Sunday 4 August 2013

Rise of the Maxi Dress

Unlike its hemline, the popularity of the maxi dress just keeps on rising. Whether worn day or night, it is an effortlessly stylish look that makes a statement.
Commonly believed to derive from the 70s hippie era, it did in fact start in the late 60s, as a counter culture to the miniskirt. The very first maxi dress is considered to be a creation from designer, Oscar de la Renta, whose design was commended in the New York Times, in 1968. 60s film, Dr Zhivago, also popularised the maxi, with viewers replicating the style of lead actress, Julie Christie. The 70s embraced the trend with designers such as Ossie Clark and Biba leading the way. Maxi dresses of the 70s encapsulated bohemian style with psychedelic paisley prints.

Today, the maxi dress has become more chic, with lightweight fabrics in cotton, silk and chiffon. The silhouette is sleeker and more elegant. Model, Kate Moss, is a devoted fan of the trend, looking elegant in the day and glamorous in the evening.


The maxi dress is a summer wardrobe essential, perfect for summer’s hot days and cool nights. It flatters any figure as it’s usually form fitting on top and the skirt flows over the body, accentuating your waist. For a daytime look, wear your maxi with flats and minimal accessories – the hem should fall at your ankles. Transform to an evening look by adding heels and elegant jewellery. Don’t be afraid to go bold with a maxi if you’re petite, stick to more tailored silhouettes which will compliment your figure. Make the most of the trend by wearing a maxi skirt paired with different tops, giving you a whole range of outfits from just one item.


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