Maxi dresses are versatile pieces that can fit any occasion, from elegant evenings or beachside gatherings to casual settings. Dressing down a maxi dress allows you to get more wear out of it and adds a touch of effortless vibe to your everyday look. Here, we'll explore creative ways to dress down your flowy maxi dress to a simple everyday outfit.
How to Dress Down a Maxi Dress
1. Pair with Denim
Denim - COs & Levi's
Whether a classic blue jean jacket or an oversized boyish style, layering it over your maxi dress instantly adds a relaxed edge to your look. This versatile combination is chic and works for different occasions. You can unbutton it for a relaxed look.
2. Pair With Casual Shoes
Shoes - charleskeith & Nike & Next
For a laid-back and comfortable look, style your maxi dress with sneakers, whether classic white sneakers or trainers. Roll up the hem of the dress slightly to show off your footwear and create a more relaxed silhouette. Add a denim or bomber jacket for extra warmth and style. You can also go for espadrilles or flat sandals. Birkenstocks or slip-on shoes are also comfortable. Don't be shy to rock some boots. Ankle boots add toughness to a floral maxi, while combat boots give you an edgy look. Avoid heels or dressy shoes to keep the look casual.
3. Belt it up
Belt - COS & ASOS & Shopbop
A belt cinching your waist will add some definition to the silhouette of the maxi dress. A simple leather belt can give a more laid-back feel. Incorporating a belt into your outfit can also help balance the proportions of your maxi dress, especially if it is flowy or voluminous. Cinching the waist creates a more defined shape and prevents the dress from overwhelming your figure. When choosing a belt to pair with your maxi dress, consider the colour, texture, and style of the dress and the belt to ensure a cohesive and harmonious outfit. You can match the belt to the colour of your shoes or handbag for a coordinated look.
4. Accessorise Appropriately
Accessories - Liberty London, Ted Baker, everlane
Choose accessories that complement the casual look, such as a canvas tote bag or a leather or beach hat. Avoid overly flashy accessories that might clash with the casual look you're going for. Layers on statement jewellery like bold necklaces, stackable bracelets, or oversized earrings enhance your look. Statement jewellery will add colour or texture to your ensemble, drawing attention to your neckline, wrists, or ears.
5. Hair Matters
waves - percyandreed
bun - therighthairstyles
Fishtale braid - stylishlyme
In addition to accessories, your hairstyle also helps in dressing down a maxi dress and completing your casual look. Effortless hairstyles like loose waves, messy buns, or braids perfectly complement the laid-back vibe of a maxi dress. If you're going for a beachy, more relaxed look, waves or curls might be a great choice.
Braids are also a great idea. Whether it's a simple side braid, fishtail braid, crown braid, or braided hairstyle, these styles are great for keeping your hair off your face and neck. Pair your braided hairstyle with a floral maxi dress and layered jewellery. Regardless of your hairstyle, aim for a relaxed and undone look that complements the effortless vibe of your maxi dress. Don't be afraid to add a few hair accessories, like hairpins, headbands, or scarves, to enhance your hairstyle and give you a playful look.
6. Natural Makeup
Keep your makeup minimal and natural-looking to match the relaxed vibe of your outfit. Go as easy as with minimal foundation, a touch of bronzer, and mascara. Bold lipstick can add a pop of colour. And a nude lip or lip gloss to complement the casual feel of a dressed-down maxi dress.
Are Maxi Dresses Flattering?
Maxi dresses can be incredibly flattering. What's important is choosing the right type of dress for your body shape. Flowy A-line silhouettes flatter most, while empire waists elongate your torso and define your waist. Details like ruching or gathers that skim your curves without clinging, and accessorize with belts to accentuate your shape further.
What Kind of Jackets do you wear with a Maxi Dress?
A denim jacket is a popular and versatile option that perfectly complements a maxi dress's casual-chic vibe. The denim fabric offers a touch of edge and texture. Whether it's a cropped, fitted style or an oversized design, a denim jacket effortlessly enhances the overall look of a maxi dress, making it a go-to choice for both daytime outings and evening events. Leather jackets and kimonos are also a great choice.
Where Should a Maxi Dress Hit?
This all depends on your style but the ideal landing spot for your maxi dress depends on your height and preference, but generally, a Petite build should aim for Ankle-length or just above to avoid tripping, and keep proportions balanced. Average height should aim for the ankle to mid-calf, which makes it versatile and comfortable, while taller people should be floor-grazing in length for elegant draping but slightly shorter also works.
A maxi dress should ideally hit at or slightly above the ankle to achieve the most flattering and stylish look. This length allows the dress to gracefully skim the floor without dragging or bunching up, creating a sleek and elongated silhouette. Additionally, a maxi dress that hits at the ankle showcases the footwear you pair with, whether sandals, sneakers, or heels, adding an extra element of style to your ensemble.
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