Casual Maxi Dresses: Yay or Nay

Deb

Nay, nay and nay!

The only time I could see a maxi dress as casual wear would be at a beach resort, after sunning and a shower. But even then … *shaking head* … not on me.

January 28, 2011 at 5:01 am

Queen Mum

Veteran

When maxi dresses first made their reappearance a couple years ago, I was 100% on the nay side. To me they looked like nightgowns, and most of them didn’t allow for wearing a bra. I’m seeing a bigger variety now though and I’m slowly finding them more attractive. That said, I’ve seen a grand total of 1 person IRL wear a maxi dress and look good…she was hosting a baby shower and she looked elegant yet casual and cool. If my kids were smaller and we were still spending time every week at the beach or neighborhood pool, I’d snap one up as a beach/pool dress actually.
My other thought as I was browsing the Free People sight was how given the choice of the mini dress and the maxi dress, I’d vote maxi all the way. I’m tired of seeing girls running around with their hemlines at their crotch. A maxi dress would have save Brittany Spears a ton of media attention a few years back

January 28, 2011 at 5:42 am

Inge

I could see this work at a beach resort or in hot climates, but even then I think I would prefer wearing a knee-length dress, maxi dresses just don’t fit my style.

January 28, 2011 at 5:45 am

Mamapicklejuice

Veteran

I would love to find one that works for me – I think it would me great for the playground when I’m sitting at “crotch level” on some play structure…that’s why I generally eschew the knee length dress or skirt…too much fussing to keep my modesty.

January 28, 2011 at 6:02 am

Lisa

Veteran

I’m a nay vote. Often they overwhelm the wearer either in print, length or both.

January 28, 2011 at 6:10 am

Sihaya

Veteran

Nay for me. I think they would overwhelm my short frame and also seem a bit impractical.

January 28, 2011 at 6:13 am

Misia

Veteran

Nay!!! Just NOTme:)

January 28, 2011 at 6:22 am

Becky

Veteran

Nay for me, but I’m with those who can appreciate the look in a beach, resort, or poolside setting.

January 28, 2011 at 6:23 am

Meg

I’m probably one of the few that could pull them off, as tall as I am. (I don’t mean to brag or anything — there are plenty of awesome outfits that do NOT look good on me.)

However, I haven’t tried on one that didn’t look hideous. But that’s usually in the color/pattern or the details or the cut up top, not the length.

I could see myself wearing one poolside, at the beach, at the farmers’ market, at a festival — that sort of thing. It would be nice on a hot summer day provided I had something like a split slip underneath to keep my thighs from chafing.

So, I vote a very hesitant “maybe”.

January 28, 2011 at 6:28 am

Erin

(website)

Oh, I love them.
I used to wear those long peasant skirts when I was in highschool, and while it took me a while to wrap my head around the leaner look this time around, I find that they’re still a comforting style for me.
So a big yay here, I have three maxis in my closet and counting

January 28, 2011 at 6:28 am

wilson

Active Member

I didn’t give maxi dresses much thought until I tried one one a few years ago and was really taken in by the sleekness it gave me. I felt so feminine and sexy but not exposed at all. Maybe that is why I really like them. When I wear very little on top of my body I feel very uncomfortable exposing the lower part at the same time and vice versa.

When I started wearing maxi dresses I lived in a town along a lake that became a beach resort town in the summer and I spent many a mom’s group and play date down at the beach. I never thought that influenced my attraction to them but maybe it did somehow. Looking back I was able to bend, chase, sit and move modestly and still be comfortably cool.

January 28, 2011 at 6:36 am

Joy

Veteran

Nay. I like these even less than casual maxi skirts because they do look like nightgowns and are often too bare on top or a Little House on the Prairie period look. The slim style looks better but is not easy to move in, even (or maybe because of) long slits.

January 28, 2011 at 6:52 am

Susan Brennan

Active Member

After giving it some thought I’m voting YAY under the following circumstances: hot summer evening; I just want to sit on my patio to drink wine and hang out with a small group of friends or family. And, the dress cost less than $75.

January 28, 2011 at 7:03 am

sonce

I vote yay. I understand the objections, but when I wear a maxi I feel fab – taller, sleeker, more elegant. Yet also very comfortable. To avoid the nightgown feel I avoid pastels and patterns, or at most a very subtle pattern.

January 28, 2011 at 7:04 am

Dawn

(website)

Active Member

Nay, not for me anyway!

