How Not to Wear a Maxi Dress: A Summer Wardrobe Guide

Summer is the ultimate time to wear the infamous maxi dress. These ankle-length dresses are known for their breezy appearance, and have a way of adding an exotic flair on just about any woman. The recent Essence Jazz Festival in New Orleans seemed to bring these dresses out in droves. As they come in many different styles and colors, they can make fabulous easy-to-wear additions to a summer wardrobe. But under the wrong circumstances, these wonderful sundresses can take a turn for the worst-as was evidenced by several ladies in New Orleans who'd decided to make this garment a summer staple. If you're thinking about taking the plunge with one of these juicy dresses (or if you already have) here are some serious Don'ts to avoid...

Don't..."bust" out

Wearing a maxi dress is a great way to add a little bit of sexy to your summer wardrobe. As many of them have plunging (sweetheart) necklines, they are fabulous for showcasing a bit of décolletage. However, having your ample bosom spill out of your dress is not the way to go. Your breasts should not look like they are likely to be freed at any moment. First and foremost, finding the right bra is key. Locate a supportive strapless bra to help contain the girls. Better yet, seek out a pair of self-adhesive bra cups-anything to avoid the additional faux pas of peek-a-boo bra straps.

Don't...be too matchy-matchy

This season's sundresses are filled with remarkable colors and designs, which makes them a cinch to accessorize. However, it is very easy to go overboard with the trinkets. One woman in the great city of New Orleans decided that she would match every accessory to all the colors in her dress. Her (oversized) magenta earrings matched the (exorbitant) collection of magenta, yellow, and blue bangles, which matched her chunky yellow beads, which matched the bright colored pumps that adorned her feet. The dress itself appeared to be drowning in accessories. Allow your maxi dress to breathe-by mixing it up a bit. Mix and match natural stones or metals. If you're wearing a chunky necklace, keep earrings simple. But if you're attempting to showcase your sophisticated chandelier earrings, then keep your chest somewhat bare. In any event, your maxi dress should be the star of your summer show.

Don't...mistake a maxi for a mini dress

One great thing about the maxi dress is that it is typically suited to many different types of figures-namely those that are a bit more "ample." The problem is that some women feel the need to have every curve hugged. In theory, these types of dresses should skim the figure, draping over curves in such a way that they are suggested, rather than over-emphasized. If your dress dips in the front because your generous posterior has "raised the bar", then you might want to explore going up a size or two.

Don't ...drown in your dress

Yes, it's unfair that tall women are flattered in just about anything. But the good news is that the maxi dress can make shorter women feel glamorous as well. Most might agree that extremely petite women should steer clear of these garments. But the trick is to find the size and length that is most flattering to the frame. A woman of average height should avoid wearing maxi dresses that drag the ground. Some dresses have adjustable straps that help to balance the fit. But if you're still worried about drowning in fabric, pop on a great pair of wedge sandals for a little extra boost.

SOURCES:

www.ivillage.com
www.essence.com
www.cosmopolitan.com