Jodie from Jodie’s Touch of Style is the MASTER. Read these posts:

4 Expert Thrift Store Shopping Hacks.

4 Online Thrift Tips to Make Shopping Easier

This month, all of my blogging friends who are part of the Ageless Style Link-up are writing posts about Fashion on a Budget. Check them out!

Amy ~ Amy’s Creative Pursuits

Blog | Instagram | Pinterest | Facebook |

Bo ~ Bo’s Bodacious Blog

Blog / Instagram /Pinterest / Bloglovin’

Cathy ~ My Side of 50

Blog / Instagram/ Pinterest / Facebook

Joanna ~ My Slice of Life

Blog

Jodie ~ Jodie’s Touch of Style

Blog | Instagram | Facebook |

Marsha~ Marsha in the Middle

Blog /Instagram

Mireille ~ Chez Mireille Fashion Travel Mom

Blog | Instagram | Pinterest | Facebook |

Rosemary ~ Distinctly Southern Style

Blog / Instagram / Pinterest / Facebook

Click here to see how the other Ageless Style Ladies dress fashionably on a budget.

 

 

 

 

 

Do you remember Palazzo Pants from the 70’s? When I think of them,  it evokes an image of my mom entertaining in our dark wood paneled den and the orange and yellow shag carpet that graced my teenage bedroom.

You’ve probably noticed that palazzo pants and wide leg pants in general are making a comeback.

But contrary to what a lot of my fashion blogger friends are saying, I don’t see our skinny jeans going out any time soon. Or at least not THIS YEAR.  Every brand of pants and jeans I saw at the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale featured PLENTY of skinny leg options.

However, fashion is trending toward wider legs, so to keep your wardrobe updated, it might not be a bad idea to add some wider leg options.

 

What’s the Difference Between Wide Leg Pants and Palazzo Pants

There are technically differences, but you will see the two terms used interchangeably.

Wide Leg Pants are a relaxed fit, have a straight cut from thigh to ankle and come in a variety of fabrics.

Palazzo Pants have a more generous cut, flair from the waist and are very wide throughout the leg. They are made of silky or chiffon type fabrics.

 

Styling Palazzo Pants

Wide Leg Pants (on sale)| Solid Front Knot Blouse | Metallic Sandals | Rattan Earrings (on sale)

 

This outfit is from Maurices. They call these pants wide leg pants, but I say they are palazzo style. No matter what you call them, when you have a more voluminous bottom, balance it out with a more fitted top.

The pants are pull-on and have a geometric print which is on trend for this fall. They are high-waisted and very comfortable. I’m wearing an extra-large but a large would have fit better.

The Solid Front Knot Blouse is slightly fitted. And that front knot is great for camflouging the tummy. I’m wearing a large.

To finish the look, I chose simple, metallic sandals and rattan earrings.

Wide Leg Pants (on sale) | Solid Smocked Flutter Sleeve Blouse (on sale)| Metallic Sandals | Gold Earrings (similar)

For this look I featured the same pants with a Solid Smocked Flutter Sleeve Top (Large)  and Kendra Scott Gold Earrings.

Tops with statement sleeves are a great addition to your wardrobe for the fall.

And both of these tops can be worn year round and with any kind of jeans or pants. Add a cardigan, denim jacket or blazer when it gets cold.

In Texas, it stays really warm through October, so I’m always looking for fall pieces that I won’t sweat in. Both outfits are perfect. Fall colors. Keep your cool styles!

 

Wide Leg Pants for Petites

I’ve heard many of my short friends say that they can’t wear wide leg or palazzo pants because they are just swimming in them. And that can certainly be true if the proportions are not right.

But if you are petite and want to give these pants a try, here are a few styling suggestions that will make them work for you.

It’s all about proportion.

• Buy them in a size marked petite.
• Wear with a fitted top.
• Try to have a little leg showing rather than have the pants go to the floor.
• Wear a neutral heel or wedge to elongate the leg.

