Maxi skirts and dresses are so on trend right now, and while we don’t think you should feel pressured to adhere to every style that comes in – after all, they often go out just as quickly – if you haven’t donned a floor-length skirt yet, you’re seriously missing out.

There’s a certain comfort that comes along with a breezy bottom that doesn’t run the risk of showing too much leg. They’re cozy in an office chair and billowy on the beach – plus, the lengthening shape just looks great on every body type. There is a catch, though: when you buy your first maxi, you’re not going to know what shoes to wear with it.

Something about the fact that your shoes are only seen when you strut makes the decision a bit confusing. Couple it with the need to balance out the weight of the skirt (whatever that may be – they come in many different materials) and it can be difficult to get it right. Here are our favorite shoes to wear with a chiffon maxi, and the looks you can go for!

It doesn’t matter if you’re wearing a girly, pink, chiffon maxi – combat boots go with everything if they’re appropriately delicate or chunky. We simply matched them to a springy brown bomber jacket, a simple v-neck, a head scarf and some fun, long earrings for a unique take on the trendy look.

Maxis already add length to your lower-half, but that doesn’t mean you should stop there. Chunky platform sandals are all the rage as far as somewhat edgy shoes go, and we love the mesh crop top to add even more edge. Don’t ever be afraid to throw a belt around the top of your skirt!

Or you could go full-on Western/boho with a tied button-down shirt and some fun mocs – what girl doesn’t have a go-to pair of Minnetonkas in her closet? The embellishments on these shoes will peek out just a tad for a subtle accent. When you’ve got a solid shirt with a simple silhouette, add a piece of statement jewelry to keep things interesting.

What’s your favorite way to wear a maxi?

Summer’s in gear, are you? Hopefully you’ve got your swimsuit already in preparation for beach season – but you’re gonna need more than that to make it to the sand. If you’re looking for the perfect summery, lightweight look to get you from point A to point Beach, here are a few must-have accessories to keep you comfy in the sun without forgoing fashion.

A Cover-Up

Or, if you’re like us, an oversized t-shirt and some cute denim shorts will do. Oversized, semi-sheer tees, when worn over swimsuits, give off a certain carefree attitude when they grace sun-kissed skin that we just love. There’s nothing like a little effortless and comfortable beauty when the sun’s getting hot.

Sweet Sunnies

We absolutely love these wooden wayfarers for a pair of shades that don’t overtake your pretty face but do the trick for blocking the rays. The natural wood is so in style this season, too – accessorize with a chunky wood bracelet or necklace if you want to go the extra mile for your shore style.

A Simple Bag

There’s nothing worse than lugging a ton of heavy stuff just for the day in the sand – all you really need is a beach towel, a magazine, some sunblock and a place to put your wallet and keys. To make it easy to pack up and go without exhausting yourself for the walk up the sand, try a cute backpack like this coral one. It fits everything you need – nothing more, nothing less – while protecting against those pesky grains of sand. Don’t forget to bring a few Ziploc bags in the front pocket – it’s the best simple solution for making sure nothing tragic happens to your cellphone!

Chic Sandals

Stand out with your sandals! These adorable pastel colorblock piraya sandals are just what you’re looking for – the stylish touch your simple outfit needs. They’re easy to slip on and off and protect your feet from the hot street while still maintaining the sweet simplicity of your effortless beach look.