Polka dots are the hottest print of the moment and can be worn day or night. See for yourself

Stately, colourful florals aren’t the only retro-charming motif to return to favour this Spring/Summer 2026: polka dots prints have also resurfaced with panache! For several seasons now, this geographic motif has been making a timid comeback: we remember Bhumi Pednekkar in Rosie assoulin, Tamanna Bhatia in Torani sari, Hailey Bieber’s capri pants, Demi Moore’s Jacquemus dress at Cannes 2026, Kendall Jenner’s little tank dress, Dua Lipa’s tiny bikini and Kaia Gerber’s red carpet dress. These appearances on celebrities renowned for influencing seasonal fashion trends have undeniably contributed to the resurgence of interest in the polka-dot pattern. So much so that today, it seems to be everywhere in the boutiques! Its vintage accents are seductive: remember that its golden age was in the 50s, when Hollywood icons such as Marilyn Monroe and Lucille Ball propelled polka dots to the top of the trend.

It’s also worth noting that, unlike animal prints, polka dots are easier to wear every day and day or evening. The spring-summer 2026 collections are proof of this: where Valentino imagines silhouettes designed for the office (with pencil skirts and lavalier-collared shirts), Schiaparelli ‘s look 43 reveals an asymmetrical polka-dot dress that could be worn on a red carpet. What do these proposals have in common? Their timeless elegance. At a time when minimalism and the “old money” style are soaring in popularity, polka dots are really coming into its own. Because it lends itself to every stylistic exercise, here are 6 ways to wear polka dots this summer.

Capri

Like Hailey Bieber, one of the most fashion-forward ways to wear polka dots is with capri pants. Assuming their slightly y2k look, they can be paired with mules or heeled flip-flops.

Slip skirt

Another way is to combine two trends in one: the polka-dot pattern and the satin skirt worn low-waisted. To go with it: the now bama mules by Marsèll, a waist coat and a leather bag by Akinna.

Total look

This modern sari ensemble has all the makings of our favourite occasion wear. Wear with strappy heels and, of course, statement sunglasses!

Beachwear

There are several ways to wear polka dots on the beach: either in a monokini or, more sensibly, with a sarong over an immaculate swimsuit.

Camisole

Tattooed on a lace-trimmed silk camisole, polka-dot print takes on a retro allure. For a more casual look, opt for wide-leg jeans, wedge flip-flops and a chic shoulder bag.

Summer dress

One of the easiest ways to introduce this pattern to your summer wardrobe is with a dress. Chic and wearable whether on vacation or for a special occasion, this dress stands out for its contrast that flatters every figure.

Outfits that work from 9 to 9.

After years in corporate environments, I’ve seen just about every dress code—everything from strictly tailored business wear to the laid-back “we’re fun here” vibe, and plenty in-between. And through it all, one piece has consistently found its way into the mix: jeans. Your industry and personal style will always play a role, but once you’ve navigated what your workplace allows, having a few go-to outfits makes all the difference. It not only simplifies getting dressed, it also saves precious time on those rushed mornings (we’ve all been there).

While traditional office attire might bring to mind slacks, fitted button-downs, and loafers, jeans have firmly earned their place in the modern work wardrobe. The fashion set continues to show just how versatile they can be, pairing them with everything from polished blouses to oversized blazers, often with fresh touches like color blocking or elevated basics. Even better, the right jean outfit can take you seamlessly from day to night. So why dread getting dressed for the office? A great outfit can be an instant mood boost. Move over, corp-core, jeans are stepping into the spotlight, proving they can be just as polished as they are practical.

Ahead, shop and discover 8 ways to style jeans for the office.

Classic Button-Down

I could go on for days about ways to style a classic white button-down, but there’s something especially timeless about pairing it with denim. It gives off such a ’90s feel. This guest finishes off her look with on-trend derby shoes and an oversized, brown leather bag (roomy enough for a laptop and more). Wear it as is, or treat it as a base and layer up from there.

Cropped Trenches

Cropped trenches and other structured, buttoned styles make an effortless match for denim. Whether worn as a light layer or styled as a top, they’re ideal for those in-between, hot-and-cold days. Here, this guest pairs hers with ballet flats, a shoulder bag, and clear-frame glasses.