I put this outfit together for my petite friends.

The pants are actually a wide leg crop and come in four different prints.

The shorter length shows some leg.

Paired with a fitted top and neutral heel.

 

Wide Leg Cropped Pants (on sale)| Key Hole Tee (on sale)                   Tulani Dress Sandal | Crossbody Bag (on sale) | Gold Tone Crystal Baguette Threader Earrings

 

Have you added any wider-leg pants to your wardrobe?

 

This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I will make a commission at no extra cost to you.

 

Out of everything I ordered at the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale (ends July 31), I decided to keep these 3 pieces:

Drape Collar Knit Blazer by Caslon in Black, Size L

This soft, cotton knit blazer with a drapey-wing collar has a beautiful fit. Light weight and perfect for when you need just a little something to keep you warm OR to dress up your look.

Comes in Black, Rust Spice, Green Sorrell, Navy Peacoat, Purple Mellow and Navy & White Stripe.

 

Munro Geena Penny Loafer in Black Leather, Size 8.5 W

I have been seeing this style of what I call “chunky loafers” for a while and never thought I’d like them. But I decided to give them a try and I love them. Lots of arch support and roomy for my wide feet. Very comfortable, and as you’ll see from the pictures, they go with LOTS.

Comes in Super Narrow to WW widths.

Colors: Black Leather, Taupe Suede, Herb Suede (kind of a mossy green) and Wine Leather.

 

DKNY V-Neck Short Sleeve Sweater, in Lip Gloss, Size L

Super soft, lightweight sweater. Perfect on it’s own as a transition piece or looks great under a blazer or sweater. I love the flattering v-neck and elbow length sleeves.

Comes in Lip Gloss (Bright Pink), Ivory, Sunbeam (Yellow) and Black.

How did I decide?

The main question I asked myself as I tried on the pieces I ordered was “How many things in my closet does this item go with?”

As it turns out, these 3 pieces go with a LOT! Here are just a few of the looks I put together with my new pieces.

If the item was something I already had and I can’t find that exact item, I will link to something similar.

Caslon Drape Collar Knit Blazer | Floral Dress (similar) | Sling Back Shoes (similar)   

Clutch/Crossbody (Similar) 

Caslon Drape Collar Knit Blazer | White Tee (similar) | Cheetah Belt | NYDJ Barbara Bootcut Jeans

 Cheetah Booties (similar)

Caslon Drape Collar Knit Blazer | Floral Basic Tank | Style & Co Curvy Skinny Leg Jean (similar)
Munro Geena Penny Loafers  | Wreath

Caslon Drape Collar Knit Blazer | DKNY V-Neck Short Sleeve Sweater | Gray Jeans (similar)

Gray Booties (similar)

DKNY V-Neck Short Sleeved Sweater | Gray Jeans (similar) | Snake Skin Sneakers (similar)

Crossbody (similar)

DKNY V-Neck Short-Sleeved Sweater | White Jeans (Similar) | Light Pink Denim Jacket (similar)

Munro Geena Penny Loafers | Wreath

DKNY V-Neck Short Sleeved Sweater | White Jeans (Similar) | Crossbody (similar)

Munro Geena Penny Loafers | Wreath

 

So what do you think?

Which look do you like best? Which one do you think is “meh”?

As you add new pieces to your wardrobe, see how you can mix and match them with some of the pieces you already have. You’ll have lots of new outfits!

 

This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I will make a commission at no cost to you. I so appreciate you shopping through my links because the commission I make helps defray the costs of the My Side of 50 blog.

Chico’s Semi-Annual 50% Off Sale

It’s that time of year when Chicos and many other retailers are starting to mark down their summer merchandise.

Most of these items are marked down.

Black and White with a Pop of Red

This look combines my favorites – classic black and white with a pop of red. In this picture I am wearing the tank out. It’s tunic length.

