3 Street-Style-Approved Ways to Wear a Maxi Dress This Fall

With the warm weather comes a sort of carpe diem mentality — the balmy temps and bright sunshine just have a way of making you want to jump up out of bed and make the most of the day. But come fall, the up-and-at-‘em enthusiasm starts to fade, because let’s be real — who wants to leave behind a cocoon of warmth for a cold morning commute in the dark? We are, however, open to a little bribery in the form of chic fall wardrobe essentials, trend-right shoes and Insta-worthy statement jewelry (#noshame). A floral maxi in particular is pretty good #morningmotivation in and of itself — the one-and-done appeal is just too good to pass up. That said, there are moments when the feminine frock needs a little extra oomph, which is exactly why we’re making it the focus of this week’s Style Resolutions. Read on for three fresh ways to rock this tried-and-true piece at the office and off the clock.

HOW TO WEAR A FLORAL MAXI FOR WORK

Goodbye, snoozy black shift and hello, free-wheelin’ floral maxi. This Stevie Nicks-approved piece goes so far beyond the realm of festivals and off-duty affairs — it practically serves up a killer working-girl getup on a silver platter. Keep too-cool office temps at bay while adding dimension and visual intrigue to your flowery dress by layering on an oversized funnel-neck sweater. Ball-heel pumps and ultra modern accessories ensure your cozy #OOTD maintains a cutting-edge vibe, while a fabulous forest green cocoon coat keeps up appearances from door to door.

Zara Floral Midi Devoré Dress ($169) + Mango Funnel Neck Sweater ($60), Charles & Keith Sphere Heel Pumps ($49), & Other Stories Wool Blend Coat ($245), Clare V. Maude Supreme ($415), Zimmermann Silver Link Chain Bracelet ($310), Zara Ball and Chain Earrings ($16)

HOW TO WEAR A FLORAL MAXI FOR A NIGHT OUT

When your go-to slip or LBD starts to read “meh,” bring out the big guns a la this floral maxi. After-hours glamour comes in the form of shimmery metallic accessories, like copper pumps with serious sheen and celestial drop earrings that call to mind Van Gogh’s The Starry Night. For an out-of-this-world look that will take you from a romantic dinner with bae to drinks with the girls at that new celeb-studded bar, DO add a leather jacket and a swipe of dramatic berry lipstick to the mix.

Zara Floral Midi Devoré Dress ($169) + Topshop Leather Biker Jacket ($320), Zara Crackled Leather Mid Heel Shoe ($90), B-Low the Belt Bri Bri Waist Belt ($148), La Regale “Astrology” Velvet Clutch ($85), Mango Faceted Earrings ($20), Alima Pure Lip Tint ($14)

HOW TO WEAR A FLORAL MAXI FOR THE WEEKEND

Hold it right there! Before you reach for your trusty pair of jeans, consider swapping out your signature weekend uniform for an effortless maxi with major go-with-the-flow appeal. Teamed with amped-up ankle boots and a suede biker jacket, the throw-on-and-go piece exudes endless off-duty cool. Don’t hesitate to pair this stunner with RN accessories, like a wine-colored saddlebag, silhouette cuff and colorful aviator shades for an edgy street-style look that straight-up slays.

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

If there’s one pattern with more staying power than plaid, stripes, and polka dots combined, it’s definitely leopard. As you look ahead to the upcoming ho-ho-holidays, this feline-inspired print will be the strategic piece in shaking up your winter wardrobe for everything from the office Christmas party to a blowout NYE bash. Practice moderation this season with pieces that deliver just the right amount of “rawr” without entering OTT territory. Ahead, we’re sharing three non-intimidating ways to pull off leopard, according to your fave celebrities.

