Because of how versatile it is, the maxi dress is considered a wardrobe staple, and a must-have for every fashion-forward wardrobe. Styling maxi dresses is fun; you can dress it up or down and with different accessories, making it ideal for all occasions. Whether you want to wear it as one of your favorite  beach dresses over your favorite sexy designer bikini or layered underneath a light jacket or sweater, these flowing dresses can be your companion throughout the seasons. 

If you are wondering  what is a maxi dress and how to style it, we have you covered. We’re sharing a few of our go-to style tips for how to wear a maxi dress when you’re dressing up, going casual, or looking for a  comfortable summer dress for the beach. From layering techniques to the right accessories, let's explore how to style your summer maxi dress for any occasion.

Dresses are a great way to dress up, especially when you go with a flowy maxi dress outfit. If you decide that you're wearing a maxi dress for a formal occasion, keep in mind that they’re usually made with lighter materials, like cotton or silk, which feels great against the skin. 

Because of this, they’re not often considered a dress-up option. However, as you’re headed on your next resort vacation, the right maxi dress design will work perfectly with a fancier dress code when you want something elegant, chic, but still comfortable. 

Black instantly adds polish to any look and is a go-to neutral color for everyone. A little black dress is a closet must-have to fit any occasion, and the same goes for a black maxi dress as well. 

A light-colored or white maxi dress is the ultimate piece for effortless, breezy styling. The fresh, airy look makes it perfect for daytime outings, whether you're grabbing coffee, exploring a coastal town, or meeting friends for brunch. A simple maxi dress in white or soft neutrals offers a clean and elegant aesthetic while keeping things relaxed and comfortable.

For a casual vibe, pair your dress with sneakers or flat strappy sandals. If you’re going for a slightly elevated look, espadrilles or heeled mules add just the right amount of polish. To layer effortlessly, throw on a jean jacket or a lightweight cropped jacket — both options keep the look balanced without overpowering the dress’s natural elegance.

 Style Tip: If you want to add shape to your dress, cinch it at the waist with a belt for a defined waist, or opt for a dress with a subtle A-line cut. Accessorize minimally with some dainty gold jewelry and a woven bag for the perfect summer wardrobe staple. For a different style, tie the bottom hem into a knot to create movement and a laid-back feel.

Take the casual aspect even further by wearing a maxi dress as a chic beach cover up. It allows you to head straight from the sand to a lunch date, shopping spree, or a stroll to check out the rest of your surroundings. It folds up nicely to store in a tote and allows you to be stylishly dressed in an instant. 

Look for dresses in breezy fabrics like linen or cotton to keep cool while maintaining an effortlessly chic look. Pair it with strappy sandals for comfort and style, and top it off with a woven sunhat for added sun protection. You may also consider maxi dresses with side slits, not only for your ease of movement but also to add a subtle flirty touch. For evening plans, swap the sandals for espadrille wedges and add gold hoops to take the outfit effortlessly from day to night.

 Style Tip:  Keep your makeup minimal and accessorize with a shell necklace or oversized sunglasses for an effortless coastal vibe.

Another benefit of having multiple maxi dresses in your wardrobe is that you can layer and adapt to the season or change in temperature during the day. These are two factors to consider when deciding what to wear over a maxi dress. When transitioning from spring to summer or summer to fall and there’s a slight chill in the air, a maxi dress is ideal for layering. 

 Pick a seasonal color 

Start with a color or print that speaks to the season. Lighter, pastel colors are better for spring, while warmer, richer tones work well for autumn. A cream button-up cardigan, denim jacket, or oversized blazer pair nicely without taking away from the striking print. Or, a cropped moto jacket adds edge when heading into the cooler months. Rather than sandals, pair with elegant slides in a neutral color or ankle boots to take this look right from summer into fall.

 Or layer on lighter clothing 

Other layering pieces that work well with a maxi dress are a button-up denim shirt tied at the waist for a classically cool option, an oversized shawl wrapped around the shoulders for cozy appeal, or a zip-up hoodie for a laid-back weekend look. 

These all allow you to transform your maxi dresses into various outfits for when you’re traveling, transitioning to cooler temperatures, or when the occasion or location calls for extra material to cover up.

Deciding what to wear with maxi dress depends on if you want to dress it up or dress it down, the location and activity, and your style. In addition to wearing jackets as layering pieces for your dresses, shoes, and jewelry, you also make a difference in achieving your ideal look. 

 Jewelry 

Jewelry is another way to express your personal style through  accessories. Understated pieces like a delicate gold chain or pretty diamond earrings are standard pieces for everyday wear, but the options are endless, depending on how you’re matching the jewelry to your dress. 

 Metallic Accessories 

Metallics go with everything. Whether you like hoop or stud earrings, thin bracelets or a solid cuff, gold, silver, and rose gold work well when paired with any style of maxi dress. 

Meanwhile, turquoise or colorful jewels look striking against a black or white maxi dress. The question is whether you want chunky, layered pieces or keep the jewelry slim and understated. Also, do you want multiple matching pieces or pieces that complement each other but have their own special appeal? 

 Bags and Hats 

After you’ve chosen the various shoes and jewelry that’ll complete your maxi dress outfits, there’s also the decision of bags  and hats  to consider. Straw totes and wide-brimmed beach hats are best for a resort getaway. Tie a silk scarf through one of the bag handles or around the base of your hat for extra style. 

Pick one or two in color and style that will work with multiple options. Fortunately, most choices are timeless when it comes to accessories and will coordinate with what’s currently in your wardrobe and what may be added in the future.

Flattering Silhouettes for Every Body Shape 

Finding the maxi dress style that best suits your body shape is key to achieving an effortlessly chic look. If you want a defined waist, opt for a wrap dress or one with a belted design. Petite figures should lean towards A-line or high-slit designs to elongate the legs, while taller individuals can rock flowing dresses with dramatic hemlines. If you're curvy, a cinched or ruched waistline will enhance your shape beautifully.

 Fabric & Pattern Guide: Picking the Perfect Maxi Dress 

The fabric and pattern of your maxi dress can influence its versatility. A simple maxi dress in solid colors works great for layering, while bold floral or geometric prints make a statement on their own. Lightweight cotton and linen are perfect for a summer wardrobe, whereas velvet and knit maxis are ideal for fall and winter. Choosing the right accessories can also help balance out busy prints or add personality to a neutral-toned outfit.

A favorite maxi dress is the ultimate wardrobe essential, perfect for any occasion, any season, and any mood. Whether you’re layering it up for fall, styling it with strappy sandals for summer, or pairing it with a leather jacket for an edgy twist, there are endless ways to make a different look work for you.

Ready to refresh your summer wardrobe with the perfect maxi dress? Shop ViX’s collection to find timeless, high-quality styles that fit every occasion effortlessly. Now go rock that maxi dress with confidence –– you’ve got this!