10 Ways to Up Your Style and Beauty Game This Summer

Don't let the heat rob your of your style, midlife is your prime time to shine

Summer is your season to show up boldly—whether you’re lounging poolside, heading to a meeting, or just treating yourself to a little “main character energy.” Forget rules and ruts—it’s time to refresh your look, play with color, and feel fabulous in your skin (and your sandals).

Here are 10 easy ways to elevate your style and beauty this summer—without trying to be 25 again. Let’s do this the confident, intentional, midlife way.

1. Play with Color—Intentionally

Let go of safe beige. Add a pop of your power color—maybe it’s a vivid coral, bold turquoise, or crisp white. Want to make it effortless? Start with one colorful accessory and build from there. Or try a fresh new summery color like sunny yellow or bright coral to instantly energize your outfit and your mood.

Even cool color types can look amazing in the right shades of yellow, orange, or brown—think soft butter yellow, pinky-coral, or cool taupe. These tones bring a fresh, seasonal feel without straying from your palette.

Pro tip: If you don’t know your most flattering shades, a Signature Color Analysis can change everything.

2. Swap Heavy for Airy

Trade structured fabrics and dark neutrals for lightweight linens, airy cottons, and summer-friendly silks. These fabrics breathe better, drape beautifully, and help you stay cool without sacrificing style.

3. Upgrade Your Sunnies

Eyewear is your summer crown. Go bold with color, cat-eyes, or oversized styles that suit your face shape—and don’t forget UV protection. A great pair of sunnies adds instant glam to even your most casual outfit.

Consider matching a pair to your swimsuit for a head-turning, put-together poolside look. And if you’ll be outdoors a lot, choose polarized lenses for better visibility and less glare—your eyes will thank you.

4. Get Glowy, Not Greasy

Trade full-coverage foundation for a lightweight tinted moisturizer with SPF. Pair it with cream blush in a flattering tone (like warm rose or soft coral) to look radiant, not overdone. If your skin is oily, check out the new powder foundations that are designed to blur imperfections.
If you’re dealing with serious heat or humidity, switch to more matte formulas for most products and/or lock in your look with a great setting spray to keep the glow where it belongs—and not sliding down your face by noon.

And don't forget to remove the sweat and SPF well. A double cleanse is in order to make sure to get your face cleanse. Use a cleansing balm or oil, following by your regular cleanser to make sure that your pores stay clear and your skin in great shape.

5. Layer Like a Pro

Yes, it’s hot—but light layering adds dimension to outfits. A cropped denim jacket, kimono, or linen vest can elevate even the simplest tank + shorts combo. And don’t overlook open-weave sweaters—they’re everywhere right now and are perfect for adding coverage to your arms on cooler summer evenings without overheating.

6. Freshen Up Your Mani/Pedi Game

Your hands and feet are always on display—make them count. Try the milky nails trend this summer: soft, semi-sheer whites and pinks that look clean, chic, and effortlessly polished. Milky nails are perfect for vacation, too—they complement almost any outfit or swimsuit, so you won’t need to change your polish mid-trip.

Bonus points for matching your mani and pedi or adding a touch of shimmer for that sun-kissed vibe. And if you’re feeling bolder, go for juicy shades like watermelon, tangerine, or soft lavender.

Want your feet to look amazing in sandals? File away dry, dead skin with a high-grit nail file, slather on urea cream, and sleep in toeless socks. Thank me later. 😘

7. Find Your Go-To Summer Lip

The right lip color instantly pulls your look together. A sheer watermelon gloss or creamy berry balm adds polish without heaviness. Don’t forget lip SPF—your lips are just as vulnerable to sun damage as your skin.
If you’re tanning (real or faux), a brighter pop of color or a deeper neutral can balance your glow beautifully and keep your look fresh and intentional. And yes—your best shades are based on your undertones, so don’t be afraid to go a little bolder within your palette.

8. Experiment with Prints (Strategically)

Florals, stripes, tropicals—don’t be afraid of prints. Tropicals and florals instantly evoke summer and add fun energy to your outfits. Stripes, especially in lightweight fabrics like seersucker, can look effortlessly chic while keeping you cool. Just keep the scale of the pattern flattering for your frame and stick with colors from your personal palette for a cohesive look.

9. Fake the Glow (the Safe Way)

Want that sun-kissed look without the sun damage? Consider adding sunless tanner, leg makeup, or bronzer/contour to your summer beauty routine.

• Sunless tanners now come in foolproof formulas—mousses, drops, and gradual lotions that give you a natural glow without streaks or orange undertones.

• Leg makeup or body blurring creams can even out skin tone, conceal veins or spots, and give your legs a smooth, polished finish.

• Or swipe a little bronzer or contour on your cheekbones, jawline, and décolletage for warmth and lift.

It’s all about adding dimension and radiance—without a single UV ray.

10. Refresh Your Wardrobe Staples

Audit your summer go-tos. Are your layering basics—like tanks and tees—flattering and in good shape? Do they work with your favorite third layers or accessories? Replace stretched-out or faded staples with elevated versions that make you feel great now, not ten summers ago.

Survey your summer shoes too. Are your sandals comfy and current? It might be time to add a trending style—like a fisherman sandal, platform slide, or minimalist strappy flat—to give your outfits an instant modern refresh.
And if those flip flops have flopped or look dirty, replace them! Make sure they fit well, too—no one wants to see toes hanging over the edge or your feet sliding around in a pair that's too big.

Also, check your swimsuits now! The fabric can break down during winter storage (even if they look fine at first glance). Invest in a suit that makes you feel amazing—because the right color, shape, and size can do wonders for your confidence. Don’t wait until your beach day is tomorrow and the stores are picked over!

✨ Final Thought

This summer, show up as the most vibrant version of you. Whether it’s with a power color, a swipe of bronzer, or simply a fresher mani—every little update helps you express the confidence and creativity you’ve earned.

Ready to Own Your Look?

💻 Discover Your Signature Color Palette – Our Signature Color Analysis makes it easy to wear the colors that make you glow.
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👠 Want More Style Support? – Join our Style Masters Community for monthly tips, live sessions, and all the color confidence you need. For 1:1 support, schedule a FREE call to discuss our Styling services here.

Gail Scott

Gail Scott is Creative Director for Style and Beauty. She is a makeup expert and personal stylist. If you would like professional advice with Gail, please sign up for her exclusive 2-hour 1:1 session. Or schedule a 15 minute Style Chat with Gail to ask your questions.