Touch of Cool Leaf Print Tank (size 2)  | DeFine Me Denim White Crops (size 2.5) | Beaded Drop Earrings (similar from Amazon) | Beaded Coil Bracelet | Fringe Thong Sandals | Wreath (10% off until 7/31/22)

 

 

This picture shows you how long it is in the back – plenty long enough to cover what you want to cover.

You could definitely do a front tuck with this tank. That is not usually my favorite look on me. So instead I use these handy scarf rings from Amazon to cinch up one side. This defines my waist a bit and I like the look.

Set of 5 scarf rings.

Then to change it up, I added my trusty denim jacket. Because even when it’s 107 in Houston, the AC blows COLD inside and you need a little something to cover your arms. I have had my denim jackets for several years and they have been the best investment pieces. I wear them year round.

Talbots has several styles of their denim jackets on sale here.

I like this tank especially because you can wear it year round. In the fall, pair it with black pants and a black or red blazer.  Black and white is a canvas for so many different looks.

I’m wearing the red beaded earrings I received with my Chico’s order. They must be sold out because I couldn’t find them anywhere on their site. But I found this pair exactly like them (and a lot cheaper) on Amazon.

 

This Beaded Coil Bracelet is so pretty. It’s all one piece and would go with so many things. For the sale, bracelets are 2/$45 or 3/$49.

These Fringe Thong Sandals in Flame Scarlet will add a pop of color to any summer look.

 

Flaming Red – Two Ways

For this look, I kept the white crops and and fringe sandals and added the Pima Floral Pocket Tunic in Flame Scarlett.

Added accessories were a Kendra Scott necklace and earrings that were in my closet.

Pima Floral Pocket Tunic (Size 2) | DeFine Me White Crops (Size 2.5)  | Fringe Thong Sandals | Kendra Scott Jewelry

This look keeps the same Pima Floral Top in scarlet and adds the So Slimming Girlfriend Pom Pom Crops.

Completing the outfit are the Seashell Slide Sandals and Wicker Braid Hoop Earrings.

Pima Floral Pocket Tunic (Size 2) | So Slimming Girlfriend Pom Pom Crops | Sea Shell Slide Sandals | Wicker Braid Hoop Earrings

Here’s a look at the pom pom embroidery detail on the crops. So cute.

The Sea Shell Slide Sandals also come in black. If you’ve read my blog for a while, you know that my shoe size is 8WW. These slides DID NOT fit me well. However, if you wear a regular M width, these will be just fine for you.

The Wicker Braid Hoop Earrings came in this set of 4 from Amazon. One of my favorite purchases of the summer. As of today, this set of 4 earrings is just $12.99. Since this whole wicker/rattan/straw thing is what I consider a TREND, I like that I can add a trendy item to my outfit without breaking the bank.

I’ve worn all three of these earrings all summer. And gave the one with the tassels to my daughter. Everybody wins!

Which look do you like best?

 

Did you know that My Side of 50 is a small business? When you purchase through one of my links, you support that business!

Another way you can support My Side of 50 is by sharing the posts. A friend recently asked me how to do that.

In the top left hand corner of each image you will see a red “P” or red box that says “save”. If you are on Pinterest, you can click either or those and save to a board on your Pinterest account. If you don’t have a board that you use to save fashion posts, you might make one that’s named Fashion Over 50.

In the top left hand corner of each post is a column of buttons. If you click on the blue “f” you can share it to Facebook.

Thanks for reading, sharing and supporting My Side of 50.

This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I will make a commission at no cost to you.

We spent 4th of July weekend with extended family at Lake Conroe, north of Houston. Temperatures hovered around 100 and we spent lots of time in the pool. The perfect time to break in my new MiracleSuit.

 

This is their Oceanus Tummy-Control One-Piece Swimsuit.

It has ruching across the front, non-removable soft cups and adjustable straps.

I felt modern, covered and confident in it. So confident that I can’t even believe my almost 64-year-old self posed for a picture in my suit.

