https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/are-there-any-maxis-that-are-ylf-approved Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Wed, 22 Apr 2026 15:39:30 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/are-there-any-maxis-that-are-ylf-approved/page/2#post-622437 Thu, 17 May 2012 20:53:26 +0000 goldenpig 622437@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Yes Chrizzle, can't wait to see your version as well! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/are-there-any-maxis-that-are-ylf-approved/page/2#post-622426 Thu, 17 May 2012 20:40:59 +0000 Chrizzle 622426@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Thanks, Amy. If I can get a decent photo, I'll post next time I wear one. As I said, I always like them better in person than in photos. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/are-there-any-maxis-that-are-ylf-approved/page/2#post-621849 Thu, 17 May 2012 03:52:42 +0000 Amy 621849@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>This is thought-provoking. Thanks for raising the question, Natalie!</p> <p>Chrizzle, I'd love to see photos of you in your maxis. Your descriptions make them sound wonderful. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/are-there-any-maxis-that-are-ylf-approved/page/2#post-621842 Thu, 17 May 2012 03:39:43 +0000 Elly 621842@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I think more casual maxi skirts and dresses (with real tops/sleeves) have a place when traveling to hot climates with intense sun-- places you'd like to stay breezy but covered-- particularly in places with conservative cultural or religious values revolving around women. There are many non-touristy parts of the middle east, rural highland mexico, north africa, and parts of asia that I would prefer to be the conservatively and respectfully dressed westerner erring on the side of caution and would employ maxi skirts in a walkable length to do so since they would be cooler and more conservative than trousers. </p> <p>Likewise, when attending social and religious dancing and events on reservations I choose to wear maxi skirts (or very long midis) if I plan on participating actively rather than spectating as long, loose skirts and dresses are considered the most traditional and respectful thing for a woman to wear in those situations. People can and do wear other things---Jeans are perfectly fine for spectators, but women inside of dance arenas typically dress more conservatively as a measure of respect, cultural member or not. </p> <p>Outside of these occasions and situations I generally dislike the casual maxi, especially when skimpy up top or paired with dated or frumpy things. It isn't a flattering look on me and don't find it particularly flattering on many other women, although there are some that pull it off flawlessly because of personal style or body type. </p> <p>Of course, formal maxis are lovely as well. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/are-there-any-maxis-that-are-ylf-approved/page/2#post-621826 Thu, 17 May 2012 03:10:00 +0000 Fruitful 621826@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>GP, OT but my 3.5 year old just selected your orange maxi picture from the lookfab wall as THE one we must click on! I think that's an unequivocal endorsement (and you know I love this look too!) </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/are-there-any-maxis-that-are-ylf-approved/page/2#post-621044 Wed, 16 May 2012 13:36:01 +0000 Astrid 621044@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I loved wearing maxis in my teens, but I passed all the maxis I owned down to my sister in the meantime because they were too small. I'm not actively searching for a new maxi skirt or dress, but I plan to snatch the perfect one up if I stumble upon it. I love how comfortable they are and I never had problems with the length - I always held the hem up without a second thought when I took the stairs. I also automatically smooth my skirt when I sit down on the subway, even if I'm wearing jeans. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/are-there-any-maxis-that-are-ylf-approved/page/2#post-621024 Wed, 16 May 2012 13:09:52 +0000 Vix 621024@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I am generally a huge casual maxi lover (I prefer a fairly streamlined silhouette vs tiers) and LOVE the ones everyone is sharing in this thread. </p> <p>[And wow, Celia -- you are pulling off multi-pattern + maxi so well!]</p> <p>I was at an outdoor party last summer and saw so many women of different heights, shapes, and sizes wearing what Chrizzle calls "haute-Afrocentric" and looking stunning. Wish I had photos to share. [Most dresses appeared to be jersey.] Just a timeless, goddess-y look IMO.