A Fab Maxi Dress, Will Go a Long Way

A Fab Maxi Dress, Will Go a Long Way

Friday I was asked to share some of my favorite Maxi Dresses of the season! As the Maxi is legit my favorite dress of summer (and I own MANY), I was thrilled by this request.  This spent the weekend searching for fab finds.

A little background on me and dresses:  I was the dress buyer while at Century 21 Department stores and I became sort of an addict.  I truly believe that if you find a great dress, you will have it for years to come.  The dress above is my absolute favorite Maxi Dress and you will not believe this…..I got it in 2008 (just before I got married) and still wear it often.  My wish is to help you find a dress that you wear for years to come!

FullSizeRender 42As usual, there are so many cute maxis to choose from this season.  Let’s start with the easy, casual, knit crowd. Most of these silouhettes come in both solid and stripes, but I am currently digging the nautical vibe from the stripe variety.  From left to right here are the cream of the crop: Left – Gap Ribbed Striped Racer Maxi (comes in navy and white and gray and white).  For errand running, shopping, or sight seeing – wear it with your favorite sneakers as shown or dress up with a cute block heeled sandal or espadrille for a casual summer gathering.  Today it’s just $38 (regularly $79.95) with code “sunshine.”  Middle – Striped Tank Maxi from Old Navy.  Super easy for anywhere summer brings you.  Just add flip flops and go!  And at $17 it is a no brainer (again use code “sunshine”).  On Right – Felicity & Coco Strapless Stripe Maxi Dress with Knot Keyhole Back.  I love the mixed stripes, the drape of the skirt, and the unexpected back interest – they make this dress one you’ll way for summers to come.  $88 at Nordstrom.

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Looking for the “it” look of the summer in Maxi form?  The off the shoulder ruffle dress fills that bill.  Both feminine and flirty, it is equally as home at an afternoon wedding as it is for an evening cocktail party.  Here are my favorite finds in all price ranges: Left – the sophisticated blue and white seersucker like stripe Ruffle One Shoulder Maxi from Banana Republic at the amazing price of $48 with code “sunshine” (normally $158)!!!!  pair her with a pair of gold flats for daytime or with gold heels or espadrilles for evening.           Middle – Navy Dots…swoon worthy (think Pretty Woman) in my opinion.  I personally purchased this for a 4th of July party and can not wait to put it on.  $58 at LuLu’s.  Right – a preppy menswear like stripe, off the shoulder dress, which reminds me of a old school glam Ralph Lauren Dress, but this one is just $58 and from Forever 21 (and yes I am guilty of indulging in this brand at age 38 – shhh, don’t tell).  I truly have a major crush on this maxi!

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The Maxi is a staple in any wardrobe.  Be it spaghetti strap, strapless, or a tank silhouette – you host can’t go wrong in a Maxi with a great print and an easy fit.  All of these fit that bill.  Left – An easy Woven Maxi Dress from Felicity & Coco at Nordstrom ($98) that comes in several amazing prints and a gorgeous solid navy.  Light weight and airy – it will keep you cool while looking hot ;).  Middle – I adore this gold floral print and the smocked bodice is so flattering.  The color lends it self to transitioning to fall with the addition of a denim jacket and a camel bootie.  At $55 its a must have from Socialite.  Right – a mixed media dress in two rich and vibrant prints.  A head turner for sure.  The Parkland Maxi Dress at Anthropologie.

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Lastly, here are a few dresses that are a bit different and special – so beware, compliments will ensue!

First – a gingham woven Maxi Dress from JCrew with pockets (who doesn’t love pockets!?!).  I love the simple elegance and versatility of this dress.    With a pair of leather flip flops she is great for day and add some heels and statement earrings and she is black tie worthy!  Currently 25% off with code “summer” – making it $126.

Next – a crochet top Maxi.  The mix of textures makes it stand apart and the colors are so deep and drenched with complexity.  If all that isn’t enough, the tie back just seals the deal for me!  At Anthropologie – $168 the Violet Sunset Crocheted Dress makes me smile.

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Last, but not least, The Sally Dress from Hutch.  This one may just be my favorite of the bunch.  My beautiful and fashionable friend wore it for her 40th Birthday and I have been thinking of it ever since.  Maybe its the elephant print, or the fitted knit top, or the criss cross tie back….or all of it together.  Whatever it may be, this dress will be one of your summer favs for summers to come – especially as it is on sale for $148.99 (regularly $255) and you can get an extra 20% off if you sign up for their email list bringing it to $119!