Trendy Accessories

Bring back fun! Bring back whimsy! If your workplace skews more casual, accessories are a great way to show a little creativity and personality. This guest elevates her jeans with statement pieces like Tabi ballet flats, a Kangol hat, and a two-toned Balenciaga City bag. A look like this is ready to take you straight to post-work drinks without being too formal.

City Chic

City life rarely means staying still—you’re moving from the office to a café to the back of an Uber, often all in the same day. That’s why striking the balance between chic and comfortable matters. One minute you’re handling a work crisis, the next you’re heading to an event. Here, a guest proves how jeans can lean into a streetwear-inspired look when paired with kitten heels, a sports jersey, a leather trench layered on top, and sleek sunglasses.

Color Blocking

We all need a sartorial lift at work now and then—enter color blocking for an easy dose. It’s an easy way to energize your look, whether you’re confidently layering bold hues or simply adding a few strategic pops of color. Either way, it brings a refreshing boost to a sea of greys and blacks. Bonus: pink and yellow are one of my favorite spring combos!

Off-Duty Blazers

Go full Hailey Bieber-mode when you pair your jeans with an oversized blazer. The formula is simple: denim, loafers, a pared-back tee, and a relaxed blazer for that effortless, off-duty effect. It’s a combination that consistently delivers, with style setters like Katie Holmes and Kendall Jenner also on board.

Practical Flats

I’ve said it before: practical spring flats are a must, no matter where you’re headed. Paired with denim, they feel effortless and polished, while keeping you comfortable enough to get your steps in, pain-free. Here, this guest leans into an understated look as she styles her jeans and Mary Janes with a layered top, a shoulder bag, and black sunglasses for a put-together finish.

Cozy Sweaters

Office temperatures can be unpredictable (especially when the AC is in full blast during the summer). That’s where a cozy sweater comes in. Paired with jeans, it offers an effortless balance of ease and polish. Here, this guest refined the look with pointed boots, adding just the right amount of structure and sophistication.

10 comfortable clothing pieces women should have

Summer dressing is not just about style; it’s about feeling light, fresh, and comfortable all day long. In hot weather, the body can feel hot, sticky, and irritated in tight, heavy, or synthetic clothes, which can affect mood, energy, and overall wellness. Choosing breathable fabrics and loose silhouettes can improve day-to-day comfort and support a sense of ease throughout the day. With the right wardrobe staples, you can look put together effortlessly while staying cool and comfortable

Here are 10 comfortable everyday clothing pieces every woman should have for better body comfort and ease during summer.

Cotton t-shirts for daily comfort

A simple cotton T-shirt is one of summer’s most reliable staples. Cotton is a natural fabric that absorbs sweat and lets air pass through, keeping the body cool. Soft, loose-fit T-shirts are great for casual wear at home, quick trips to the store, or just running errands. Light colours like white, beige, sky blue, and pastel shades reflect heat and are more soothing during the summers. They are a must-have in every wardrobe as they can be easily paired with jeans, shorts, or palazzos.

Loose-fit Kurtis for breathable style

Loose cotton kurtas are an Indian summer fashion must. They are full coverage but breathable, which is nice for reducing sweat and discomfort. These kurtis are ideal for office wear, college, or daily house chores. Printed or solid cotton kurtis in soft fabrics not only relax the body but also give a clean and elegant look without any extra effort.

Linen shirts for natural cooling

Linen is one of the best fabrics for hot weather due to its natural cooling properties. Even in the middle of the afternoon, a loose linen shirt feels light on skin and prevents you from overheating. Linen shirts are great for casual or semi-formal wear. They’re perfect for lunch dates, travel, and business meetings, with a polished but relaxed vibe.

Comfortable cotton palazzos

Soft cotton or rayon palazzos provide great summer comfort. The wide-leg design provides air circulation and keeps the lower body cool all day long. Palazzos are perfect for wearing long-term, as they don’t restrict movement like tight pants or jeans. They look good with short shirts, kurtis, short tops, or even shirts. They are a versatile and comfortable wardrobe essential.

Relaxed-fit joggers for everyday ease

Joggers have become a comfortable everyday staple, not just for exercise anymore. Soft cotton or jersey joggers are easy to move in and perfect for vacation, working from home, and casual get-togethers. Joggers are better; your skin can breathe in the heat better than in tight leggings.

