The Reason Your Midi Dress Doesn't Look Expensive

We have all been there: you see a beautiful midi dress on the internet, order it and put it on - only for it to look (sigh) so-so. You know the type - all those looks that gave you life and promised to Slay on the Runway. Here is some truth before you scour your wallet for and purchase something: it is hardly price related. It’s about how you style it.

Note Your Midi Dress - The Secret To An Expensive Looking Midi Dress In 2023 Is Not A Designer Label. It is Intentional Monochromatic Layering.

The more you coordinate the same color family of shoes, bags and belts to your dress, the cleaner the look. This tonal dressing trick has become a go-to in luxe styling. It gives an appearance that is long, polished, expensive-looking and purposeful.

What Is a Midi Dress?

A midi dress is to have a hemline that falls anywhere between the end of your knee and top of your ankle. This iconic shape rose to prominence in the mid-20th century, a symbol of elegant, structured post-war style from the 1940s and 1950s.

The 1960s heralded a change in fashion: The hemline rose, exposing more skin and leg to the world. But the midi never really disappeared, it simply bided its time for an encore. Now, a contemporary version of the dress re-emerges in our modern day. The versatile midi dress is known as the best "bridge" piece, because they come in numerous forms: whether in nude tones with soft fabrics for brunch or grand evening styles with higher necklines for the office.

12 Ways to Style a Midi Dress for a High-End Look

The Weekend Minimalist

A simple-colored cotton midi paired with a crisp white pair of sneakers and a structured crossbody bag. The juxtaposition of the flowy dress against super white elements creates a fresh and put-together vibe.

The "Office Power" Look

A custom-fit midi dress peeking out from beneath an oversized, structured blazer styled over the shoulders. Pair with pointed-toe loafers for an authoritative silhouette in any boardroom.

Parisian Chic

Pair a floral midi with a classic leather jacket and chic ankle boots. This sweet, floral print paired with the tough texture of leather is the ultimate combination for an effortless French look.

The Belted Silhouette

The relaxed-fit midi can be a great option, too - it sometimes conceals all your curves. A big brand leather belt at the waist is used to structure. Wear with block-heeled mules to elevate the look.

The "Skirt" Hack

Layer an oversized cropped sweater over a midi dress to use it as a skirt. It really alters the silhouette of the dress and gives you two pieces in your closet.

Date Night Glam

Choose a satin or silk blend midi for night time occasions. Complete the look with some strappy, simple mid-heel sandals and gold jewelry. The trick here is a shimmer of its fabric and few good brands in the accessories.

The Transitional Layer

When the weather starts to cool down, pair a midi dress with a denim jacket tied around your waist. While still relaxed and contemporary, this brings emphasis to the waistline.

The Botanical Vibe

Opt for a ruffled floral midi for an outing. Dress it up with espadrilles and a straw tote. The trick in here is to keep the other accessories neutral, so that you are able to shine through your dress print.

The Edgy Contrast

Then wear a feminine print midi and pair it with chunky combat boots. So it comes across looking intentional and high-fashion, the kind of "expensive" style that can be a little rough around the edges.

The Winter Warmth

Style a knit midi-dress with knee-high leather boots plus a longline wool coat Monochromatic shades (think cream, camel or black) instantly make you look polished yet warm.

The Professional "Third Piece"

For a midi dress with sleeves, layer it under this thin, fine- gauge cardigan buttoned about halfway. To emulate this "quiet luxe" colored outfit, finish off with pointed-toe flats.

The Grecian Touch

Keep it Simple For One Shoulder or Asymmetric Midi Style it with metallic sandals and a chunky statement-earring pair. The cleanliness of the outfit makes the drama of the wearables pop.

The Reason Your Midi Dress Doesn't Look Expensive (And How to Fix It)