15 Must-Have Maxi Dresses for Every Spring Event

1. Fame and Partners Valentina Dream Maxi Dress With Cut Out Back in Watercolour Print ($255): We’re pretty sure we would’ve picked out this gorgeous watercolor gown for senior prom in a heartbeat. Between the thigh-grazing slit, plunging neckline and most importantly that back, this triple threat in disguise is guaranteed to look DDG for any number of spring formals. Take it there with a body chain and sultry waves that will make you irresistible on the dance floor.

2. Forever 21 Cutout-Back Floral Maxi Dress ($28): This OMG-worthy cutout dress is proof that groundbreaking floral does exist! If you want to make an entrance (and we know you do), simply style this killer maxi with a statement-making bejeweled ear cuff and some dramatic gladiators.

3. Wilfred Trion Dress ($225): Who knew a LWD could demand this much attention? As far as perennial staples go, this easygoing (and incredibly flattering) white slit dress is a timeless item that you’ll be able to wear for years to come. Wear it for your engagement shoot, Sunday brunch on the veranda — you name it. Just be sure to steer clear of weddings, unless you’re the bride-to-be ;)

4. The Jetset Diaries Wanderlust Lace Dress ($269): Too much lace? No such thing. Knock ‘em dead on the red carpet at a high-profile gala by showing up in this swoon-inducing lavender stunner. Let the dress (and those pretty ruffles!) do all the talking by opting for minimal makeup and perfect beach waves.

5. The Jetset Diaries Lotus High-Neck Maxi Dress ($229): Enter the rose gown of your dreams that will straight-up stun at a wedding. Whether you’re fulfilling bridesmaid duties or are attending as a plus one, everything about this Grecian dress — the halter style, the contemporary cutout, the high slit — reads elegant and romantic.

6. Zara Long Printed Dress ($100): Coachella, here we come! Do festival season right by investing in this floral cold-shoulder dress that would look best teamed with a fringed crossbody bag and flower crown. Throw a wide-brimmed hat and of-the-moment goldenrod mules into the equation for instant festival queen status.

7. Topshop Twist Back Dress ($38): Not all spring affairs require you to get all gussied up in your Sunday best. Case in point: Team this cotton sun-washed maxi dress with sneaks and a cool bomber jacket for a family reunion or a backyard barbecue. Pssst: The peekaboo twist back and side slits make it totally appropriate for an outdoor wedding with a daytime-casual dress code.

8. H&M Long Dress ($50): Whether you’re gearing up for a housewarming party or are attending your younger sister’s graduation, you need a dress that can stand on its own. This high-neck maxi covered in bold blooms is the epitome of laid-back chic. It’s sophisticated and easy-breezy, but not boring in the least. Dress it up with chandelier earrings or keep things on the DL with your favorite Birks come beach weekend.

9. Madewell Double-Printed Layered Maxi Dress ($168): Calling all busy girls! This sheer two-in-one maxi dress will take you from desk to drinks with a slouchy black blazer and black platform heels in tow. And that’s not all: For an afternoon of poolside lounging, you can re-wear it as an ethereal bikini cover-up alongside some lace-up sandals.

10. Lovers + Friends X Revolve Wanderlust Maxi Dress ($190): For a festival-going getup that doesn’t involve cutoffs or crop tops, feast your eyes upon this off-the-shoulder star print dress with a tough-girl edge. You already know flash tats and studded ankle booties are obligatory.

11. Reformation Ghana Dress ($218): Usher in warmer weather with this effortless shirtdress that would be perfect for a picnic in the park or your weekly farmers market run. Don’t overthink it: To achieve an off-duty look, all you’ll need is a vintage saddle bag and some canvas sneakers for the win.

12. Nightwalker The Fountain Plunging Dress ($165): Channel your inner island girl with this tropical floral print maxi that’s practically made for a destination wedding in Hawaii. Team the plunging neckline and double slits with a risqué body chain and some playful lace-up pom-pom sandals.

13. Zara Striped Dress ($70): Repeat after us: Game-changing stripes will always do you right. When nautical prints feel too forced (and overly cliché), allow this scene-stealing maxi with unexpected diagonal stripes to keep you on your toes. Pair it with a fishtail braid and some chunky metallic block heels for a stint in paradise.

14. Cupcakes and Cashmere Indio Print Chiffon Maxi Dress ($140): What better way to kick off a slew of spring traditions than a painterly chevron maxi that channels serious relaxation vibes? If you don’t have any beachside wedding invites rolling in yet, bring the beach to you by treating yo’self to a balmy afternoon at the park.

15. Mara Hoffman Flag Stripe Tie Back Dress ($286): Be it a yachting party, wine tasting at the vineyard or a day at the races, this festive flag stripe dress is a certified crowd-pleaser. Cue the summatime vibes by accessorizing it with a floppy straw hat, mirrored sunnies and lace-up espadrilles.

Which maxi dress are you swooning over for formal and festival season? Follow us on Pinterest for more colorful + fun style inspo!

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