The sustained (increasing?) popularity of maxi dresses rates as a five-star win in my book. (Five stars being the BEST!)
I’m probably a little biased. I am 6’ tall, so long jackets, long tunics, and long dresses are my go-tos. Long johns, not so much.
As an aside… I promised to be transparent on this blog, so I’m going to level with you. I’m really only 5’11.” The last time I went to the doctor she wanted to measure me. I felt like a kid. I can’t remember the last time anyone measured me! When the nurse told me I was 5’11,” I had her remeasure—three times. No lollipops were given as a reward for my cooperation. In fact, the poor nurse, who was just trying to get through a long day, looked a little put-out.
Anyway.
Right now, maxi dresses are more popular than ever. I don’t know about you, but I’d rather wear a dress during the summer than a pair of shorts or cropped pants. Here’s why:
- I’m one and done. No layering, no searching for the right combo.
- I stay cool. With the humidity of our region during summer months and with my body’s mammoth “power surges,” that means a lot!
- I love the versatility. I can dress them up or down just by changing out accessories.
- I am comfortable for hours. I’m not a big fan of under garments that smooth and tuck. Although I’d probably look better, my comfort means more to me! The maxi dresses I buy are loose.
So easy. So cool. So comfy.
I recently went on a long-dress-seeking mission.
My Maxi Dress Rampage
One night while KB1 was out of town, I went a little wild and ordered six dresses from Anthropologie. If I were the kind to place blame, I would hold my next-door-neighbor accountable for this. She was the one who told me the company had just added some cute new long dresses to their site.
But I am not that kind of person (mostly). I take full responsibility
Besides, I NEEDED some dresses. I really did. I’m sure you agree. Thank you.
I had so much fun looking at Anthropologie’s site. They offer such unique designs, things you don’t see anywhere else. And it doesn’t hurt that I’ve worn anything I’ve ever purchased from them for years.
And here’s the one I kept…
What do I love?
I love the colors, the flowy fabric, the square neckline, the puff sleeves, and the LENGTH! This dress is perfect for date night with KB-1 on those humid summer nights or for a brunch with the girls or for church…so many occasions. And, oh my gosh–it’s so comfortable, it’s like I’m getting away with wearing a nightgown in public.
I recently wore it to have dinner with some friends at Freight House. We took a walk on the riverfront afterwards and I was so glad I’d worn it. The breeze from the river floated right through me. My sandals are super-comfy, too! They are Bjorns–“Iwa” in gold.
One more find!
I found the other maxi I bought this spring at TJMaxx. Don’t you just love a good find at that store? I always feel so smart when I do (not sure what it has to do with intelligence, but…) It’s label is Max Studio and the MSRP (Manufacturer’s Standard Retail Price) is $148. But do you think I paid that? Of course not! I snagged it for $29.99. Here’s a similar one.
There are a number of reasons this dress works for me. First, black and white are staples in my wardrobe. You can’t go wrong with this classic combo. Also, I love the subtle ruffles along the neckline and around the sleeves. They aren’t too froo-froo or too “precious,” which are adjectives I do not wear well.
The fabric is lightweight, making it comfortable in warm weather. But it’s not so light that I need to wear something underneath to protect my modesty (LOL). And the small floral pattern and tiers make it on-trend.
As with the maxi from Anthropologie, I can throw on a jacket, swap jewelry, or switch shoes to dress it up or down.
Another maxi dress for the win!
Do you like the maxi trend? Where do you find your dresses? Let us know in the Comments below!
Brenda McElroy
I’m with you all the way on this trend! You look darling in both of these dresses!
Tracey Buchanan
Thanks! So comfy and cool!!