January 28, 2011 at 7:06 am

greenglove

(website)

Veteran

Yay here. On the right person they are lovely. Peruvian Connection is a clothing company that I think gets the longer length right.
http://www.peruvianconnection......n+dress.do
I would wear that dress casually in a minute.
JJill also has a nice one
http://www.jjill.com/jjillonli.....&sk=M

January 28, 2011 at 7:10 am

Kappy

Veteran

I’m afraid it would probably just look like a muumuu on me! One thing to consider though, what if some has had a knee replacement or some other surgery that leaves significant scarring? Perhaps maxis would be the only type of skirt or dress they could wear? On another not, does anyone even wear long nightgowns anymore? I don’t know one person!

January 28, 2011 at 7:11 am

Kappy

Veteran

Sorry, I meant “someone” not “some” and “note” instead of “not”.

January 28, 2011 at 7:12 am

rute

Veteran

I love them but not for a petite like me..

January 28, 2011 at 7:17 am

Kate

Veteran

Not for me. Especially in the AZ summer, I need more airflow!

January 28, 2011 at 7:21 am

Mo

(website)

Veteran

When they first came around a few years back I didn’t even glance at them on the racks. But just yesterday I tried one on for the first time (it was clingy and therefore hideous) and I think I will give it a chance this year. I live the epitome of the casual lifestyle and it’s quite hot here in FL, so I can see it working for me. I am on the short side, but I think the column effect they give can be attractive.

January 28, 2011 at 7:24 am

Mo

(website)

Veteran

I meant flattering in place of attractive. Couldn’t grasp the right word at that moment lol!

January 28, 2011 at 7:25 am

taylor

Veteran

Nay, been there. Too much fabric and coverage on the bottom , too little fabric and coverage on top for me.

January 28, 2011 at 7:31 am

Deb

Active Member

@ greenglove: High five! I’m a big fan of Peruvian Connection. Love their vibe.

January 28, 2011 at 7:37 am

Elly

Veteran

I am a tall, but not super tall girl. When the maxi dresses first became popular (what, a year or two ago) I was searching for one for a casual/dressy event I had. I am only 5’8″ but I could not find one that was significantly long enough— without heels! Of course, I didn’t go very high end (under the 100 dollar price point) but all of them hit me at an awkward and nightgown-ish length. I also had a hard time finding something I could wear a bra with, which is a major no-no for me. Eventually I did find a few long enough– but of course they went the other direction and were too long because they were meant to sweep the ground with 4 inch caged heels, didn’t end up with one because they were not 32 G appropriate dresses. Twas annoying!

At the time I was living in a hot, desert climate where it just doesn’t cool down (not even at night) in the summer unless there are thunder storms. I wanted something to wear to barbecues and neighborhood/friends’ backyard parties. It was a largely hispanic area, and culturally the dress code for women is dresses and skirts at parties. I thought the maxi would be a nice compromise between being respecting that, and still being able to squat down and play with the kids or sit on the steps or a low lawn chair without constantly worrying about flashing anyone! Plus, the long skirt would make me feel more comfortable being more bare on top— IDK about you, but my lower legs don’t get hot but my arms and chest do. However, I always felt uncomfortable in maxi dresses for straight out day wear. It was always loungewear or party wear.

If I found myself in a similar climate/community or a beach town, I might look for another one, because I don’t mind looking like I am all legs! I also like maxis because I can often shorten them– I have problems with having enough fabric in length on dresses that aren’t tall sizes because I prefer to wear mine a few inches above the knee at the shortest.

Maxi skirts, on the other hand, get more mileage with me. There are a ton of the casual ones that are just too dated or hippie for me. However, I have a beautiful brown cotton one that looks great with a pair of cowboy boots– I just can’t find a top to wear with it at the moment. I also saw a great more dressed-up maxi (not formal though) the other day. It was a dressier skirt that fit at the natural waist in a neutral color and a chiffon fabric with a bit of gathering. It was paired with a chambray shirt and brown boots and a belt. I think it would be a flattering silhouette on me and perfect for events like gallery opening where there are a mix of smart casual jeans ensembles, business, and cocktail.

January 28, 2011 at 7:51 am

morethanbeige

Veteran

I’m just not drawn to the look for me. It’s not on my radar of wants. This could change!

