As the summer heat begins to settle in this May 2025, many women over 70 are refreshing their wardrobes with season-appropriate styles. While fashion should ultimately be about personal expression and comfort, certain choices can make a significant difference in how we present ourselves. Let’s uncover the truth about one particular neckline that might be doing you a disservice after 70—and what flattering alternatives can help you look your absolute best this summer.
The surprising truth about crew necklines after 70
If there’s one neckline style that deserves reconsideration in your wardrobe after 70, it’s the humble crew neck. Despite its classic appeal, this high, rounded neckline can create unflattering effects as we age.
“Crew necks can make the neck appear shorter and fuller, drawing unwanted attention to areas many women over 70 prefer to downplay,” explains Emma Bennett, a renowned fashion stylist with over 20 years of experience dressing women of all ages.
The problem lies in how crew necks frame the face. As fashion experts at Journee Mondiale note, “Just as we’ve seen how layered haircuts can take years off our faces, the right neckline can work wonders for our overall appearance.”
Why this matters for your summer wardrobe
Summer brings unique challenges for mature skin. The combination of heat, increased sun exposure, and lightweight fabrics makes neckline choices even more crucial. Many women over 70 experience:
- Changes in neck skin elasticity
- Increased sensitivity to sun exposure
- Desire for breathability without sacrificing elegance
- Need for styles that complement seasonal accessories
The flattering alternatives that take years off
Rather than feeling limited, consider this an opportunity to explore more complementary options that highlight your best features. V-necks and scoop necks reign supreme as the most universally flattering choices.
“V-necklines create an optical illusion of length, drawing the eye downward and elongating the neck,” Bennett explains. This subtle redirection works like visual magic, creating a more youthful silhouette instantly.
For women dealing with summer skin concerns, the right neckline can make a significant difference. Managing skin sensitivity becomes easier when your clothing works with, not against, your natural features.
How to select the perfect neckline for your face shape
Your ideal neckline should complement your unique facial structure:
- Round or heart-shaped faces: V-necks create balancing angles
- Oval or long faces: Scoop necks add softening curves
- Square faces: Softened V-necks or cowl necklines
The summer accessory trick that elevates any neckline
Fashion expert Susan Montgomery shares: “The right neckline creates the perfect canvas for statement jewelry, drawing attention to your personal style rather than aging concerns.”
This summer, coordinate your necklines with accessories that add glamour to your overall look. A stunning necklace against a V-neck creates a focal point that enhances your natural beauty.
Complete your summer transformation
Your neckline choice is just one element of your overall style evolution. Women embracing their 70s this summer are also updating their hairstyles for heat management and discovering how makeup choices can transform their appearance.
Remember, fashion rules are meant to guide, not restrict. Choose necklines that make you feel confident and comfortable, regardless of conventional wisdom. Your personal style journey continues to evolve beautifully at every age—especially after 70.
What neckline makes you feel most confident this summer? Embrace the styles that celebrate your unique beauty and help you stay cool while looking absolutely fabulous in the warm months ahead.