You can’t go through summer without wearing at least one black maxi dress. It’s a classic and timeless piece that can last you through seasons.

For Nicole Richie and Charlize Theron, the right way to wear a long black dress is by toning it down with macho-looking flat sandals. It is also imperative to choose a sexy silhouette — one with a slit that will expose your endless legs.

On Friday, Charlize was spotted out and about in Los Angeles in a plunging black maxi with a slit way up her thigh. She finished the number with dark sunnies, a cream tote, and some wide-strap criss-cross sandals.

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2B96922400000578-0-image-a-83_1440291264465Charliz Theron showcases her legs in a long black maxi dress while running errands in Los Angeles on August 21, 2015

The following day, it was Nicole Richie’s turn to flaunt the long and flowy frock. Her piece, which was crafted in black floral, was cut low on the front and even lower on the back. Like Charlize, Nicole chose a dress detailed with a slit to reveal lots of legs. She then finished the number with masculine sandals detailed with cutouts.

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2B968B8200000578-0-image-m-52_1440287517665-horzNicole Richie wears a black floral maxi dress for a day with friends in Beverly Hills on August 22, 2015

If you prefer to wear your maxi dresses with feminine sandals, that’s alright too. But if you want to give your look a different flavor, toning down the feminine frock with masculine-looking sandals is one way to go.

Instead of choosing sandals with slim straps and jeweled embellishments, do the opposite. Wear sandals with thick straps and edgy add-ons like studs, grommets, and buckles. I couldn’t find any details on Charlize’s and Nicole’s sandals, but below are great options to consider if you’re looking to steal their style:

atelje 71 flint sandalsAtelje 71 Flint Woven Sandals, $125 (was $250)

isa tapia geri sandalsIsa Tapia Geri Studded Sandals, $197.50 (was $395)

matiko karina sandalsMatiko Karina Sandals, $79 (was $158)

$ 197.50