An Easy Guide to Styling the Iconic Maxi Dress
Iconic Maxi Dress
When it comes to timeless pieces, the maxi dress tops the list. Universally flattering, versatile and transeasonal, it’s a must have in every wardrobe and when styled well, makes for a showstopping outfit.
Whether you’re attending a black tie event or adding to your vacation wardrobe, we’ve put together an easy guide on what to look for when shopping for the perfect maxi and how to style this staple piece to make it work for you.
Seasonal Styling
Image via: Alamour The Label
During the warmer months of Spring and Summer, a maxi dress can take you from day to night with the right accessories. For an effortlessly chic daytime look, pair it with flats and a large tote bag, or style it with your favourite high heels, dazzling jewellery, and clutch bag for a special occasion after dark. By switching up your accessories, the same dress can seamlessly take you from a summer afternoon by the beach to an evening of cocktails under the stars.
Over Autumn and Winter, look for maxi dresses in a heavier fabric and explore luxuriously rich colour palettes of deep emerald, ruby and navy. Finish your look with a pair of stilettos, a sparkling tennis necklance and a faux fur jacket for an opulent evening look.
The Gwen Dress has a daring plunge keyhole neck, an open back, and a side hem slit. Pair it with the Manon Earrings and Cassandra Heels.
The Right Shoes
Choosing the right shoes to suit the style of dress, occasion and season is key to completing your outfit.
A long, breezy vacation dress works well with stylish Grecian sandals or slides, or elevate your look for a romantic seaside dinner by switching to wedged espadrilles.
A maxi dress with a thigh-high hem slit is your opportunity to show off your legs – and a pair of fabulous strappy sandals.
If you need a little extra height to support a maxi dress length, opt for platform heels, which add height without compromising on comfort – perfect for when you’ll be spending time on your feet.
To avoid stilettos getting tangled in the long hem and damaging your dress, opt for a wedge or block heel instead.
The Artura Dress has a structured sweetheart neckline, a flirty lace-up back, and a romantic tiered skirt; a design that elongates your figure and looks gorgeous paired with a dainty gold choker.
The Perfect Silhouette
With a myriad of stunning silhouettes on offer, finding the perfect one for you can feel like a challenge.
A sweetheart neckline or a fitted bodice with a bustier structure will place focus on your décolletage. Elevate this feminine look and combine it with a fit and flare maxi silhouette.
A ruffled, off-the-shoulder neckline, with or without puff sleeves, will add shape to a more slender figure, similar to a one-shoulder neckline, which will redirect focus to your shoulders and give the same illusion.
Halter-neck styles and those with a straight or square neckline have a slimming effect on the bust area.
Spaghetti-strap and stretchy bodice styles, as well as empire waistlines, are incredibly flattering to curvy body types. Dresses with elasticated details, multiple straps, and versatile shapes adjust to your body in the most comfortable and aesthetically pleasing way.
Tiered-ruffle maxi dresses and mermaid gowns have an elongating effect and are flattering on all figures.
The Monique Dress, with a straight neckline, sparkly spaghetti straps, and an asymmetric maxi hem is made of luxurious duchess satin and detailed in a way that looks stunning with delicate jewellery and neutral accessories.
The Accessories
The accessories you choose to complete your look will determine how your maxi dress fits the season, occasion and overall style. Experiment with the addition of floral headbands, retro hats, satin pouch bags, vintage jewellery, and even gloves. Soften your look with accessories in pastel and neutral shades or make a statement with bold, bright hues.
Create a dramatic evening look with a monochrome maxi dress paired with crystal chokers, dangling drop earrings, sparkly shoes or box clutches.
Compliment a plunging neckline or an open back with long chandelier earrings or a statement lariat necklace for a glam finish.
On a sunny morning, wear your casual maxi dress with a straw hat and a basket tote to exude French Riviera vibes. On a breezy summer night, layer a lightweight silk scarf over your shoulders that epitomizes class.