Breathable tank tops for hot days

When it’s so hot and muggy that even light clothing feels heavy, tank tops are ideal. They are breathable and help keep the body cool. You can wear tank tops alone at home or under shirts and shrugs when you go out.

Maxi dresses for effortless comfort

One of the easiest summer looks is a maxi dress. They are flowing, long, and comfortable. A well-made maxi dress is all you need to look put together. They are made of lightweight materials such as cotton or rayon and are ideal for hot weather. Maxi dresses are a combination of design and maximum comfort, perfect for shopping, holidays, or informal gatherings.

Soft cotton innerwear for skin health

Comfort begins with the inside. In summer, it is important to wear soft cotton underwear, as synthetic fabrics trap heat and irritate the skin. Cotton underwear helps to reduce perspiration in delicate areas and allows the skin to breathe. Innerwear is also about the right fit. If innerwear is too tight, it can be uncomfortable and affect your posture during the day.

Oversized shirts for relaxed styling

The oversized shirt is one of the biggest comfort trends of recent years. They are loose-fitting so the body does not feel restricted and allows the air to flow in. They can be belted at the waist, tucked into jeans, or worn open over a tank top. Oversized cotton or linen shirts are especially suitable for summer, as they are fashionable and cool the body.

Lightweight dupattas or scarves for protection

A light cotton scarf or dupatta is a useful summertime need apart from being a fashion piece. It cools the shoulders and neck and protects the skin from the sun’s rays. They are breathable materials so you won’t feel overheated wearing them. They can also add a pop of colour or elegance to a simple outfit. Functional, yet stylish.

Here’s your guide to fail-proof outfits

Curating the perfect capsule wardrobe looks a little different for everyone, but there are a handful of staples that will benefit nearly every closet. Having a reliable collection of basics makes getting dressed easier, whether you’re a staunch minimalist who sticks to simplicity or an experimental dresser building looks upon a foundation. True luxury can be found among the classics, whether it’s a perfect white T-shirt, a well-fitting button-up or a pair of jeans.

Versatility and a neutral colour palette will be essential to unlocking your own sense of style, and the following six key clothing items are the essential building blocks for any capsule wardrobe.

The capsule wardrobe essentials

White shirt

A crisp white button-down shirt is the ultimate wardrobe essential, equally at home under a blazer for meetings or on the weekend with leggings, white sneakers and oversized outerwear. Look for cotton poplin or linen styles that breathe and hold their shape.

Straight-leg blue jeans

The most versatile denim silhouette offers endless styling possibilities. For an everyday pair of jeans, choose a mid-rise cut in classic indigo that you can team up with ballet flats and a leather jacket or loafers and a trench coat.

Classic knits

Nothing beats the luxurious feel of cashmere or wool that improves with age and wear. Look at a range of styles that are perfect for layering—crewnecks, V-necks, cardigans and turtlenecks in neutral colours are among the most versatile pieces to make your capsule wardrobe work that much harder–especially when your office thermostat stays in the Arctic zone.

Simple black dresses

The black dress remains unmatched in its ability to transition from day to night with just a change of accessories. Invest in a flattering silhouette that makes you feel confident every time.

Tees and tank tops

Basic tees and tanks will form the foundation of countless outfit ideas. Stock up on a few in white, black, grey and navy—you’ll reach for them more than anything else in your closet.

Black trousers

A well-tailored pair of black trousers bridges the gap between casual and formal with sophisticated ease, and they play nicely with various pairs of shoes. Choose a cut that flatters your silhouette and works for office presentations and dinner dates.

In May 2026, palazzo jeans and heels will become the understated formula of women who turn simple outfits into elegance. Wide-leg denim has firmly secured its place as the ultimate staple in the wardrobes of the best-dressed women. Its dominance comes as no surprise: nostalgia for the seventies and the rise of oversized cuts, from baggy and barrel styles to balloon and harem silhouettes, have paved the way for palazzo jeans to take over the season with their effortless sophistication.

Today’s women are choosing wide, relaxed cuts that flatter the figure while creating the illusion of longer legs, a trend that will be impossible to resist throughout the spring/summer 2026 fashion season. Since palazzo jeans are set to become a true style obsession, one key question naturally follows: what shoes should you wear with them to look flawless around the clock? If you are taller than 170 cm, the options are nearly endless and they can be styled with almost any type of footwear. But if you are petite, heels will become your greatest ally: they elongate the silhouette, elevate the entire look and allow the denim to fall perfectly, preventing hems from dragging on the floor or the cut from losing its refined effect.