I’ve had several MiracleSuits. They are not cheap.

However, you can’t beat them for fit and quality. And they last.

My previous MiracleSuit (similar) is at least 5 years old and I will still wear it.

 

MiracleSuit

MiracleSuit is known for their custom technology that “takes off 10 pounds.” Their cuts and styles are flattering to any body type.

When looking at these styles, keep in mind they come in different colors and prints. So if you like the style, click through to see your color/pattern options.

Click the photo for more information on each suit.

 

These MiracleSuits can be purchased at Macy’s.

If you go to the MiracleSuit website, they have a sale section. I didn’t include those suits in this post because they are out of a lot of styles and colors.  But take a look. They may have just the thing for you!

 

Swim Solutions

Swim Solutions is a new to me brand that I discovered while I was shopping for swimsuits. They are not as pricey as the MiracleSuit. But I found that the tummy control, construction and styles were just as nice.

 

 

Land’s End

Land’s End used to be my go-to place to get swimsuits for the whole family when my kids were growing up. I hadn’t thought about them until I saw some of my other blogger friends posting about their cute Land’s End swimsuits.

The prices are great. The selection is wide. So many color, pattern and style choices.

If the bathing suit has 2 pieces, you can buy the top and bottom separately.

They have swim shorts, swim skirts and dresses.

Their suits are made from fabric that resists breakdown from sunscreen, chlorine and sweat.

Most of them are made of fabric that provides UPF 50 sun protection.

They are having a big sale, so now is the time to take a look.

Not all of these suits are on sale. So before you buy go to their site and see if they have one that you like that is part of the sale.

 

Are you in the market for a new swimsuit? Let me know which ones you like the best!

Did you know that My Side of 50 is a small business? When you purchase through one of my links, you support that business!

Another way you can support My Side of 50 is by sharing the posts. A friend recently asked me how to do that.

In the top left hand corner of each image you will see a red “P” or red box that says “save”. If you are on Pinterest, you can click either or those and save to a board on your Pinterest account. If you don’t have a board that you use to save fashion posts, you might make one that’s named Fashion Over 50.

In the top left hand corner of each post is a column of buttons. If you click on the blue “f” you can share it to Facebook.

Thanks for reading, sharing and supporting My Side of 50.

 

 

The Anniversary Sale is Nordstrom’s BIGGEST Sale of the year.

It gets LOTS of HYPE and for good reason….there are incredible deals on SO MANY THINGS.

But shopping the Anniversary Sale can get a little overwhelming.

• What do I buy?

 

• Is this really a good deal?

 

• When can I shop?

 

• How can I get the most bang for my buck?

 

 

What do I buy at the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale?

Most of us shop sales to save money.  And in this economy people are really watching prices and trying to save.

 

Do an Inventory

So before the sale….. do an inventory of your closet:

• Is there anything that I want to add to my summer wardrobe?

 

• What will I need for fall and winter? Boots? Coats? Sweaters?

 

• What wardrobe basics need to be added, replaced? Long and short sleeved tees? Cardigans? Athletic shoes? Denim? Lingerie? I always replace my Wacoal bras during the sale.

 

• Do I need to replenish makeup or skincare?

 

• What about household basics like sheets and towels?

 

• Is there a splurge item that I’ve been waiting to go on sale like a piece of jewelry or a designer bag?

 

• Is there a special occasion like a trip or a wedding that I need something for?

 

• What gift giving occasions do I have coming up?

 

Make a list

After your inventory, make a list of the items that you are shopping for and set a budget for what you want to spend on each.

Divide your list into “must-haves” and “would be nice to have”

 

 

Shop the preview

This year the preview starts June 29, 2022. Shopping for Nordstrom Cardholders starts as early as July 6, depending on your cardholder status.

Shopping for everyone runs from July 15-31.