January 28, 2011 at 8:05 am

marianna

Veteran

Honestly — before YLF I was on team Yay. I owned a few and thought they were pretty, and I loved the coverage they gave me (it’s very hard to find dresses that are long enough!) Now I am on team Confused. I don’t own any at the moment, but I don’t necessarily find them revolting either. I am tall so I think if I wanted to I could wear a maxi dress well, but I’ve stayed away for now. I don’t think I will be adding any to my wardrobe but I honestly don’t think they’re that bad.

January 28, 2011 at 8:19 am

valleycat1

If you’re talking casual at home or for a casual party, I say yay. If you’re talking for daily shopping & other chores, then nay, as they aren’t practical – I’d probably either trip over the hem or tear it out – same as with wide legged super long pants.

January 28, 2011 at 8:29 am

valleycat1

I like #4 – the spacedye tank, more than the others.

January 28, 2011 at 8:31 am

rae

(website)

Veteran

Some tall women can do it. Mostly, I say nay.

January 28, 2011 at 8:32 am

alice

I vote nay! Maxi dresses/skirts look ok on other people but they don’t suit my style at all. Being very small boned, I like things fitted and tailored. My only dilemma these days is whether I should start stockpiling skinny jeans in case they disappear forever or trust that they will remain in stores as a staple.

By the way, whatever happened to the basic A-line (or slightly slimmer cut) skirt that hits at the knee? The last few summers I’ve taken to sewing my own skirts because I can’t find anything that was knee length (my favorite) and NOT a pencil. I was hoping hemlines would pause at the knee before dropping down to ankles, but I guess I was wrong…boo!

January 28, 2011 at 8:33 am

Laurie

Screams beach coverup, nightgown and Bridesmaid dress!
NAY!

January 28, 2011 at 8:45 am

Diana

Veteran

Probably a nay for me. I do actually like maxi silhouettes, but I think I’ll be going for skirts this season. My primary problem with maxi dresses is that the top parts are always so small and skimpy! Seriously, they all appear to be cut for women with no breasts who want to bare it all. The most ubiquitous type, the jersey maxi dress with spaghetti straps and empire waist, is not really flattering to anyone in my opinion – they seem to make even the skinniest woman look pregnant and slightly indecent.

I would not be opposed to wearing a maxi dress if it came with an adequate and flattering top portion though!

January 28, 2011 at 8:47 am

Debbie

Veteran

Not for me unless I buy one as a swimsuit cover up! Most of them have too little coverage on the top.

January 28, 2011 at 8:48 am

Jenava

(website)

Veteran

I am going to vote Yay. I am currently stalking this one:
http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/mo.....n=wishlist
which has crochet details and the v-neck line, short dolman sleeves, and a deep slit in a great color. I’d only wear this in Summer and only casually.

January 28, 2011 at 8:48 am

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

I’m surprised to hear all the yay sayers so far actually. Perhaps there won’t be multitudes of maxi dresses on sale racks this season!

I’ll give you this much: some casual maxi dresses look a little better than others. But I am still 100% on Team Nay. Fashion is so subjective

January 28, 2011 at 8:55 am

kellygirl

Veteran

I don’t mind them on others but in all practicality I would never buy one. I know that I would never wear it. Team Nay!

January 28, 2011 at 8:59 am

Elbe

I like the maxi skirts in the winter/fall especially with boots. The tiny top maxi dresses for summer look ok, although I have never seen anyone where them. I get cold so the tiny top part would not work for me.

January 28, 2011 at 9:05 am

LeahJanes

Active Member

I’m a yay! I love them. Cool and romantic. I think the problem with most maxis out there is the cuts that they are made in are unflattering. It’s not the fact that they are long that makes them unflattering by default, in my opinion anyway.

January 28, 2011 at 9:06 am

LoP

Veteran

I’m open to all styles if I can make it mine. Maxi dresses and boyfriend jeans are in the same category for me. Interesting silhouette, **very** hard to style, but can be iconic done right. So I’m a “yes if the wearer can carry it”.

January 28, 2011 at 9:11 am

Tracy

I do have a maxi dress, but I use it as a swimsuit cover up for when I’m on board a cruise ship. Otherwise, I vote Nay!

January 28, 2011 at 9:19 am

Tara

Love my maxi dresses! There are so many ways to style them. I’ve gotten compliments everytime I wear them. I don’t think they are so much for people on the shorter side though.

January 28, 2011 at 9:24 am

Sharon

It is a definite Yes for me. Having grown up in Hawaii in the 60’s and 70’s that is what we wore for all occations, the “Muu Muu”. They have come a long way. I still love to wear them. Makes me feel 16 all over again.

