Nicole Richie, The Maxi Lady

If I could pinpoint one celebrity who wears maxi dresses most of the time, it would be Nicole Richie. She has definitely made it her signature style.

Nicole Richie at the 3rd Annual Art of Elysium Gala in Beverly Hills, January 16

In fact, I think it was Nicole who started the maxi trend that was so hot in 2009. She started wearing maxi dresses as early as 2008, proving to everyone that even if you’re a tiny frame of a woman, you can actually look good in a long dress.

Nicole Richie at the 18th Annual Environmental Media Awards held at the Ebell Theatre, November 13, 2008

Thanks to her, women who don’t feel comfortable showing their legs but want to look feminine in a dress now have the maxi option. Even pregnant women can look sexy and feminine by wearing an empire cut maxi instead of the usual boring maternity clothing.

If you don’t have a maxi dress in your closet yet, then we urge you to get at least one. It’s a great way to look feminine and sexy without having to show too much skin. We’re also sure you’re going to like wearing it so much that you will end up buying more.

If you have the cash, you can splurge on this Missoni piece from Shopbop:

M Missoni Bias Stripe Long Dress, US$795

Or you can save and get these affordable but beautifully colorful dresses from Tigerlily and BCBG Max Azria:

Tigerlily Beso Cover Up Long Dress, US$139

BCBG Max Azria Zig Zag Maxi Dress, US$170

Credit: Nikki Nelson/ WENN, Apega/WENN.com