How to wear palazzo jeans with heels and look your most elegant in May 2026?

According to this season’s styling cues, the best choice is to embrace styles such as pumps, kitten heels, platforms and similar designs. Each of them is ready to step beyond the expected and bring a fresh character to voluminous denim that instantly commands attention.

Classic palazzo jeans and open-toe pumps

Step into the jeans set to define the spring/summer 2026 season, this time with XXL wide legs, a high waist and classic blue denim that pairs with everything.

These are exactly the kinds of styles seen on the runways of Givenchy and Brunello Cucinelli. Today’s women gravitate toward statement cuts unafraid to command attention, from classic light-wash denim to deep indigo styles. Wear them with a polished modern edge alongside pointed open-toe pumps and a biker jacket with a high collar.

Light-wash palazzo jeans and kitten heels

No matter whose designs you choose, wide-leg jeans will be the ultimate style choice for enhancing the figure and creating the illusion of elongated legs that makes an instant impression. Opt for a lighter wash suited to the season and style them in a polished office-ready way with kitten heels and a button-down shirt.

Raw blue palazzo jeans and heeled Mary Jane shoes

The style archives of seventies fashion icons such as Jane Birkin continue to inspire flawless looks built around the season’s trending wide-leg jeans for spring 2026. Women with an instinct for fashion are styling them with romantic white blouses or short-sleeved versions, paired with heeled Mary Jane shoes featuring either almond or pointed toes.

White palazzo jeans and heeled mules

If you follow fashion trends, you already know that the boho aesthetic is one of the season’s strongest movements, because there is no better time to embrace your hippie-chic side than during the warmer months. The key is to choose classic palazzo jeans or washed-effect styles with a vintage feel; complete the look with wooden heeled shoes and a blouse with ruffles or bell sleeves. A styling formula fashion icons such as Cher or Stevie Nicks would certainly approve of.

Black palazzo jeans and platform loafers

For an evening look, you do not need a dress to make a striking impression. The secret lies in choosing elegant jeans that do all the work for you. Think black palazzo denim that instantly evokes style, mystery and sophistication; finish the look with a halter blouse and the season’s trending platforms for 2026. The perfect choice for a silhouette that feels tall, powerful and confident with every step.

White palazzo jeans and heeled mules

Brands like Toteme, Khaite and The Row share one defining trait: a love for minimalist fashion and quiet luxury. Choose white palazzo jeans and give them a nineties-inspired twist with minimalist mule styles or kitten heels, paired with an elegant satin blouse. A styling formula that needs very little to shine on its own.

Boho palazzo jeans and T-bar heels

Finally, if you are looking for an eclectic outfit guaranteed to stand out, dare to wear bohemian palazzo jeans or patterned styles featuring tribal, botanical or paisley motifs. Each of them is perfect for elevating your style with minimal effort. Add a bow blouse and red T-bar heels to bring a touch of colour and freshness to the entire look.

Makeup trends have significantly changed in the past few years. Here are some of the easy trends you can consider for summer evenings.

Summer evenings are all about beauty that feels fresh, radiant and easy to wear. This season, makeup trends are moving away from heavy, overdone glam and embracing lightweight textures, skin-first formulas and soft definition that enhances natural features effortlessly. Whether you are heading for a sun-downer party, an all-night disco party, or an evening coffee date with your partner, abiding by these makeup trends will make you look put together. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Snigdha Suman, GM, marketing and business development, Avon, shared makeup trends that you might consider for summer evenings.

Glazed skin

Suman highlighted that one of the biggest trends dominating the season is luminous, glazed skin. Lightweight foundations, serum-infused bases and hydrating formulas enriched with ingredients like hyaluronic acid are creating a naturally radiant complexion that looks healthy rather than overly made-up. The focus is on breathable coverage that allows skin to shine through while staying fresh even in humid weather. You can consider the glazed skin look not just for summer evening parties but even for days when you are stepping out for work or need to attend out-of-office meetings.