How to Rock a Leopard Shift

Former SNL cast member Sasheer Zamata’s shimmery leopard shift dress was the real MVP at Kate Spade New York’s most recent fashion week presentation. Pair this long-sleeved cheetah print frock with a sleek red-orange coat and mink fur loafers that deserve a double take. Last but not least, a floral embroidered ladylike satchel and celestial-inspired drop earrings will have you channeling your inner Hollywood starlet before you know it. (Photo via Robin Marchant/Getty)

Clockwise from top left: Essentiel Antwerp Leopard Print Shift Dress ($218), French Connection Platform Felt Long Sleeved Smart Fit Coat ($298), Banana Republic Celestial Linear Earring ($58), Rebecca Minkoff Amelie Flat ($250), Mango Floral Embroidery Bag ($80)

How to Rock a Leopard coat

Start taking notes, bad betches. Bella Hadid’s DGAF style is yours for the taking. Peep this textured faux fur topper that’s easy on the eyes — and wallet. Adopt a rocker ‘tude with a Nirvana t-shirt, faded black frayed-hem jeans, and scene-stealing star ankle boots from style influencer Danielle Bernstein’s debut footwear line, Archive Shoes. Transition your getup from day to night with a hands-free belt bag, a layered Bing Bang pendant necklace, and a pair of Le Specs’ now ubiquitous cat-eye frames. (Photo via Alo Ceballos/GC Images)

Clockwise from top left: H&M T-Shirt With Printed Design ($18), Bing Bang Bad Bitch Necklace Set ($150), H&M Faux Fur Coat ($80), Le Specs The Last Lolita in White Marble ($119), Zara Crossbody Belt Bag ($30), Archive Shoes The Madison Boot in Black With Silver Stars ($298), RE/DONE Stove Pipe in Washed Black ($240)

How to Rock a Leopard Mini

Swedish actress Alicia Vikander successfully demonstrates how to incorporate leopard into your day-to-day uniform. On the prowl or off, this jacquard weave wrap-over skirt will always do you right. Teamed with a mini pebbled leather saddle bag and effortless Breton stripes, the result is more Kate Middleton, less tough-girl-in-training. But perhaps we spoke too soon? The addition of a denim jacket, contemporary hoops, and towering lace-up booties, and you’re ready for a night out on the town. (Photo via Pierre Suu/GC Images)

Clockwise from top left: Alexa Chung Breton Stripe Top ($180), Tictail Linkage Hoop Earrings ($72), Zara Jacket With Eyelets ($70), Cuyana Mini Saddle Bag ($195), Jeffrey Campbell Legion Heeled Lace-Up Booties ($165), H&M Textured Skirt ($35)

Which of these celebrity-approved getups will you be rocking this winter? Follow us on Pinterest for more styling inspo for the season!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

You'd think someone with acne-prone skin wouldn't buy viral beauty finds without doing thorough research, but I'm not above trying to recreate all the latest makeup trends at home. All this did was remind me that everything isn't for everyone — and that's okay! Well...it's not okay I fee like I wasted money, but at least I know what to stay away from. And now I'm here to help you figure out what to avoid as well!

Even though this products didn't work for me, that doesn't mean you can't or shouldn't use them. These are just my least faves of the year — take 'em or leave 'em!

Here are all the overrated beauty finds I wish I wouldn't have bought

Amazon

1. MILK Hydro Grip Primer

I should've known better than to buy this again, but I wanted to see if my skin would react better to it. The first time I tried to use this, I broke out along my jaws in tiny, red bumps. They were itchy and eventually turned into dark spots that took me over a year to get rid of.

Instead of letting that be the red flag that kept me away from this beauty find, I decided to use it in place of my trusted e.l.f. Cosmetics Power Grip Primer I've been relying on. Two things happened:

  1. It created a beautiful base for my makeup.
  2. I didn't break out, but my faced still felt itchy.

I even switched my makeup brushes and checked to make sure other makeup products weren't expired. The culprit continued to be this primer so it's made it to my overrated list.

Amazon

2. KORA Organics Kakadu Plum Vitamin C Serum

I was initially sent this to test, but I decided to buy it myself to see if I truly like it. While it was easy to add to my skincare routine lineup, I realized I actually didn't need to spend $70+ for an effective Vitamin C serum. The only difference between this serum and the one I truly love are their colors and textures.

