Ah the maxi dress. A summer essential to every woman's wardrobe, and a great alternative to jeans as your legs are covered, but you will feel much cooler.
For the modelesque-
If you have height on your side, choose a dress with horizontal stripes or a natural waist to highlight your figure.
For the petite-
Select a dress with an empire waist to elongate your shape, pair with espadrilles or wedges for extra height, and be wary of large prints that will overwhelm your small frame. You will also look great in a tea length maxi.
For the mature-
Over 40? You can still rock this trend. Choose a maxi dress with sleeves rather than layering a T-shirt underneath. Opt for a silhouette that is flowy, not clingy.
Another great option for over 40-
The Skipper of the maxi dress, the maxi skirt.
For the littles-
No rules for little girls, but I love this maxi dress available at Nordstrom.
For everyone- You can take the dress out of the beach, but you can't take the beach out of the dress. In other words, the maxi is now acceptable as mainstream wear, but keep styling simple and fresh. Accessorize with sandals or wedges, beachy hair, minimal make-up, and bohemian jewelry.
Dresses in order or appearance: Dillard's, Gap, Old Navy, Nordstrom, Chico's, Ann Taylor, Nordstrom,