What is a Maxi Dress: All You Need to Know

Oozing elegance and versatility, the maxi dress can be described as a full-length dress that falls just above the ground. It comes in a vast variety of fabrics, silhouettes and styles – from flowing lightweight textures to cosy figure-hugging knit pieces – guaranteeing you’ll find a fit you’ll love and will feel confident stepping out in, season after season. 

Here, we explore some of our favourite maxi dress styles and share some top tips on how to style them with your favourite accessories and how to make them work for you.

Printed Maxi Dress

From bold animal prints to delicate florals and contemporary patterns, a printed maxi dress is the ultimate way to create a stylish, put-together outfit with minimal effort. Look for a colour scheme that compliments your complexion and personal style, then explore different prints and patterns to find one that is uniquely you. When styling a printed maxi dress, keep your accessories simple with silver or gold earrings, your favourite leather sandals and a coordinating bag.

Image: Tigerlily

Long Sleeve Maxi Dress

A long-sleeved maxi dress is ideal for when you’re looking for something a little more formal or to keep you warm on chilly winter days and clear autumn evenings. From thick knitted fabrics to soft crinkle textiles that flow beautifully, the right accessories can dress this versatile style up or down at a moment’s notice. For an effortlessly cool daytime look, layer a long-sleeved maxi dress with knee-high or western-inspired boots, or take your look into the evening and swap the boots for strappy heels and a miniature clutch bag.

Image: Tigerlily

Crochet Maxi Dress

Another trans-seasonal favourite is a crochet maxi dress. Usually crafted from a fine knit fabric, a crochet dress can be layered over your bikini for a summer-inspired look that will take you from long afternoons at the beach to sunset cocktails at the bar or worn with a slip and oversized leather jacket for the cooler months. Explore strappy styles with sultry low backs and finer fabrics for summer and look for thicker knits with long sleeves in autumn and winter.

Image: Tigerlily

Satin Maxi Dress

Lean into opulence and femininity with a gorgeous satin maxi dress. This slinky fabric and flattering cut gently skims and elongates your figure. A must-have in every wardrobe, a satin maxi dress can be styled for pretty much any occasion, whether you’re attending a good friend’s wedding at a stunning winery in the valley or enjoying a gorgeous sunset dinner on vacation. Elevate this staple style with a cowl neck front, barely-there spaghetti straps or intricate lace detailing. 

Image: Tigerlily

With its sweeping length, universally flattering silhouette and plethora of colours, fabrics, prints and patterns, the maxi dress is one of our top picks, when it comes to versatile and timeless styles. When finding the perfect maxi dress for you, look for a style that accentuates your natural features and aligns with your personal style. From bold printed pieces to versatile long sleeves, bohemian-inspired knit crochet and glamorous satin pieces now is the time to find the perfect maxi dress to add to your collection.