</p> <p>Signed, Still Wearing 10+ y.o. Silk Chiffon Maxi </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/are-there-any-maxis-that-are-ylf-approved/page/2#post-621016 Wed, 16 May 2012 12:56:01 +0000 Janet 621016@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I find it very interesting that a few of us who have posted the maxi love seem to describe ourselves as having fuller hips or thighs, and long legs, but not legs we particularly love to show off. </p> <p>In the right maxi, I feel long and lean, but I know what RoseandJoan is talking about with stairs! I find myself holding up the hem of my skirt when taking stairs. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/are-there-any-maxis-that-are-ylf-approved/page/2#post-620970 Wed, 16 May 2012 11:28:23 +0000 BlondeAmbition 620970@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>goldenpig, I love your maxi dress. I try not to listen to the naysayers because I love maxi dresses, always have always will. I grew up around fashionistas and I envied how flowy and effortless they looked in their maxi dresses and I associate maxi with summer, no frills ease and style.</p> <p>With a body type like mine I feel incredibly beautiful in maxis. I have wide hips, I hate my legs so I would never wear shorts or short dresses, and maybe to those who are not encumbered by lower body insecurities they have the luxury of passing up the maxi in favor of the mini. Not me! I absolutely love my upper body eventhough I'm big busted my decolletage is attractive and if the dress is a bit too skimpy I throw on a little cardi or jean jacket, better yet I love the look of a maxi with a leather jacket in the spring/fall and a ballet flat. But generally a maxi for me is a summer staple worn with flat sandals. I consider myself a glammy bohemian so it suits my style and Angie's right, her list of musts is my list of don'ts. We all have different styles and fill our closets with the things that make ourselves feel good. You can't hate an article of clothing just because someone told you to. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/are-there-any-maxis-that-are-ylf-approved/page/2#post-620940 Wed, 16 May 2012 09:57:59 +0000 RoseandJoan 620940@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>My maxi skirt is wool and tailored. I wore it to an evening reception (picture below) but have also worn it to the office with a white shirt. I do like it but often catch my heel in the hem, have to adjust my regular stride and find it difficult to climb the stairs, for these reasons I will not be adding another to my wardrobe. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/are-there-any-maxis-that-are-ylf-approved/page/2#post-620923 Wed, 16 May 2012 08:00:48 +0000 goldenpig 620923@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Wow, thanks all for the wonderful insights! Angie, thanks for the links...I think it's great that you stick to your guns, but that you are still so accepting of differing viewpoints.</p> <p>I just want to say that I love all of the maxi dresses that have been posted on this thread too! Celia, what a dazzling picture in your maxi--I love the pattern mixing. I totally would wear that one. And your statement is brilliant and so true..fashion should make us happy first and foremost! Auburn, too bad your fiance didn't like the dress because it's really cute. I know how that is when the BF/DH doesn't approve, it really kills the enthusiam--I can sympathize. Sarah and Janet look gorgeous in their maxis too--very glamorous. Sara, I love that black and white ikat print--so crisp and graphic. Chrizzle I would love to see your maxi dresses too--that outfit sounds so hip and so you, esp. with your hair. Zap, I'm glad you're reconsidering the blue &amp; white maxi dress--my maxi dress is in my beach vacation capsule too! Kate Spade had a similar maxi dress to your H&amp;M one, but much more $$$.</p> <p>I agree with JJ, the skimpy tops are what make most maxi dresses unworkable. I think ethnic prints, bright colors and graphic patterns work really well for casual maxi dresses. I do think I have a bit of boho in me, but it tends to be more Boho Luxe. So this thread was very helpful, because I just had an epiphany! I think I have to go back to my rubric (color, structure, pattern, luxe, and flair) and use those key elements to look for a maxi dress that will work with my style! Thanks for the inspiration everyone!</p> <p>ETA: I think I found a maxi dress that fits my rubric! It's kind of a bombshell-y maxi with a fitted waist, thicker shoulder straps (bra-friendly), and bright colors and print. And it looks luxe and has a bit of flair too! I'm going to give it a try! It sounds like it's shorter than it looks on the website--hopefully it won't be too short on me. It's a floral, but hopefully doesn't look too much like a nightgown. I can wear this on tropical vacations, and maybe even for casual date night!<br /> <a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/vince-camuto-island-cutout-print-maxi-dress/3257630?origin=keywordsearch&#038;resultback=2092" rel="nofollow">http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/vi.....tback=2092</a> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/are-there-any-maxis-that-are-ylf-approved/page/2#post-620855 Wed, 16 May 2012 02:20:26 +0000 Sara L. 620855@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Natalie - Here's some of photos of my maxi dress, styled a bunch of different ways. I'm not sure I've posted all of them. They all have a sweater or jacket because I got the dress this winter and it hasn't warmed up enough to wear it plain and the straps are too thin to wear to work without some sort of topper. My work is super casual (my boss regularly wears jeans) so a maxi skirt isn't inappropriate. