Over 50, if you carry a little bit of extra weight (especially if you're short), it can be really hard to embrace that "showing off the body" concept. Many women of a certain age can't really tuck or belt, and super fitted is a thing of the past. So we get labeled "frumpy" for wearing things that that skinny women don't have to. We get chastised for not looking thinner, younger, sexier... Just look at how many YT videos there are about summer dressing "don'ts" for women. But the solutions they pose aren't practical for most people, either due to the heat (too much layering) or their more casual lifestyles (no one is wearing nice dresses and pant suits to the grocery store or around the house). And budget is another factor. One of the things I love about Milan fashion in particular is that mature women there seem to have ditched the need to look "hot" all the time. They're much more okay with looking interesting (provocative even in an artistic, not sexual, way) and being comfortable. I'm always trying to find a way to translate the Milanese bella figura to my more rural California environment and the hot climate here in a more low-key way. I think your pointers about quality fabrics and beautiful accessories are great in this regard.

@lorrainekemp2909

15 күн бұрын

Know what you mean about looking frumpier if one's body shape has expanded with age. Going through a weight loss challenge myself and was still able to apply, strategically, some "tuck" hacks which have changed as my body shape has changed. Found some success when I didn't try too hard. I will always be short waisted, slightly bloated and top heavy no matter what I do but a little well placed tuck can be achieved even if you are bigger. A work in progress. Thanks Alyssa.

@Fabrictragic

13 күн бұрын

I adore Alyssa’s videos, and also follow another fantastic stylist who focuses more on body shape and height styling tips. She has, more often than not, ladies who are 40-50+ and is extremely body positive and helpful - Melissa Murrell, also on KZread.

@bernadettedevereaux8694

12 күн бұрын

What a relief to read views that are like my own. I’m 70 and whenever I run errands I make a point of being well dressed. I’m 5 feet 2 and very curvy with an hourglass shape. I refuse to wear beige, camel, navy, grey and black as wardrobe staples. I wear bright color combinations such as raspberry and chartreuse; yellow and turquoise; cobalt blue, jade green and copper. I never wear shredded jeans (that horrible distressed look) but I wear darker denim. I avoid turtlenecks or high necklines; shoes with heels higher than 2 inches but never ballet flats because they make me look shorter and they gap when I walk. But above all I make sure my clothes are ironed. Wrinkled clothes make one look sloppy.

@JBUHJBUH

12 күн бұрын

​@@bernadettedevereaux8694 Waving at my colour twin! 👋🏾 I'm a few decades younger than you but I'm a 5ft3 hourglass. I've been wearing bright colours together ever since I could dress myself - it's mango yellow with rusty brick red & hot pink today! Neutrals are used sparingly - so much so that co-workers have told me they look forward to seeing the colours I've combined each day, to help lift their spirits in winter. The point is you don't have to be confined to wearing a beige trench coat with a black t-shirt & light denim jeans - at ANY age!

@pauline9933

12 күн бұрын

@@Fabrictragic Love Melissa Murrell too, she has transformed how I dress in my 50s.

Great Tips and very true. As an Italian over 50 I can add that many ladies my age opt for comfort above all. So flat sandals, linnen dresses, soft cotton clothes. Natural fabrics keep you cool (in menopause this is essential). Invest in a good bag, it always stands out. Baci!

@AlyssaBeltempo

16 күн бұрын

Thank you for the input and for sharing! xx

@MiaHessMusic

14 күн бұрын

Thank you. I'm 70 and i was wondering what would be appropriate for over 50 ladies. Can't wait to go back to Italy!! 50 years is too long!

Alyssa, you are just special.🥰 Whoever you were married to is ridiculous because they, in some form or fashion, let you go. Ridiculous!! I hope you are healing - it’s a tough road, but I know you made the right decision. Lots of love to you.😘

Hi Alyssa! I love your videos. PLEASE more Italian style. I cannot find any Vlogs on KZread based on Italian style. Also, love your navy linen shirt. I have white, tan, pin stripes, etc... but that navy is fabulous!!!

Great video! I live in Hawaii-it’s warm/hot all year around here. Most of style videos focus on layering to style, which we cannot do here. So this content was very useful. I think bottom line, it’s the intention that matters!!

Hello Alyssa, I live near Milan and I can confirm what you already observed in your videos on italian style, for us "fare bella figura" is always important, you will always see an italian slightly overdressed more than underdressed, no birkenstocks or flip flops in the city! In summer you see much more neutrals, pastels and bright colours.Heat doesn't scare us 🙂!

