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How to Wear Black and White in Summer

Today I am joining my pal Jennifer (A Well Styled Life) for our Monthly Over 50 Style Edit. One of our most popular edits last year was (in my case How to Look Stylish in Black and White) I love wearing color but it is just hard to beat the ease of black and white, particularly for travel. I love the versatility of being able to mix and match different pieces. Let’s talk about How to Wear Black and White in Summer.

Over 60 Style Blogger Cindy Hattersley How to Wear Black and White in Summer

If I were honest I would tell you that you would catch me in this sort of get up more often than not. CP Shades Lily Skirt not sponsored they have never even offered me product (they just have a great line) from many years ago, my favorite Michael Stars tee and olukai flip flops.

over 60 style blogger cindy hattersley in cp shades and Michael Stars

SHOP THIS LOOK

Or something like this…the same Michael Stars tee, with J Jill white jeans (I am a new fan of J Jill Jeans), dolce vita sandals from local Sole Tree, a simple market basket and Helen Kaminski hat (pricey but last forever). FYI I have been wanting a pair of sandals like this but thought they would not accommodate my bunion. Yippee they do!

over 60 style blogger cindy hattersley

SHOP THE LOOK

We are really lucky to have a few really nice boutiques for women in Paso and San Luis Obispo. I thought it would be fun to mix it up a little bit and add a couple of items I have been coveting to the mix. All of the new items come from women owned businesses in the area except for one. More on that down the post.

Let’s take a look at what I purchased and how many outfits I can create with what I have. I have been wanting a white linen wrap. It is hot here during the day but sometimes a little chilly at night, so a light linen wrap is perfect. I purchased it (under $100) from Hayley and Co. I was going to purchase one online from Mer Sea, but was happy to find it locally. By the way it comes in several colors online. Here I am wearing it with a CP Shades Lily skirt (I have owned for several years) and a simple white tee from Michael Stars.

over 50 style blogger cindy hattersley in CP Shades skirt, michael stars tee and mer sea linen wrap

SHOP THE LOOK

Here I am wearing the wrap with a white linen shift that I purchased at Anbe Boutique in Paso a few years ago, a gifted necklace from IBU Movement, cotton hue leggings and my new Dolce Vita Sandals from Sole Tree (a fabulous local shoe store).

over 50 style blogger cindy hattersley in linen shift & mer sea wrap

SHOP THE LOOK

The next item I purchased was this simple sleeveless dress (Hannoh Wessel) from Andbe boutique here in Paso. I try not to wear sleeveless but on a super hot day, I surrender. I love the casual frayed seams and the flattering cut of this dress.

Over 50 Style Blogger Cindy Hattersley in Hannoh Wessel Dress

SHOP THE LOOK

If you want to cover your shoulders try the same mer sea wrap in black. This is an inexpensive cotton wrap from Target last year. I accessorized it with Native American earrings, bangles, and Sam Edelman sandals (which I love). I love the crisis cross ankle sandals but have not been able to find a pair that works with my bunion. These are super comfortable. I also ordered them in saddle, I like them so much. This dress could easily be worn with natural accessories, the white wrap, and natural colored sandals for a different look. FYI you can follow Andbe on Instagram here as well. FYI I would not be afraid to add leggings and sneaks for a more casual look.

over 50 style blogger cindy hattersley in hannoh wessel dress and target wrap

SHOP THE LOOK

Like I did here, with the shift dress and Target wrap. Think of how many combinations you could create if you were traveling. The great thing about linen is it can be washed by hand and “hand ironed” if you know what I mean. Maybe I need to do a post on that.

over 50 style blogger cindy hattersley in black and white

SHOP THE LOOK

The last item (my absolute favorite and most versatile), the Nicole Paloma linen pants. I was introduced to this brand when we stayed in Rosemary Beach Florida last fall. I spotted these on Instagram and I knew I had to have them. We have made friends via Instagram and she thought I needed these pants. She was right!! The entire waist is comprised of snaps so you can fit to size. They have long slits on the sides and her signature frayed hem. They are like wearing jammies.

