The sun has finally returned, and it’s time to talk about summer fashion for women over 60. I’ve been quite surprised that I haven’t seen older women wearing maxi dresses or maxi skirts during the summer months.

1. Eliza J Cascading Ruffle Maxi Dress at Bloomingdale’s – This pretty floral dress features a round neck with pleated detail and long blouson sleeves, a blouson style bodice, lining, and a cascading ruffle and slit at the side front. 
2. Women’s V-Neck Tuck-Front Maxi Dress at Macy’s – This imported V-neck maxi dress features an abstract knit print and multi-directional tucks at the bodice. It is ankle-length or longer, partially lined, and includes pockets.
3. JERSEY HALTER MAXI DRESS – JACOBEAN at Talbot’s – This effortless maxi dress exudes chic style with its flattering waist tie and modern halter neck. Made from a soft blend of cotton-modal, it offers both comfort and breathability, while a side slit at the front hem adds a touch of allure.
4. Chiffon Off Shoulder Yellow Maxi Dress at Chico’s – This dress is made with lightweight fabric and a flowy design. It features an off-the-shoulder neckline, smocked waist, and elastic cuffs, making it a perfect choice for both special occasions and casual outings.
5. Rainforest Print Pleat Front Maxi Dress – Meet Jasmina, Chico’s Rainforest Print Pleat Front Maxi Dress that effortlessly combines style and comfort. With its sleek sheath silhouette, front pleat details, and soft lightweight fabric with stretch, it’s perfect for any occasion, from potlucks to baby showers, and pairs beautifully with fashionable sandals.
6. Cotton Modal Square Neck Tiered Maxi Dress from Lands’ End – The beloved tiered maxi dress from Lands’ End is back with exciting upgrades. Featuring a flattering square neckline, on-seam pockets, and a single ruffle tier at the bottom hem, this dress effortlessly combines style and convenience for a chic and functional look.
7. Peyton & Parker Short Sleeve Puffed Sleeve Floral Maxi Dress from JCPenny – A flattering v-neckline, tiered design, short puff sleeves, and convenient front pockets, this 100% cotton dress pairs perfectly with flat strappy sandals for an effortlessly fashionable look.
8. White Mark Plus Sleeveless Midi Maxi Dress – This maxi-length dress features a tiered design and a scoop neckline, making it a versatile and stylish choice. With two side slip pockets, it offers convenience while maintaining a sleeveless and comfortable silhouette, crafted from a knit fabric blend of polyester, rayon, and spandex.
9. Linen A-Line Maxi Dress from J.Jill – Indulge in a vacation-like ambiance with this airy linen maxi dress, featuring an abstract oversized palm print. This dress boasts a flattering V-neckline, on-seam pockets, and a back keyhole with a button and loop closure, making it a perfect choice for a relaxed and stylish look.
10. Wearever Maxi Tank Dress from J.Jill – A soft rayon-based knit fabric long A-line dress that offers both comfort and versatility, making it suitable for various occasions. With angled front seams, a back waist seam, and high side vents at the hemline, it provides a flattering fit and effortless movement, while the boat neckline adds a classic touch to the overall design.

Most of us in the older age groups aren’t comfortable wearing shorts anymore. Many women question the silhouette of capris. So, I would think the maxis would be a natural choice for our generation.

Could it be because we’ve read articles saying that if you’ve worn a trend the first time around, you shouldn’t wear it again? In reality, I don’t consider that realistic for a couple of reasons.

First of all, fashion is cyclical. There are only a certain number of items and ways to wear them. Even the crazy, creative fashion designers can’t reinvent the body shape. They must return to some tried and true styles.

Second, if you liked wearing some item years ago, why wouldn’t you wear it when it comes back in style? This is true especially if it looks good on you and is flattering. Heck, in this day and age we are living longer and healthier! We might even be lucky enough to see the same trend more than twice.

So, let’s embrace it, I say!

Read BEST CLOTHING STORES FOR WOMEN OVER 50.

What Are Maxi Dresses and Maxi Skirts?

A maxi skirt or maxi dress is one where the hemline falls below the calf and can extend down to the feet. There can be a lot of leeway on the length, depending on your preferences.

Like in the example shown here, the brown print dress (on the left) would be considered a maxi, yet it’s still above the ankles. Whereas the black maxi dress (on the right), is quite longer and extends past the ankles!

What Variations and Styles Are Available?

Besides the slight differences in length, there are other maxi options available. First is material. I first started seeing this trend a couple of years ago. It was hard to get used to the fact that maxis were made of knits or t-shirt materials. I grew up as a kid wearing many long dresses. They were for dress up and made of woven materials.

