To the Max: Pleated Chiffon Maxi Dress

Last night, I attended my first Delux Magazine event since joining the team as a style contributor. It was a cool celebration at a hip lounge in the city. I thought it was the perfect occasion to finally wear my blue pleated chiffon maxi dress. I’ve been hunting for a maxi dress like this one since seeing Shea of Curves and Confidence rock a similar one. So, when I found this style on sale and in a perfect shade of blue, I bought it with no hesitation.

Pleated chiffon overlay. V-neck in the front and back. Adjustable straps. This classic maxi dress is stunning summer staple. I can imagine wearing it for many summers.

Dress—Express (on sale)

Shoes—J.Crew (on sale)

Clutch—Aldo (old) | H&M option

Earrings—℅ Happiness Boutique

Watch—Michael Kors

Lip—Mac “Asian Flower” lipstick, Mac “Heroine” lip pencil

Blush—NYX powder blush in mocha

My dress was the focal point of the entire look. I wanted to keep my accessories minimal but interesting. My vintage-looking crystal tassel earrings from Happiness boutique added the perfect, elegant touch. This boutique, by the way, carries an extensive collection of trendy jewelry at affordable prices. These earrings, for example, are only $21.64 and ship for free.

The dress features a pleated chiffon overlay. This detail is perfect for creating dramatic, flowing movements. And, you know how sometimes the slip layer of a dress like this one is just all wrong? Not on this dress. The slip is fluid and non-clingy.

I’m wearing the dress in an extra small. The dress has an oversized fit, so sizing down is probably a good idea. It’s also quite long. I have to wear the maxi with heels at my 5’4″ height or it will be sweeping the floor. The adjustable straps come in handy here because you can shorten them and essentially shorten the dress.

My old Aldo beaded clutch was a perfect companion for the dress. If you’re on the market for a beaded clutch, the H&M beaded clutch (only $34.95) is just as stunning.