A few weeks ago, I wrote a post on the ease and simplicity of wearing a maxi dress. And one of my faithful nosh readers asked my opinion on shorter women wearing these long frocks. I answered saying that I, with my 5'3" stature, had recently purchased a maxi dress and I would post some pics of me in it. I finally wore the dress and here are those promised pics!
First let me start with the particulars. I found this dress at Ross for $20. I actually balked when I saw the price tag because I had gotten used to spending only $12.99 on dresses at Ross. I almost left it there! lol But the color was too delicious to leave behind and the Grecian detailing was pretty nice for the price. So I said, "What the hey? Why not?" And I'm glad I did.
I'm not a proponent of dresses (or pants for that matter) that hit between the knee and ankle on most people. They usually end of cutting off the line of the leg, making you look shorter. But after wearing this maxi dress, I'd have to say it looks pretty good on my short-ish size. A reader also asked if I think short women should add a belt to the maxi dress look. And after doing that very thing myself, I'd have to say definitely add the belt. The belt creates a waist and displays your truer size. Without it, the dress may just balloon out and make you look pregnant (not cool if you're not with child) or just bigger than you really are (which is never cool).
If you're a short woman considering a longer dress, here are some tips for picking out something that works for your body:
* Accentuate your best features - I don't know if my arms and back are my best features but I think they look pretty sweet in this dress. Also, the ocean blue color pops on my skin. I got two compliments on the color alone!
* Wear heels - If you need a little boost to aid in the presentation of this particular style, just add a strappy heel. (Note: I've been nursing an injury for the last month so I'm wearing flats [some slight wedges] until my foot is back to normal.) The pointy toe and neutral color also work to extend the line of my legs, making me look longer and leaner.
* Make a small investment - It's summer time and who doesn't want to wear a fun summer look. If you're not sure about this style or you're not sure how long you'll keep the dress, don't spend a lot of money on it. I found my dress at Ross but there's also TJ Maxx, Marshall's, Forever 21, and Target if you're looking for trendy stuff on the cheap.
It looks good.I am a proponent of a belt too with the flowing maxi--especially if it is a solid color.
I will wear make sure I put on a belt and I will stay away from maxi dresses with linings--can you say dutch oven?
Posted by: The August Deed Co. | July 24, 2009 at 06:09 PM
D!!!!
Haha! I have the same EXACT dress!!! Color and all! Oh, and I got mine for $9.99!!
Posted by: P | July 25, 2009 at 01:57 PM
Thanks August Deed! I'm not a fan of the maxi dresses with the lining in them either. I didn't even consider the heat factor. Thanks for the warning!
Posted by: STYLEnosh | July 26, 2009 at 11:54 AM
P!!! I'm not surprised that a) you have this dress and b) you got if for $10! You just need to spill the info- where did you find it so cheap???
Posted by: STYLEnosh | July 26, 2009 at 11:58 AM
Georgeous dress, wonderful colour. You look fab in it- am incredibly jealous you bought that for $20!
Posted by: Elsie Tanner | August 11, 2009 at 11:46 AM
Thanks Elsie! But someone else found the same dress for $10!!! Now, that's a deal!
Posted by: STYLEnosh | August 11, 2009 at 01:18 PM