Soft eye makeup

Soft-focus eye makeup is another standout trend this summer. “Smudged kajal, blurred eyeliner, glossy lids and warm sunset-inspired neutrals create an understated yet elegant look perfect for evening outings,” said Suman. Instead of sharp graphic lines, the season favours diffused textures that feel relaxed and modern. You can complement your floral outfits with a soft-eye makeup look.

Cream blush and dewy highlighter

Suman stated that cream blushes and dewy highlighters are also making a strong statement, adding a natural flush and subtle glow to the skin. On the days when you don’t feel like putting on heavy makeup, just a cream blush and a little bit of highlighter is perfect to nail the day.

Matte lip colours

Completing the look are hydrating matte lip colours that offer rich pigmentation while keeping lips comfortable through long summer nights. You can pick red matte lipstick for your all-black outfit for parties. If you are planning to style a floral dress or a simple denim-shirt look for a casual summer evening, choosing a matte lip colour with glazed skin is a perfect combo that will complement your look. You can also put on lip gloss on the matte lipstick for a dewy appearance.

Overall, this season celebrates effortless beauty powered by skincare-inspired makeup that feels light, wearable and naturally glamorous.

Short on length and time? These five-minute hairstyles prove cropped cuts can still do the most

Have you ever been sold a short haircut as the ‘low-maintenance dream’? Cut it off, shake it out, leave the house looking like a woman in a French film who only owns excellent accessories. In reality, short hair can be both liberating and oddly demanding. There is less of it, yes, but every bend, cowlick and slept-on section announces itself articulately.

Still, the appeal is undeniable. In 2026, short hair has moved far beyond the classic bob, with graduated bobs, bixies, curtain crops and softer pixies continuing to dominate celebrity and salon moodboards. On red carpets too, short hair has appeared in slicked finishes, blunt shapes, airy layers and deliberately undone textures.

The trick is not to fight your haircut, but to work with its shape. The best short hairstyles are usually the ones that need very little persuasion: a bit of texture, a clean parting, a clip placed well or ends that have been turned in or out to fake effort. Ahead, seven short hairstyles that take less than five minutes to achieve.

Slicked-back bob

A slicked-back bob is the beauty equivalent of a black blazer: sharp, reliable and instantly pulled together. It works especially well on chin-length bobs, blunt cuts and shorter lobs, where the clean line of the haircut can do most of the heavy lifting.

• Start with dry or slightly damp hair.
• Work a small amount of styling cream, gel or lightweight serum through the roots and comb the hair straight back or into a deep side part.
• Tuck the ends behind the ears if your length allows, then smooth down flyaways with your fingers.

The finish can be glossy and sculptural for evening or softer and more wearable for the day. The key is not adding too much product as it can make short hair look greasy.

The five-minute flick

For anyone with a bob or lob, the quickest way to make short hair look styled is to focus on the ends. A subtle flick outward instantly adds shape and movement, especially if your haircut sits around the jaw, chin or collarbone.

• Use a straightener or round brush to turn the ends away from the face.
• You do not need to style every section perfectly; in fact, a slightly irregular flick feels more modern than a uniform curl.
• Keep the crown smooth, let the ends do the talking and finish with a light mist of hairspray if your hair tends to fall flat.

This style is particularly useful on second-day hair, when the roots have settled but the lengths need a little revival.

Soft side part with tucked ends

A deep side part can change the entire mood of short hair in under a minute. It adds instant polish, creates the illusion of volume and works across straight, wavy and softly curly textures.

• Part your hair slightly farther to one side than usual, then tuck the smaller section behind your ear.
• If your hair has natural movement, let the longer side fall loosely across the forehead or cheekbone. For straighter textures, smooth the front section with a brush or run a straightener lightly over the face-framing pieces.

This is one of the easiest ways to make a bob, bixie or grown-out pixie look naturally styled.

Textured pixie

A pixie cut is already a style in itself, but texture gives it personality. Instead of trying to make every piece sit neatly, use the natural irregularity of the cut to your advantage.

• Rub a pea-sized amount of matte paste, wax or styling cream between your palms, then press it into the hair rather than dragging it through.
• Lift the crown slightly, separate a few front pieces and define the sides.
• If your pixie is longer on top, push the hair forward for softness or sweep it sideways for a more sculpted finish.

