Maxi dresses and florals might be go-tos when it comes to summer eveningwear, but darker hues and bolder block colours still have their place in seasonal attire - and they can look especially glamorous when styled together at this time of year.
It’s a fact that Pippa Middleton proved to us over a decade ago now, as she stepped out for the Boxing Ball at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London in 2013. Styling a burnt orange, pleated maxi skirt with a simple black halterneck top, she perfectly balanced sophistication with fun and colour, creating an outfit that truly stands the test of time.
A maxi skirt and ‘nice top’ like Pippa’s make for a failsafe combination when it comes to summer eveningwear because, as well as being effortlessly glamorous, it’s a blend that promises to keep you cool in the summer heat. Especially if you opt for a statement skirt as Pippa did, the resulting outfit is one that needs very little accessorising. That's always a bonus when we’re a little flustered by the humidity, can’t spare too much energy on getting ready and are struggling with what to wear in the heat. Just a simple pair of peep-toe heels, a black clutch and a waist belt were all Pippa needed to pull together her outfit and look perfectly polished.
Recreate Pippa Middleton's Summer Evening Look
Like Pippa's maxi skirt, this one from Mint Velvet is made from a high-shine satin fabric and boasts pleated details that give the shape an elegant movement. While its colour is more rust red than burnt orange, the hue is just as bright, warm and bold.
This halterneck top has just dropped on the & Other Stories website, and it's sure to sell out, with its softly draped structure and fluid fit creating a super flattering style that can be effortlessly paired with everything from maxi skirts to jeans this season.
These heels have such a nostalgic edge to them, with the peep-toe shape being one that's finally coming back into fashion after dominating the early 2010s. Shoppers say this pair from Next are 'comfortable and classy,' as well as being 'a nice height.'
The satin fabric of this River Island maxi is simply stunning, with its high shine feeling luxe and elegant despite the affordable price tag. It also boasts an ultra-flattering shape, with a floaty, pleated skirt balanced out by a more fitted design at the hips.
The fitted shape of this halterneck top from Mango is offset by a stunning draped neckline, which sits high on the chest for a modest fit that's flattering, sophisticated and oh-so chic in the summer.
If you don't already have a black clutch bag in your collection, this one from Dune London is a great investment. With a simple shape and textured finish like Pippa's snakeskin one, it's a minimalistic accessory that's super versatile.
Speaking about Pippa’s outfit, woman&home's Fashion Ecommerce Editor Caroline Parr says, "A simple halterneck top and statement skirt is an effortless combination, particularly if it's hot weather or you're packing for a holiday. Choose a bold colour or a punchy print for the skirt, and if you fancy a bit more coverage on top, swap to a crisp white shirt."
No matter which style of top you pick out of your summer capsule wardrobe and choose to wear, you want to keep it neutral and clean-cut to balance out the bright and bold colour of your maxi skirt, just like Pippa did. Her black halter top brought a directional feel to the floaty maxi skirt, whose pleats gave the silhouette tons of graceful movement.
She finished off her outfit with a pair of chunky black peep toe heels, which, despite her wearing them 13 years ago now, are still a great choice of shoe and are even dominating spring/summer shoe trends for 2026 – yes, this nostalgic shoe is back and there’s no better way to style it than with an elegant maxi for date night outfit ideas this season.