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/are-there-any-maxis-that-are-ylf-approved/page/2#post-620819 Wed, 16 May 2012 01:43:52 +0000 Echo 620819@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I've seen maxi dresses look great on some people, but after trying countless styles myself, I have decided I am not a maxi dress kind of person. I look awful. And while I understand that with a voluminous bottom half the top should be a little more fitted or bare, the tops of a lot of maxi dresses are bordering on obscene on me. </p> <p>The high-low hem, however, makes a dress or skirt something other than a maxi to me. If it doesn't reach the ankles in the front it ends up being a completely different silhouette, and probably a lot more flattering to those of us who don't look good in regular long dresses.</p> <p>Longer skirts are occasionally okay on me, provided they are a hippie-chic, boho style and worn with a fitted tank on top. Or maybe they aren't flattering and I just like them anyway! </p> <p>There aren't any hard and fast rules about maxi dresses, IMO, but the style has stuck because it is so easy for so many people. For me, midis are the answer because they still provide enough coverage for easy movement and modesty, but are a little more flattering because they show a little leg. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/are-there-any-maxis-that-are-ylf-approved/page/2#post-620805 Wed, 16 May 2012 01:29:38 +0000 velvetychocolate 620805@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I kind of like it when there are clear distinctions and preferences! </p> <p>I am not going to run out and get a maxi-dress, but I've seen some maxi styles on Sarah that really do look fab:</p> <p><a href="http://www.thedailysophisticate.com/search?q=maxi" rel="nofollow">http://www.thedailysophisticate.com/search?q=maxi</a> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/are-there-any-maxis-that-are-ylf-approved/page/2#post-620772 Wed, 16 May 2012 01:10:57 +0000 HelenInCanada 620772@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>There's maxi-dress hate?! I wasn't aware of it. YLF has such a diverse range of styles, there should always be room for something so boho and romantic! I have seen some STUNNING maxi dresses and skirts. I have a couple that I wear in the summer months (much tougher in snow and sleet!) The question is, do YOU like maxis? If so, go for it!</p> <p>In regards to Zapotee's dress, the only reason I gave it a Nay was I thought it was a bit too casual (print, fit, or fabric-wise) for a wedding, and thought tailored or more 'dressy' was the better way to go. The cut is really important. I love slim column-fit maxis and, when in a certain mood, peasant-style loose style. So many to try out! (P.S. Ankle-length abounds at formal affairs, though, are you kidding?)</p> <p>I like all the dresses you posted here. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/are-there-any-maxis-that-are-ylf-approved#post-620761 Wed, 16 May 2012 01:04:06 +0000 ManidipaM 620761@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I just had to chime back in to tell Celia: LOVE you in that dress! Very flattering fit and style. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/are-there-any-maxis-that-are-ylf-approved#post-620695 Wed, 16 May 2012 00:01:20 +0000 Chrizzle 620695@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Love that dress, and I bet you looked gorgeous in it! How annoying that your fiancé hates it.</p> <p>The fact that you can't see the shape of my legs is a big part of what I love about maxis. My legs are long, but I've always disliked their shape. I was mocked and bullied for it as a kid. I had to wear a school uniform that stopped just above my knees so there was no hiding my legs. As an adult, I had just gotten to the point of accepting my legs when eczema left permanent dark blemishes all over my calves and shins. I just realized that maxis make me feel secure - nobody can make fun of my legs if they can't see them! I can handle it when people don't like other aspects of my appearance, but I'm hypersensitive about my legs. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/are-there-any-maxis-that-are-ylf-approved#post-620663 Tue, 15 May 2012 23:19:04 +0000 Auburn 620663@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I bought and wore this dress out to dinner during my bachelorette party in Palm Springs last weekend:<br /> <a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/trina-turk-amrita-print-silk-maxi-dress/3282366?origin=category&#038;resultback=1265" rel="nofollow">http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/tr.....tback=1265</a></p> <p>It seemed like the perfect thing for the weather and it got RAVE reviews from all my girlfriends. However, when I got home and showed it to my fiancee, he was not enamored at all. Like Angie, he simply does not like the look of maxi dresses because you can't see legs. Pants, he feels, are totally different, because you can still see the shape of one's legs. </p> <p>I still love this dress and liked that the top had a wrap effect that is flattering on me, but now I have a dress that I know my fiancee doesn't like and so likely won't wear much in front of him (e.g., on our honeymoon). Sigh. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/are-there-any-maxis-that-are-ylf-approved#post-620628 Tue, 15 May 2012 22:41:34 +0000 rae 620628@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Just to add to the theme that fashion is all subjective, I'm one of those people who doesn't like ballet flats! I think the small curve of vamp on a ballet flat often looks like a hoof... can't get over it, but can't deny they are classic. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/are-there-any-maxis-that-are-ylf-approved#post-620609 Tue, 15 May 2012 21:58:25 +0000 Janet 620609@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>BTW, I tried on a maxi dress in Anthro today that I really liked -- blue and white print, quite flattering, nice casual vibe. I didn't buy it because I thought it was too pricey for the quality -- I noticed an issue with the fabric at the neckline -- but I still plan on rocking another maxi. </p> <p>We all have fashion biases and loves, and just because something is or isn't wholeheartedly endorsed by a particular group or individual, doesn't mean one person should never (or always!) wear it. I like Angie's list above -- it reminds me that we each have one of those lists in our heads, based on our style, body types, etc. I happen to think my body type actually works well for maxis, so I'll continue to enjoy them. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/are-there-any-maxis-that-are-ylf-approved#post-620604 Tue, 15 May 2012 21:52:08 +0000 Janet 620604@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I like Celia's theory as well, and Celia, I never saw that photo before, but honestly, it's one of my favorites I've seen of your outfit photos. I think the colors and cut are very flattering on you! How's that for going against the grain? </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/are-there-any-maxis-that-are-ylf-approved#post-620564 Tue, 15 May 2012 21:11:21 +0000 Chrizzle 620564@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I totally subscribe to Celia's theory! Zapotee, I think you should get the dress for vacation if that's how it makes you feel.</p> <p>JjSloane, I sometimes wear a snug-fitting tee under maxi dresses that don't allow for a bra, or that are more revealing than I'd prefer. Probably also not a YLF-approved solution, but it works for me. I hosted a party the other day and wanted an outfit that felt "hostessy", and would be covered, comfy, and not show dirt. I wore a black tee with fitted short sleeves and a scoop neck under a black crossover-bodiced maxi dress, added bronze gladiator sandals, and piled on a bunch of necklaces. Got many compliments and felt great all night. Might be too boho for others but I felt like I was expressing my heritage and being who I really am in my own house. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/are-there-any-maxis-that-are-ylf-approved#post-620551 Tue, 15 May 2012 20:37:25 +0000 Anonymous 620551@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Celia had me at:<br /> "My theory is that there are items that are not to be stylish or even to have a consensus of appreciation.They are simply items that make you happy, make you dream and have a specific place on your wardrobe and in your everyday wear"<br /> I think I'm going back for my dress, one size down. I really like it, can't stop thinking about it. Not for the wedding though. It is going on my beach vacation capsule.</p> <p>And ETA: I do appreciate the honesty and feedback, I know is not my best look ever but I figure that at $39.99 I can have the felon around. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/are-there-any-maxis-that-are-ylf-approved#post-620550 Tue, 15 May 2012 20:37:13 +0000 Jjsloane 620550@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I am open to the right maxi as well, but for casual wear (vacation, lounging around home, BBQs) I wore them for my pregnancy with DD (born in Sep) and loved them. What I haven't found in a maxi is the same problem I have with most sundresses - lack of appropriate top cover to allow me to wear a bra. I think they look adorable on those LA beach girls types and even saw a cute one on Halle Berry recently, but again it's where you live that makes it more acceptable as everyday wear. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/are-there-any-maxis-that-are-ylf-approved#post-620525 Tue, 15 May 2012 20:04:46 +0000 znip 620525@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I'm considering a maxi dress this summer. It just seems SO practical for a mom during a New Orleans summer. The trick, I'm thinking (for my style anyways), is to find one that's simple and streamlined. Something like this: </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/are-there-any-maxis-that-are-ylf-approved#post-620524 Tue, 15 May 2012 20:03:41 +0000 celia 620524@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Oh my, I just realized you were talking about me :D<br /> This is the only maxi dress I own. As you can see from the picture I have no issues taking it to the playground but I do make my clothes and shoes work hard.<br /> My feelings on the subject are the following:<br /> Yes, I do like occasionally to wear my maxi dress but am aware that this is one of my rebellious items and I clearly want to send a message here. I wouldn't wear it as a work appropriate outfit.<br /> My theory is that there are items that are not to be stylish or even to have a consensus of appreciation.They are simply items that make you happy, make you dream and have a specific place on your wardrobe and in your everyday wear.</p> <p>(recently I bought another item that most probably falls in the same category and won't get a lot of love here) </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/are-there-any-maxis-that-are-ylf-approved#post-620518 Tue, 15 May 2012 19:55:09 +0000 Anonymous 620518@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>P.S. I should mention I live on the Gulf Coast of Mississippi, but I would also have worn this maxi dress when we lived in touristy Northern Michigan. And while I LOVE NYC, I would not wear it there!</p> <p>I just read the other responses, and wanted to add that it is possible to look great and wear long skirts! I do it every single day of my life. I don't wear pants (ever) and ALL of my skirts are below the knee, MOST are near ankle length. I go to a lot of functions with other churches where the ladies are dressed in long skirts and dresses and they are very stylish! Yes, some are a frumpy mess, but that can be said of women across the board! I think it's not the length of skirt/dress that matters....it's the WHOLE look and the woman wearing it. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/are-there-any-maxis-that-are-ylf-approved#post-620510 Tue, 15 May 2012 19:52:00 +0000 Anonymous 620510@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I love maxi dresses, they are very feminine! I have a black one. I had to alter it on top by shortening the shoulder straps so it is modest (it's straight across, not a v-neck).<br /> It isn't formal or dressy, but cute and casual. I'm a Pastor's wife and I've worn it to Wed evening services with a 3/4 sleeve cardi. I would not wear it for Sunday services. I don't work outside of the home, I homeschool and raise 5 children, so this style of dress suits my lifestyle perfectly. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/are-there-any-maxis-that-are-ylf-approved#post-620487 Tue, 15 May 2012 19:24:44 +0000 Chrizzle 620487@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I was disheartened by the maxi-hatred on YLF at first, but then I decided that maxis work for me and I don't care what others say. I've got eczema all over my legs and I'm just not going to wear pants all the time in warm weather! I'm tall, I'm from the Caribbean, and I wear my hair in dreadlocks, so I believe that I can pull off a sort of "haute-Afrocentric" look when I accessorize a maxi dress or skirt with great sandals, a waist-defining belt (or not), and bold jewelry. I prefer an ankle-grazing to floor-grazing length because its more practical for running around town, and because my ankles are the only parts of my legs that still look good.</p> <p> I doubt I'll ever post my favorite maxi outfits here, as they're hard to photograph flatteringly, and I already know the politely disparaging response they'd get. I dress more conservatively for work, but I feel gorgeous and like *me* when I wear an outfit like the one I just described. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/are-there-any-maxis-that-are-ylf-approved#post-620453 Tue, 15 May 2012 18:58:01 +0000 Beth Ann 620453@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Natalie: I think it might also make a difference where you live -- in Chicago, there are fewer casual maxis, and they are generally reserved for young lasses meandering through the stalls at outdoor festivals. They don't come off as well in the 'burbs. If I remember correctly, you live in the Bay Area. I'm guessing there is a lot more love for maxi's there. You maxi is vibrant and beachy, if it gives you joy, absolutely wear it and enjoy! Of the pictures you posted, I love the hi-low dress and would wear that here. I also might consider Janet's maxi skirt, since it has a more tailored top. I've been looking for a very long midi skirt -- lower calf, to try for summer.</p> <p>You have a wonderful sense of style, Natalie! </p>