The goal is not messiness for the sake of it. It should look like the hair has movement, not like it lost an argument with a pillow.

Mini claw-clip twist

Short hair and claw clips can coexist, provided the clip is small enough. A mini claw-clip twist is ideal for bobs and lobs that are long enough to gather at the nape but too short for a full bun.

• Pull the top half or back section of your hair loosely together, twist it once and secure it with a small claw clip.
• Let the shorter pieces fall out naturally around the face and neck.
• If the hair slips, use a little texturising spray beforehand to give it grip.

This style works beautifully when you want the ease of an updo without pretending your short hair can behave like waist-length hair. The undone pieces are part of the charm.

Wet-look waves

Wet-look waves are dramatic without being time-consuming. They work best on naturally wavy hair, layered bobs or short cuts with enough length to create movement around the face.

• Mist the hair with water or start with damp hair, then scrunch in a lightweight gel or curl cream.
• Shape the front pieces with your fingers, pushing them away from the face or into a soft side sweep.
• Leave the texture slightly imperfect; the finish should feel glossy and fluid rather than crunchy.

For curly or coily textures, this can also work as a curl-refresh style. Add moisture first, define the front sections and let the shape of the cut guide the final look.

Pinned-back front pieces

When short hair refuses to cooperate, accessories can come in clutch. Pinned-back front pieces take less than five minutes and work across almost every short haircut, from bobs to shags to grown-out pixies.

• Take two front sections, twist or smooth them away from the face and secure them with slim pins, barrettes or small clips.
• For a cleaner look, place the pins symmetrically.
• For something softer, pin only one side and let the other fall naturally.

This style is especially helpful on humid days, post-workout mornings or fringe grow-out phases, when the front of the hair has strong opinions.

What to keep in mind before styling short hair

Short hair responds quickly to small changes, which is both its advantage and its challenge. A parting moved by an inch, a tucked ear or a slight bend at the ends can transform the whole look.

The most important rule is to avoid overloading the hair. Heavy oils, thick creams and too much hairspray can flatten short styles faster than they can fix them. Instead, choose one styling direction: smooth, textured, glossy or pinned-back.

A good haircut will always make the process easier. Layers can add movement, blunt ends can create polish and face-framing pieces can give you more styling options. But even on difficult mornings, short hair rarely needs a full production. Sometimes, all it needs is a comb, a clip and the confidence to leave before you start overthinking it.

Hydrating skin prep is key.

In the same way that you update your wardrobe to reflect your shifting tastes, it’s only natural to want your makeup to keep up not just with the current moment, but with your skin’s changing needs. Luckily, you don’t need to buy a slew of new products to do so—you just need to implement a few subtle changes to your routine.

“Skin is constantly evolving, and what worked in your 20s may not hit the same in your 40s, 50s, or beyond—and that’s totally okay,” says makeup artist Tisha Thompson, founder and CEO of LYS Beauty. “You might notice more dryness, texture, or fine lines, and that just means your routine deserves an upgrade—likely one with a greater emphasis on hydration. Sometimes it’s not about changing everything, but about prepping the skin better and reaching for products that nourish and enhance—rather than just cover up.”

Makeup artist and eyebrow specialist Stevi Christine agrees, noting that “aging and hormonal changes can mean dryer skin, sun damage, hyperpigmentation, and breakouts.” In light of these shifts, she says it’s important to update “our makeup routine with something that combats and enhances these changes.”

Below, find detailed tips for how to apply makeup for mature skin, with product recommendations for hydrating primers, firming serums, radiant foundations, and more.

Tip 1: Prioritize Moisturizing

Skin naturally tends to become drier with age. According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD), this can happen during menopause, when the skin loses the ability to retain water as efficiently as it used to. This biological event, then, makes prioritizing makeup and skin-care products focused on hydrating and moisturizing the skin more important as we age.

“Hydration is super-important,” says Priscilla DiStasio, a celebrity makeup artist. Whether you moisturize your skin through a masking routine or regularly apply your hydrating products of choice, what’s most important is to keep your “canvas” hydrated in some way, she adds.

Thompson agrees, noting that not only does it look good to have a basis of moisturized skin, but such a foundation is also helpful for allowing your makeup to appear crisp once it’s applied. “Hydration is non-negotiable,” she says. “The more hydrated your skin is, the better your makeup wears, and the more radiant you’ll look.”