The reappearing maxi trend celebrates the fact that the material can change. Knit maxis are really quite comfortable. Just like everyone loves the feel of a great t-shirt, it’s the same for the knit material maxis.

Of course, you can also find them in polyester, cotton, chiffon, among other materials. Some even have spandex in them so the shape doesn’t get stretched out!

The other option for new maxi dresses and skirts is the silhouette. The silhouette can range from a slim design to a full body skirt. Something to consider is that the straighter the line of the skirt, the more chance there will be a slit going up the side. This is designed to allow for movement.

If you like the slim silhouette, but the slit feels too high for comfort, you can always sew part of it closed. Just make sure to try walking in it before you do this!

How Do Maxis Feel?

If you haven’t worn a maxi in 30 years, you might have forgotten the wonderful sense of a breeze between your legs. Or the liberating feeling of a skirt swishing around your ankles.

Even though your lower body is more covered up with a maxi than shorts or capris, it seems cooler! This is probably due to the fact that the material is not hugging your skin as closely.

Why Do I Love This Look?

Well, to be truthful, I didn’t actually love this look at first. I’m just like everyone else who struggles with not always wanting to change with the times. I kept thinking that the new styles were for the younger crowds.

It’s taken the experience of fashion blogging to realize that fashion should be fun. We don’t need to get bogged down by the rules we were taught about clothing and style when we were growing up.

As a petite woman, my first thought with maxis was they would make me look shorter. And maybe they do. The truth is, I am short. I’m not going to hide that fact from anyone who meets me. But to me, as long as I look good and feel comfortable, I’ve met one of my goals for the day! What I really have learned from blogging is to be more adventurous in trying new pieces and to never say never.

So, I started wearing a maxi. This was partly because my friend gave me the pinkish print one shown below. I soon realized how beneficial they could be for other women my age.

Are you still wondering if you should try this trend? Then check out the pros and cons as I see them. Maybe it will help solidify a decision for you.

Pros of Wearing a Maxi Dress or Skirt

The biggest advantage of wearing a maxi skirt or maxi dress is the fact that your legs are not exposed. I have to admit; I was thoroughly surprised by the number of women that responded to the ankle pants article.

Most said they didn’t like their ankles. Maybe you are one of those women, or feel there are too many varicose veins on your legs to be comfortable showing them in public. This longer style could be the perfect summer wear for you.

Also, like I stated above, these skirts can actually keep your temperature from boiling over. They simply increase the air circulation around your legs.

Perhaps you already like wearing skirts especially in the summer but have to worry about the wind whipping the fabric up around your waist (you know, the Marilyn Monroe look). In that case, maxis are much more reliable at staying down around your feet. The wind may blow the skirt around your legs, but not far enough to cause embarrassment.

I consider the casual maxi skirt a versatile piece. It can also double as your swim suit cover up. It is basically a one-piece sarong. These skirts are also versatile in the fact that many of them have a foldable waistband. The advantage of this is you can adjust the length of the skirt without having to hem it.

Read THE CLASSIC TREND OF THE LITTLE BLACK DRESS.

Cons of Wearing a Maxi

Just like with everything in life, the good comes with some bad. As much as I like my maxis, I will tell you they are not the easiest pieces to wear if you happen to be walking up or down the stairs a lot. Of course, this is easily remedied by grabbing it and pulling it up. But if you forget, there’s the chance of stepping on the material and getting caught up in the fabric.

Another disadvantage of a longer skirt is difficulty moving around. Even in a chair, especially a rolling chair, the material can get stuck under the legs/wheels of your furniture!

What Shoes Go with a Maxi

I’ve read many articles on what footwear to pair with your maxi. The overall consensus is that open toed shoes and sandals provide the best look with them. This being said, I have also seen women wearing their maxis with ankle boots and closed toe footwear. There are no absolute rules. Remember, fashion rules have gone out the window, so experiment with maxi styles and have fun!

Where to Get the Look

Eliza J Cascading Ruffle Maxi Dress at Bloomingdale’s

This pretty floral dress showcases a flattering round neck adorned with delicate pleated detailing, adding a touch of elegance to the overall design. The long blouson sleeves lend a sense of sophistication and grace.

The blouson bodice of the dress enhances its relaxed yet refined silhouette, creating a gentle gathering effect that adds a hint of femininity. As a striking focal point, a cascading ruffle gracefully drapes down the side front, lending an element of movement and charm to the dress. 

To provide comfort and coverage, the dress is thoughtfully lined, ensuring that it drapes smoothly against the body while preserving its overall structure and silhouette. 

