Summertime is synonymous with dresses, and with each return to the warmest season, we reach for the easiest styles to get dressed in that require little thought and time, ensuring we get out of the house and into the sun as quickly as possible. And this year, it's all about maxi dresses.
After the mini hemlines of last year, the maxi silhouette is a welcome respite; long, languid and perfect for breezy days, plus you you won't have to worry about having a Marilyn moment. The maxi is the laid-back dress we all long for, and when it comes to styling with shoes, there are a few tricks to really make the most of this piece. Though I'll never completely write off a style of shoes, there are certain pairs that work harder than others, look more considered and ensure you celebrate a long hemline in the best way.
Now, let's get to it. Here are five shoes I'm wearing with maxi dresses, and five I'm avoiding right now.
1. Wearing: Fisherman Sandals
Avoiding: Flip-Flops
Style Notes: There's no denying that fisherman sandals are having a moment. Since their revival last summer, the style has only gained in popularity and continues to prove they really do go with anything. To instantly upgrade a simple maxi dress to a fashion-forward ensemble, simply add fisherman sandals.
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So easy to dress up or down.
If you invest in one pair of sandals this summer, make it these.
I love the ruching on this style.
These look so comfy!
2. Wearing: Retro Sneakers
Avoiding: High-Tops
Style Notes: If you love a trainer pairing, I'd advise you go for a retro silhouette. Not only is the shape more streamlined, allowing for the focus to remain on the dress in question, but they work especially well with dainty dresses by employing the "Wrong-Shoe Theory".
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Okay, this is stunning!
Classics.
The sleeves on this style really do it for me.
Tenniscore is here to stay!
3. Wearing: Strappy Sandals
Avoiding: Chunky Sandals
Style Notes: Don't get me wrong, I'm a big fan of chunky sandals. But their heavy form can easily drag an outfit down, especially when you're playing with ankle-skimming lengths. To lighten the look, opt for a refined strappy sandal.
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I just love the colour of this bandeau dress. Wear with other brights or keep it neutral with black, tan or white accessories.
Now these are quiet-luxury sandals if ever I saw them.
A jersey maxi makes for an ideal travel 'fit.
I have these and can confirm just have comfy and versatile they are.
4. Wearing: Minimalist Boots
Avoiding: Cowboy Boots
Style Notes: As a big fan of cowboy boots, it might come as a surprise that I'm skipping them for now. One of the identifiers of cowboy boots is in the curved silhouette of the sides, which are often embroidered, and these intricate details aren't appreciated when covered with a long skirt. So, keep it simple and let your favourite minimalist boots earn their keep instead.
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Dress this up with heels for a night out.
I just know these will work hard in your wardrobe for years to come.
Trust COS to create the easiest maxi dress out there.
Monochrome will never go out of style.
5. Wearing: Ballet Flats
Avoiding: Loafers
Style Notes: As much as I love loafers, there's definitely a time and a place for them. And when I'm styling a maxi dress with flats, I tend to lean towards a more delicate ballet style, especially when it's a dressier pair.
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Linen dresses are our go-tos for this time of year.
I'd also wear these with mini skirts, jeans and wide-leg trousers.
You can always rely on Ghost for gorgeous dresses.
These pumps also come in silver, gold and baby blue.
