How to Style a Black Maxi Dress in 10 Different Ways

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One of my favorite pieces in my closet and one that I love to change up often, today I’m sharing how to style a black maxi dress in 10 different ways! 

Happy Monday! Did anyone do anything fun this weekend? Indy went to see his grandparents for a bit on Saturday, so I had lots of time to work, with a little downtime too. I had about an hour before I was supposed to pick him up and was brainstorming a blog post for today when I thought of my favorite black maxi dress. I thought I’d see if I could come up with some different ways to style a black maxi dress using things already in my closet.

It worked because I easily came up with 10 totally different black outfits, turning this simple and easy-to-wear black maxi dress into looks that work for casual summer days, to something work appropriate, and even something I’d wear to a nice wedding!

This post does contain affiliate links, meaning purchases made through any included links may result in my earning a small commission at no cost to you. 

I started with this classic black maxi dress that I bought last year. It was a great find at my local Marshalls. Black dresses are a dime a dozen, but this one has some great features! It has straps wide enough to wear a regular bra with, it has pockets, and it has a nice, flattering design at the waist, giving it a perfect fit. I wear it all the time during the summer months, and it’s my go-to for get-out-the-door-quickly days!

Yes, it works on its own, and I certainly wear it like this often. BUT. Can I style it in different ways, maybe 10 totally different ways? Here’s what I came up with!

Green belt and chunky sandals. So easy! Flat sandals would work too, as long as the dress isn’t dragging the ground!

I’ve had this denim jacket since college (so, a few years!) and this would be an easy casual, more relaxed look.

I purchased this vest from the juniors department at Kohl’s several years back. Still a good purchase!

A simple military jacket would transition this dress perfectly into fall and be great for cooler nights.

Statement earrings, a bright blazer and fun heels turn this into a much dressier look.

This might be my favorite look, I love this jacket and the vibrant patterns on the bag! Both were very affordable (from Kohl’s and Versona) and I’ve worn them both many, many times. This entire edit is perfect for me!

This would be completely appropriate at an evening wedding or more formal event. A simple wrap and beaded clutch make this so elegant! The luxe sequin bag looks expensive, but it was likely under $20! :) Could this pass for a black-tie event? Maybe from far away, but the knit material up close might not work. :)

I found a leopard print scarf in my closet and gave it a quick tie around my waist. Doesn’t get much easier than that but it changes the look so much!

Another favorite look, I adore this red jacket and it’s an essential choice that I’ll be using a lot this fall!

Loved this look too. I’ve had this button down for several years but don’t think I’ve ever worn it this way. That’s going to change, obviously!

OK, what do you think? If you don’t have a black maxi dress in your closet, I think it might be a good investment, it’s definitely one of my wardrobe staples! Especially now that you have a few ideas (there are endless possibilities!) on how to style a black maxi dress to fit your style! Lucky for you I found a little collection of black maxi dresses! Here are some great options for a perfect maxi black dress, with even greater prices. Here’s a $48 version (currently on sale!) and $19 version that could use a spot in your closet! Need a shorter length? Here’s one perfect for petites and available in several size options. 

Pretty sure this indispensable wardrobe staple is, well, indispensable! Let me know if you have one you love!