WVW: Purple, Reigned In* (plus midi-length tips)

You want to hear something freaky? One year ago on October 4, 2010, I posted this date night look in WVW: Purple Reign:

*WVW = What V Wore
Dress and scarf: Express • Bracelets: Abbey Dawn by Avril Lavigne • Boots: Sam Edelman • Clutch: DecJuba

Completely coincidentally, exactly one year later on October 4, 2011, I revisited my purple pieces, this time reigning in the skin exposure since I wore this to work. Same scarf, same boots, old Banana Republic wrap dress. I guess October 4th is Purple Day in my world.

I shopped my closet for a change…aren’t you proud of me? I usually do that for like the first five minutes of a new season. Have seriously had that midi-length wrap dress forever, so this post is proof that everything comes back as a “trend” at some point—and midi lengths are definitely having a moment. It actually took me a long time to really like midi-length pieces, but I’ve learned they can be very flattering when they meet some basic guidelines.

Tips for Wearing Midi-Length Dresses and Skirts

• Look for pieces that are fitted through the waist and hip, with a pencil or slight a-line silhouette.
• Avoid a full or circle skirt unless the piece is vintage and you’re working a retro look.
• Avoid patterns unless it’s a midi dress. Printed, midi-length wrap dresses are pretty much universally flattering.
• Avoid thick fabrics like heavy wool, denim, and corduroy.
• Avoid pleats and plaid unless the fabric is silk chiffon. Pleated or plaid midi-length in any other fabric will add weight and look dowdy.
• Pair midi-length skirts with form-fitted tops. Proportion is what keeps midis from looking dated and boring. If you’re wearing longer and fuller on the bottom, wear a sweater or top that hugs your top half.
• Accent your waist or you’ll look like you’re wearing a sack. Or worse, a muumuu. Add a waist-cinching belt and enhance or create an hourglass shape.

Are you a fan of midi-length skirts and dresses?

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