8 Tips to Maximize that Maxi Dress

Summer trends run the gamut from short shorts and skirts to every girls’ best friend – the dress.   And one stand-out continues to be the maxi dress and the maxi skirt. I am have been contemplating buying a maxi-dress but  hesitant because I feel at 5’4″, I am too short and all that fabric will overwhelm me. It just seems that I only see the style on tall, thin modely types.

But  the style experts from T.J.Maxx and Marshalls (where you can snag current season designer duds at up to 60% less than department and specialty stores) have offered a few tips that can maximize your maxi dress or skirt look no matter your age, body shape or personal style.

The Basics:

• If you are petite (under 5’4”), choose a style that sits close to your body or a structured dress with a defined waist. Avoid horizontal stripes (unless they are narrow) and large patterns. Taller women can get away with a looser fit and larger stripes. (Lucky ladies.)
• A V-neck maxi dress flatters all shapes and also elongates the figure.
• Look for maxi dresses and skirts in solid colors like black, olive green, deep purple and dark brown.For those with a larger bust, stick with a halter top or thick straps.  Avoid tiny prints or anything that is too loose-fitting.
• And remember, a beautifully patterned (think watercolor) maxi dress can be casual during the day and dressed up for the evening with the right accessories.

Style It

• Cinch a solid color maxi dress at the waist with a belt in a bold color for a super-chic look.
• Keep jewelry simple and in line with the time of day or the occasion. For example, select statement earrings, stacking bracelets, layered necklaces or a cocktail ring – but not all at once. Try pairing a necklace and bracelets for daytime, and earrings and a ring for evening.
• Every girl needs a bag! Choose a hobo or tote, something slouchy. A small handbag can get lost and a boxy, structured bag doesn’t fit the hippie chic feel of this look.
•  And last but not least, the shoes! Choose casual or embellished sandals, wedges, espadrilles or even flats but be sure the hemline is tailored above the ground. A skirt that drags on the ground looks sloppy. And avoid rubber flip-flops – unless you’re headed out for a at o the beach.

 

Disclosure: NYC Single Mom was not compensated for this post.