January 28, 2011 at 9:42 am

Kara

(website)

I vote Yes! I’m short and they work for me. It’s a great option in the summer, in my opinion, instead of shorts. I always get compliments when I wear mine.

January 28, 2011 at 10:05 am

klauren

Active Member

Count me on club Yay! and thanks greenglove for the Peruvian connection – I would totally wear both those dresses – in fact have the J Jill one and do wear it. Especially in warmer weather, the longer dresses seem to help cover a multitude of flaws, still look good and keep some semblence of cooler. Club Yay fur sure.

January 28, 2011 at 10:16 am

annagybe

(website)

Veteran

If I lived at the beach or was taking a vacation to a beach, resort or cruise then #4. But I’m not so nevermind.

January 28, 2011 at 10:28 am

Auburn

Veteran

Surprisingly, these are a YAY for me (with a few caveats). Although my overall aesthetic is fairly conservative and decidedly feminine, there’s something about the long lines and flowy-ness of the maxi dress that appeals. I should point out that I’m nearly 5’10”.
I own a total of 4 and I have worn 3 of the 4 exclusively as “resort wear” when on a tropical vacation. There, with a chunky necklace, bare sandals and a bit of a tan, they feel totally chic and appropriate. The one exception is a DVF maxi dress that actually wraps (like her more standard wrap dresses) but is sleeveless, with some interesting straps. I’ve worn this one wine tasting in Napa, out to brunch in NYC and to a casual baptism party. I get loads of compliments on it and it feels much more tailored and dressy than any of the examples posted above. I’ll try to post a picture.
I agree that many maxi dresses look like unflattering sacks but I am not willing to throw the (maxi) baby out with the bathwater!

January 28, 2011 at 10:30 am

Trish

They are a nay for a petite person like me, but……I buy them on sale and cut the skirt to knee length. I just LOVE jersey knit sun dresses – I live in them and since you can hardly ever buy any that aren’t super short these days (even on me), this is a nice compromise.

January 28, 2011 at 10:39 am

Dana

(website)

Veteran

These are a big nay for me. Some how they seem contrived. The also look hot! I’m more apt to want to have my shoulders and arms covered (unless it’s really hot,) and have my legs bare. I’m not sure why, but my upper body gets colder than the lower half.

January 28, 2011 at 10:40 am

Laura

(website)

Veteran

I was going to say “nay” due to flimsiness on top. But then I looked at the Peruvian Connection dress that Jean posted, and started to waver. That dress has sleeves! And you could wear it with platform sandals. Hmmmm. You can count me as a tentative “yay.” The Boho vibe for spring is so strong that I can see these being very popular!

January 28, 2011 at 11:12 am

chewyspaghetti

Veteran

What I don’t get about maxi dresses is that the tend to leave it all exposed on top, and then add tons of fabric over your legs. If it’s hot enough to want to wear a sundress, I don’t want my legs piled with fabric. They are way to hot for summer wear in my area (yes, I’ve tried them), and they seem to make women look shorter. Two little feet sticking out from under all that dress looks odd to me.

January 28, 2011 at 11:19 am

RoseandJoan

Veteran

Not for me, I’ve never been tempted by the look.

January 28, 2011 at 11:32 am

Jennifer

I am “nay” 100-percent. I love a maxi skirt done well, but these dresses look like nightgowns. They really do, and I don’t think being tall saves them either. I am 6’2. I used to think wearing a long, maxi dress was good because I was so tall, but you know what? They still look and feel like a nightgown to me! Very long, tall-sized nightgowns.

January 28, 2011 at 11:33 am

Jonesy

Veteran

I’m a yay in terms of the general silhouette. I prefer them to be narrow, though, and if they are dresses to not have spaghetti straps. I won’t buy one (too impossible to find the right one at the right length), but I do love the look on others when done right.

January 28, 2011 at 11:42 am

Vida

The women in the photos look casual and sexy. Maxi dresses and skirts highlight other attributes of the body that often don’t have attention paid to: neck and shoulders, arms and even wrists and hands, Toes peeping out from under the hem can be very appealing…

I think it’s all in the attitude.

January 28, 2011 at 11:43 am

Bianca

Veteran

I like Trish’s comment. On petite gals like myself, we looked gobbled up in fabric. Never thought of purchasing one, then cutting it above knee length for the summer! I think that is a great idea.

