Friday, February 17, 2012

Fashion: Maxi-mum Impact

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As promised, here is the follow-up to my very first post all about skirts:

Maxi skirts and dresses are both bohemian and elegant, and I’ve heard time and again that they’re a wardrobe staple for tall women. Floor-grazing frocks elongate an already tall frame and you can’t deny that it feels good to have fabric flowing around your ankles as you walk. Maxi skirts look great with cropped tops that just graze the waistband or with long layers (tunics, cape coats, or long sweaters) that create a continuous, sleek line from head to toe.

In 2010, the New York Times reported on the rise of the maxi as a sleek, ascetic response to the mini-skirt trend. The author suggested that the conservative cut and muted colors of many maxis reflect a serious, edgy, recession-era mood. I can’t say that I agree, but designers and trendsetters have been bringing this 70s style back into the fold.

For fall and winter I gravitate toward straight (not tiered) jersey or chiffon maxis paired with combat boots, a military-style coat, and a draping, feminine top for a long silhouette and an interesting mix of styles. For spring and summer, I favor jewel tones and lighter-weight fabrics with tanks or tees and sandals. I bought this skirt in black from Urban Outfitters and shortened the lining to create a layered effect for warmer weather.

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Even maxis aren’t always long enough for tall girls. Tallook.com has compiled a great list of extra-long maxi dresses and where to find them, including Long Tall Sally, Alloy, Boden, Banana Republic, and my all-time favorite BCBG Maxazria.

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