TREND: Maxed Out

It is finally springtime in the District: there are numerous barbecues in Kogan Plaza and tons of students hanging out in U-Yard. It comes at no surprise that, in true GWU style, Fashionistas throughout campus are welcoming this warm weather in their most fashionable, springtime looks. Often, I'll see Fashionistas meandering around Foggy Bottom in cute shorts and gladiator sandals; however, I have found myself taking notice of those who have decided against the shorts-only trend and are sporting, instead, more unique styles.

My favorite springtime piece is the maxi dress: they're so easy to wear and even easier to form a great outfit around…you just throw them on and you have an amazing, fashion-forward look! And I'm not the only one who loves this maxed out trend: WhoWhatWear wrote a Trend Report recently about these great dresses. Because I love them so much, I've been specifically stopping and talking with Fashionistas on campus who have decided to wear maxis, and I chatted with this Fashionista between two of my classes the other day.

This Fashionista sports a nautical striped maxi dress from BCBG with a simple jean jacket and tan gladiator sandals. For her books, she carries a baby blue Longchamp bag. This Fashionista looks incredible; her dress is perfect for the D.C.'s warm weather, and by layering with a lightweight jacket, she stays warm in her air conditioned classrooms. I like how this Fashionista cuffed the sleeves of her jacket – it adds another fun element to her look. I also love her sandals; they're gladiators that wrap around her ankle for a fun and unique style. When asked, she told me that it took her a maximum (no pun intended) five minutes to get dressed. How easy is that?!

Hint: For the warm weather, try wearing a maxi dress! They're fashion-forward, easy to wear, and super comfortable. With so many different maxi dresses in stores right now, browse through the numerous maxi styles for the one that's right for you!

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TREND: MAXed Out

Now that the seasons have finally changed we have seen the most important trends of summer transition into fall and the maxi dress is one of them. These long flowy dresses can be the perfect outfit for the chilly weather that is looming in the near future. A maxi dress is the easiest piece of clothing you can own because they are hassle free and generally just take a second to slip on. Today's Fashionista wore a solid purple color maxi dress which added that extra warmth and sophistication. For a similar frock that you can wear in cooler weather, try this cowl neck maxi dress from Modcloth.

The art of layering is in full swing this season and there are no limitations. By pairing a thin lace button-up over her dress, she divided her body into two correct proportions. The length of the sheer top accentuates her waist and creates the illusion that it is a two-piece ensemble. To ensure warmth, she layered an edgy brown leather jacket to give it a Victorian Rocker feel. The brown color really compliments the deep purple while emphasizing her edgy personality. To make any dress fall appropriate, make sure you pile on the layers for warmth and varying the texture will create an aesthetically pleasing outfit.

As this Fashionista was walking I caught a glimpse of her legwear. Underneath her dress, she wore a pair of glitzy-stripped tights. This adds an elements of surprise and fun to her outfit and makes a point to keep you guessing about the various layers she has on. This week, try adding that element of surprise to your outfit that you wouldn’t normally be expected to wear.

Hint: Another way to play with proportions when wearing a long maxi dress is to try a belt along the waistline. It will help accentuate that hour glass figure instead of a box shape, which tends to happen with long dresses.

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TREND: Maxed Out

Now that the cold air is blowing in and the leaves are starting to change color, it's prime time for Fashionistas and Fashionistos to try out the season's top trends. The beginning of chilly weather always brings out the best in fashion because Fashionistas/os are eager to take advantage of the perfect conditions. I know I've been patiently waiting to try out a few looks!

This Fashionista is definitely embracing the beautiful weather by rocking a simple navy blue maxi dress on the way to class. Maxi dresses have become a staple in fashion for good reason – they are incredibly easy to wear and they immediately add an ounce of elegance to any look. Today Fashionista threw on a creamy, warm knit sweater over top her dress to instantly bring her dress into the fall season. She matched her gold gladiator sandals to the bright gold buttons of her sweater, and then added in a long gold necklace to finish her look. The cream and navy color combination, along with her gold accents give her outfit a casual, nautical vibe.

While maxi dresses started trending in the spring, their versatile nature has carried them into this season. The nude maxi dress is the current fad, which falls right into the nude/camel color obsession on the runway currently. It's no surprise the maxi dress has outlasted the rest of the trends. It's a great alternative to the mini-skirt, which has been every girls go-to piece. The maxi dress can instantly make any body-type look taller and slimmer, which is always a plus. Maxi dresses are easy to accessorize because since they are such a statement piece, they don't need much else. Pair a maxi dress with an edgy leather jacket or a classic, ever-chic blazer, depending on the look you want to create. For the fall, forget cork wedges and pair with trendy lace-up boots. Then add wide belts, long necklaces, or printed scarves to pull the look together.

Hint: Make sure that your maxi dress fits correctly. You don't want to lose the lengthening effect because you're stumbling over your hemline! Shortening the hem is an easy fix that can go a long way for your look.

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TREND: Maxed Out

No, I’m not talking about your credit card. I’m talking about your dress. Maxi dresses are one of my favorite summer staples and a great transitional garment for fall. I was so excited to see this post on Refinery29.com as I was doing my daily fashion blog browsing one day. Maxi dresses are fun to own because you can dress them up or down in creative ways and they are super comfortable! I have noticed many UD Fashionistas are currently rocking these dresses around campus while weather is still warm. But, the maxi is also great trend to carry in to fall because as the temperatures drop, your maxi dress will keep you and your legs warm which means you don’t have to sacrifice your style for sweats.

This Fashionista paired her white and black striped maxi with black sandals, a cuffed blazer and convertible tote to give her summer dress some fall flair. Take it from this Fashionista, if you already own one or a few summery maxi dresses try pairing them with one of your favorite cardigans or a slouchy sweatshirt for fall. If you’re looking for a more seasonally appropriate maxi try one with longer sleeves or a cowl neck style in solid black or grey and pair it with your favorite fall accessories.

Hint: You can also easily take your maxi from day to night by throwing on a tailored blazer, heeled booties and statement jewelry.