 

Pre-Game Strategies to save you more:

 

Join the Nordy Club for FREE

• Earn points toward Nordstrom Notes that you can spend on future purchases.

 

• Nordstrom Notes can be used on-line or in-store at Nordstrom, Nordstrom Rack or Trunk Club.

 

• Members-only access to sales, offers and events.

 

Download the Nordstrom App

• Things sell out FAST during the Anniversary Sale. However, lots of those items get re-stocked before the sale is over. With the app, you’ll get notifications when items from your wish list, cart or saved items are back in stock.

 

Become a Nordstrom Cardholder

• Early access to events like the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale.

 

• Earn double points per dollar spent toward Nordstrom Notes.

How My Side of 50 will be covering the sale

I’ll have twice a week posts through July 31 on great deals I find at the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale.

To stay up to date on my great finds, subscribe to the My Side of 50 newsletter and get those posts straight to your inbox.

Thanks for reading!

Will you please pin this post so that others can learn my money-saving strategies?

 

 

 

Have you heard of the Ditsy Floral trend? It’s everywhere – clothes, home textiles, dishes…

When I first heard the term and that it was a “thing” for Spring/Summer 2022, I thought it had such a negative connotation.

After all, when I was growing up, if you described someone as “ditsy”, they were kind of a scatterbrained airhead.

But after I did a little research I discovered that a “ditsy” design has two major characteristics – small and random.

So a ditsy floral design has small flowers placed at random on the fabric.

I can live with that.

And I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this Cece Ditsy Floral Top!

CeCe Ditsy Floral Top

In addition to the ditsy floral pattern, this top features two more modern trends.

Smocking – just a little on yoke. It’s kind of hard to see in the picture.

And flutter sleeves. So cute.

I’m wearing and XL. A Large fit just fine, but the top is kind of short and I wanted to be able to do a front tuck.

 

This was the perfect summer outfit to wear out running errands on Saturday.

I styled the top with my light wash denim shorts, belt, metallic sandals and straw bag.

Top | Shorts (Size 18 – size up)| Belt | Sandals | Bag

That long red line you see on my leg is not sunless tanner gone wrong. It’s from when I took a tumble and fell flat on the sidewalk at my daughter’s house a few weeks ago.

The worst part is when I asked my daughter for some hydrogen peroxide to clean it, she accidentally brought alcohol!

I don’t think I’m going to choose this daughter to care for me when I’m old and infirm…but I digress.

 

Belts for Women Over 50 who have a tummy

I was not excited about this trend. It had been years since I bought a belt. At that time the only ones that would fit me were XL and not all the time.

 

Then in my Outfit Formulas group, someone mentioned this set of 3 Leather Belts from Amazon. And they come in waist size 26″ – 54″.

You can also get them in sets of two in different colors and prints.

More Colors

The CeCe Ditsy Floral Blouse comes in two more colors – Saffron Yellow and Ocean Blue.

 

 

Which color is your favorite?

 

More Floral Options

 

Floral Summer Tops for Women Over 50

Embroidered Ruched Sleeved Top

Thanks for reading!!!

It would be so great if you would PIN this post. That helps me share style tips with more 50+ women!

 

This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I will make a commission at no extra cost to you.

Do you like to wear Red, White and Blue on the 4th of July?

You don’t have to.

But it’s nice that red, white and blue are great colors to have in your wardrobe year round. So unless you purchase something that specifically says “4th of July”, you can get lots of use out of your red, white and blue items.

 

Styling a Red, White and Blue Kimono

I styled this red, white and blue kimono from Cato Fashions for Memorial Day. Something was off and I finally figured out it was too big on me.  I was wearing my usual size – Large. But this kimono is so oversized, I exchanged it for a medium and I like it much better.

I’m wearing it with a navy tank from Cato Fashions (Size Large). Super soft, great price and lots of colors.

And my Style & Co. Curvy Fit Skinny Jeans (Size 16).