In this photo I am styling them simply with a linen tank, french kande necklace, and my favorite olukai flip flops.

over 50 style blogger cindy hattersley innicole-paloma-pants-cp-shades-tank

SHOP THE LOOK

One can’t go wrong with a J Crew linen shirt tied at the waist with these fabulous pants. Pretty bone jewelry and a helen Kaminski hat complete the look.

over 60 style blogger cindy hattersley j crew shirt nicole paloma pants

SHOP THE LOOK

Here I am wearing them with a fresh laundry linen tank (these are pricey but good) Amazon has a very similar one much cheaper here, the linen wrap, helen Kaminski hat and the dolce vita sandals.

cindy hattersley wearing nicole-paloma,-linen-wrap,-helen-kaminski hat

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I am wearing the wrap tied as a shirt here (camisole underneath for safety) with the fabulous nicole paloma pants, helen Kaminski hat, and inexpensive rattan earrings.

cindy hattersley wearing nicole-paloma,-linen-wrap,-helen-kaminski hat

SHOP THE POST

Ironically Jenna and I both dressed in black and white for my niece’s recent shower. Jenna’s dress is from Target, but of course it is sold out.

over 60 style blogger cindy hattersley and her daughter jenna

That’s it for my monthly over 50 (or should I say way over 60) style edit. This post outgrew itself so I will be back next week with more black and white for late Summer or early fall. Thank you for reading How to Wear Black and White in Summer. I will have a video up on Instagram (my first) later today. Now let’s check and see what Jennifer is up to. She always teaches me something!

A WELL STYLED LIFE

****EDITORS NOTE: THE WRAP THAT I AM WEARING IS IDENTICAL TO THE MER SEA WRAP WHICH YOU CAN FIND HERE. IT COMES IN BOTH BLACK AND WHITE.

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Barb says

    Hi Cindy. I admired the CP Shade Lily skirt on you and just purchased it. There was only one left in the Ink which is pretty close to black. It is very see through. Do you wear a slip? I hate to do that because it defeats the purpose of the coolness of linen on hottest days. Thanks!

    • Cindy Hattersley says

      Hi Barb

      I do not wear a slip. That is interesting that it is see-through. I don’t find mine to be. What is the fabric content? My black is the silk combo and I just checked it is lined to the knees. The linen ones are not lined but not see through.

    • Cindy Hattersley says

      Hi Arlene

      The sneaks are from Gelato. I bought them locally at Sole Tree in Paso Robles. I am sure they will mail to you. I also linked to a site online in today’s post. Hope that helps! They are super comfortable and accommodate my bunion!

  2. Ally says

    Love your post. I don’t get caught up in the ‘my colour season’ discussions but b/w have always been my go to for the hard working basics. I love to accent b/w with bright fuchsia, Aqua, yellow, acid greens and red. For travel b/w is the best! All your linen looks could translate into wool/cashmere for my cold northern climate tho today it’s hot and humid so linen it is!! Thanks for pointing out the linen wraps! Never considered that for the warmer months tho I have a bunch of cashmere for cooler days!

    • Cindy Hattersley says

      Hi Ally

      I love acidic greens and bright fuschia too. The basics are just so easy as well!

  3. Mel says

    Love this post! Question for you… how tall are you? Because at 5’2”, I’m wondering if that cp shades skirt would be too long on me? Also, did you feel it was true to size?

    • Cindy Hattersley says

      Hi Mel

      I am 5’4. Mary Ann had to have hers hemmed and I think she is 5’1? Maybe she will reply here.

  4. Elizabeth@pineconesandacorns says

    Cindy, I will echo the same comment made by many, YOU ALWAYS LOOK AMAZING! I love all of these looks, especially the skirts. The bone necklace is beautiful! It is a shame it is no longer available.
    Your mix or high low pieces gives every reader the opportunity to look stylish at any price point.
    As for linen, I love it, yes it gets wrinkled 5 seconds after your put it one but it is cool on hot days and comfortable.
    Have a wonderful weekend.
    Elizabeth

    • Cindy Hattersley says

      Hi Eliz

      I embrace the wrinkles! Linen looks best in my opinion more natural. If we want a more starched look go for poplin!

  5. Debbie says

    Cindy, using the link for your Peepers reading glasses, it appears they are a men’s style called Clark. Is that correct? I love them but wonder if they would be too wide for my face. Just wanted our opinion on fit. Thank you! You look amazing in all these styles and photos. Your taste is unbelievable- you nail it every single time.

    • Cindy Hattersley says

      Hi Debbie

      They are the Clark. I did not realize they were considered men’s but I am not usually bothered by that. My face shape is oval but certainly not thin. I am wearing them in my profile picture with the red shirt. I always get compliments when I wear them. I am going to send mine to lensables to get prescription lenses for them.

