The maxi dress has become a staple of every fashionable woman’s wardrobe. As a flowing, ankle-length garment, the maxi flatters figures of all shapes and sizes. For curvy women, a maxi dress skims over the body, highlighting your best assets while camouflaging any areas you wish to downplay. Tall and slender figures find the maxi adds volume and movement. Petite frames discover the maxi makes them appear taller by drawing the eye up and down.
An Introduction to Maxi Fashion: Long, Flowing, and Flattering
Maxi dresses and skirts, garments that extend to the ankles or floor, have been a fashion staple for centuries. Today, maxi fashion is more popular than ever, offering comfort, style, and a flattering silhouette for every body type.
Loose, flowing fabrics like jersey knit, chiffon or rayon gently skim the body, concealing any areas of concern while showcasing your shape. Strategic ruching, belts or empire waists can further accentuate your curves.
Petite or short-statured women can also rock the maxi trend. Look for styles with a high waist or empire cut and minimal bulk, without overwhelming your frame. A maxi with a defined waistline, vertical details like stripes, or a high slit helps create the illusion of height.
Tall or athletically built women can pull off nearly any maxi style. However, a maxi with an asymmetric or handkerchief hem, or one with a billowy, voluminous skirt adds feminine flair and balances out a straight, athletic figure.
No matter your size or shape, there is a maxi dress ideally suited to flatter your body. When paired with the right shoes and accessories, a maxi dress or skirt can be an effortlessly chic and comfortable addition to any wardrobe.
How to Style Maxi Dresses and Skirts for Your Body Type
To look your best in maxi dresses and skirts, consider your body type and personal style. Opt for cuts, patterns, and accessories that complement your shape and enhance your silhouette.
Pear
Draw attention upward. Maxi dresses with embellished necklines, flutter or cap sleeves, and A-line cuts balance your lower half. Florals and lighter colors up top with darker hues on the bottom also work well.
Rectangle
Add shape. A-line, wrap, and belted maxis give the illusion of curves. Ruffles, peplum details, and strategic draping also help create shape. V-necks and scoop necks broaden the shoulders.
Petite
Elongate your frame. Higher necklines, vertical stripes, and monochromatic outfits make you appear taller. Empire or A-line maxis that end at mid-calf or just above the ankle are ideal. Avoid overly voluminous or long styles that swallow your shape.
Plus Size
Play up your best features. Empire maxis accentuate the bust, A-lines flatter the hips, and wrap dresses cinch in at the waist. Don’t be nervous about graphic prints and bright colors. A gorgeous maxi, paired with the right accessories, will make you feel comfortable and confident.
By choosing a maxi style suited for your unique shape and following these helpful styling tips, you’ll be turning heads and feeling your most stunning and feminine self. Long and lovely, indeed.
Our Top Picks for Must-Have Maxi Fashions This Season
This season, maxi fashions are all about feminine and flattering silhouettes. Whether you prefer flowy and bohemian or structured and polished, there are maxi dresses and skirts for every style and body type.
A-line Maxi Dress
An A-line maxi dress cinches at the waist and flows out into a full skirt. This shape is universally flattering and perfect for any occasion. Look for an A-line maxi in a lightweight, breathable fabric like cotton or rayon for a casual boho vibe or choose lace, chiffon or silk for an evening look. Add a jean jacket and sandals for the day or statement jewelry and heels for the night.
Column Maxi Skirt
A column maxi skirt has a straight cut that skims close to the body from the waist to the ankle. This sleek, minimalist shape works well for athletic and ruler body types. Look for a column maxi skirt in a solid color or small print and pair it with a fitted blouse or tank for a stylish longline silhouette. Add statement accessories like a wide belt, dramatic necklace, or kimono-style jacket. Column maxis also transition nicely from day to night with a simple change of accessories and footwear.
Conclusion
As you have seen, maxi dresses and skirts have much to offer for women of all shapes and sizes. From casual and loose-fitting styles perfect for the weekend to sleek and structured options ideal for a night out, there are maxis to suit every occasion and complement every body type. The next time you are looking to add a versatile and flattering piece to your wardrobe, consider a maxi. Flowing and feminine yet polished and put-together, maxi fashion allows you to make a stylish statement while remaining comfortable.
Whether you prefer prints or solids, loose or fitted, a maxi is a must-have for any season. So go ahead, pick your perfect maxi, and enjoy the confidence and grace it brings. With the right maxi for you, getting dressed just got a whole lot easier.
