One of the best things about a maxi dress, or any dress really, is the ability to throw it on, call it an outfit, and walk out the door. And 90% of the time, that's exactly what I do, because I'm lazy or only going to the school car line.

But just because you don't have to add any extras to your outfit doesn't mean you can't. Adding a few key pieces can take a maxi dress from being a simple I-just-threw-this-on look to an outfit that feels more intentional and put together.

This post will share four simple ways to polish up your favorite maxi dress this spring and summer. Let's get started!

This is by far the simplest way to put a finishing touch on your maxi. Some tips: look for a jacket that's slightly fitted and sits at or above your waist. You want it to add structure without weighing you down. I used white denim here but you can use any fabric really. My grey suede moto jacket is a favorite for cooler days.

This is one of my favorite combinations, especially with maxi dresses that don't have a defined waist. The belt helps establish line of sight, while the vest helps create that 1/3, 2/3 rule that makes an outfit more visually appealing. Also, I like my shoulders to be protected from the sun.

This combo is a little bit tougher to pull off because of the faux print mixing element. (I say faux because I don't think a graphic tee is technically a print.) This works best with sleeveless dresses to prevent bulk at the shoulders, and I like to use dresses with a defined waist. The goal is to create a skirt and shirt look. You can knot your t-shirt if you prefer, but in this outfit I gathered it into a "ponytail," secured it with a hair tie, and tucked it under.

Do you have a chambray shirt in your closet? If not, consider this your motivation! This is very similar to adding a jacket but without the extra weight, making it more appropriate for summer days. You can button the shirt above the knot if you like or leave it open so a peek of your dress shows. You can also achieve this same look with a long-sleeved button-up, just roll the sleeves to your elbows! Also, you can reverse everything with a printed button-up over a solid print dress.