I had someone email and ask me to blog about how to wear maxi dresses and skirts so I thought that since they were such a fun summer piece to wear we’d look at some.
This is gonna be a brief post writing wise but lengthy because of pictures so you’ll get some good ideas. Maxi’s have become a very popular item with all ages of women. For summer they are a fun and flowy way to spice up an outfit without going “all” out. And if spicing up isn’t on the agenda, a cute knit maxi skirt can be paired with a tank and go to the farmers market…. easy peasy.
A couple of things to think about when choosing….if you have a few body or age “issues” (i.e. love handles or maybe 50ish +) a straight skirt with no ruffles, tiers, or such, a solid color for sure, and hitting right around the ankle will be the easiest to wear one. Keep the shoes flat or a very minimal heel for a breezy, warm weather feel. It doesn’t have to just be a sandal, a closed toe works too. If you want to take it a step up, a casual wedge or cute platform will keep the look fun. You aren’t wearing an evening gown so ‘heels’ won’t fly. A particular group of women to speak to are those that are in the plus size range. Unfortunately, this group of gals are a difficult body type to pull this off. I have seen a couple pictures that were ok but they are few and far between. There is one below that would be a good one to try.
Let’s look at a some pics!
The easiest way to do it. Simple lines with a nice side vent for that blowy feel. Flat thongs and a stripe tee. If you don’t want to tuck, make sure your top isn’t too long. A top skimming the body and hitting at the top of the hip bone should be just about right. This skirt has light pleating at the top, you don’t want a tee shirt pressing them down. And the best thing about this skirt is the fabulous back, a little piece of black elastic and visible zipper. Cute detail. I couldn’t download that pic so click and see for yourself!
coral maxi/ Vince Camuto; Nordstroms/ $79.00
A step up….we’ve added pleats and a lovely blouse, more going on visually but still warm weather appropriate. This will take you to dinner, a poolside luncheon, and downtown on Friday night for wine and to hear some great music! I’d even wear it to church. My fave of what I researched. I need this blouse.
Aqua knife pleat maxi skirt with floral top/ glamour.com
If you are sticking your proverbial toe into the maxi world, this is a good start. Basic black (or my preference would be navy:)), nice hang to the fabric, flattering cut. If showing your arms is too “out there” for you, you’ll need a gauzy lightweight cardigan or something along those lines. It can be tricky to do that with this style dress though. So, maybe a pair of 5 lb. weights and some Jergens self -tanner?
Black maxi dress/ Soma/ 79.00
Well, just found this one at Target so maxi dresses with some type of sleeve are definitely available….I saw others I didn’t love. But, this one is simple and easy to accessorize. It could be a little low cut so a bright color cami would really pop. Yellow, coral, and black are some options.
Bright blue maxi/ Target/ $24.99
Now for a couple pics showing how it can go all wrong.
Oh Eileen, what happened? This is for sale at Nordstroms. I’d like to know the reasoning behind that buyer’s decision! Does anyone remember the brand Gunne Sax? This could certainly be from that brand. I’m trying hard to picture this being flattering in some way. If anybody can see it, let me know. Points for the cute wedges though.
Sundress tiered maxi / Eileen Fisher/ $248.00
Here’s another example in a skirt. I guess Michael and Eileen collaborated on this look only he threw in some strange attempt at tye dye. $100.00. Really? But, another great shoe.
Tiered/ruffled maxi skirt/ Michael Kors/ $99.0o
Ok, I’ve been making light of this prairie look but you know me; I will try my hardest to make something work. So, here’s an example of this look working. It can be done, but as you can see it’s a specific look and feel. A definite boho vibe and the right pieces are a must. For summer take away the plaid blouse and maybe the boots and just add flat sandals. I really do like this look when it’s done right. This skirt is currently out of stock.
Ruffled maxi/ Free People
I want to end on another winner and this one has some pizzaz…..the cut in shoulders is very flattering and it’s certainly an on trend print. Fun dress!
Aztec print maxi/ Eliza J/ $158.00
I’ve shown mostly images with little writing, well actually, more writing than I meant to, hopefully to inspire and answer my client’s question. Nancy, I think you pulled yours off! If you are in need of a stylish look for the weekend….this could be it.
Please let me know if you need any help from me……I do have gift certificates available for Mother’s Day. We can tailor it to the special young lady/woman that you would like to receive it. Closet editing/some organizing, personal shopping, event shopping, etc. Shoot me an email or call, it’s not too late!
Thanks for reading and as always, I so appreciate shares and sign-ups. Have a wonderful weekend and tell mom you love her!
