CL’s Top 10 Maxi Dresses

Say goodbye to the skintight mini dresses that took center stage last summer and say hello to the hot new trend–maxi dresses. These mid-calf to floor length sundresses are more conservative than last years go-to dresses, but they are just as sexy and are perfect for all classy occasions. Here are CL’s top 10 picks for the cutest maxi dresses on the market:

1. Francesca’s Collections Enchanted Forest Maxi Dress, $54, Francesca’s Collections. This dress is strapless and stunning. Pair with a chunky gold necklace, bangles and espadrille wedges.

2. AE Smocked Skirt Dress, $39.95, American Eagle. A crisp, clean white and airy look–great for a carefree day. A colored belt, fedora and strappy sandals will complete this look.

3. Forever 21 Paisley Strapless Maxi Dress, $29.80, Forever 21. A dress that’s in a pretty palette with a lovely pattern. Add a simple headband and white straw tote.

4. BCBG Katya Draped-Flounce Maxi Dress, $328, BCBG. A bit pricey but sure to draw attention. Put on over-sized black shades and make traffic stop.

5. Akira Halter Maxi Dress in Passion, $46.90, Akira. This is my favorite (probably because of the bright pink color.) Wear with sandals and stacked bracelets in a complementary color like teal.

6. Marc by Marc Jacobs Rex Stripe Cotton Dress, $358, Marc Jacobs. The perfect LBD (long black dress.) Wear with a greenish blue statement necklace and jewel toned flats.

7. Love Culture Diagonal Striped Maxi Dress, $27.90, Love Culture. Classy, colorful and fun. Pair with a cross-body bag and open-toe pumps.

8. Suzi Chin Maggy Boutique Crepe de Chine Maxi Dress, $158, Nordstrom. This dress is darling with layers of ruffles. Carry a black patent handbag and wear silver earrings and a ring.

9. Charlotte Russe Crochet Bib Woven Maxi Dress, $32.99, Charlotte Russe. A little detail adds pizazz to this black look. Pair with wedges and a floral cuff.

10. Express Graphic Chiffon Maxi Dress, $52.80, Express.Reminds me of a watercolor painting. Wear with gold accessories and shoes.

Erica Avesian is an intern at College Lifestyles(TM). She is a junior communications major at the University of Michigan. This summer you can find her hitting up outdoor shopping malls, meeting her friends at Starbucks and relaxing with her wonderful family.