Tip 2: Consider using Skin Care with Key Active Ingredients

The AAD recommends that all people, including folks with maturing skin, apply sunscreen that’s at least SPF 30 every day before going outside. Plenty of moisturizers and foundations are formulated with SPF to make this step a breeze.

In addition to the importance of SPF, Christine says a high-quality skin-care routine targeted to your personal needs is key for helping makeup do its best work. “I know and stress the importance of a medical-grade skincare routine,” she says. “This is your skin’s armor that will ensure your foundation’s flawlessness.”

The AAD recommends opting for products with hyaluronic acid or glycerin to supercharge moisturizing products. To help remedy age-related collagen loss, which can lead to thinner skin and wrinkles, you can try out products with retinol or peptides.

Your best first stop is a visit to your dermatologist, who can help you determine the ideal active ingredients routine for you and your maturing skin.

Tip 3: Don’t Skip Primer

After you finish your skin-care routine, don’t start applying makeup to mature skin until you use a primer. Primer is crucial, designed to prep your skin to handle makeup evenly and in a long-lasting manner. “A makeup primer will help with longevity and smoothness and make application easier,” Maria I. Rincon Djuro, a KIKO Milano makeup artist, previously told InStyle. “It may contain benefits such as long-wear, oil control, or hydration, color correction, and/or a blurring effect to smooth skin texture. Many primers also include skin-care benefits that help with anti-aging and promote healthier skin.”

Christine agrees, noting that this step is particularly important for folks with mature skin. “I’m a huge believer in primers for all skin types, especially mature skin,” she says. “Think of it as a shield for your tiny imperfections, so when you apply your foundation, it leaves a smooth application with the added benefit of helping your makeup last longer throughout the day.”

But do make sure your primer of choice is helpful for mature skin, in particular. “You want to find one that hydrates and smooths,” says Thompson. “Mature skin often lacks adequate moisture, so priming with a formula that plumps and softens is key to making your foundation look fresh.”

Tip 4: Prep Your Eyes

You’re going to want to pay special attention and care to prepping your eyes for makeup, because this region’s skin is naturally thin and sensitive.

“There are so many fine lines around that delicate area that can be emphasized if you’re not careful,” says Thompson. “I always recommend starting eye looks with a tacky primer that will help the shadow cling on for maximum wear.”

Tip 5: Choose a Hydrating Foundation

There are all kinds of foundation formulations available, but experts recommend that people with mature skin opt for liquid or cream, which tend to be lighter weight than powders. “Cream and liquid foundations melt into the skin and give you buildable coverage without caking or emphasizing texture,” says Thompson. “Powders tend to sit on top of the skin, which can age you fast if you’re not careful.”

You can also skip the formal foundation completely, instead going for a tinted moisturizer to do the trick of lightweight, hydrating coverage. Christine says the benefit here is that these products aren’t apt to settle into fine lines, but can still add a fresh glow to your complexion.

From there, you can apply your other products, which ideally will be hydrating and not drying. “Don’t shy away from cream products—they’re your best friend,” says Thompson. “Build them up slowly, in thin layers, to avoid patchiness. Cream blush and bronzer can bring life back to the face and keep everything looking soft and natural.”

Distasio also reminds us that makeup is only one component of putting your best look forward; lifestyle factors also matter. “Be mindful of how important it is to take care of your skin from the inside out,” she says. “It is super important to prioritize your sleep, hydration, and keeping a balanced diet daily.”

To understand the history of the ballet flat, one need only consult the name. The shoe was created for, what else, ballet. As early as the 16th century, dancers wore them on stage. Rose Repetto (yes, that Repetto) famously designed a pair for her son, the dancer Roland Petit, before ushering them out of the theatre and into the mainstream.

With such storied origins, ballet flats are hardly new—but they are undeniably having a moment. Their recent resurgence is largely credited to Alaïa designer Pieter Mulier, whose studded Mary Jane from 2022 flew off shelves. Since then, nearly every brand, from high end to high street, has put its spin on the silhouette.

