Month: March 2025

Will their love last?

Will their love last?

As a dating coach I talk with women every day, and most have a rich, juicy life with tons of friends. But are they the right type of friends to have if you’re trying to find love? Well, that all depends on you… and them.

If you’re wondering why you’re not meeting the right type of men, it may be time to look at your friend circle through a different lens to begin assessing whether your friendships are supporting your journey to finding love. Are you setting yourself up for success or failure? Here are some things to consider:

#1: The Negativity Crowd

Do you spend much of your free time with female friends who believe you’re too old for love, dating in your area is hard, all men cheat, etc.? Are they negative when the conversation veers toward love, dating, and relationships? If so, you may find yourself starting to believe them even if that wasn’t your initial dating experience.

#2: Sworn to Singlehood

Are your friends confirmed bachelorettes? If so, consider broadening your circle to include women who are actively dating. There is a totally different vibe with these types of women. You want to spend your time with, and take advice from, women who are dating successfully so you can follow their lead. If you spend your time with man-haters you may find yourself becoming one without even realizing it’s happening. What you focus on expands, whether it’s positive or negative.

#3: Same Ol’ Same Ol’

Do you consistently spend time with the same people and do the same types of activities? If so, you may find it difficult to create opportunities to meet men organically because you’re spending so much of your time at female-oriented events. If you were going to meet someone where you typically go, you would have already met him. Try mixing things up by doing new things and going to new, exciting places that you’re interested in and have a male slant.

#4: Dating Bias

Are your friends judgmental when you talk about your dating experiences? This may have nothing to do with you or your partner and be a result of the hurt your friends are still carrying around from their failed relationships. If your friends don’t support your journey, don’t share it with them. Love in the early stage is extremely fragile.

#5: Too Busy to Date

Are you overscheduled with your friends? Do they keep you so busy that you don’t have time to date? That’s going to be a problem when you do meet a man you’d like to spend time with, and you should plan on a little push-back from the group. If you’re so busy that you need to schedule your first date two weeks out, the message you’re sending to someone new is that he won’t be able to fit into your lifestyle. Plus, it’s hard to maintain romantic momentum for that extended time so you may feel the sparkle fade by the time you actually get to the date.

An Example You Might Recognize

I worked with a client who was so excited to start dating again because everything else in her life was going great, and finding love was the only missing piece of her perfect life. Unfortunately, she had a bad date one day and then spent the next day with negative women who are confirmed bachelorettes.

As a result, she’s stopped dating all together because she’s now absolutely certain she will never find someone to love in her hometown. What a shame that is. She was in a vulnerable place, and rather than brushing it off and moving on, she let those women convince her that dating in her hometown sucks. Don’t let that happen to you. In most cases, finding love is a marathon not a sprint.

Your Circle Matters

Not everyone is interested in dating, and that’s completely okay. But if you’re looking for love, it’s crucial to surround yourself with friends who support your journey. Each person’s path is unique, and by focusing on the lessons you learn about yourself along the way, you’ll uncover aspects of yourself you never knew.

The more you understand yourself, the more empowered you’ll feel in your love life. Confidence grows through new experiences with people, places, and opportunities. Before long, you’ll start to recognize your own worth and feel like the prize you’ve always been meant to be.

To learn more about how to navigate dating at this stage of life, check out my Love Lesson videos. They will help you feel more confident every step of the way.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

If you want to date, what is the one thing you’ll need to change in your friend group to help you feel supported?

I just finished, and thoroughly enjoyed, a class called Next Chapter which was based on Harvard’s research on happiness. Researcher Dr. Robert Waldinger also wrote a book about this decades long study called The Good Life and has a popular TED Talk that summarizes his findings. I encourage you to read or listen, see where you are at this moment in your life, and identify one next action you can take toward better well-being and happiness.

Ready for Your Next Chapter?

I never want to be the bearer of a spoiler alert (no divulging the end of the movie!) so I won’t summarize all of Harvard’s findings, but I do have just a couple of observations and resources to share that are especially pertinent to those of us over 60.

One of the key findings confirms that where we are in our lifecycle shapes how we look at ourselves and the world. This is why it’s normal to see our priorities change over our lifespan. For example, as I’ve worked with families of all ages over my past 20+ years in the finance industry, I agree wholeheartedly that our money priorities change based on our current needs and life events at the moment (which is why I wrote all of my life-stage money checklists).