This one has a slightly yellowish-orange tint to it while being a little thicker compared to the Timeless Skin Care Vitamin C serum I use. The latter is thinner and 100% transparent, plus the odor is slightly stronger. However, both of them aid in smoother skin, smaller pores, and a healthy glow.

I honestly wouldn't buy this one again just because I can get the same benefits for a lesser price.

Amazon

3.NYX Cosmetics Fat Oil Lip Drip

This is a controversial take, but I honestly didn't love the NYX Fat Oil Lip Drip. Although I love the color payoff, it was too sticky for my liking. I saw reviews that mentioned this, but I've purchased lip glosses other people didn't love that worked for me in the past. However, the reviews are telling the truth: the stickiness takes away from what could've been a great formula.

I'll just stick to my Tower 28 Lip Softie Hydrating Lip Treatment in Ube Vanilla!

Amazon

4. L'Oréal Voluminous Panorama Washable Mascara

I know people love this beauty find because it is great. I just didn't think the hype was enough to convince me to buy it again because my essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara gets the job done for $5. I will say I love the washable feature of L'Oréal's version, but it's still not enough to make me willingly spend over $10 for it.

As great of a product as this is, it's overrated to me because of the price tag.

Sephora

5. Haus Labs Triclone Skin Tech Medium Coverage Foundation

Sigh...it's so hard for me to admit this, but this Haus Labs foundation has become my most overrated beauty find of 2024. It's not that it doesn't work for a few hours, but my skin prefers tinted moisturizers more than anything. I talked about it briefly on TikTok, but skin tints feel like you're not wearing anything on your face.

I'm always really oily after wearing this foundation for a few hours, but I can get extended wear out of the Danessa Myricks Yummy Skin Tint I've been wearing. I like to think it's because it has vegan collagen, ceramides, and cactus extract in it whereas this foundation has ingredients like fermented arnica in it.

Both do a great job of calming inflammation, but something about this foundation makes my skin think it's incredibly dry.

Visit our Amazon Storefront for a list of beauty products we do love!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Power red has been dubbed the official color of fall 2017. (Millennial pink, you’ve finally met your match.) Perhaps it’s the rise of a new #girlboss, feminist-empowered era, or maybe it’s the ‘round-the-clock styling potential of this ubiquitous hue that’s keeping it around for longer than a season. Either way, this feisty and fiery shade packs no shortage of sass. Knowing how to successfully rock a kick-butt head-to-toe red lewk? Now that’s another story. We look to regional It girls, including Gigi Hadid, Olivia Palermo, and Chrissy Teigen, for tips on mastering power red like a boss.

Pantsuit Nation

You need not be the first lady or a model like Gigi Hadid to rock a power red pantsuit when out and about town like a true HBIC. The key here is to introduce non-red statement pieces — like an ivory bow-blouse and fringy yellow drop earrings — that work to counterbalance the pool of red. Working gals: Ditch the corporate schmorporate guise with one of OAD’s geometric satchels and some noir pointy-toe pumps that were made for the nine-to-five and five-to-nine grind. (Photo via Sonia Recchia/Getty)

Clockwise from top left: Cuyana Silk Bow Blouse ($185), BaubleBar Bonita Drop Earrings ($42), H&M Blazer ($50), H&M Suit Pants ($35), OAD New York Mini Kit Zip Satchel in True Black ($350), La Canadienne Montreal Falone ($395)

Power Red Accessories

Bad betches everywhere, look what you made us do. Yes, power red can be intimidating, but a little bit of this mighty hue can work wonders in the sartorial department. Olivia Palermo’s style chops aside, it’s her showstopping strappy red steppers that are the real MVP here. A crazy bachelorette weekend is as good of a time as any to show off your sartorial prowess, starting with a silk mini dress and a textured leopard print topper. Enter hot-to-trot territory with a pair of trend-right OTK boots, a set of red and gold u-shaped earrings, and a slogan tote that will fo’ sure turn some heads. (Photo via Vittorio Zunino Celotto/Getty)

