How to wear a maxi dress

I remember first seeing maxi dresses in the 70’s and this summer I’m once again seeing them everywhere. This classic wardrobe essential was designed by Oscar de la Renta in 1968. His objective was to find a dress style that women all over the world could wear. He nailed it, and hemlines hit the floor literally. Maxi dresses were seen on women all throughout Europe and the United States. They lost their appeal in the 80’s and 90’s but reappeared in 2008 after Kate Moss worn one to an all-star event. By 2010, they were once again back on stores racks and their popularity continued to increase, appealing to women of all age groups.   

Maxi dresses are in just about every clothing store you shop in now. The question is, how does a woman of our age group wear one and keep it age appropriate?

First, you need to find a Style that Suits You Best 

Always remember to wear what you are comfortable with because it’s just fashion until you own it, then it becomes a personal style.

Choose a maxi dress style that suits your body type the best. There are a variety of styles to choose from, column dresses, belted at the waist dresses, empire waisted dresses, and A-line style dresses.  

Next, find a patterned print that flatters you. There are large graphic striped prints, scarf prints, florals, and solids. Lastly, decide where you would be wearing the dress.   

Maxi Dress at The Office

Certain styled Maxi dresses can be worn to the office if all of your other accessories are workplace appropriate.

It’s important to choose a dress with sleeves. You might also want to add a vest or blazer to keep a business tone to your outfit. The shoes should stay work appropriate. Think-a pair of flats or a low stacked pump. 

Daytime Maxi Dress Style

Shopping and lunch with friends is a perfect time to wear a casual long maxi dress.

There are a variety of styled maxi dresses for low key daytime fun. Choose a pair of sneakers or low wedges to wear with your dress. You can also bare some skin if the weather permits. If you’re not comfortable with that add a basic white tee shirt underneath, like I chose to do (in this post)

Maxi Dress for Happy Hour Cocktails or Dinner Date

Now you can have a little more fun and choose fancier fabrics and fun accessories. Let your personality shine with unique jewelry that compliments the dress. Wear dressy sandals or low open toe booties. If the fabric is more elaborate your long maxi dress is appropriate for any dressy casual event you may be going to. Think about all the beautiful silk kaftans they are now showing.

Strapless maxi dresses are perfect when you’re going to be outdoors, say at beach party, picnic, or on a boat. Remember the shoes need to stay casual, flat sandals, or flip flops.   

Also keep in mind that the style and fabric of your dress should determine what you do with your hair and makeup. The more low key your look the freer your hairstyle.  

I hope this answers any questions you may have. I personally have a few casual styled maxis’ and enjoy wearing them. Maxi dresses are a step above casual style because their hemline expresses formality. Keep this in mind if you want to wear something that is ladylike but still comfortable.