The maxi dress is one of the best dresses to wear as an easy breezy throw-on piece. Whether you're going for a smock, slip or shirt maxi dress, you'll have an outfit ready to go in minutes - and we know how challenging that can be. But is the maxi dress solely made for summer? Of course not. Here's exactly why you should be wearing maxi dresses all-year round.
For an effortless summer look, pair your maxi with sandals and a cropped denim jacket. Easy. In winter, we like to add a touch of biker-chic to a slip dress with lace-up boots that peek out underneath the hemline and a cool leather jacket or chunky knit. Finally, if you're choosing a formal design to wear for a special occasion, choose a timeless block colour and team it with metallic sandals, delicate jewels and a colour-popping clutch.
A neutral maxi dress (think black, navy or a stylish grey) in a simple silhouette can be a sophisticated and ladylike addition to your working wardrobe. Alternatively, opt for a shirt-dress style. Steer clear of jersey fabrics, sticking with more formal satins or silks in a cocktail dress. And, of course, pair it with understated accessories to refine your look for the office.
Whether you're looking for timeless and elegant or bright and colourful, we've found the best maxi dresses to help narrow your search. Shop them below.
SHOP: The Best Maxi Dresses To Add To Your Wardrobe
rixolondon.com
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For a strong print that will see you through endless summer days, evening events and beyond, look to Rixo. With exclusive fabrics and maxi dresses to last you a lifetime, they're an obvious go-to.
www.harrods.com
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Possibly one of the most trendy maxi dresses you can get your hands on at the moment, Kim Kardashian's empire Skims will have you feeling body-empowered.
www.frenchconnection.com
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According to Hailey Bieber - halter neck dresses are back and with a nostalgic noughties feel, we can't pretend we're not happy to see them return. This French Connection bold orange halterneck maxi will see you through from winter cocktails to summer holidays.
www.zara.com
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Everyone remembers the Zara slip dresses that went viral last year, so it's no surprise that the high street retailer is a staple for a great maxi dress. This long shirt dress from the new collection is a go-to for summer ease.
www.boden.co.uk
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Smock dresses like this one from Boden will have you feeling ready to go on holiday at any moment and make for a perfect choice at garden parties, dinners and summer BBQs.
www.riverisland.com
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For maxi dresses that fulfil your boho dreams, River Island is a top contender. Think floaty materials, frills and puffed sleeves. Plus, they'll be extremely comfortable pieces for your wardrobe.
www.monsoon.co.uk
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You can't go much more classic than a maxi floral dress, and this show-stopping choice from Monsoon with button-down detailing is one you can't miss.
shop.mango.com
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Invest in a silk cowl maxi dress for those fancier events where you want to feel effortlessly chic. This silk maxi from Mango is a show-stopper and is made with flowy fabric in perfect quality.
www.boden.co.uk
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Take a light cotton dress from Boden to add to your collection for the warmer months. With a smocked waist and pullover style for comfortable fitting, you'll be throwing this maxi on all the time.
www.stories.com
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This & Other Stories Maxi Dress is a perfect pick me up if you fancy some retail therapy. Stock up on this Tiered Maxi Dress ready for the coming summer months.
www.whistles.com
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A chic, classy, satin dress is a go-to for any summer occasion and will see you from date night to wedding guest dress. The choice is yours, really, when it comes to this Whistles maxi.
uk.maje.com
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If you're looking for a dress that will turn heads, this Maje number is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Coming in a bold electric blue hue, complete with cut-out and slit leg detailing, you'll look and feel confident any occasion throughout the year.
www.riverisland.com
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River Island really knows how to make good quality dresses with bold and frivolous prints ideal for spring. This number features cut-out detailing and a v-neck for a chic summer look.
www.libertylondon.com
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What better way to celebrate an evening occasion than by wearing this Liberty dress. High-quality garments that are perfect for a cocktail evening are what the brand are known for.
rixolondon.com
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This dress resembles a sunset, and we suspect it would be the perfect garment to wear to an evening meal on a beach holiday. Rixo knocks it out the park every time.
What body types do maxi dresses flatter the most?
Maxi dresses are versatile and can complement most body shapes. For those with a pear-shaped figure, opt for styles with a defined waistline to accentuate your curves while balancing out the hips. Hourglass figures can embrace fitted styles that highlight the waist for a flattering silhouette.
If you have a petite frame, consider opting for a maxi dress with a high waistline and a slightly shorter hemline to avoid overwhelming your proportions.
How can I style a maxi dress for different occasions?
Maxi dresses are a wardrobe staple that can effortlessly transition from day to night and casual to formal occasions. For a relaxed daytime look, pair your maxi dress with sandals or sneakers and accessorise with a denim jacket and a tote bag for an effortlessly chic look. Layering with a tailored blazer or a leather jacket can instantly add sophistication, making it suitable for dinner dates or cocktails with friends.
What accessories should I pair with a maxi dress?
Complete your look with statement jewellery and a bold bag that is big enough to aid you throughout your evening without being so big that it takes the attention away from your maxi dress.