Let me just say this out loud: Maxi skirts are the unsung heroes of summer.
They’re flowy, flattering, and secretly feel like pajamas—but somehow make you look like you’ve got your life together (even if you don’t). And trust me, as a single mom balancing school drop-offs, content shoots, and occasionally forgetting my coffee in the microwave for the fifth time, I live for clothes that look cute and let me breathe.
The best part? You don’t need a million pieces or a celebrity stylist. Just one or two good maxi skirts and a few closet staples, and boom—summer outfit magic. So whether you’re headed to brunch, a beach day, or just the grocery store in style (hey, it counts), these are the 19 maxi skirt looks that I love, wear, and swear by.
1. The White Tank + Printed Maxi
This is a forever classic. A crisp white tank (bonus points for ribbed texture) tucked into a bold floral or geometric maxi skirt gives effortless chic. It’s giving “cool mom on vacation” energy—except I wore it to Target last week.
How I style it: Gold hoops, messy bun, and tan sandals. Done.
2. Denim Maxi + Cropped Button-Down
Denim skirts are back and no, they’re not just for music festivals. A high-waisted denim maxi paired with a slightly oversized cropped button-down shirt is casual but put-together. I wear this when I want to look chill but still like I have a Pinterest board.
Style tip: Roll the sleeves and throw on sneakers or flat mules.
3. Boho Maxi + Graphic Tee
This is my farmers-market uniform. It’s easy, cute, and tells the world: “I probably know where to find oat milk in bulk.” A flowy boho skirt with a knotted vintage band tee? Instant cool girl.
My twist: Add layered gold chains and a woven tote.
4. Silky Maxi + Oversized Blazer
We’re mixing luxe with structure here. A satin maxi skirt glides while the blazer sharpens the whole look. Wear this to dinner, a date, or just when you want to look like you read Vogue and your emails.
Pro move: Stick with neutral tones and add a pop of color via lipstick or bag.
5. Monochrome Neutrals
All white. All beige. All cream. Monochrome sounds boring until you wear it and realize you look like the main character in a French film. It’s rich auntie energy.
Make it pop: Mix textures—think linen + cotton or jersey + crochet.
6. Tank Bodysuit + Slit Maxi
I avoided bodysuits for the longest time. Then I tried one with a slit maxi skirt and… wow. It’s smooth, flattering, and doesn’t ride up when you chase after your kid.
Extra tip: A leg slit adds just the right amount of drama without sacrificing comfort.
7. Striped Maxi + Simple Tee
Stripes feel polished, and with the right tee, they’re weekend-perfect. I usually go for a vertical striped skirt to elongate the body (because #shortgirlproblems) and balance it with a solid top.
Fav footwear: Espadrilles or flat white sneakers.
8. Wrap Maxi + Bikini Top
When it’s 90 degrees and climbing, sometimes you just need fewer layers. I pair a wrap skirt with a bikini top or bralette and toss a kimono or sheer coverup on top.
Ideal for: Beach days, rooftop lounging, or pretending your stoop is a tropical resort.
9. Jersey Maxi + Denim Jacket
This combo has saved me so many times. It’s my “I have five minutes to get ready and zero energy” outfit. Jersey maxis stretch, move, and are basically loungewear that looks like real clothes.
Add-ons: Baseball cap, crossbody bag, and your favorite iced coffee.
10. Maxi Skirt as a Dress Hack
Yes, I’m that girl who pulls her skirt up and pretends it’s a strapless dress. Add a belt and voilà—outfit transformation. Works especially well with elastic waist skirts.
Real talk: I’ve worn this trick on vacation and to a friend’s wedding. No one knew.
11. Tulle Maxi + Fitted Tee
I used to think tulle was for ballerinas and brides. But styled right? It’s fun, fashion-y, and surprisingly wearable. Just keep the top super simple—like a fitted crewneck tee or bodysuit.
Shoes to wear: White sneakers or chunky sandals for a streetwear twist.
12. Linen Maxi + Crochet Top
This screams “sustainable summer goddess.” Linen and crochet both breathe well, and together, they give a soft, romantic vibe. Add a basket bag and you’re picnic-ready.
Bonus: Linen doesn’t cling, which is a blessing in heat.
13. Satin Maxi + Vintage Tee
I live for this high-low mix. The satin skirt adds polish, the vintage tee keeps it real. You’ll look like you know all the best dive bars and secret speakeasies.
I wear this on: Casual date nights or anytime I want to feel cool without overthinking.
14. Tiered Maxi + Puffy Sleeve Blouse
It’s romantic. It’s twirl-worthy. And yes, it’s a little extra—but in the best way. Great for special occasions or when you want to post a “soft girl summer” selfie.
Styling idea: Add dainty jewelry and flat slides.
15. High-Waist Maxi + Off-Shoulder Top
This outfit is flirty but comfy. The high-waist skirt highlights your shape, and the off-shoulder top keeps things sweet but subtly sexy. Also perfect for showing off collarbones.
Hot tip: Great for date nights, or pretending your living room is a wine bar.
16. Floral Maxi + Oversized Sweater
It’s a cozy classic for those weird in-between summer days. I love tossing a chunky sweater over a pretty floral skirt for contrast. French tuck it and you’re golden.
Go-to shoes: Combat boots or Birkenstocks, depending on your vibe.
17. Athleisure Maxi + Baseball Cap
Didn’t shower but still want to look cute at brunch? Same. That’s where athleisure maxis come in. They’re stretchy, low-maintenance, and perfect with a sporty crop top or hoodie.
Mom move: This is my “drop-off to Trader Joe’s” uniform.
18. Sheer Maxi + Shorts or Swimsuit
If you’re feeling bold, layer a sheer or mesh maxi skirt over shorts or a bikini. It’s peak vacation-core and looks amazing in photos.
Confidence booster: Add chunky jewelry and walk like you own the pool.
19. Statement Maxi + Simple Top
We all have that loud, fabulous skirt we never wear because “where would I wear this?” Well, the answer is: now. Pair it with a neutral tank or tee and let it be the star.
Pro styling tip: Low bun, big sunglasses, minimal jewelry.
So… Which One’s Your Vibe?
Here’s the thing I always tell my audience (and myself): you don’t need a closet full of new things—just a few fun ways to reimagine what you already own. Most of these looks are built around pieces you probably have lying around: a white tank, an old tee, that maxi skirt collecting dust because you “don’t know how to style it.”
I’ve personally worn most of these outfits—some to run errands, some to events, some while yelling, “Where are your shoes?!” to my daughter. And they all made me feel like me—just a little more styled, a little more confident, and a lot more summer-ready.
Isla’s Quick Tips for Maxi Skirt Styling:
- Play with proportions: If the skirt is voluminous, go fitted on top. If it’s slim, you can go a little oversized above.
- Accessorize smart: Belts, statement earrings, and a cute bag go a long way.
- Layer for real life: A cropped jacket or denim shirt can make any skirt more wearable for cooler evenings or overly air-conditioned cafes.
- Sneakers are your friend: Don’t be afraid to wear sneakers with maxis. It’s comfy and cute.
What to Do Next?
Open your closet. Pull out that maxi you forgot about. Mix and match it with what you’ve got. Try one of these outfits. Snap a mirror selfie. And tag me on Instagram @IslaMonroeStyle—I’ll hype you up, I promise.
Because fashion should feel like fun, not pressure. And your clothes should work for your real life—not just your feed.
Stay stylish (and hydrated),
Isla