Each stage of life is like turning the page to a new chapter. Some of us adapt to change better than others. When my children were very young and life felt physically exhausting (we had four children five and under at one point, which also meant we had four teenagers in the house at one point too!), I recall thinking I wished for “dull and boring.”

Our Response to Constant Change

But Harvard’s research also confirmed that how we respond to the challenge of turning each page can make a significant difference in our happiness and well-being. Remember, stress negatively affects our health through inflammation and slower healing, so aging well often means finding ways to reduce stress. I finally admitted to myself that the only thing we can count on in life is constant change. So, I decided to buckle in and enjoy the ride.

“Constant change” reminds me of something I often share with clients (which is easy to say, but hard to do): how volatility=opportunity in the market. Can we view change in our lives as opportunity for growth too? In our 60s, we often look forward to retirement, a highly anticipated chapter. But with it comes financial, social and psychological change.

Most Concerned About Finances

The financial side of retirement is often the first concern. Will my nest egg and income sources prevent me from running out of money? Should I roll over my retirement account? How do I allocate my investments?

Mindset Is Fundamental

Psychologically, retirement brings its own set of challenges. Am I comfortable going from Accumulation to Withdrawal mode? Who am I if I no longer have a job title? Now that my time is my own, how do I want to spend it?

Social Life Changes

And socially, life changes too. Do I have plans to replace my work/professional mates with new social playmates? How do I balance family, community, staying active, and personal passions? What relationships do I want to nurture?

For many, retirement is the most anticipated chapter – and Harvard’s research confirms that happiness rates increase in later years. One important aspect of that is being healthy enough to enjoy it. I frequently hear from clients and aging friends, “Golden years, my @#%!” as they lament a new ache or pain.

Make It Fun with Activity

Incorporating enjoyable activity into your daily lifestyle becomes even more critical during retirement. At least we have more time to dedicate to this than during our working years. But it still takes intentional effort. When every day can feel like a vacation or happy hour, it’s easy to lose track of time and not prioritize physical activity.

Dr. Waldinger concluded the Next Chapter class with an analogy about change that resonated with me: “You can’t stop the waves, but you can learn to surf.” I’ve never surfed before, so I recalled another analogy that I can relate to instead: Are you in the driver’s seat or the trunk on your journey? (Jasper Smith) Whatever analogy resonates with you, I encourage you to reflect and decide: How are you turning the pages in your life?

Let’s Reflect:

Do you have an analogy that helps you move forward positively through the changes in life? Or a mantra for retirement? What experiences can you share to help our community work through change?

Spring is the perfect time to refresh your wardrobe with styles that are both elegant and comfortable. If you’re looking for the best spring dresses for women over 50, you’ll want to focus on flattering cuts, timeless silhouettes, and breathable fabrics. Whether you prefer casual styles for everyday wear or sophisticated options for special occasions, there are plenty of beautiful choices to add to your spring fashion wardrobe.

Here are our top 2025 spring/summer dresses:

1. Chico’s Floral Print Midi Dress – an excellent option with its soft, breathable knit fabric and classic silhouette.
2. Diane von Furstenberg Classic Wrap Dress – an investment piece that never goes out of style.
3. Talbots Belted Shirt Dress – in linen is both stylish and breathable for spring.
4. J.Jill Wearever Double-Face Jersey Fit-and-Flare Dress – super comfortable and versatile. You can easily dress up or down this dress with the right accessories. 

Keep reading to discover more spring and summer dresses for women over 50. 

Spring Dresses for Mature Women

A-Line Midi Dresses

An A-line midi dress is a universally flattering style that offers ease of movement and a polished look. This cut accentuates the waist while skimming over the hips, making it ideal for women over 50 who want comfort without sacrificing elegance. Look for floral prints, solid pastels, or lightweight cotton blends for a fresh spring feel. 

Chico’s Floral Print Midi Dress is an excellent option with its soft, breathable knit fabric and classic silhouette.

