WIW: (Trying to style) a pleated maxi

Hi all!

I thrifted this maxi on Friday, and I've been scheming on how to style it ever since. Since the photos are a bit dark, I'll add that t it's dark brown rayon pleated from the hips. It's surprisingly cool and impossible to wrinkle: I want to build some more outfits around it so I can bring it traveling this summer!

My knit tees looked a bit plain with it, so I attempted a loose linen button-down instead. I'm not sure of the maxi skirt rules: should I be aiming to create a single long column with the outfit, or is adding volume and a different color on top okay? Would wedges look better with this long of a skirt than these dead-simple sandals? Does the skirt look like the '80s number it truly is, or can it pass for modern-maxi?

And in general, does it look, well, weird? I got a number of sideways looks from little kids at the mall: I *hope* they weren't saying "look, Mom, it's Laura Ingalls!"

Thank you for your thoughts!

Blouse: Talbots
Skirt: (Old!) Banana Republic Safari and Travel Clothing
Sandals: Gap

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14 years ago

Kiwichik

Veteran

I like it. You could also knot the shirt, add heels, wear it with a sphaghetti strap top - lotsof options.

Jenava

(website)

I think this would look fantastic with something on top in a mushroom or grey shade, maybe with a pop of rose, pink or burgundy? I think in summer a fitted knit would do (maybe 3/4 sleeve with a boatneck to give a ballerina vibe, along with ballet flats or flat ankle-strap sandals). For winter, I would do flat boots and a fitted cropped jacket over a button-down.

ETA, to keep it from looking too plain with a simple tee I would add a statement necklace!

Beth Ann

You've gotten some good suggestions already. I like the idea of a belt and wedges, too. I like the soft blouse with the skirt. What about chambray or navy on top?

Kirti

I like it! I second Beth Ann's suggestion of trying a denim/chambray shirt!

ManidipaM

I do think a chunkier shoe might balance the volume better, but otherwise, no Laura Ingalls in sight! This works.

Also seconding the denim/chambray suggestion. And maybe for hot weather (if that applies to your travelling) I'd consider tops that are sleeveless or very short-sleeved --- somehow, showing a little bare arm seems to make a maxi skirt especially feminine.

CocoLion

I would go with a lower color contrast top and wedges.

goldenpig

I would love to see the brown skirt paired with coral or turquoise boho luxe tank tops. How about something like these:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/INC-IN.....vi-content
http://www.ebay.com/itm/MILLY-.....vi-content

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