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30 Days of Outfit Ideas: How to Wear a Maxi

January 23, 2018 By: Nada Manleycomment

I want to love the maxi so much more than I do, you guys, but I’m mini, and maxis, by definition, are maxi. They have caused me so much angst. That’s why it took me so long to even attempt to wear one. That, and flashbacks to the light green polyester maxi dress with puff sleeves and a picture of Cinderella’s castle on the front that I adored when I was 8. I’m sure there’s a picture of it somewhere, but I have a reputation to protect.

Fortunately, there are ways that women of all height and sizes can pull off a maxi dress. If you choose wisely, they really are universally flattering, not to mention comfortable. So here, some styling tips on finding the right maxi for your body type.

Length

Choose a maxi that hits just above or below the ankle, to lengthen your legs, and not directly at the ankle. Petite women can go for an even shorter length, just a couple of inches above ankle, or a high-low style, while taller women will always want to make sure it hits below the ankle so it doesn’t seem to short.

Shoes

Strappy sandals, wedges and heels are all great choices for maxi dresses, but stylish sneakers will also work. A sneaky substitute for a heel is a sleek, pointy toe flat, which elongates the leg, but skip the classic ballet flat with this style. If you don’t like a pointy flat, a flat sandal is your best bet.

Waist Definition

No matter what your body type, you’ll want to define your waist to avoid looking overwhelmed by a maxi. A Style Dial 2 should look for an empire style, and define the waist higher, while a Style Dial 3 can do the same or also choose a dropped waist style (as long as tummy bulge isn’t an issue). A Style Dial 1 should look for definition in the middle part of the waist, where their body is naturally defined.

Style Dial 1 Maxi Dress

A flattering vertical neckline and a mid-waist belt make this a great choice for a proportional Style Dial 1.

Main Image - WAYF Gwyneth Wrap Maxi Dress

WAYF Gwyneth Wrap Maxi Dress, $53.40, Nordstrom

Style Dial 2 Maxi Dress

This empire style dress features lots of detail at the top and a soft flowy skirt, making it perfect for a Style Dial 2.

Main Image - Ali & Jay Floral Maxi Dress

Style Dial 3 Maxi Dress

The pattern on this dress and the high-waisted style add shape to the straighter body of a Style Dial 3.

Main Image - Eliza J Scarf Print Crêpe de Chine Fit & Flare Maxi Dress (Regular & Petite)

Eliza J Scarf Print Crêpe de Chine Fit & Flare Maxi Dress (Regular & Petite), $158, Nordstrom

Now that we’ve covered some ground rules, check out these inspiring maxi looks!

Lovely Holiday Looks Outfits For Women waysify

Source: Stylish Wife

pair your maxi with a slim sweater. add a long necklace to break up the look

Source: Gurl

 

Blush maxi skirt

Source: MODWedding

Floral Maxi Skirt Outfit Idea Source

Source: LoLoBu

Graphic tee tucked into maxi skirt plus belt and hat.

Source: Glam Radar

#winter #fashion / Brown Knit + Printed Maxi Skirt + Black Shoulder Bag

Source: Joan D Kemp

Cute way to wear a maxi skirt in fall

Source: Gurl

I have this skirt great idea with white t shirt and animal print

Source: ChicWish

black maxi, chambray oxford, and statement necklace. Great business casual look.

Source: Stylish Wife

Get this fab look with our Essential Black Maxi Skirt! www.psiloveyoumoreboutique.com

Source: PS I love you more boutique

spring fashion White Top & Printed Maxi Skirt

Now that you’re inspired to pull out your maxidress in January (because it’s so not just for summer anymore), check out these finds for a style that suits your budget.

3 Maxi Skirts for Every Budget

Marvelously Magical Black Floral Print Wrap Maxi Skirt 3

Marvelously Magical Black Floral Print Wrap Maxi Skirt, $49, Lulu’s

Amelia Full Yellow Maxi Skirt

Amelia Full Yellow Maxi Skirt, $74.99, MorningLavender.com

Slide View: 3: Farm Rio Natasha Maxi Skirt

Farm Rio Natasha Maxi Skirt, $158, Anthropologie

I hope these maxi skirt outfits have inspired you to wear yours in fresh new ways! Happy outfitting!

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