  6. Cindylou says

    You are so darn cute! I love every single outfit! I live in Southern California where the days are hot but the nights cool down or the a/a is blasting in restaurants. Now that my hair is silver b/w looks really good on me.I never thought of a wrap in cotton or linen although a have several large scarves in b/w patterns. I’ll be on the lookout for solid scarves. I want to order the bracelets but I’m confused on how to do it regarding the colors.

    • Cindy Hattersley says

      Hi Cindy Lou

      It took me forever to order a linen or cotton wrap as well. I find them perfect for our climate!

      • Shawna says

        The link to the wrap at the bottom of the post takes you to the Peepers Glasses………..

    • Cindy Hattersley says

      Thanks Pal. I wish I could wear those darling floral dressed that you look so adorable in!

  7. Katherine says

    Oh wow, you know how to put yourself together so well. You always look fab u lous.
    Your creativity never stops, such a wonderful gift that you have been blessed with.

    • Cindy Hattersley says

      Hi Katherine

      Thank you so much for always being so supportive. I so appreciate it!

  8. Kathy says

    Love Love LOVE this black & white fashion post!! So many ideas that are all gorgeous!!! Thank you!!!

  9. Heidi says

    Hi Cindy,
    Gosh I want every piece in this post! You just look so good! Always!
    Thanks for the tips and the inspiration.
    Xo Heidi

    • Cindy Hattersley says

      Hi Elizabeth

      Yes it will. She will make them to size as well. Just DM her. Mine were actually too long. She asked me my waist size and I forgot to tell her that I have short legs!!

  10. Debbie Courtney says

    Wonderful post today, Cindy! I ordered the split pants and can not wait to see how I like them. So different. And, please share with us how you iron linen with your hands!!! I am always finding the linen too stiff after washing, even by hand and way to wrinkled for me. Love you Girl!

    • Cindy Hattersley says

      Hi Debbie

      I am going to do a video on “how not to iron linen” Thanks so much for your support!

    • SARAH says

      When I take a linen shirt out of the washer I put it on a hanger and “brush” out the wrinkles with my hand (swiping from top to bottom) before hanging it to air dry. This removes the vast majority of the wrinkles. I used this technique when hand washing tees and shirts on a river cruise a few years ago (with the added step of rolling them in a microfiber towel before hanging). I refresh my linen tops by misting them with a little spray bottle of water, then using the same hand brushing technique. Works pretty well for me.

    • Nan, Odessa, DEn says

      Please give us a contact for the wrap like the black one you wear!

      Also, I have a closet of linen and won’t wear it because I refuse to wear wrinkled clothes or to iron.
      Please share how to care for linen.
      I so enjoy your post.

    • Cindy Hattersley says

      Hi Vicki

      I know I wish they would bring it back. I never have been able to find a similar one. I will keep looking for you guys!!

  11. Gayle says

    Just loved this post! You look great as usual, and I get so many ideas from you.
    Finally taking the plunge to gray hair, so am looking for more ways to dress so as not to look dowdy.

  12. Joyce gius says

    Hi Cindy, love black and white anything. My question is where are your glasses from. Thanks joycr

    • Cindy Hattersley says

      Hi Joyce

      The glasses are from Peepers they are just readers. I am going to send them to lensables and get prescription lenses. Here is the link
      https://rstyle.me/+dO3s3yGQV93oM9gWRnFCgA

      My sunglasses are from Vera Wang. They are so old I can’t even find them anymore. New sunglasses ordered!

  13. Karen B. says

    Hi Cindy,
    I confess, I love your style and like others have said, you look amazing in all your outfits. But the truth is, I’m enjoying the details of your background. Your yard could be on a Magazine shoot for models. Every wall is pretty and that fountain(?) where you are standing and there’s a star jasmine on the trellis on your left looks as though it could be in Italy.
    Distracted much by background?! Haha.
    Karen B.

    • Cindy Hattersley says

      Hi Karen

      That was all the former owner’s doing. It is a wonderful courtyard. Next week I will do a post on that area. That is actually a trellised lemon from Costco! My son found them. Aren’t they cool? And best of all they were cheap!

  14. Jannie says

    Wow, love the black and white but don’t wear it that often in sunny hot Florida summer weather BUT would work in our wonderful winters! Thanks for helping those of us over 70 who still love to dress well and look great! Just wish that skirt was not 300…a bit much for my retired budget!

    • Cindy Hattersley says

      Hi Jannie

      It’s pretty hot here too! Linen always works here! I know that cp shades skirt is pricey…watch ebay they turn up on occasion!