Clockwise from top left: Scotch & Soda Leopard Print Faux Fur Coat ($298), Topshop Oversized U Shape Earrings ($28), Réalisation Par The Emilie in Shibuya ($160),Zara Tall Elastic Boots ($90), Skinnydip London Bitchin Tote Bag ($13)

NIGHTTIME Frills

Take it from Chrissy Teigen, the queen of date night dressing: Frills aplenty will always do you right. Our favorite Hollywood starlet (and red haute mama) doesn’t shy away from embracing power red to the max — she brings the drama en route to dinner with her slinky red top and flowy trousers. For your next GNO, style this femme red blouse from & Other Stories alongside streamlined black culottes for instant boardroom-to-bar appeal. Allow a pair of VERAMEAT’s celestial-inspired gold half-moon earrings and some crimson-soled pumps to lend just the right amount of zhoosh to your look. Last, but not least, we recommend Madewell’s fuss-free compact leather crossbody bag that’s made to fit just the essentials. (Photo via Raymond Hall/GC Images)

Clockwise from top left: & Other Stories Ruffle Blouse ($85), VERAMEAT Lunar Face Wire Art Earring ($140), Madewell The Chain Crossbody Bag ($88), COS Chunky Heel Pumps ($133), The Group by Babaton Beecroft Pant ($98)

Will you be test-driving power red this fall? Follow us on Pinterest for more style inspo!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Studio McGee has spent the last decade inspiring us with a blend of accessible and elevated designs, creating beautiful and totally livable spaces. In her 2025 Home Decor Trends report, Shea McGee emphasizes that home decor trends evolve gradually over time, and I couldn’t agree more. Unlike the fast-paced world of fashion, where trends shift every season, these design moves develop organically over time, and that's good for your wallet and taking your time to create a space you love. Get inspired to refresh your home in 2025 with a few new accents, from embellishments like fringe to maybe a little western or seaside art.

Here are Studio McGee's 2025 Home Decor Trend Predictions, with a few surprises!

Photo: Shade Degges | Design: Studio Mountain

Romantic Silhouettes

Take Romantic Silhouettes, for example. This is a trend we've seen steadily gain traction over the past few years. Think curvy furniture, delicate floral prints, and soft blush hues — when curated thoughtfully, these elements can become timeless staples in your home.

www.youtube.com

- YouTube

Watch Shea's take on designing your home for 2025!

Photo: Michael P.H. Clifford | Design: A1000XBetter

Western Cowboy

This is a design trend that totally surprised me, but I'm so happy to see it in the mix. Elements like leather furniture, rustic accessories, equestrian art, even wood walls, shown in this office designed by A1000XBetter, are making an impact in 2025 and beyond. But Shea notes that you can take this trend literally or just be inspired by the look. You can also mix it with other styles to personalize it for you. Add romantic pillows or ruffled tablecloths like McGee & Co. x Loeffler Randall Gardenia Ruffle Border Tablecloth – things you love that make it yours vs. based solely on one trend.

Gavin Carter| Design: House of Rolison

Saturated Colors

Shea predicts that rich hues like deep browns, oxblood red, and earthy greens will continue to dominate home decor colors going into 2025. House of Rolison's bathroom brown is an excellent example of this beautiful trend.

courtesy of Stewart-Schafer

Pattern Drenching

Embracing a single pattern and drenching an entire room in it — from walls to pillows, headboards, and curtains — is a surprise trend for 2025. This maximalist approach, which has been quietly gaining traction, draws inspiration from Arts and Crafts designers like William Morris and has been in and out of vogue since the Victorian era.

McGee & Co.

Embellishments

This is a trend you can easily DIY to add an extra layer of charm to your decor. Think playful details like fringe accents —beautifully shown in McGee & Co.'s Philippa Settee — along with tassels, pleats, ruffles, and rope. It’s all about embracing texture and whimsy, so have fun with it!