And honestly, we can’t get enough of them. There’s a reason ballet flats have stood the test of time. Chic, simple, and easy to wear, they’re an effortlessly elegant choice for everyday —especially in warmer months. When open toes won’t do and a heel feels fussy (which is, let’s face it, most of the time), ballet flats strike the perfect balance.They’re polished, but with the right styling, never too prim. Ballet flats pair effortlessly with some of our favourite summer pieces—from slouchy drawstring pants to sequin skirts. Ahead, our summer styling guide shows you exactly how to wear them now.

The Studded Flat With a Relaxed Trouser

A boxy cotton shirt and trousers make for a breezy off-duty uniform that lets statement shoes, like Chloé’s studded flats, be the star of the show.

The Pop of Red With a Printed Sarong

Celine’s poppy red Mary Janes are so singular that they’ll pair well with just about anything. Here we’ve chosen a Dries Van Noten pareo skirt and a simple white tee.

The Woven Flat With a Minimalist Mini

For the ultimate minimalist, this nude structured slip, light trench, and white ballet flat pairing is excessively sleek.

The Embellished Ballerina With a Statement Midi

Le Monde Beryl’s crystal-embellished mesh flats are a surprisingly versatile summer staple. They’ll pair just as easily feminine pieces, like a Prada slip skirt, as with crisp denim.

The Slipper Lookalike With a Boxer Short

The newest version of the aforementioned Alaïa flat appears here, this time as a metallic gold slipper, alongside a button-down and shorts for a bold-yet-understated look.

The Espadrille With Summer Whites

We love an all-white look on a hot summer day. Loewe’s brown espadrille ballet flats and a red button up add a bit of excitement.

The Classic Ballerina With a Relaxed Maxi

Contrast feminine elements, like a slip dress and classic Repettos, with an oversized knit slung across the shoulders for a well-balanced look.

When it comes to skin- and body-care, it’s all too easy to overlook the hands. As we age, skin naturally loses elasticity—becoming drier, thinner, and more prone to discoloration and scarring. We put our hands through a lot, it’s no wonder they’re often quickest to show signs of dehydration.

A good hand-care routine–quality hand cream, using exfoliators designed to improve skin texture (such as glycolic and lactic acid), and taking care to always wear gloves when washing up or gardening–can make a big difference. So too can the right shade of nail polish.

“The right color can really do a lot,” nail expert Ambra Toccacieli explains. “It brightens the hand, evens out the complexion, and immediately restores that fresh, taken-care-of look.” While nail shade is always a matter of personal choice and skin tone, Toccacieli shares her advice on flattering colors to keep in mind.

For Minimizing Marks

“When there are spots or dyschromia (color changes in the skin or nails), I would stay away from nail polish with yellow or orange undertones, because they tend to amplify contrast,” Toccacieli says. Pinky nudes, cool beiges, delicate mauves, and milky shades are more harmonious, and can make the skin look brighter and more even as a result.

For Blurring the Skin

A high-shine or very matte finish can emphasize skin’s laxity. Instead, pick creamy, opaque colors and finish with a top coat.

For Thin Hands

“For very slim hands, the goal is to give a softer, fuller effect by way of the nail polish,” says Toccacieli. That means picking milky shades, delicate nudes, and semi-transparent colors to help create the illusion of plumper nail beds and fuller cuticles. Dark shades can actually make hands look thinner, as they’re in such stark contrast to the surrounding skin.

For Color Correction

If the skin is quite thin or translucent, with visible veins, Toccacieli recommends picking warm or neutral peach, hot pink or a soft coral color, because “they balance blueish undertones”. Interestingly, colors that are overly cool can emphasize the appearance of veins.

What’s the best nail shape for mature hands?

A truly rejuvenated look comes from the right balance between shape, length, and color. In general, Toccacieli says, medium and short nails are the most flattering because they keep the hand looking visually “light”.

Similarly, she says that nail shapes with sharp free edges–like coffin, almond, long square or stiletto shaped nails–can harden the overall look. Instead, look for “soft, squoval (square oval) nails”, which echo the natural line of the nail bed and nails without making the hand look unbalanced or heavy.

Which finish is best for mature nails?

A glossy finish remains the most elegant, the nail expert asserts. “It reflects the light, enhances the color beneath and immediately gives the hands a polished look. A matte top coat can be chic but should be chosen carefully because it can tend to highlight the texture of the surrounding skin,” she explains. “Combine a matte finish with soft shades to create lightness.”