Wrap Dresses

The wrap dress is a classic for a reason. It cinches at the waist, enhances curves, and provides a feminine yet structured look. This style is perfect for brunch dates, garden parties, or even casual workdays. Look for jersey fabric or silky finishes for a touch of sophistication.

A Diane von Furstenberg Classic Wrap Dress is an investment piece that never goes out of style.

Shirt Dresses

A shirt dress is the epitome of effortless style. It can be worn buttoned up for a refined look or slightly open with a camisole underneath for a relaxed feel. Belted waist styles add shape, while sleeveless options allow for easy layering.

The Talbots Belted Shirt Dress in linen is both stylish and breathable for spring.

Read more: 7 Casual Dresses for Women Over 50.

Fit-and-Flare Dresses

The fit-and-flare dress is a flattering choice that highlights the waist and flows gently over the hips. It works well for both casual days and evening events. Consider eyelet fabrics, soft pastels, or classic navy and black for versatility.

The J.Jill Wearever Double-Face Jersey Fit-and-Flare Dress is super comfortable and versatile. You can easily dress up or down this dress with the right accessories. 

Maxi Dresses with Sleeves

For those who prefer a little extra coverage, a maxi dress with sleeves is an excellent option. These dresses offer both style and sun protection, making them ideal for outdoor gatherings and vacations.

The Soft Surroundings Textured Santiago Maxi Dress provides a relaxed yet polished look.

Tiered Dresses

Tiered dresses add movement and texture while maintaining a structured shape. These are perfect for day outings, travel, and spring celebrations. Soft cotton and gauze fabrics make them comfortable for all-day wear.

The Chico’s Tencel Tiered Belted Jean Shirtdress is a great pick for easy elegance.

Sleeveless Sheath Dresses

For a more tailored look, the sleeveless sheath dress is a timeless piece that works well for weddings, business events, or dinner dates. A lightweight blazer or cardigan can be added for extra coverage.

The Eileen Fisher Sheath Dress in jersey knit is a sleek, sustainable choice.

Boho-Inspired Midi Dresses

A boho midi dress embraces a relaxed style while offering a chic silhouette. Flowy fabrics, embroidery details, and lightweight materials make them great for casual spring days.

The Chico’s Kaftan Midi Dress Midi Dress offers a blend of comfort and artistic flair.

Read more: 10 Best Boho Dresses for Women Over 50.

Ruffle-Hem Dresses

Ruffle hems add a touch of femininity to any dress. Whether in a solid color or a delicate print, this style is perfect for brunches, picnics, and weekend getaways.

The Nordstrom Floral Ruffle Midi Dress is an easy-to-style favorite.

Polka Dot Dresses

Polka dots bring a playful yet classic look to spring fashion. Whether in a retro-inspired silhouette or a modern fit, this print adds charm to any wardrobe.

The Donna Karan New York Printed Belted A-Line Dress is a flattering and cheerful option.

Choosing the Perfect Spring Dress

When selecting spring dresses for women over 50, focus on:

• Comfortable, breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, or jersey.
• Flattering cuts such as A-line, wrap, and fit-and-flare styles.
• Classic colors and prints that offer versatility and elegance.

How Can You Style Your Spring Dresses?

Once you’ve chosen the perfect dress, consider layering it with lightweight cardigans, denim jackets, or scarves to add warmth and texture. Accessories like statement jewelry, chic sandals, and structured handbags can also add style to your outfit. 

Read more: Scarf Magic for Mature Women: How to Turn 3 Scarves into 27 Outfits.

What Fabrics Work Best for Spring Dresses?

Spring weather can be unpredictable, so choosing breathable, lightweight fabrics like cotton, linen, rayon, and jersey ensures comfort. Avoid heavy or synthetic materials that can trap heat.

Read more: 10 Church Dresses for Older Ladies.

Where Can You Find the Best Spring Dresses for Women Over 50?

You can find stylish and comfortable spring dresses at retailers like Talbots, Nordstrom, Chico’s, J.Jill, Eileen Fisher, and Macy’s. Many of these stores and brands offer inclusive sizing and designs tailored to women over 50.

 Read more: Best Clothing Stores for Women over 50.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Do you like to wear dresses in the spring and summer months? What is your favorite type of warm-weather dress? Do you wear sleeveless dresses? Tell us about it in the comments below.