January 28, 2011 at 11:45 am

mary b

Nay for me, I am far too short to wear that look.
I have also found that most people who wear them (or casual maxi skirts or peasant skirts) do not really look very good in them, it gives most people a dumpy kind of vibe.

January 28, 2011 at 11:46 am

chellebrate

Active Member

Nay for me…I’m too short and too busty for any of the styles I’ve seen. I do like the mustard colored one pictured, though know it would look awful on me. I see them all the time living on a the river in the desert. I don’t know if it’s some women’s way of casually dressing up after a hot day boating in the sun or what?

January 28, 2011 at 12:09 pm

sinead

Active Member

I vote “yay”- but with all sorts of caveats. They do look like resort wear to me and that is where I think they can look beautiful- casual, elegant, and flowy- if it’s the right dress, the right fabric on certain body types. I also think it’s a nice at-home-with-friends look. For out and about, running errands? A definite nay for me.

January 28, 2011 at 12:16 pm

crutcher

Veteran

Nay, no,nyet…not for me with my long legs..

January 28, 2011 at 12:34 pm

Michelle

(website)

Veteran

Non merci! Drowning in fabric isn’t my idea of a good time! I never understood the appeal of long dresses for summer, and like Angie I would prefer to keep long styles for formal occasions.

January 28, 2011 at 12:36 pm

Lynne

(website)

Here in Australia they’re popular, but then all our casual summer fashion tends to have a ‘beachy’ vibe, even if you don’t go anywhere near a beach. It’s just our culture. I own a couple, though they tend to be towards the dressier end of the spectrum, since they had to be ones I could wear a bra under. But then my fashion persona tends a little towards the hippy boho vibe anyway

January 28, 2011 at 12:48 pm

Antje

Veteran

I’m not a big fan of maxi in general and would rather show some leg most of the time, but I have to say that I find the silhouette of a maxi dress much much more flattering than that of a maxi skirt. I have owned maxi dresses before and have enjoyed them as an easy breezy summer look, and could imagine wearing one again. Definitely a vacation and casual summer party look, though. Not really for daytime in regular life (for me.)

January 28, 2011 at 12:54 pm

Linda(lpr200)

I love them for beachy settings- hawaii, connecticut summer beach- they are comfortable when you go from chill AC to humid heat and it feels good to have your legs shaded. So for those situations, I vote yay!

January 28, 2011 at 1:07 pm

Annette Piper

(website)

Yay from me – as Lynne mentioned, here in Australia the casual vibe, regardless of where you live is beachy and I frequently see them.

I love the length that covers up my less than perfect legs and specifically like cotton or cotton mix ones that keep the airflow going.

I do have an issue with some styles that are too skimpy on top, but if I find one that I can comfortably wear a bra with, that doesn’t cling (go the empire line!) and is in a fabric/colour/pattern I like, then I love them.

I have 5 casual ones in my wardrobe so far and 2 dressy ones ^^

January 28, 2011 at 1:18 pm

Mimi

Definitely yay – I’m tall with strong shoulders and carry them off quite regally. I got many compliments last summer when wearing one of my 3 maxi dresses to work. I think you have to wear them with a certain attitude, you can’t be shy. They convey a very archetypal femininity.

January 28, 2011 at 2:08 pm

Christie

Not for me. I like maxi skirts in the winter, but don’t think maxi skirts would work for me in the summer. Cute on someone tall and willowy …

January 28, 2011 at 2:31 pm

Kristine

Veteran

No, I don’t think so. Maybe for lounging with a book in the back yard on a hot summer day. Wow, that sounds nice right now.

January 28, 2011 at 3:58 pm

Melllllls

Ehhhh. I’m a nay. I don’t like any of the ones that have been posted. My sis did wear one to our cousin’s graduation that I thought looked good on her. She is on the tall side and this was a solid black one. It was not a lot of coverage on top, but she is VERY flat chested so she could pull it off. I think a maxi dress needs to be less coverage on top to counteract the volume on the bottom though I realize that this eliminates a lot of people’s ability to wear one. I thought it looked fine for the graduation or another causal summer party, a beach party, or resortwear. But I haven’t seen any others that I like.

January 28, 2011 at 4:36 pm

Maya

Veteran

I feel like we’ve had this debate so many times here and I have nothing new to say about it. I still don’t like it.

January 28, 2011 at 6:22 pm

yardshark

Active Member

NAY for these cheap-looking dresses, but YAY for the right maxi skirts.