Simple lines that flatter the figure, good quality natural fabrics, some choice accessories (I personally can't stand big jewellery on my skin in the summer, but shoes and bags for sure), make sure your hair and skin are flourishing ...and carry yourself with confidence and not too much care ❤ enjoy the space around you, it'll make all the difference

@JBUHJBUH

12 күн бұрын

I find with big jewellery the material really matters - no metal touching my neck in the summer, please!

Milan is full of OTT designer garb. In the heat of the South (I live in Sicily), loose linen - or cotton - is the best thing to wear. Garish colours are the preserve of tourists. Locals still wear a lot of black

@natpaler883

15 күн бұрын

We’re spending our summer vacations in Sicily and yes, linen and cotton loose clothes are life savers. Also easy and light for packing.

Even before clicking on the video, as a florentine, I thought: our summer fashion is "I can't be bothered, it's hot!" 😂 But I realized that even the casual, flowy "can't be bothered with clingy on my skin" style we have in the summer...is fashionable compared to american/canadian "can't be bothered"

@DonnaMalin

16 күн бұрын

I split my time between NYC and Florence and find that I make much more an effort to look chic in Florence with beautiful fabrics and quality leather products. Both are available in abundance in Florence!

@Irene.Shalom

15 күн бұрын

​@@DonnaMalinabsolutely! I just think as Italians we don't see it as making an effort...I guess it's just instinctually normal

@cathythompson9777

15 күн бұрын

Canadians and Americans aught not be lumped into one category. Both have wonderful examples of style and fashion. As a Canadian, I have an interest in my personal style, and it’s not at all about “ I can’t be bothered” and it’s 31C today in Calgary, Alberta today. Please, let’s drop the need to compare one another.

@mhtammi

15 күн бұрын

@@cathythompson9777agreed. I’m a Canadian living on Vancouver Island in British Columbia. I make an effort every single day to 😊

@antonellaravani4629

15 күн бұрын

@@cathythompson9777 Of course you are right, I know quite a few beautiful American women with excellent taste. Nonetheless, what I find different is the approach to fashion generally speaking. I see my oversea friends making an effort to be stylish whereas in Italy (and also France) it’s just something ingrained in the culture, no effort at all. We were raised with strong fashion rules, but we don’t even see it as “fashion”, it’s just the way it is. You don’t go to the grocery store not “pulled together” but it’s a cultural matter, not fashion at all.

Your videos are a delight to the senses!

Thank you for this great video. Once again very useful tips. Love the series of Italian style videos. So nice that you show women of all ages!!!

@AlyssaBeltempo

16 күн бұрын

So glad you like this series!

@ulrikepachecoromero3498

16 күн бұрын

Yes, I do. I have seen all your videos abt Italian style and I really love them all. Thank you!!!

In June went from Germany to Florence for a week and just had to admire the style of the women there! I would not have been able to articulate what it was that made the outfits so special - you just nailed it, Alyssa, so thank you!

@AlyssaBeltempo

16 күн бұрын

oh thank you! That is so kind!

Just yesterday I got chatting to a tour guide on a ferry who was from Venice. She was very simply dressed for the Scottish weather - slightly oversized black lightweight quality jumper (with a lived in look!), stretchy pink/white/black patterned slightly bootflare silkyish body skimming leggings , ankle boots and brunette silver speckled hair in a loose plait and a red waterproof tote bag. She was dressed perfectly for our weather, practical for her job with a coach load of tourists but she just looked so comfortable and stylish and nothing was too tight and yes over 50 setting a great example to other tourists of effortless Italian style!

Love the shade of your navy linen shirt, the red one is wow👌 looking good overall 👌 😊

Bellissimo il tuo foulard alla fine del video, indossato con stile!! Mettilo più spesso nei video.

Lived-in outfits, that is a new word that describes me well. Thanks, Alissa. I enjoyed your video.

I like it when you throw in and speak a little Italian. I’m a beginner learning Italian so it kills two birds with one stone. Slow fashion and language learning ❤

Loved “lived in style” as I have been embracing linen and cotton! Great tips!

Ciao Alyssa, I’ve been watching you for a couple of years! You’ve helped me pack for Italy, elevate my style by shopping my own closet! Grazie :)

Thank you! I love the simple yet impactful style tips that don't encourage purchasing something new. In the heat of the summer I need easy, comfortable, and breezy fabrics. 👚

Alyssa, thank you for the video. I’ve learned a lot from you. Love your jewelry-especially the necklaces.

@AlyssaBeltempo

16 күн бұрын

Thank you for being here!

