Take your Summer Fashion to the Max(i)

By Krysten Beck

We all adore our Beach Coast summers, but sometimes the weather around here makes our fashion choices a bit limited. Don't just throw on any old dress this summer to beat the heat. These long dog days call for long and gorgeous maxi length dresses and skirts. This universally flattering fashion trend swept the 2012 Spring runways and will continue to help everyone make it through those ninety-degree days while still remaining as fashionable as ever. Let TheBeachCoast.com bring you all the latest maxi trends as we detail all the ways to rock it. Read on to learn how to don this dress or skirt like a true diva!

Perfect for All Body Shapes

From petite to plus-sized, maxi dresses and skirts will make summer so much fun this year. No matter your shape, just remember that when choosing a maxi, prevent becoming overwhelmed by too much fabric or prints. For you petite readers, choose a fashionable frock with a sleek shape to keep a long and lean look. For those who are plus-sized, the long shape of the dress can instantly make you look taller and slimmer. Choose a dress that has a fitted waist or add a belt to accentuate your smallest section. Plus-sizes should also keep busy prints out of their closets - solid colors are the best way to rock your maxi. You won't know what works for your body type or skin tone until you try different styles of maxi dresses on – be adventurous and get out of your usual comfort zone!

Accessorize 'til you Drop!

Wearing a maxi calls for much accessorizing! From bangles to necklaces to earrings and rings – maxis warrant a wide array of accessories. You can make a maxi look casual with a bit of simple jewelery like a pair of hoop earrings and some bracelets or fancy up your frock with more elegant accoutrement for a night out on the town. With so much variety, you'll be able to easily take your look from day to night just by swapping your jewelry. Take a page out of a Grecian goddesses’ fashion diary and create a fun and interesting outfit perfect for any gathering.

This same accessory mentality goes for your shoe choice as well! Maxi dresses allow for a broad choice of shoe styles. Keep it casual by slipping on a fabulous pair of gladiator sandals, flip-flops or wedges. Or put on a pair of stilettos or peep-toe pumps to really get that elegant look we mentioned earlier. The versatility of this dress can make your summer the most fashionable one yet!

Perfect for the Beach

Not only can you rock this style each day, maxis can also be a great swim suit coverup for you beach bums. These simple and easy alternatives to your usual t-shirt and shorts combo can really help you channel your inner editorial model every time you go to the beach. Maxis come in an array of different fabrics making a day at the beach carefree – like it should be!

Jersey knits and linen fabrics will work best to keep you cool but still covered for beach BBQs or picnics. Pair with a fun head scarf or big sun hat and you'll be mistaken for a Beach Coast celebrity!

Maxis will have your wardrobe feeling easy and breezy this summer. Expand your closet with these helpful tips to make this your most fashionable summer yet. Don't worry about a thing, you will look fabulous no matter what – all you have to do is pay attention to our tips and it'll be smooth sailing this summer with your newest fashion obsession!

Krysten Beck is Beach Coast born and raised and recently moved back to the area after graduating from Indiana University with a degree in Journalism. Krysten has written for the Indiana Daily Student and the Indiana University Arbutus Yearbook while also contributing to a handful of blogs.