Once again…I am a petite hourglass, 5’1″, and I have some skirts that are straighter and hang well, and they are great for hot weather or just looking sleek anytime. Rockin’ them for at least 5 years now. And they are very comfortable!

Petites, try some maxi skirts. Just avoid voluminous fabric, too much of an A-line, large loud patterns, or floatiness. “The answer may surprise you!”

January 28, 2011 at 6:46 pm

Teri

Great idea, Trish! I am so going to do that this summer.
I like maxis in tropical locales in the evenings, and thats about it.

January 28, 2011 at 7:00 pm

sparkle

Active Member

It’s a Nay for me because I dont think it’ll look nice on me, but maybe I’ll try one in the store…just for the heck! You never know!

January 28, 2011 at 7:36 pm

Laurinda

Fun for the younger (than me) crowd.
PPL looks too long, yet these dresses look fine, so, yes I am clueless.

January 28, 2011 at 7:57 pm

Pat

I think some women look great in casual maxi – resort, around home. Not shopping. Personally I don’t think they look good when someone is “strolling.”
My vote is nay for myself. Just not my best look, in fact, one of my worst.

January 28, 2011 at 8:48 pm

Les

Angie, when you say all women look better showing off a bit of leg, you obviously haven’t seen mine…..

I wore casual maxis in the early 70s and loved the way they made me feel feminine and, even more importantly, confident. I have one casual maxi in my current wardrobe and love it for relaxing in the warmer weather.

I hope they take off in a big way. As long as they are worn with sandals, they look great, and on the young, they look sort of innocent and how nice a change is that?

January 28, 2011 at 11:03 pm

san

Veteran

I’m sure I won’t be wearing a maxi skirt or maxi dress. I had one in the 70’s and it was so impractical I only wore it once and felt terribly awkward.
If I were to even think about wearing one it would have to be sleek like the white one far right. The only time I would consider that one would be after a day at the beach, showering and wanting to throw on something to go out for a casual festive dinner.

January 28, 2011 at 11:11 pm

Marley

Veteran

I’m open-minded to this look – so I’m going to vote nayay! I’m drawn to the one on the far right – I will definitely try them on in the stores (once I’m done with SYC) and then will make a decision as to whether I like them or not. I do like them on some women – just not sure on me! I definitely like them better than maxi skirts!

January 28, 2011 at 11:58 pm

Nanne

(website)

I vote yay, but I don’t like all the styles, eiter. I prefer dark colours, no pattern, preferrably some kind of jersey in a design that’s not too clingy – and with reasonable coverage on top. At 5″5′ the right maxi dress makes me feel taller, slimmer, sleeker and elegant in a casual way, if that makes sense. I already own a taupe halterneck maxi dress, and I always get a lot of compliments when I wear it. I’ve recently purchased a dark navy one from H&M for this summer, and I can’t wait to wear it!

January 29, 2011 at 1:48 am

Sarah

Nay for me, but that yellow one on the left is heavenly. LOVE it!

January 29, 2011 at 6:17 am

Maggiethecat

Yay! I love them. I can’t help it, even though I do see why they don’t work for Angie and others. I live in a torrid college town in Mediterranean Spain that’s not too far from the coast, so (to me anyway) they don’t jar with the general vibe of the area, and it’s not unusual to see them in our streets from May to September. I’d probably be more in agreement with Angie if I lived in Madrid or any other city inland or further north. As it is, maxi dresses are a favorite for low-stress (i.e. I don’t have to work, or if I do, it’s behind closed doors and not directly with clients) summer weekends.

January 29, 2011 at 7:11 am

Maggiethecat

Um, forgot to add… just under five feet two here, and I feel fabu in the right maxi. What’s wrong with being small and cocooned in yards of lovely fabric anyway? Works for silk moths.

January 29, 2011 at 7:17 am

Nadia

While I haven’t found a good one for me (yet), I vote YAY! The past few years I’ve seen ladies wear them at a super-fun Central Coast beer festival and they look amazingly casual but pulled together. They keep the glaring sun off your legs and once the sun starts to descend, the long skirt keeps you a little warmer.

When I was big and pregnant two summers ago I had one from Gap’s maternity line and I loved it. I was so comfy but a little glamorous, I felt beautiful. I think they should be in everyone’s maternity wardrobe, if they are pregnant during the summer.