Love the Italian Style - yes, more please! Great video, as always

I love that Italian series! Since I’m going to Italy next September, I’m listening very carefully! Thank you!❤

@AlyssaBeltempo

16 күн бұрын

You will have an amazing time!

Love from a huge overthinker over here! Thank you for your calm, sensible advice ❤

Absolutely enjoyed your peace this week. Such such good inspiration… Italy is absolutely incredible and I love thinking about ways to make simple clothes look interesting - especially in such hot weather!

I am a part time Florentine (5 months a year) and I make an effort to “up” my fashion game with beautiful Italian fabrics and leather goods. I still keep the lines simple but the fabrics are more luxurious.

MORE Italian style!!!!! I would love a primer on italian dresses, shoes and fabric selection. What are the top 5 Italian brands. I had my last baby, and she is my 5th and last. I thrift and shop second hand, but would love your recommendations for both second hand options for brands and where to have custom clothes made. Some of my clothes i love are 20+ years old

Boom!! This lady knows what she is talking about! ❤

Thank you so much, I love Italian style, and it is heating up here so your timing is perfect! Grazie Mille!

Alyssa, do you have a scarf-tying tutorial? Yours looked so cool. I always look like my dog when I’ve put a bandana on him 😂

@margarethoughton6288

13 күн бұрын

This is the best comment ever 🎉 Well done for asking for the scarf tying video .......and for speaking for many of us who are trying our best, but struggle to execute the idea 👏👏👏

Always a pleasure! 🎉🎉I do enjoy Fashion Rules because they do create a formula for dressing well ..: and it is better to have more time for fun than to be too fussy! Especially in the heat!!

Hey Alyssa, thanks for making this video. I really like the flowy (natural fabric w/ movement & airyness), which seems to be a hallmark of Italian summer style. Loved the bling on the shoes, & let's say in a purse-- these accessorize also, although as you say, they would limit other outfits. I particularly pointed this out because there are a lot of people who do not wear jewelry-- perhaps a watch.... & these other ornamental elements juzz (sp.) up their outfits.

@AlyssaBeltempo

16 күн бұрын

Thank you for watching Maria!

@maureenjung9548

13 күн бұрын

I have to comment that on my last trip, we rented a villa near Lucca and all my jewelry was stolen off my nightstand while I slept. The owner of the villa said we wouldn’t need a safe or the security system, but my diamond earrings, engagement ring and even my rosary were stolen by someone entering our bedroom. Purses were gone through and strewn on the lawn. I love to wear jewelry and have nice bags, but make sure your accommodation has a working safe. And consider your travel jewelry carefully. It might be wise to go costume. 7:14 I’m staying away from countryside villas built centuries ago.

I loved you speaking italian 🎉

Great tips as always, Alyssa. Also, I love how relaxed you look!

I agree hundred percent I’m a dressed person in the summer and my accessories scarves hats bag shoes is what makes me look put together. I have a lot of very basic clothes, but I have a lot of fun accessories.❤

Happy Sunday ☀️ Love these tips and you look so relaxed and content in this video!

@AlyssaBeltempo

16 күн бұрын

thank you for joining! Happy Sunday! xx

Hi Alyssa. I love the idea of the flowy pants and loose tops, etc but I'm not a skirts, pants or tops person in the summer. I do dresses and lots of them! I finally got a gorgeous simple pair of sandals that are my vibe. I'm going to check the video you referred to on accessories it's not in the top corner but I'll hunt it down. I agree with the comment down below. I'm 62 and too many layers (hot) and tucking and dressy outfits don't work for my lifestyle nor budget. But fabric and accessories are great tips!! I love simple flowy dresses, sandals, simple easy hairstyle and minimal makeup. I like my clothes to have color, good lines (with unfussy care) with a relaxed fit. Unique dresses.

Will be in Rome end of August ... love your suggestions. Thank you!

Thank you for taking the time while away to make videos which are on point and super helpful ... love the mix of italian speak ... keep doing that , helps me practice

This video was just so calming. I loved it! Great and very timely tips. Love your channel ❤

Excellent 💖 Thank you, Alyssa.

Love your style and thoughtfulness as to slow fashion and personal style

Great tips. I love Italy. You are so fortunate to be able to travel there on repeat.

Would love to see a video on how to tie/wear scarves. Thank you!

Very helpful! That green dress is gorgeous on you!

Great tips!