Women’s V-Neck Tuck-Front Maxi Dress at Macy’s 

Elevate your style with this imported V-neck maxi dress. Its modern flair is showcased through an abstract knit print and multi-directional tucks at the bodice. 

The dress is designed with partial lining to ensure comfort and a smooth drape. Convenience meets fashion with the inclusion of pockets. Embrace contemporary elegance and effortless style with this statement-making dress.

JERSEY HALTER MAXI DRESS – JACOBEAN at Talbots

Effortlessly chic, this maxi dress is enhanced by a flattering waist tie that adds a touch of elegance to its overall silhouette. Crafted from a soft blend of cotton-modal, it offers a light and breathable feel, perfect for warm weather. 

The dress showcases a modern halter neck design that exudes contemporary style. Adding to its allure, a side slit at the front hem adds a hint of allure and movement. Embrace comfort and sophistication with this stylish maxi dress, a versatile choice for any occasion.

Chiffon Off Shoulder Yellow Maxi Dress at Chico’s

Elevate your style with this lovely and lightweight Chiffon Off Shoulder Yellow Maxi Dress. This flowy dress showcases an effortless straight line silhouette, complemented by an off-the-shoulder neckline, smocked waist, and elastic cuffs. 

Crafted from soft and lightweight fabric, it offers a comfortable and breathable fit. Whether for a special occasion or a casual outing, pair it with your favorite sandals to create a fashionable look that embodies the essence of the season. With its classic fit, long sleeves, and maxi length, this dress is a timeless addition to your wardrobe.

Rainforest Print Pleat Front Maxi Dress

This lightweight dress showcases a sleek sheath silhouette that accentuates your figure, with front pleat details adding a flattering touch to your hips and tummy. Made from soft and lightweight fabric with a touch of stretch, it ensures a comfortable fit. 

Whether you’re attending potlucks or baby showers, this versatile maxi dress pairs beautifully with fashionable sandals, making it an ideal choice for various occasions. 

Cotton Modal Square Neck Tiered Maxi Dress from Lands’ End

Experience the upgraded version of the beloved tiered maxi dress from Lands’ End. With its flattering square neckline, convenient on-seam pockets, and a single ruffle tier at the bottom hem, it combines style and functionality flawlessly.  

Made from a blend of 56% cotton, 38% modal, and 6% spandex, it’s super comfortable and easy to care for. 

Peyton & Parker Short Sleeve Puffed Sleeve Floral Maxi Dress from JCPenny

Get ready for the warm-weather months with the Peyton & Parker floral-print maxi dress. Crafted from 100% cotton, this dress combines style and comfort with its flattering v-neckline, tiered design, and charming short puff sleeves. 

Complete the look with flat strappy sandals for a chic and fashionable ensemble that’s perfect for vacations and social occasions. Front pockets add a practical touch, making this dress both stylish and functional.

White Mark Plus Sleeveless Midi Maxi Dress

This maxi dress showcases a tiered design, making it a stylish and versatile piece for any occasion. It features a pullover head closure and a scoop neckline. With two side slip pockets, it offers convenience and functionality. 

Designed from a knit fabric composed of 55% polyester, 33% rayon, and 12% spandex, it provides both stretch and durability. The dress is lined with polyester, ensuring a comfortable and smooth fit.

Linen A-Line Maxi Dress from J.Jill 

Escape to a tropical paradise with this light and breezy linen maxi dress, adorned with an abstract oversized palm print that evokes a vacation vibe. 

The dress features a flattering V-neckline and convenient on-seam pockets. Adding a touch of allure, the back showcases a keyhole with a button and loop closure. Crafted from 100% linen woven fabric, this dress offers a comfortable and breathable fit, allowing you to embrace the relaxed feel of a getaway in your everyday life.

Wearever Maxi Tank Dress from J.Jill 

Discover the versatility of this long A-line dress, designed in a soft rayon-based knit fabric that offers comfort and style for any occasion. The dress features angled front seams and a back waist seam, subtly shaping your silhouette for a flattering fit. 

With high side vents at the hemline, it allows for graceful movement and adds a touch of elegance. The boat neckline adds a classic and timeless touch, while the effortlessly packable knit style makes it a convenient option for travel. Crafted from soft European yarns, this dress ensures a luxurious feel and superior quality.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

What is your ideal summer look? Is the maxi one of them? Do you like to wear maxi dresses or maxi skirts? What kind of shoes do you wear with this length? What do you think is the essence of fashion for women over 60? Please join the conversation.