January 29, 2011 at 10:07 am

Kate K

I’m a huge YAY (so much so that I’m delurking to say YAY!). While I absolutely understand the reasons to be a nay on maxi dresses, I have found that they’re a great addition to my wardrobe. I own two right now; one is black and one is navy blue and both are quite plain and rather fitted. Instead of wearing them on their own, I wear them with a cropped blazer and a summery scarf or a colorful, lightweight cardigan. I love the long line they create and I feel like they really let the other pieces shine.

January 29, 2011 at 11:17 am

mamark

Oh hell no. Or rather, hell Nay.

January 29, 2011 at 12:35 pm

Turophile

Yuck. I agree with you. The only possible scenario where I could see it making sense is if you live somewhere like Minnesota and it’s one of those weeks where it’s been below zero for a week and you are really tired of wearing pants. Maxi dress with boots (and tights underneath) might keep you warm. But I’ve never seen a winter maxi dress.

January 29, 2011 at 1:44 pm

Anchi

(website)

Active Member

I’m 5’4″ and busty, but for some weird reason I seem to look good in maxi dresses and skirts, so I vote yay!

It might be because “maxi” has been the traditional silhouette of clothing in South Asia, where I’m from: saris and sarongs are what many people wear regardless of size, height, etc., so I don’t know if it’s just a kind of natural look for women of that ancestry. All the women in my family love and wear maxi skirts and dresses (though not all the time). To us, it’s just a more casual, western-leaning variation of the saris or sarongs we wear.

I have a calico-print maxi dress and Indian-print tiered maxi skirt from Gap, as well as a traditional Hawaiian maxi dress (muu-muu?) that I wear belted. Love them!!

January 29, 2011 at 4:59 pm

yublocka

(website)

Veteran

My opinion hasn’t changed on maxis since last time this debate came up either. I’m still a yay. Don’t wear the one maxi dress I have too ofen, but when I do, I love it. I do wish that it was a bit longer though as it doesn’t come close to skimming the ground on me.

Angie even though you don’t approve, can you comment on the PML (perfect maxi length) to help us maxi wearers make the look less questionable. Should the dress literally be ground skimming or is ankle length ok?

If I found a longer one, made of cotton/rayon based on dark colours and an interesting pattern without spagetti straps I’d be all over it.

January 29, 2011 at 5:06 pm

Mac

Veteran

Not for me, but I think they look great on 20-something cute Los Angeles girls with big sunglasses and slim arms…

January 29, 2011 at 7:48 pm

April

Veteran

One word, and it starts with n…

January 30, 2011 at 6:20 am

Kari

Veteran

I still think they look like nightgowns.

January 30, 2011 at 11:49 am

CocoLion

(website)

Veteran

Nay on maxi dresses. I own 2 of them and have worn each of them once. It’s not because I am just 5’4″; the look actually elongates me. The problem I have is that they are not bra-friendly.

Yay on maxi skirts, though. You can style them a lot more like jeans (t’s, tanks). I have one from 5 years ago I am excited to wear again (if I can still fit in it — it requires flat abs!)

January 30, 2011 at 1:55 pm

Beth

Veteran

Nay, any way you cut it.

Nay, nay, nay.

January 30, 2011 at 3:36 pm

danza.armonia

Active Member

Yay on both maxi dresses and skirts, but largely for warmer climates and summertime. . .

January 30, 2011 at 3:45 pm

afterism

Active Member

Hi, my name is Nikki & I love Maxi Dresses!!

I am only 5″7′ so probably too short to wear them but I don’t care.

I live in Cairns, Tropical North Queensland, Australia and they are very popular here.

I think the formality of an item of an item of clothing varies depending on the styling. Some are very casual and I would wear them to the beach or maybe a BBQ but I would not wear them to a nice restaurant.

Look at all those who wear jackets/blazers as part of their casual wardrobe as an example of things crossing formal/casual lines and working.

January 30, 2011 at 5:31 pm

Katiepea

(website)

Veteran

As another Aussie it is a *yay* for me. (See above for other Aussie explanations as to why Aussies are generally reasonably comfortable with or like this look.) I’d like to add to their comments that personally I don’t strictly associate a longer length of a skirt/dress with being “formal”. Perhaps this is could explain in part why I’m more comfortable with the look than some others.

January 30, 2011 at 6:40 pm

Claire

I’m thinking that a casual maxi dress will be my go-to option this spring but I will be very pregnant and barefoot I imagine…

January 30, 2011 at 10:23 pm

Rachel

I vote yay. I love them, though I don’t think that maxi dresses are a “go anywhere” look. They definitely have a beachy vibe, and having lived in San Diego at one time, maybe that is why I like them!

