I tried on 14 Old Navy dresses, jumpsuits and more under $50 — they make me feel comfortable and chic as a 48-year-old mom
There was a time in the early 2000s when everything I owned was from Old Navy. Flash forward to me at 48, and I still can't get enough of the dependable and always affordable brand.
Their current summer collection is particularly on-point — something I learned when I decided to pop into the store on my way back from an emergency evening milk run (how do we go through it so fast!?). I tried on over a dozen items, and I wanted every single one of them. From casual dresses to cute jumpsuits, these all make me feel comfortable and chic, and all work for my busy life as a mom of two. The best part? Everything is currently under $50 thanks to Old Navy's massive sale on just about everything. Check out my summer style recommendations below.
From $30 at Old Navy
Whether you are looking for a comfy beach cover-up or a low-maintenance dress for running errands, this 100 per cent cotton T-shirt dress checks all the boxes. I tried this on in three colours, including classic black, and really liked the look and feel of them all. The slide slits also give it a little more of an edgy style while allowing you to move with (or chase) your kiddos.
From $20 $40 at Old Navy
I don't always love dresses that fall above the knee, but this mini with its side pockets was just too cute not to try. I was immediately drawn to the bright colourway and appreciated the wide adjustable straps. The 100 per cent viscose rayon fabric is curve-hugging without being too tight, and the fit-and-flare shape is super flattering — no wonder shoppers are calling this the "perfect summer dress." One thing? My usual size XS fit fine, but I found it to be a bit looser than I would like in the bust.
$27 $55 at Old Navy
I absolutely loved this dress. The fit, length and comfort were all off the charts. I tried it on in three different colourways and loved them all. Available in regular, tall and petite sizes, this dress is a great option for a variety of body types. With more than 1,600 five-star reviews, I'm not the only one raving about this "versatile" and "flattering" frock.
From $22 $45 at Old Navy
This 100 per cent cotton twill dress is so light and airy. The fabric feels great, and the sleeves can be worn on or off the shoulders depending on your mood and how much coverage you want. Again, I'm not the biggest fan of short hemlines, but I found the silhouette to be really flattering paired with longer sleeves. The hidden side pockets are, of course, an awesome bonus.
From $38 $55 at Old Navy
I've always wanted to be someone who could pull off a jumpsuit but never found one I felt comfortable in — until now. This linen/rayon number fits my smaller frame perfectly. I love the hip pockets, four-button front and adjustable straps. I will say it took a little muscle to get the fitted waist above my hips, and I wish it had a zip for easy on and off, but, good golly, did it look and feel great on.
$44 $55 at Old Navy
This easy-on, easy-off patterned midi dress was one of the most comfortable of the bunch. Of course, I loved the on-seam pockets and adjustable straps of this 100 per cent cotton twill dress. And the longer length is right up my alley! I was on the fence about the tie-front, but on this dress, it just seems to work. The dress totally gives off, as one customer says, a "romantic" and "summery" vibe.
$35 $50 at Old Navy
This dress is a perfect example of one that looks way better on than it does on the rack. The V-neck tie front is fun and sexy, and I love the look of the ruffled waist. The smocked bodice of this 100 per cent cotton twill dress also allows for a super comfortable fit. I never had a purple dress on my bingo card for summer, but this comfy one with pockets has totally won my heart.
$24 $35 at Old Navy
For me, it's all about bright colours this summer. The super soft rayon/spandex blend of fabric would fall nicely over my swimsuit or out and about for a casual day. The high neck provides great coverage, and with a cute pair of sandals or wedges, it's perfect for summer. It does appear to wrinkle easily, which can be a pain, so have a steamer handy when you're ready to wear.
$31 $45 at Old Navy
Me? In a romper? No way! I rarely wear shorts, but this one was too cute not to try. I love the cut-out in the middle, and the 100 per cent cotton fabric feels so great against my sensitive skin. The adjustable spaghetti straps allowed me to get the perfect fit on top. Consider me a convert!
$25 $50 at Old Navy
The collar of this linen/rayon dress is what drew me in. I loved the black, as well as a burnt orange hue called ginger. The button-down front is also a nice touch, and the side pockets are a great addition. This dress will work perfectly on those humid days when you want to look cute but don't want anything clingy.
From $20 $25 at Old Navy
I can see this "easy to wear" dress being a total go-to for me as a low-maintenance mom of two. I get a bit self-conscious about my mommy-middle, so I love that this dress is loose-fitting but still stylish and trendy.
$22 $45 at Old Navy
I've never owned anything gingham (seriously!) but this cheerful, sunny number is really tempting me. Just a note: I would recommend investing in some skin-toned underwear if you opt for this style, as the fabric is quite lightweight.
$35 $50 at Old Navy
This dress can take you from a day at the beach to a night out in a pinch. Humid days will be much more survivable while wearing this flowy frock. However, if you need a dress with more chest support, this might not be a fit for you.
$50 at Old Navy
The cushioned footbed of these platform wedge sandals makes them a ridiculously comfortable pair of sandals. As you may have spotted above, I tried them on with all the dresses and loved how they looked, but more importantly, how they felt. The faux leather straps don't rub against the skin, and I love an adjustable buckle. I sent my sister a picture of them, and she immediately texted back, "Get me a pair too!"
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