McGee & Co.

Seaside Inspiration

Coastal decor has long been an influence in design and you can be inspired by it in many forms, from shell accents to beach-inspired artwork like McGee & Co.'s Distant Coastline art to textured seagrass baskets and jute rugs. Even the soothing hues of the sea — think soft blues, sandy neutrals, and gentle greens — can inspire your 2025 spaces.

Check out the full list of Studio McGee 2025 Design Trends!

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

If there’s any holiday where you’re encouraged to take shots, it’s New Year’s Eve. But, that doesn’t mean you should limit your NYE party beverages to champagne. These sparkly, glittery and all-around enticing shots are sure to please and won’t induce any bad-idea hangovers from too manytequila drinks. You can let your resolution ideas start when the calendar reads 2025. Meanwhile, cheers to enjoying these shots you’ll actually want to make (and take) this New Year’s Eve.

The 14 Best New Year's Eve Shots To Throw Back For 2025!

Brit + Co

Apple Cider Shooter

That caramel vodka you bought on a whim once can finally be put to good use with this spiked apple cider shooter. Whip it up as a shot or a large punch that will last all night long. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Root Beer Float Shooter

This soda shop classic gets an adult upgrade with ROOT, a traditional alcoholic Native American tea. And tea is healthy, right? ;) (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Rainbow Shots

Meet your new party trick! All five of these shots come out of one shaker. Prepare to amaze your guests with your bartending skills this NYE. (via Brit + Co)

Sprinkle Bakes

Champagne Chantilly Shooters

Be sure to add these cake-inspired shooters to your after-holiday to-do list to start 2016 with a little bit of deliciousness. (via Sprinkle Bakes)

Feast + West

Champagne Jell-O Shots

Turn your champagne into a shot! If you’re hosting a large party, these are a way more affordable option than a case of champagne. (via Feast + West)

Dine and Dish

Blackberry Gin Shooters

This shooter is *almost* too pretty to drink. Plus, we can all pretend that the blackberries are doing you some good. (via Dine and Dish)

A Year of Cocktails

Butternut Rum Lifesaver

A shot that tastes like candy is a sweet way to start your year off right. (via A Year of Cocktails)

Holly's Cheat Day

Tipsy Spritzer Shots

Not every shot needs to be super strong. If you’re looking for something you can enjoy throughout the night, this sweet, bubbly and tart “spritzer” shot is low in alcohol content and big on flavor. (via Holly’s Cheat Day)

Bubbly Nation Creations

Sparkling Jello Jigglers

Swap out champagne for the grape juice in this recipe to make a fancy, adult version of a JELL-O jiggler. Sprinkles and edible gold stars required. (via Bubbly Nation Creations)

Broma Bakery

Champagne Jello Shots

Awww, Jello Shots are all grown up in this festive recipe. They have a nice flavor that won’t leave you wincing afterwards. (via Broma Bakery)

The First Year

White Chocolate Champagne Cheesecake Shooters

This shot is delicious enough to be dessert. Top yours with edible glitter sprinkles to get even more festive. (via The First Year)

Cookin' Canuck

Cranberry Kamikaze Shots

NYE calls for a fancier drink than a go-to beer or wine. Ring in the new year with cranberry kamikaze shots that look pretty and taste delicious (via Cookin' Canuck)

Tablespoon

Banana Split Shooters

This shot requires five ingredients that'll send your taste buds soaring. I mean, what could be better than taking a shot of something that tastes like dessert? (via Tablespoon)

Something Swanky

Sparkling Cider Jello Shots (Non-Alcoholic)

If you want to be extra careful not to induce a hangover when you wake up in 2024, your best bet are these sparkling cider jello shots. They're made with unflavored gelatin, distilled water, cider and your choice of berries, cherries, or gummies! (via Something Swanky)

Looking for more NYE recipe or drink ideas? Check out Brit + Co on Pinterest and check out our New Year's Eve dinner ideas for more inspiration.This post has been updated.