That said, I personally avoid long hemlines, so this is a look I admire on other women…

January 30, 2011 at 10:54 pm

Joy

Veteran

These remind me of Cathy of the Cathy comic strip. She was always buying dresses like this for a lifestyle that she fantasized in her mind but was not her real life..cocktails at the beach, moonlight cruise, etc. It’s also interesting that several wear these in the evening which seems to make them evening dress and bordering on a formal look.

January 31, 2011 at 7:38 am

Mander

I like them so long as they are not too voluminous, have a sensible top, and aren’t a screamingly loud print. Younger and thinner women can get away with the crazy ones but I prefer a solid color or a less dramatic print.

When this trend first emerged a couple of years ago I could not understand why the plus size manufacturers made almost all of theirs strapless or with a tiny string around the neck to hold them up — totally impractical if you have a large chest! At least for me–I’ve never found a strapless bra to suit me. I have since seen a few dresses that are more tank-top style on the top so they are suitable for wearing with a normal bra.

I have one white maxi skirt which is a-line to the knees and then has some long inset panels to give a sort of ruffly effect without being too bridal. I like to wear it with a black and white floral sleeveless blouse, sandals, a cropped black jean jacket and suitably “beachy” accessories in the summer. But I would only wear that ensemble to a casual event. I can’t see the long flowing dress working in an office setting.

February 1, 2011 at 2:14 am

liss

Active Member

Another Aussie here. They are everywhere over here and I have tried a few on, but cannot find one that I don’t feel pregnant in!!!
So, its a no from me.

February 1, 2011 at 3:00 am

Tanya2

Yay for me, yay since the 70’s when I was a little girl twirling in the yard! I don’t wear them often, but I love the look and am glad there is such a wide selection these days to choose from. I’m searching for the perfect one for this summer’s vacation.

February 3, 2011 at 12:42 pm

rosee

old thread, but had to say thanks to greengloves for introducing me to Peruvian Connection. (stuff to dream about).

I was not so keen on maxidresses as most of them were strappy or halter and some were too skimming. But I’m a definite YAY on the brown dress at PC listed above!!!

March 17, 2011 at 7:58 pm

lauren persson

(website)

I love all the long skirts and wide leg pants. I recently purchased a long black solid
jersey skirt,a black solid one with a horizontal gathered seams and black solid wide leg pants. Because they are so on trend I bought more of a “disposible quality”.
During a recent trip I wore one of the skirts to travel in with a tank and an oversided
long-sleeved shirt. Because I am small waisted and hippy I belted them with a more organic looking belt paired with the same design of wedge. Earings and jewellery were
of mat bronze and my wrap was a casual cashmire. It was the most comfortable outfit luckily because we were in transit for
26 hours!!!!! For my body type the skirt elongates the lower half and felt very feminine.
I do agree however that without the correct accessories one could look over-dressed.

May 24, 2011 at 2:40 pm

Nicole

LOVE THEM!!! I am 5’10 and i live in them in summer. You have to be tall to wear them. They dont look like nightgowns unless you get a hideous print. (Do people actually still wear nightgowns??) I have cute ones with straps and strapless. I find solid colors look best. With a cute pair of sandals and fashionable jewelry you are set for daytime and evening.

July 9, 2011 at 4:21 pm

rachylou

Veteran

Resurrecting to say *yay*. But I’m a Cali girl who’s family’s from the West Indies. All beach and sun and lounging and swilling white wine by the outdoor fireplace.

March 22, 2013 at 9:21 am

abc

Veteran

I say yay, too. I have a few but I have to be able to wear a bra with them and hence usually end up adding a cardigan. One of my favorite maxi formulas is strapless black maxi + fitted white cardi + bright chunky necklace. Compliments every time.

March 22, 2013 at 11:42 am

T

Active Member

I say Yay! I have a maxi dress that is strapless & with blue and white stripes. I was very hesitant when purchasing, but I have ended up loving it. I’m not very tall – 5’5, but the length of the maxi lets me slip in 2 to 3 inch wedge heels and it makes me feel very tall & cool – partially I enjoy it because of the terrible summers we have in India.

December 26, 2013 at 12:36 am

About the Author

Casual Maxi Dresses: Yay or Nay

Recent Ensembles

Recent Trends

About the Author

Share this Post

Recent Ensembles

Recent Trends