For shoes, I chose these FABULOUS red sneakers from Taos. These are my most fun purchase of the summer. I wear an 8WW. But since these don’t come in WW, I ordered an 8 1/2 W and they are very comfortable. Comes in lots of colors.

For accessories, I wore this initial layering necklace from Amazon. I am wearing this ALL THE TIME this summer.

 

And I added this long Gold Fan Circle Necklace from Ann & Grace Boutique.

Ann & Grace Boutique is owned by my friend Melanie Kendall (melaniekpersonalstylist on Instagram).

Use this link and get 10% off your first purchase with the code ZYGRREF.

Take a look – she has so many cute clothes, accessories, shoes and bags at great prices.

In this photo I added a white sling back crossbody bag.

 

This can be worn as a fanny pack. Both are good options if your out in a crowd.

I’ve included this picture so that you can see how roomy it is with compartments for your credit cards, phone, cash and other items.

This is how you’ll see me wearing it if I’m outside on the 4th! With a pair of shorts! These are my Tommy Hilfiger shorts in size 16. I love them so much I bought 2 more pairs in light denim and in white.

And I switched to a red tank.

I styled this outfit with a Kendra Scott necklace I’ve had for years and these cute rattan earrings. They come in a set of 4 on Amazon.

The sandals are my super comfy SAS sandals in Golden Cork.  They are cushioned, shock absorbing and adjustable across the vamp, toe and heel so you get the perfect fit. I’m wearing 8WW.

 

I added this straw crossbody bag and am set to go.

 

More Red White and Blue Looks

Tee Shirt (XL) | Shorts (16) | Sneakers (8WW)

 

Maxi (XL) | Platform Sandals (8 1/2 M)

 

Tank (XL) | Jeans 16 | Sandals

Denim Jacket  | Tank (XL) | Crops  | Wedge Sandals

Which look do you like the best?

All the wreaths are from my daughter’s ETSY Shop.

 

Thanks for being here! Will you pin this post to Pinterest or share it on social media? I’d be so grateful!

 

Shop my LTK Shop!

 

I was gifted Tamsy apparel in exchange for a review. All opinions are my own.

Beat the heat with Tamsy dresses and kaftans

It’s summer. It’s hot in Texas. And I find myself reaching for casual dresses more and more to keep cool.

And have you noticed kaftans making a come back?

It takes me back to the 70’s and my mom wearing them while she entertained in our dark wood paneled den.

I have been noticing some of my midlife  Instagram friends wearing beautiful clothing by Tamsy recently.

The prints are vibrant and gorgeous. The designs are so feminine.

So when Tamsy approached me about trying their products and reviewing them for my readers, I was thrilled.

 

Tamsy Gives Back

Then came the icing on the cake.

Tamsy is a company that gives back.

 

Tamsy Floral  Print Umbrella Dress

Sleeveless.  Flattering Scoop Neckline. Gorgeous floral print.

This gorgeous dress is one size fits all S-2X. I usually wear a size 14 dress.

 

It’s the kind of dress that makes me want to twirl.

I styled it casually with flat, sparkly sandals.

But this versatile style could be worn in a number of ways.

Dress it up with some wedges.

Add a hat or shawl.

Change up your jewelry or bag.

The possibilities are endless.

This umbrella dress comes in 3 floral prints.

 

 

Tamsy Botanical Digital Print Kaftan

This short kaftan with wide sleeves can be worn on it’s own or as a beach cover up.

It is so silky. It feels like a luxurious nightgown.

I can see myself coming home after church and changing into this kaftan to relax in all day.

It has a tie at the waist that you can cinch in, which is what I did here.

Or you can wear it flowy and loose.

One size fits all.

Comes in several different prints.

 

Tamsy Floral Short Embroidered Kaftan

 

This kaftan is light and flowy and pairs beautifully with jeans or capris.

The embroidery is on trend this season and it is gorgeous.

It has a high/low hem, giving you plenty of coverage in the back.

