05/22/12 - 0 Comments
Four Styles of Maxi Dresses and How to Wear Them
When it comes to fashion, it goes without saying that versatility is just as much favored as the latest trend, and nothing is as versatile as the maxi dress! Whether you are an average Jane or a celebrity, this is one style that looks good no matter what age or body type.
The maxi dress has been a staple in the fashion world for a very long time and throughout the years, even with designers taking creative liberties, it has maintained its classic tubular shape. Simply effortless, yet put together is the look you get every time you don a maxi dress and, because it’s a classic, it doesn’t seem to be going away anytime soon. If you’re new to the maxi dress phenomenon, it’s time to bring you up to speed on your the fashion 4-1-1. Here are four styles of maxis you need to be in the know about now and how to wear them this season.
The Airy Maxi
If you’re in the game for an even more effortless look than the plain maxi, with the airy maxi you get that look times ten. Maintaining its tubular shape, the airy maxi typically gets its flow from the tube being widened as it extends down to the hemline. The wider the hemline the more airy flow you get when you walk, and this is the biggest reason why the models on the runway look almost ethereal. This look can also be described as the bohemian style maxi and you’ll understand why when you take a look at the wild printed maxi dresses Dolce & Gabbana came out with in their D&G Summer 2012 Ready-to-Wear line. Even Michael Kors and Diane Von Furstenberg got into the airy style with their Spring 2012 collections.
When it comes to this particular style, it’s best to let the dress speak for itself so don’t over accessorize, especially if you have a heavily printed dress. No matter the neckline, skip the necklace and focus more on statement earrings that are perfect for long or short hair. Simple bangles are also ideal in bringing out this bohemian look. If you’re fond of wearing heels, make sure you go for a strapped heel — but for more of a summer look, espadrille wedges and Trojan sandals are key to keeping this style of dress effortless.
The Strapless Maxi
The strapless maxi is a great, feminine yet modest look to go for this summer and it’s definitely a look you can pull off on the streets of New York for a flawless beachy look while still looking like you stepped off the runway.
When styling this look, the hair is very important. More often than not, when you choose any strapless outfit, you have a fashionable agenda in mind — whether it’s to show off toned arms or your latest jewelry find, it’s recommended you wear an updo of some kind. If you’re not too fond of your arms, an eye catching necklace will do wonders drawing attention more so to your neckline-or don a simple cropped cardigan.
The Sheer Maxi
If you love the skin you’re in, the sheer maxi is a great way to show it off without revealing too much. The sheer look is very versatile and can be worn edgy, casual and even classy. Whether you want sheer sleeves, sheer skirt or an entirely sheer dress, you will most definitely find what you’re looking for. In the fashion world, the sheer maxi may also be referred to as the evening maxi, but with a few adjustments here and there, this look can easily be worn during the day. Model Abbey Lee is a great source of inspiration for this look.
Lee has worn the look in a glamor-meets-grunge fashion, covering the top of her black sheer maxi with a simple jersey tank, a few sweater necklaces and a glittery jacket — casual but chic. However, if you’re more daring, all you need is some matching undergarments, killer shoes and, of course, stellar confidence.
The Drop Waist Maxi
When you have a classic piece in your ensemble, there’s no going wrong — but when you mix one classic with another (in this instance, a drop waist) there is nothing but right. Mixing the maxi dress with a dropped waist is a case of modern meets the 1920s and now effortless just got sophisticated. Designers such as Dries Van Noten and Roberto Cavalli have mastered this look by adding their own unique touch.
For your own unique touch, try adding a braided belt of a complimentary color, but be sure that your shoes match whatever belt color you have chosen. If you’re planning to wear a drop waist maxi to a more upscale function, pair the look with a fitted blazer.
No matter which style of maxi you choose, you are sure to look your best. Remember, the maxi is a staple fashion piece, which means you don’t need to over accessorize so much, as the dress speaks for itself. Styling these designer looks should be just like the dress — effortless!
