Inspiration: Maxi Skirts

Fall and Winter usually means that it's time to bury our Summer maxi dresses and skirts, but I'm all about taking them out of hiding to maximize their potential. With the right top and shoes, and possibly a few seasonal layers, they can easily be worn both in the chillier temps AND to the office:

Emma Roberts in a silky, forest green skirt, worn with a black tee, a statement necklace by Ben-Amun, and a geometric clutch; Victoria Beckham in oversize shades, a short-sleeve button-down, a black Maison Martin Margiela maxiskirt and a structured bag of her own design; Olivia Palermo in a cuffed blazer styled with a brown clutch, tulip hem maxiskirt and ankle-strap sandals.

• The first thing to know — it doesn't matter what color or what fabric your maxi is. Even if you're working with a sheer finish or a creamy white hue, you can give your dress or skirt a more apropos seasonal twist with the other pieces you add in. For instance, if you have a sheer maxi or one with a slit, layer it up underneath with tights for added warmth.
• The most essential part of this look is how you top it off. Because the skirt and dress can feel floaty and at odds with the weather, anchor it with weightier, warmer pieces up top. Try a leather jacket and a cashmere pullover to offset the bottom half. If your dress has a slit, make it more daytime appropriate with a covered up jacket or a sophisticated blazer. Truthfully, these maxis work like a blank canvas, style them up with sweaters, furry vests, and heavier coats to shape them into unexpectedly seasonal outfits.
• Think of your footwear as the key to taking the look from day to night. Your footwear plays a crucial role in setting the tone for this look — with a flat, biker boot, this look becomes casual and daytime-accessible; with a heeled boot you can walk the line from day to night; and with a sexier ankle-strap you give the look a night-out feel.

Source: FabSugar