Four Wedding-Worthy Maxi Dresses

I distinctly remember the first time my mom showed me how to color and paint a sunset. Nature’s beauty had stolen my breath away and I wanted to capture it on paper. The vibrant shades and seamless ombre blending of one color into the next fascinated me—and still do. Sunsets and sunrises have a way of making you pause, don’t they? Whether on paper or in fabric, it’s near impossible to compete with the real thing… but this stunning number (appropriately named “Splendor of the Sunset”) comes close. It’s perfect for special events and vacation. In fact, it inspired this round-up of wedding-worthy maxi dresses!

This time of year, it’s always fun to look ahead to spring and summer weddings. They’re a great chance to reconnect with old friends, spend time with family and dance the night away. But choosing what to wear isn’t always easy. So, let’s talk about why a romantic maxi dress is such a good option.

Ombre Pleated Maxi Dress (available in petite/tall lengths & 43 percent off!) | Heels  | Earrings (similar)

Wedding-worthy maxi dresses

A smart choice… 

Some people steer away from maxi dresses, worrying a longer style will make them look like they are part of the bridal party. I’d argue maxi dresses in flowy fabrics, cheerful prints and sophisticated shapes actually have the opposite effect. You will look modern, appropriate and on-trend. Furthermore, a longer style indicates that this event, this couple is important to you. They are worth dressing up for.

Important considerations…

When selecting wedding-worthy maxi dresses, there are a few “rules” to think about. These probably sound like common sense, but they are also a good refresher.

• Keep the “sexy” in check: Wedding guests should look pretty, but conservative. Avoid anything with plunging necklines/cleavage, cut-outs, thigh-high slits, etc. You don’t want to appear like you’re trying to upstage the bride.
• Don’t go too casual: Look for maxis in more formal fabrics that offer great flow and movement. You certainly don’t want to appear like you tossed on a beach cover-up (unless the wedding is a very chill beach affair). Flowy silk, jersey, polyester, or chiffon are always great choices. In general, cotton dresses read as too informal.
• Have a wrap/sweater on hand: If the wedding ceremony is in a church, it’s always good to have a wrap or sweater to cover your shoulders. Customs vary, but more formal places of worship may consider bare arms/shoulders disrespectful.
• No white, cream or ivory: Patterns with white are okay, but make sure it doesn’t read as “white”  overall.
• Avoid the wedding colors: Learn what the bridal party is wearing. Or you can check the invitation to get a sense of what the colors will be. Your wedding-worthy maxi dress should move firmly in the other direction. That said, try to match your colors with the season. For instance, pastels might look out of place in fall, while burgundy or maize would seem odd in spring.

The Dresses

Ombre Pleated Maxi Dress | Heels  | Earrings (similar)

Look #1: I found my “Splendor or the Sunset” dress at Chicwish and felt like a princess the minute I pulled it on. If you are a regular here, you’ve probably heard me talk about this company before because it is very petite-friendly (I’m under 5′) and offers quality pieces that lean retro, creative and “indie” for lack of a better word. If you want a piece you won’t see any one else wearing, Chicwish is for you.

This is actually the first maxi dress I’ve ever had that I don’t have to hem! It has lovely movement, is lined/well-constructed and can be styled with or without the belt. But by far, the most incredible thing about it, is the achingly beautiful color. I really wish I would have found this before my son was born. It would be beautiful for a maternity photo shoot and is so comfortable!Look #2: This beauty from Nordstrom is a great option because of the modern print. Not only will this be a stunner for a summer wedding, it can double as a vacation look. Depending on your accessory choices, you can easily dress it up or down.

Look #3: This floral number is great for those more conservative settings. With sleeves and a happy spring print, it would be appropriate in any venue. Plus, it’s on trend! I would pair it with straw and pink accessories for a lighter look.

Look #4: This under $20 maxi is for those more casual beach-type weddings. Accessorize properly and it can feel more formal, but is definitely and afternoon/daytime dress.  The fabric is so soft. It doesn’t get more comfortable than this.

Do you wear maxi dresses? What is your favorite style for a wedding?

—-Love, Lindsay