31st October 2025
How To Style a Maxi Dress
Refined, timeless, and versatile – a maxi dress is an indispensable addition to any formal wardrobe. It effortlessly transitions from an elegant ensemble at a black-tie event to a relaxed yet refined look for a garden party. From ankle-grazing midaxi hems to floor-sweeping trains, these garments come in endless designs and lengths to suit various celebrations and occasions.
Whether you’re updating your evening wear with classic LBDs and sleek velvet dresses for a timeless look. Or searching for an embellished or sequinned dress, it’s important to know how to style a maxi style to make sure you look and feel your best for your next event.
Read our guide to discover how to style a maxi dress for every occasion, from elegant evening soirées to chic daytime celebrations.
Maxi Dress Styling Tips
Styling a maxi dress is all about balancing structure and choosing the right accessories to elevate your look.
A maxi dress’ lengthy silhouette offers a flattering and elongating effect that’s best highlighted by a sleek pair of heels. The best shoe colour will depend on the dress; neutral and metallic tones, like black, white, nude, gold, and silver, are versatile enough to work with any shade of dress. More vibrant tones work best with classic designs, such as black dresses, adding a pop of colour to the look.
Elevate the look with accessories. Play around with different pieces and textures to create a look that’s uniquely yours. Bring some glitz and glam with jewellery, define your figure and cinch the waist with a belt, or add a touch of personality with a statement bag.
Another easy way to style a maxi dress into a polished and refined ensemble is by playing with layers. Choose the right outerwear for the season or occasion; drape a sheer shawl over your shoulders for outdoor celebrations, or add structure to the look with one of our tailored blazers.
Occasion Styling
How to Dress Up a Maxi Dress for Evening Events
For evening occasions, consider styling rich textured maxi dresses with refined accessories. Choose designs crafted in sequins, satin, or lace to create a sense of depth and glamour under evening light.
Our JENNIFER Gold Dress is a show-stopping piece, crafted to catch the light and command attention with its lustrous liquid gold sequin design and front thigh split. SAMANTHA combines the best of both worlds with a corset sequin bodice and velvet skirt with a thigh slit for a touch of allure.
A sleek updo or softly waved hair enhances the neckline and silhouette, while metallic or crystal-embellished jewellery adds a touch of radiance. Finish the look with a structured clutch and heeled sandals or pumps that elongate the frame. The key to styling a maxi dress is balance; pair the drama of a flowing hemline with sleek, modern accents to maintain effortless elegance.
How to Style a Maxi Dress for a Wedding
When styling any type of dress for a wedding, the first step is to familiarise yourself with the dress code. Depending on the wedding’s theme, location, or season, different styles will be more appropriate.
No matter the dress code, always opt for fabrics and tones that feel romantic yet refined. Soft pastels and floral prints, like our HELENA Floral Dress or the MIRANDA Yellow Dress, are perfect for outdoor, sun-drenched celebrations. Jewel-toned and rich materials like satin and velvet exude timeless elegance, while a nipped-in waist or tailored silhouette ensures a refined look.
Complete the look with delicate heels, fine jewellery, and a compact clutch that complements your dress without overpowering it.
What to Wear Over a Maxi Dress
Layering is essential to mastering transitional styling, and the right outerwear enhances both comfort and allure. A structured blazer can sharpen the fluidity of a maxi dress, ideal for taking you from daytime celebrations to after-hour events. For a relaxed yet elevated finish, a cropped leather jacket introduces contrast with a contemporary edge.
For garden parties or destination weddings, a silk kimono or satin wrap brings lightness and femininity. The best outerwear complements the maxi’s shape and material, enhancing its elegance.
What Shoes to Wear with a Maxi Dress
Footwear defines the tone of a maxi dress ensemble. For evening or formal events, heeled sandals, stilettos, or strappy metallic heels offer lift and polish, elongating the silhouette. Closed-toe pumps remain a timeless choice for weddings or formal dinners, especially in coordinating tones that blend seamlessly with the dress.
In cooler months, ankle- or knee-high boots in leather or suede lend warmth while maintaining style and sophistication. For daytime wear, embrace effortless style with refined flats, espadrilles, or wedges that balance comfort and grace.