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I Got Over a Dozen Compliments on This Maxi Dress in One Night (and It’s Insanely Comfortable)

We’ll take one in every color

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Michael Stars/Tatiana Lavrova/Getty Images

I love this time of year: summer Fridays, alfresco dinners and afternoons that linger long into the night. But between the humid temps and rising heat index, getting dressed anytime between June and August can feel downright impossible. After a few dozen trips around the sun, I’ve finally found a formula that works for me. My typical summer uniform consists of three key pieces: white sneakers, a denim jacket and a lightweight, comfortable dress (of which, you can never have too many). At the start of every season, I treat myself to one or two new wardrobe refreshers, and this year’s find did not disappoint.

Though I knew the Michael Stars Calliope maxi dress would be something special, it wasn’t until I donned it in a room full of well-dressed strangers that I realized its true potential. As the compliments rolled in, I could feel the nervous tension in my shoulders melt away. See, I’ve never considered myself to be a particularly fashionable person. If I had it my way, I’d choose leggings and a T-shirt over just about anything. But there’s something to be said about a dress that can give you an instant confidence boost when you need it most (especially when it's under $130 and just as comfortable as your favorite pair of pajamas).

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Catrina Yohay

Let’s talk about fit and feel. On my unremarkably average 5’6” frame, the hem of this maxi hits right at my ankle bone. If you’re on the petite side, it may swing more toward a true maxi, and if you’re a few inches taller, it’ll probably fit more like a midi. Either way, it’s the perfect length to pair with flats or heels since you won’t have to worry about any ground-skimming fabric.

After reading the customer reviews, I went with my typical dress size (small/6), and it truly fit like a glove. The asymmetrical pleating is flattering across the front, highlighting my waist without drawing too much unwanted attention to my hips. I also love that the power shoulders and crew neck cut make it feel cool and casual while the knee-high slit keeps things fun and flirty.

If comfort is key, this dress wins by a mile. The softness of the signature ribbed fabric is second to none, and the material is thick yet surprisingly breathable, smoothing out any lumps, bumps or dimples that tend to crop up with similar semi-fitted styles (so go forth and skip the shapewear). Lazy girls like me will love that it’s machine-washable and wrinkle-resistant, meaning you can throw it on straight out of the carry-on without having to fire up the portable steamer—praise be.

Named after the Greek goddess of music, song and dance (who also happens to be the Muse of eloquence and epic poetry because even mythological women knew how to multitask), the Calliope dress will no doubt have all eyes on you, whether you’re rocking it in classic black or this spicy 'tamale' red.



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Executive Managing Editor

  • Oversees editorial operations; covers a mix of lifestyle topics including fitness, wellness, beauty, travel
  • Former D1 athlete and certified nutrition coach
  • B.A. in English and biology at Lafayette College

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