What is a midi dress? If you are new to midi dresses, we’re excited that you’re here. Midi dresses are like magic; they always look effortless and chic, even if all you do is throw it on and step into some sandals - they make for a perfect vacation outfit. While styling a midi dress can be easy, there are countless ways to style this wardrobe staple and make it work for a variety of occasions. Plus, if you’re a fan of midi dresses, or soon to become a fan, you’ll likely want to know how to wear them in more ways than one. 

Consider your wish fulfilled! This is a complete guide to styling a midi dress. There are casual ways to wear a midi, formal ways to wear a midi, and every way in between. To make sure the length is perfect, we suggest shorter individuals to check out our women’s petite dresses collection. When we’re finished, you’ll have more than a few looks you can turn to whenever you’re wondering how to style this type of dress. And while it may be mid-length, that’s the only “mid” thing about it; a midi dress is a top notch style in our book, and the kind we love to reach for over and over again. Follow along for how to style a midi dress options and visit Karen Kane today for a better visual into how we style our maxi and midi dresses. 

10 Ways to Style a Midi Dress

There are so many different ways to style a midi dress, but for the sake of time and your attention, we have limited our list to ten tried and true ways to style a midi that will make use of pieces you likely already have in your closet. Without further adieu, let’s uncover all the chic ways to complete a midi dress outfit. 

1. Belt It 

Midi dresses can range from fitted to full, but any kind of midi looks great with a belt. A belt can help break up the pattern of a dress with an all-over print, or cinch a dress with a loose silhouette to give it a more feminine appeal. Take this tropical print midi, for instance. While it is cute and breathable as is, a simple leather belt can dress it up in an instant. It would also look great with a thin woven belt to match its tropical charm. If you’re going the tropica route, style it with heeled sandals and a woven clutch; if you’re going the sophisticated route, style it with mules and a tote bag. 

2. Slip On Sneakers

When it’s time to style a midi dress casually, you can’t get more casual or more comfortable than pairing it with sneakers. This tie-dye midi dress is a fun, casual option that would look great with a pair of white, or even printed, kicks. Grab your favorite bag, or even a fanny pack (yes, they’re back) and you’re ready to head out the door, whether it’s to a sporting event, a laid back brunch, or to run errands in this perfect dress. This midi dress style is also a comfortable option for traveling. Simply carry along a cozy cardigan to keep warm on the flight. When you arrive at your destination, you will already be prepared to hit the streets. 

3. Wear it as a Coverup

We love the ease of a dress when it comes to wearing something over a bathing suit, and a midi dress is no different. A breathable option such as this rayon wrap dress is the perfect choice to pair with your swimwear. Simply head down to the sand or set sail once you complete the look with sunglasses and sandals. Whether you decide to stop by a friend’s on the way home or cool off with a cocktail at the local spot, this look can transition from the waterfront to the restaurant seamlessly.  

4. Layer with a Leather Jacket

For an edgy look, reach for a midi dress that’s a bit longer in length, slip on a pair of caged sandals or boots, and add a leather jacket. A leather jacket instantly changes the tone of an outfit, and we love the contrast it provides when paired with something soft like a midi dress. The key here is to opt for a dress that’s darker in color such as this black midi and make sure your shoes and jacket are dark as well. 

This look is ideal for nighttime and could take you to a concert or to dinner downtown. Wherever you go, though, you will show up in style. Add to the edge, by wearing one or two silver statement rings such as this one and silver earrings. 

5. Top it Off with a Hat

A hat is a great way to accessorize an otherwise simple outfit year-round because it can so easily make any look feel more put together. Plus, it does wonders for shielding your face from the sun. During the spring and summer months, opt for hats in lighter colors and materials such as this natural gambler hat. When the weather turns cool, swap these styles out for a hat of a darker color and warmer material such as felt or wool, such as this leather trim velour hat. Both of these hats will go well with this denim cuffed-sleeve midi dress, which is versatile enough to be worn year-round. When you have your gambler hat on, pair it with sandals or wedges, and when you have your velour hat on, pair it with heeled booties and a chunky cardigan.    

6. Add a Blazer

Although a midi dress can be styled in so many casual ways, it can also be dressed up and worn to both professional settings and celebrations. One way we like to put a sophisticated twist on a midi dress is to add a blazer. A blazer instantly makes an outfit feel chicer and more polished. For instance, style this linen dress with a matching linen blazer and it becomes ideal for a springtime luncheon. Or, wear a black midi dress with this tweed blazer and pumps for a networking event in the winter.   

7. Layer It

The key to wearing midi dresses year-round is to be able to style them with layers, which is actually quite feasible. In addition to cardigans, blazers, coats, and jackets, there are other ways to layer a midi dress for chillier weather. 

The time to wear tees under spaghetti straps is no longer just the 90s. This trend is back with a vengeance, which is wonderful for transitioning spaghetti-strapped pieces into more seasons. Wear a long-sleeve crewneck or turtleneck under a midi slip dress in the fall or winter. Add a belt to cinch in the waist and a pair of boots and voilá! You have a flattering, fashionable look that can be worn all fall and winter long. 

For a more bohemian look, layer your favorite midi dress with a loose cozy sweater and booties, and for a more sophisticated look, layer it with a long-line coat or cardigan. You can even wear tights underneath your midi to make it practical on even the coldest days.  

8. Pair a Midi Skirt with a Blouse

While we love midi dresses, this midi-length isn’t limited to dresses but comes in skirts as well. A midi skirt can boast all the same benefits as midi dresses, but also can be mixed and matched with different tops for greater versatility. 

Mixing patterns is one of our favorite trends of the moment, which is easily attainable with a midi skirt and blouse of different prints. In our opinion, this trend works best when you mix patterns in the same color family. For example, try pairing this black and white midi skirt with this black and white drape cami, which has a similar, yet different, print that complements the skirt beautifully.

9. Step into Nude Heels

Lengthen your legs even more by pairing a midi dress with nude heels. The look is not only elongating but chic and sophisticated as well. Whether you’re going to a show or an engagement party, nude heels and a midi dress is a no-fail combination. If you’re in the mood to show a bit more skin, embrace a midi dress with a slit such as this one. Then, step into your favorite pair of nude open-toed heels and out on the town.  

10. When in Doubt, Add Denim 

Fitted, full, or flowy, a midi dress can be styled simply with a denim jacket. Whether it’s a simple tank dress or a flowy belted number, a classic denim jacket will keep you warm and add dimension and texture to your look. It’s also an easy way to dress down a midi that feels fancier than the occasion. Accessorize the midi dress outfit with a pair of hoops and a woven bag. Then opt for wedges or flats for shoes, depending on the setting. 

When it comes to styling a midi dress anyway, the key is confidence. Embrace the outfit you choose and relish in how great it makes you feel. When you wear anything with confidence, it won’t go unnoticed. Do you have any other favorite ways you love to style your midi dresses?  

For more dress options, check out our newest blogs on How to Style a Maxi Dress and How to Dress Up a Maxi Dress. Regardless of the occasion, there is a trendy dress that fits every style at Karen Kane.