Maxi dresses
With its wear-anywhere abilities and effortless attitude, the maxi dress is one of summer’s unsung heroes. This floor-length style is fun-loving, breezy and low-maintenance. What makes the maxi dress ideal for the season is its ability to take you from day to night with style. Pair it with flat sandals or sneakers and a denim jacket on top for a more casual look, or throw one on with a pair of heeled sandals and you’re ready to take on your after-dark activities. Keep reading for a roundup of maxis perfect for a variety of occasions.
Best maxi dresses of 2021
Free People Pretty Cozy Maxi Dress: available at Amazon
This boho-chic style is easy-going and effortless. It’s available in blue ecru, and brown and is peppered with eyelet details and a tiered ruffle hem. While it’s meant to be worn as a dress, there’s also the option to switch things up and wear it like a kimono with the buttons open. Throw it over jeans and a tee or pair with a swimsuit as a coverup.
Jen’s Pirate Booty Rio Walk of Fame Kaftan: available at Revolve
This pastel frock is basically begging to go to the beach with its tie-dye pattern, slit detail along the side and lightweight fabric. Because the slit details go almost all the way up to the waist, some wearers might prefer to wear a slip underneath or style as a swimsuit coverup. As far as accessories go, this dress would pair well with a pair of light-colored flat sandals or white platform heels and a white denim jacket.
Daily Ritual Supersoft Terry Standard-Fit Racerback Dress: available at Amazon
If you’re trying to jet off on vacation with only a carry-on this summer, something versatile and non-fussy like this maxi dress from Amazon will do the trick. It’s a pretty low-maintenance staple as it’s machine washable, neutral, soft and comfortable. One of the best parts about this dress is its under-$40 price tag.
The Drop @graceatwood Ruffle V-Neck Maxi Dress: available at Amazon
This long, loose-fitting dress with a ruffled neckline paired with espadrilles is a no-brainer outfit for the warm weather. All three colors – Fiesta Red, Navy, and Palm Print – fit in seamlessly to a summer wardrobe. While some might prefer the free-flowing drape of this style, pair with a light-brown belt for a defined waistline.
LNA Candi Dress: available at Revolve
The side slit and form-fitting cut of this dress make it a flattering style for summer, and the solid-colored ribbed detailing makes it on-trend while still maintaining staple status. Both the white and lavender color options would pair well with a cardigan or denim jacket for chilly nights. You can even pair the white dress with a white jacket or sweater for a trendy monochrome look.
More Top Picks Work Boot
Yidarton Summer Blue-and-White Porcelain Strapless Boho Maxi Long Dress: available at Amazon
The color combination of blue and white is timeless for summer, but this style also comes in over 20 colors or patterns. This dress is made of a lightweight material that’s easy to throw on in a pinch, and its ruffle details and cinched waist allow it to strike the perfect balance between loose-fitting and flattering.
Tory Burch Sleeveless Tie Dress: available at Tory Burch
The tie details and unconventional waistline set this dress apart as a unique, yet wearable, summer staple. If you prefer to stick to darker tones but still want to dress seasonally in a way that’s appropriate, a style like this one fits the bill.
Nine West Tiered Peasant Maxi Dress: available at Kohl’s
This peasant-style tiered dress is a summery staple that comes in four color and pattern options. The drawstring spaghetti strap halter creates a dainty effect on an otherwise simple dress. The patterned palm and stripe prints make for excellent daytime looks, while the solid black option can take you from day to night.
Sanctuary So Long Maxi Dress: available at Revolve
With long balloon sleeves and a bold animal print, this dress was made for those who want to make a statement. With a wrap detail and an empire waist, the So Long maxi boasts a flattering silhouette for a night out. This dress also features a partial lining that eliminates the need to wear a slip, and metallic details that provide a unique touch.
ZESICA Bohemian Floral-Print Wrap V-Neck Short-Sleeve Split Beach Party Maxi Dress: available at Amazon
Flutter sleeves, bold prints and vibrant colors give off a boho look for those who have a more carefree sense of style. Flattering details on this dress include a loose short sleeve, a v-neck and a wrap waist. Pair with a pair of neutral sandals or heels and minimal accessories to let the pattern remain the focus of the outfit. Add a tank top underneath if you prefer to stray away from lower necklines.
Bar III Pleated Ombré Maxi Dress: available at Macy’s
This dress is far from subtle with its structural pleats and bold colors. This dress is complete with spaghetti straps that show off your arms and a flattering v-neck. Wear with a belt for an accentuated waist or without for a flowy look. This style comes in cool-toned and warm-toned options to complement different skin tones and it pairs well with strappy heeled sandals.
Tory Burch Strap Back Dress: available at Tory Burch
If you’re planning on making an appearance at any summer weddings, the form-fitting style and strappy details on this dress give it an elegant touch that works for a formal occasion. The backless style makes it a little more youthful than some other styles, but the longer length makes up for some of the skin showing on the back. Pair with strappy sandals or platform espadrilles for an elevated summer look.
Mallory Pitts is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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