Everything You Need to Know About Maxi Dresses

When it comes to finding a dress style that’s versatile, trans-seasonal and of course, on trend, the maxi dress ticks all the boxes. This ever-popular style usually features a flowing skirt that sits just above the ankle or floor and a closer fitting bodice to complement your figure. With an extensive range of silhouettes, colours and fabrics to choose from, there’s a maxi dress to suit every style and every occasion. 

Whether you’re already a lover of this style and adding to your collection or are shopping for your first maxi, we’ve put together a few things you need to know when choosing and styling the perfect dress for you.

How should a maxi dress fit?

Finding the right fit for your maxi dress is key to looking incredible and feeling confident in this style. Opt for a dress that hugs the top half of your figure; strapless, off the shoulder or plunge neck cuts complement petite frames, whilst bustier and tie shoulder features look incredible on hourglass figures. The perfect fitting dress should cinch your waist before falling into an A-line or tiered skirt that finishes just above your ankle or the floor. A well-fitting maxi dress will accentuate and elongate your figure for a flattering and effortless finish.

The Noelle Dress from Alamour the Label features a flattering bustier style bodice and skims the floor, elongating your figure. 

What occasion can I wear a maxi dress for?

Quite possibly one of the most versatile styles out there, the maxi dress can be dressed up or down for almost any occasion. Whether you’re dressing for a romantic evening dinner date or looking for a piece to throw on while running errands, the maxi dress is the perfect pick. For occasions that call for a more formal look, choose a dress that features a luxe, thicker fabric and add interest with a plunge neck, off the shoulder cut or backless style. For a more laid back, everyday fit, choose a dress in a light, breathable material with a comfortable silhouette that gently cinches at the waist and flows to your ankles.

The Anais Dress can be easily dressed up or down and features a lightweight, breathable cotton fabric in a gorgeous ditsy floral print. Image: Alamour the Label.

What season can I wear a maxi dress?

Rain, hail or shine, the maxi dress remains on high rotation season after season. From a slinky style with barely there straps that’s made for a tropical vacation to long statement sleeves that are ideal for the cooler months, the variety of styles and fabrics mean you can find a dress that will keep you warmer in winter and cooler in summer without compromising on style. Crisp whites and bold, bright colours look stunning in the sunshine, whilst deep, rich hues such as burgundy, black and brown make for a stylish winter look. 

Deeper shades such as red and burgundy are an ideal pick for the cooler months or after dark events. Pictured is the Lucy Dress. 

How should I accessorise a maxi dress?

The occasion, season and your own personal style will all play in to choosing the right accessories to complete your look. When building an effortlessly chic summer outfit, choose dainty gold accessories, tan leather sandals with a coordinating bag and add a wide brimmed woven hat. For a stylish after dark look, complement your maxi dress with statement earrings, your favourite black or metallic heels and a small clutch bag. 

A wide brimmed woven hat brings a bohemian inspired finish to any daytime summer look or pair a bold, statement maxi with coordinating earrings for a stylish monochrome look. Pictured left is the Evalyn Dress and right the Karmia Dress. 

Once you’ve found a style that fits incredibly and complements your figure, experiment with fabrics, silhouettes and colour palettes to find the perfect maxi dress to suit the season and occasion, then finish your look with on trend accessories.