How to Wear a Maxi Dress

By Amy E. Goodman
Author of Wear This, Toss That!
I’ve never met a maxi dress I didn’t like. If you haven’t been converted yet, here are reasons to wear these trendy, comfy pieces.

Maxi dresses are:
• great for women of all ages.

• flattering on women of all heights. Yes, even petites! With one, uninterrupted column of fabric they create a wonderfully long length. Rachael Ray once confided to me that she loves them so much that she owns several.

• so breezy on a hot day, like your own personal fan.

• a wonderful way to wear the season’s bold colors and/or floral prints.

• bohemian fashion at its best (but can also be elegant for evening, depending on the fabric).

Intrigued? Some favorite sources sorted by price:
$ American Eagle, Hive & Honey, Bebe, H&M
$$ Lucy Love, Loveappella, LC Lauren Conrad for Kohl’s
$$$ Theory, Joie, Ella Moss

Shoes: I love summer’s It shoes, like strappy sandals or wedges or flats, paired with this look — as long as the maxi dress hemline is tailored above the ground. Don’t make the mistake of dragging the dress around and making it look downright sloppy: There’s nothing hippie chic about that. Keep the footwear casual and cute and you can’t go wrong. (Cowboy boots look fab, too!)

Jewelry: Layered necklaces really complete the look, as does stacking on friendship bracelets or bangles.

Bag: A hobo or other slouchy bag and a tote are my favorite options. Don’t go for one with a really small body or anything structured or handheld, as it’ll get lost in the shuffle.

Have you ever worn a maxi dress? What’s your favorite brand?

Still shopping for your perfect dress style?
Read The Basic Dress Every Woman Needs

For more of Amy’s style tips, like Wear This, Toss That! on Facebook or follow Amy on Twitter.