What Is a Midi Dress and 10 Ways to Style a Midi Dress

Posted by Shopthemint Team on

Whether you have a ton of mini and maxi skirts and dresses in your closet or you’ve never been much of a fan for either style, you may just fall in love with the midi dress. Midi—like it implies—is a length of a dress or a skirt that is in the middle of a mini and a maxi. The hem usually falls just below the knees or rises a couple of inches above the ankle. This versatile length makes any style perfect for the office, church, brunch and many other occasions. But since the hem length is seen less often than your typical mini or maxi dress, they can be tricky to style.


We’ve put together a style guide that will help you turn your next midi look into one of your all-time favorites. Stock up on these dresses for a wardrobe of endless opportunities that can go with you pretty much everywhere.

autumn fashion

For the Office

While maxi dresses could make the cut for appropriate office attire, minis are definitely sitting out on this one. But if you’re looking for a sassy style that boosts your confidence, the midi dress may be your new favorite work staple. For a more formal office environment, we suggest that you keep your midi dresses fitted and monochromatic, whereas for a business casual environment, you could embrace the frills, ruffles, patterns and colors. These dresses could be an easy solution if you want to learn how to dress classy.

Long Sleeve–If your coworkers abide by a strict office dress code, stick to a midi dress that is fitted and either has a long or quarter length sleeve. Keep the accessorizing down to a minimum for a classic power look.

Add a Blazer–If you work in a more casual environment, but want to look extra polished for an important meeting, add a blazer to your favorite midi dress. Accessorizing with a blazer could also be a great way to bring a midi dress into the workplace that isn’t exactly “office material.”

Sweater Midi—A sweater midi dress with a turtleneck could also be a great work look. Add a simple belt to define your shape and keep your accessories minimal and dainty.

red midi dress

Brunch with the Girls

Midi dresses are so chic and, thanks to the versatility of them, they can be glammed up or dressed down for most occasions. They are also perfect for Sunday brunch or a get-together with your girls.

Embrace Embellishments–Midi wrap dresses with ruffles are so perfect for a chic day out on the town. Your dress will move with your body and flow in the wind—queue up Sex and the City vibes! If you’re looking to define your shape, try a midi wrap dress to achieve that hourglass look.

Fierce Patterns–Just because the midi dress boasts a modest length doesn’t mean it can’t be the main staple of an outfit that has you feeling fierce and confident. Sport a midi dress with a trendy pattern or bold color scheme. Your friends will be complimenting your sense of style.

Off the Shoulder–If you want to wear a midi dress, but also want to show some skin, an off the shoulder midi dress is everything you need. The modest cut makes this dress a versatile staple, but the off the shoulder detail gives it a playful and flirty vibe.

White midi dress

Date Night

Planning a date night with your sweetie? Depending on what the night has in store, you may be envisioning an outfit with a short hemline and flirty accents. But have you thought of a midi dress? Here are some ways you can spice up this style.

High Slit–If you’re more of a mini dress kind of gal, look for a midi dress with a high slit for an ultra-sexy look. You’ll be feeling fiery and confident all night.

Fitted Style–Rather than embracing flowy dresses, find a fit that is curve-hugging and flattering. This style will still leave much to the imagination, while also showing off your stunning figure!

Yellow midi dress

Special Occasion

Do you have a gala or a work event on the books and you’re on the hunt for a dress that reflects your style, but will also fit in with the crowd? These midi dress styles are sure to impress:

Embrace Pleats–Pleated midi dresses scream “formal,” and they look so elegant. Top the look off with a glam clutch and a polished updo.

Dabble in a Midi Jumpsuit–Midi jumpsuits can be perfect for the girl who isn’t crazy about dresses. This ultra-chic fit for a jumpsuit is perfect for work occasions or a gala. You can easily dress this garment up or down to match the vibe you’re looking to achieve.