Top 6 Maxi Dresses for the Summer

Maxi dresses have become a fashion staple for all fashionistas during the hot summer days (and nights!) Its one of those trends that once it becomes in fashion, we all think “why haven’t we been wearing these before?” Thank goodness designers have updated their maxis to stay up to date with this summer’s top trends. There are 6 maxis trends that will update any wardrobe.

#1 Sleeved Maxis

The first trend is maxi dresses with sleeves. Sure, its summer and tanks are the go-to garment but lightweight fabrics will still keep the breezy feel you need in the heat. The sleeve doesn’t need to be at a certain length. It can be short sleeved, three quarter length, or long sleeved, just as long as it flows and is lightweight. This Twelfth St. by Cynthia Vincent dress is a perfect take on the sleeved maxi.

#2 Maxis with Cutouts

We all know that animal prints are a necessity when spicing it up. Maxi dresses are no exception. However, the trend to look for is maxis that have cutouts and that make a statement from the back. We saw this all over the runways. Even though the example above from Style Stalker looks a tad dressy, worn with flat sandals could make it a day and night dress. Make sure the cutouts are in appropriate places. A cutout too high or too low is just asking for a wardrobe malfunction!

#3 Muted Tye-Dye

Maxi dresses are naturally boho looking so adding tye-dye completes the hippie chic look. However, to not look like you left a pound of Skittles on a dress in the sun, go for the muted tye-dye that is one main color. This Free People dress is a perfect example. Add a braided belt or a cropped leather jacket and you’re good to go.

#4 Bandeau Maxi

The bandeau maxi is like an answer to all of our fashion prayers. Its classy. Its fresh. It flatters any and every body type without looking like you’re wearing a bag. The movement of the dress lets it hug curves yet not be form fitting, like this emerald beauty from Reiss . Its perfect. Plus, the bandeau neckline shows off one of my favorite body parts, the collarbone. Add big statement earrings and you’re set.

#5 Ethnic Prints

Since ethnic prints are such a huge trend for summer, I had to include a maxi  with ethnic prints. This Edun dress is so fresh. With tassels and a razor back, this dress is absolutely perfect for summer. Always wear ethnic prints with little to no accessories, let the print speak for itself.

#6 Embellished Necklines

Now this is the one you can have real fun with. You can get a dress that has an embellished neckline built in, like this T-Bags bib dress. Or you can be the perfect recessionista and add a solid color dress with a bib necklace. These are great because the attention is brought to the neckline and ultimately the face, which should always be the emphasis of every outfit. Try a bold colored embellishment on a neutral dress. The embellishment will pop!

Photos Courtesy of Singer 22, Boutique To You, Free People, Reiss, Neiman Marcus