Love your vids! Please share what your sandals are... Flats w toe ring and 2 straps shown first towards the begining w tan shorts and red button up in the mirror. Had some with similar lines in braided leather for so many years, but they fell apart a few years ago. Loved them and have been looking for a replacement since that day! The ones you are wearing in that footage have such similar lines, would love to try them! Thank you

Very true

Thank you 😊x x

Why does linen in Italy look crisp, elegant and stylish, and mine looks wrinkled and baggy after an hour?

@bambina3148

16 күн бұрын

Same 😢

@mariecurie7491

16 күн бұрын

With linen (as with silk and cotton and cashmere) you get what you pay for. I live in Italy and save up for good quality. Although my best linen shirts come from the British brand WNU

@tigrezz0852

15 күн бұрын

Hi Alyssa, love that blue shirt on you! Is it from POMP? And those gold earrings… could you please send the link? Gratze 😅

@wavyjenny602

11 күн бұрын

I have a trick that I use to keep linen crisp: spray starch when ironing. I find this helps linen keep its shape longer and even crease less when packing in the suitcase. I am currently using a brand called Dylon from the ferretería here in Barcelona but any brand will do 👍

@lynnfox8376

10 күн бұрын

@@wavyjenny602 Thanks

Simple can be better with the right accessories, got it.

Hi Alyssa, over the couple of years I've been watching you I've noticed you have a red blouse. Kinda a color out of the norm of your wheelhouse, but a beautiful red blouse nonetheless. It has stuck in my mind! I pulled the trigger on a beautiful red blouse from Mango, a bit oversized with some texture to the fabric. Excited to style this color, which for me, is a color I never gravitate towards, til now!😉🙂

Ciao Alyssa, i tuoi video sono molto rinfreschanti e mi piacce quando parli in italiano ❤ un grande abbraccio dalla Svizzera e goditi la tua vacanza in bella Italia 🥰🤗

Always love the serenity of Italy… I have a casual wedding to go to in a rustic and I plan to wear a midi knit tank dress and accessorize with some of my turquoise jewelry. I usually wear my pieces individually, but plan to group pieces to be more festive.

@AlyssaBeltempo

16 күн бұрын

Oh that sounds lovely Kathy - love that you're re-accessorizing your jewelry!

I actually love over the top Italian fashion and it's a shame that so much "quiet luxury-simplicity-call-it-what-you-will" has interrupted this custom. Why can't summer be over the top too? It doesn't mean layering. It can mean wild, colorful prints, it can mean a full armory of jewelry, etc. Perhaps the over-the-top gilded & insane color brightness is more of a southern Italian thing and the north is more subdued, but asking for "simplicity" is not always a positive cultural proposition.

@MsRight-sb5ds

16 күн бұрын

I agree! Not sure why it’s stylish to attempt to look as simple (and like everyone else) as possible.

@GoldenTherapeuticStyling

16 күн бұрын

Completely agree!

What brand/style are your brown shorts? I've been looking for a trouser short in that color! Thanks

@katem3961

15 күн бұрын

I know, they are from Sezane 😊

what store is your go-to for sunglasses in ottawa?

I will be in Lake Como and Florence in mid to late September, will it still be considered summer?

Another great inspirational video for me to make the things I already own look more fresh. But more importantly, ways to build my confidence as well as comfort in my style. Thanks so much❤❤

Where’s your video reviewing the sandals? I can’t seem to find it. 🤔

Ciao Alyssa. mi sembra che nei tuoi racconti manchi il richiamo all'artigianato anche locale. Penso infatti che appartenga allo stile italiano il dettaglio artigianale. Ad esempio un foulard dipinto, una cravatta dipinta, un ricamo su una giacca o su una gonna, una borsa con un intreccio artigianale.

I visited Milan and Turin recently. I thought maybe I'd pick up a pair of sunglasses, however, everything offered was the same as I can shop in the states. Disappointing

When it's hot how do you Italian ladies deal with bras or lack of bra???

@Ingrid0410

11 күн бұрын

Lol good bra question!! I hate wearing bras

@MiaHessMusic

9 күн бұрын

@@Ingrid0410 It's never addressed. Especially if you have more of the girls!

One more thought...when traveling could you take pictures of actual people in these places wearing outfits you think resonate with you and express your ideas of what you are conveying? Maybe too awkaward to take pics of strangers??? 🤫🙂

32 degrees sounds good watching from 110 degrees farenheit Arizona 🌵🏜️

Hi Alyssa, great video! a little observation: there is a new philosophy in the fashion industry. True luxury is quality and value. Discover the bamboo clothing by filo.sofia: for the first time we combine style, well-being, sustainability. Extremely soft, thermoregulatory, it does not generate a bad odor when sweating. Thanks