Maxi dresses are known for their comfort, versatility, and effortless elegance. Whether worn casually during the day or dressed up for a night out, the maxi dress can be a wardrobe staple. However, knowing what to wear with a maxi dress can be tricky.
The right accessories, shoes, and outerwear can elevate the look, making it perfect for any occasion. In this blog, we will explore various styling tips on how to pair your maxi dress with the right pieces, from shoes to outerwear, to create a cohesive, fashionable ensemble.
Maxi dresses offer an expansive canvas to experiment with different styles, colors, and layers. Understanding how to balance the flow of the dress with the right accessories can transform your look from simple to chic. By following these styling guidelines, you’ll know exactly what to wear with a maxi dress to enhance its beauty and ensure you feel confident.
Choosing the Right Footwear
The right footwear can make or break your maxi dress outfit. For casual daytime looks, sandals or espadrilles are ideal, as they complement the relaxed feel of a maxi dress. Flat sandals with decorative straps or simple slides add an easy, comfortable touch, allowing you to move freely while maintaining a stylish look.
If you’re attending a more formal event or need a bit of height, consider wearing wedges or heeled sandals. Wedges, in particular, provide stability and comfort, especially when paired with flowy maxi dresses. Alternatively, a classic pair of pointed-toe heels can add a sophisticated element to a more structured maxi dress.
For colder weather, ankle boots or knee-high boots are great options to pair with a maxi dress. Depending on the style of the dress, boots can add an unexpected yet fashionable twist. Opt for sleek, fitted boots to maintain the dress’s silhouette, or choose chunky boots for a more edgy, contrastive look.
Finally, make sure to select shoes that match the style and color of your maxi dress. Neutral-toned shoes work well with most dresses, while a pop of color can add a fun accent if you’re looking for something more daring. The key is to choose footwear that harmonizes with the overall vibe of the outfit.
Accessorizing for the Right Look
Accessories play a vital role in complementing a maxi dress and adding a personal touch to your outfit. A wide-brimmed hat, for example, can add a bohemian flair to a flowy maxi dress, making it perfect for casual outings or summer festivals. Hats also serve a practical purpose, protecting you from the sun while enhancing your overall look.
Jewelry is another important element when styling a maxi dress. A statement necklace or a pair of bold earrings can draw attention to your face and elevate the dress’s overall appearance. If you prefer a more minimalistic look, delicate chains or stud earrings can complement the simplicity of the dress without overwhelming it.
Belts are also great accessories to wear with a maxi dress, especially if you want to define your waist. A wide belt can add structure to a loose, flowy dress, while a thinner belt creates a more subtle effect. Opt for a leather belt for a more polished look or a braided style for a relaxed vibe.
Lastly, consider carrying a stylish bag that fits the occasion. A crossbody bag or a clutch can be ideal for evening events, while a tote bag or a backpack pairs nicely with a casual, everyday maxi dress. Ensure your bag complements the color scheme and style of the dress to maintain a cohesive look.
Layering with Outerwear
Layering is key to adapting your maxi dress for different seasons or occasions. In cooler months, a denim jacket or a leather jacket can add both warmth and style to your maxi dress. Denim jackets work especially well with casual maxi dresses, giving them a laid-back vibe, while leather jackets add an edge, perfect for a more polished or rocker-inspired look.
For an elegant touch, a tailored blazer can elevate your maxi dress for more formal events. A blazer instantly adds structure to a loose-fitting dress, creating a sleek silhouette. If you prefer a more relaxed look, a cardigan or kimono jacket can provide coverage without overpowering the flow of the dress, making it suitable for a casual yet put-together look.
In colder weather, you can pair a maxi dress with a long, wool coat. A long coat creates a dramatic effect when layered over a maxi dress, particularly when styled with a pair of boots. Choose a coat that contrasts or complements the fabric and color of the dress to keep your outfit balanced.
A lightweight shawl or pashmina can also be a great addition when attending weddings or formal events. These pieces can provide extra warmth while maintaining a delicate, elegant look, especially when made from silk, cashmere, or fine wool.
Choosing the Right Maxi Dress for Your Body Shape
When styling a maxi dress, it’s important to choose one that flatters your body shape. A-line maxi dresses are universally flattering, as they create a smooth, elongated silhouette. This style works well on most body types and can be paired with a variety of accessories and footwear.
For those with a pear-shaped body, an empire-waist maxi dress works well, as it draws attention to the upper body while flowing away from the hips. Pairing such a dress with a statement necklace or earrings can balance the proportions and draw focus upward.
For hourglass figures, maxi dresses with a defined waist and body-hugging silhouette can accentuate curves while maintaining comfort. A dress with a wrap-style design or an adjustable waist tie can be both flattering and fashionable for those with an hourglass shape.
On the other hand, straight body types can opt for maxi dresses with gathered details or ruffles to add curves and volume. A belt or waist cincher can also add definition and create the illusion of a more shapely silhouette.
How to Dress for the Occasion
The key to knowing what to wear with a maxi dress is understanding the occasion. For casual daytime wear, maxi dresses can be paired with simple accessories, flat shoes, and relaxed outerwear. A maxi dress with a floral print, paired with sandals and a crossbody bag, is perfect for a picnic or a day out shopping.
For a formal event, such as a wedding or a gala, you can opt for a more elegant maxi dress with sophisticated accessories. A sleek black maxi dress, paired with heeled sandals, statement jewelry, and a tailored blazer, can create an elegant, refined look suitable for evening events.
Maxi dresses also work well for business casual settings. Pair a solid-colored, knee-length or midi maxi dress with a cardigan and flats for a professional, polished look. Accessories should be kept to a minimum to maintain a more understated style.
For outdoor events like summer festivals or beach outings, a flowy maxi dress with a boho-inspired design is ideal. Pair the dress with comfortable sandals or wedges, a floppy hat, and light jewelry to create an effortless, chic look.