  15. eileen chadwick says

    Love all your posts! Could you please show us how you tie your shirts. I love the look but not how I do it. How many buttons..the back etc. Thank you!

  16. Lorna says

    All these outfits looks fabulous. You have a great sense of style. Black and white is a classic combination that will never go out of style.
    I am starting to get conscious about my arms too so I’m lifting light weights every day to tone them a little bit, and I swim for an hour whenever we go to the beach. It seems to be helping. Or maybe I’m just wishful thinking 🙂

    • Cindy Hattersley says

      Hi Lorna

      Thank you so much. I need to get with it with the weights too. Has it helped?

  17. Char says

    I love this post!! I am a black and white dresser!! Love the looks. Please
    do a post on hand ironing linen! I have a love hate relationship
    with linen. I iron it, I feel so sloppy with all those wrinkles😂 even
    though when I see others in it not ironed I think that looks good.
    I live in Scottsdale Az and its 113 today so I do wear it and do
    go sleeveless even though my arms aren’t perfect anymore! Those
    who don’t like don’t need to look at them LOL! Can’t wait for the next
    post on black & white! Love the outfits.

  18. Susan D. says

    I am going to seriously look at the Lily skirt and the white linen wrap.
    This was a fabulous post. Thank you!

  19. 1010ParkPlace says

    You always look beautiful, no matter what you wear Cindy! These pieces all look fabulous on you! xoxox, Brenda

  20. Nancy says

    Hi Cindy,
    Would you show us how you actually tie your wraps? I love seeing them here but can’t always figure out how you did it.
    Many thanks,
    Nancy

  21. Jennifer Connolly says

    You look simply amazing in all your outfits!! Black and white are fabulous with your coloring. That Lily skirt is so amazing, I must wear mine more often. I want everything you’re wearing!!! xx

    • Cindy Hattersley says

      Hi Jennifer

      I loved everything you were wearing as well. We need to go shopping!!

  22. Barb l says

    Great post – love all your black and white beautifully styled outfits! The pants are fabulous and look like they were made for you. I’m off to get myself a summer wrap.

    • Cindy Hattersley says

      Hi Barb

      I know a summer wrap is essential…We did not live in a climate that suited one before. Now I can’t do without them!

  23. Wren says

    So many great outfits but I think you saved the best for last. You look like you belong on the French Riviera with that amazing hat and outfit. It’s so clever the way you tied your wrap and I love those pants. Oh la la!
    I love the sneak peak in one background of your new space. Would love to have you take me around your new town and show me the shops that I haven’t discovered.
    Thanks for the inspiration of imaginative black and white!

    • Cindy Hattersley says

      Hi Wren

      Thanks pal for the kind comment. I am trying…just isn’t naturally my thing. I so admire the fashion bloggers for their expertise. Why don’t you come to lunch in the next couple weeks and we can go explore!

  24. Rita says

    Thank you for taking the time to show us so many outfits and combinations. I love your blog.

  25. Teresa Hatfield says

    Love love your post! I am a black and white girl. Absolutely beautiful choices.
    Also, love your surgery post. Just had brow and eyelids done. It has been a journey. I should have another week or two. Your post helped!
    Happy Thursday!
    Teresa

  26. Barbara Sewell says

    Yes please to a post about hand ironing linen. I’d love to travel with it but don’t know how to handle the wrinkles without an iron or steamer.

    As always, your style is amazing but sadly, not something I could pull off. Always look forward to your fashion posts.

  27. Carol larochelle says

    Cindy, I love your fashion posts! I have a few questions. Could you tell me the brand of your tortoise shell eyeglass frames? I love j.Jill and wonder about the sizing on the white cuffed jeans….true to size? Sometimes I’m between sizes on j.Jill and have to order tall. Next time I travel it will be black and white. I always say that and then never do!! Again, love your fashion sense!

  28. Deborah b says

    You always look impeccable – perfectly put together! I am drawn to black and white. It’s so easy to mix and match for traveling. My coloring leans more towards navy and ivory which is NOT as user friendly. Navy blues rarely match unless bought together (there are worse problems in our world!). Thanks for your informative posts

    • Cindy Hattersley says

      Hi Deborah

      Thank you! I have never been able to wear navy (before silver I had very dark brown/almost black hair) and brown eyes (not a good match for navy). You have made an excellent point. Navy isn’t navy as black is black. That makes it difficult, doesn’t it?

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