One size fits all.  I usually wear a 14 or Large on top.

Comes in 10 different color options.

 

Tamsy Layered Kaftan Top with Tank Tee

This lightweight, V-neck top has a handkerchief hem and a tank top sewn right in.

Pair it with denim or jeggings.

Comes in sizes S-3X and has 3 color choices.

I’m wearing an XL.

 

Great Value with Tamsy

 

 

 

 

This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I will make a commission at no extra cost to you.

This month’s theme for the Ageless Style Group is sleeveless.

A lot of women in our age group have opted out of sleeveless styles because they don’t like how their arms look anymore.

My arms don’t really bother me. Thank goodness because the Texas summers can be brutal.

But I do understand being sensitive about parts of us that are going through the natural aging process.

That part for me is my tummy. I have always carried weight there.

At almost 64, I realize that no tunic, column dressing, all black outfit, or even a burka can totally hide it.

So while I don’t get too uptight about it showing, I sure don’t do anything to try and call attention to it.

So let’s dive in and see what we think.

 

Sleeveless Blouses

 

Do you ever find a top that you like so much you buy it in every color?

That’s how I feel about this Vince Camuto Pin Dot Crepe de Chine Sleeveless Blouse. (I’m wearing a L)

Thank goodness it only comes in 2 colors.

Black with white dots and Ivory with black dots.

I love polka dots in the summer.

This is a blouse is super versatile.

The colors are neutral.

You can wear it with slacks or a skirt.

Jeans or shorts.

Add a blazer, denim jacket or cardigan for warmth.

Which even though it is hot as blazes in Texas right now, it’s always a good idea to have that 3rd piece for the strong blowing AC in all our buildings.

I am wearing the navy with white dots over a pair of Style & Co High Rise Straight Jeans. (I’m wearing size 16)

And for a bit of fun, I added my red Taos Sneakers. This is my fun little splurge purchase for the summer!  (Size 8.5 W – I usually wear 8 WW, but these don’t come in WW.  8.5 W fits great.

 

Top | Jeans | Sneakers | Necklace | Earrings (similar)

 

All the Tucks

 

After years of tunics over skinny jeans and leggings, we are now in a season of tucks….

For people like me that don’t want to call attention to their tummy, this can be challenging.

There is the front tuck, front tuck with belt, half tuck and just about every kind of tuck you can imagine.

Sometimes I like one of these on me and sometimes I don’t.

I’ve found that it depends on the style of the top – if it’s long, short, fitted or boxy.

And the style of the pants – high waisted, at the waist or lower.

In other words, you just have to experiment with what you have on and see what you like.

Here is the white top with skinny jeans (Size 16) 4 ways.

Out over the top of the jeans.

 

 

Half Tuck

 

Front Tuck

 

Front tuck with belt

Which do you like better?

 

Top | Jeans (similar)| Earrings (similar)| Necklace | Belt | Sandals*

*Sandals shown in Golden Cork

 

 

Thank you for being here! Would you pin my post to Pinterest so that others can discover My Side of 50?

 

Sleeveless  Styles with the Ageless Style Ladies

The Ageless Style group is a wonderful variety of women who can give you inspiration. Pop over to their blogs to see their sleeveless  styles.

Amy ~ Amy’s Creative Pursuits

Blog | Instagram | Pinterest | Facebook |

Bo ~ Bo’s Bodacious Blog

Blog / Instagram /Pinterest / Bloglovin’

Cathy ~ My Side of 50

Blog / Instagram/ Pinterest / Facebook

Joanna ~ My Slice of Life

Blog

Jodie ~ Jodie’s Touch of Style

Blog | Instagram | Facebook |

Marsha~ Marsha in the Middle

Blog /Instagram

Mireille ~ Chez Mireille Fashion Travel Mom

Blog | Instagram | Pinterest | Facebook |

Rosemary ~ Distinctly Southern Style

Blog / Instagram / Pinterest / Facebook