Designer Maxi Dresses

Long sleeve and winter maxi dresses

Long sleeve maxi dresses carry the length into autumn and winter: choose satin, crepe and fine knits in deep colours, and wear them with ankle boots and a long coat. For a covered evening look, see modest evening gowns.

Evening, silk and satin maxi dresses

A silk and satin maxi is the easiest evening dress to wear. See our guides to satin maxi dresses, black maxi dresses and halter maxi dresses, and move up to evening gowns for black tie.

Floral, printed and holiday maxi dresses

Printed and floral maxis are the designer summer staple, from Zimmermann and Alemais to Johanna Ortiz. See our guides to tiered maxi dresses, pink maxi dresses and vacation dresses, and browse summer and beach dresses and kaftans.

Maxi dresses for weddings

A maxi dress is a natural choice for garden, beach and evening weddings. Browse wedding guest dresses, and leave white and ivory to the bride.

Maxi dresses: FAQs

What is a maxi dress?

A maxi dress is a long dress that falls to the ankle and the floor. It covers everything from relaxed printed sundresses to silk and satin evening styles, so the fabric decides how formal it is.

What is the difference between a maxi dress and an evening gown?

An evening gown is a formal floor-length dress for black tie events and galas. A maxi dress is any long dress, often lighter and less structured; see evening gowns for the most formal styles.

Can you wear a maxi dress to a wedding?

Yes. A printed and softly coloured maxi suits a daytime, garden and beach wedding, and a silk and satin maxi works for an evening reception. Avoid white and ivory; see wedding guest dresses.

What shoes go with a maxi dress?

Flat sandals and espadrilles suit a relaxed day maxi, heeled sandals and slim mules suit an evening maxi, and ankle boots work with a long sleeve maxi in autumn. Check the hem in the shoes you plan to wear.

Can petite women wear maxi dresses?

Yes. Choose a defined waist, a V neckline and a hem that just skims the floor in your shoes, and avoid very full tiers that swamp a small frame.

How do I wear a maxi dress in fall and winter?

Pick long sleeves and heavier fabrics such as satin, crepe and fine knits, then add ankle boots, a long coat and a belted cardigan. Darker colours and jewel tones feel seasonal.

What fabrics are best for a summer maxi dress?

Linen, cotton and silk breathe best in the heat. Linen creases easily, so choose a looser cut, and look for a lining in light colours.

Is a maxi dress formal?

It depends on the fabric and the details. A printed cotton maxi is casual, while silk, satin, beading and a structured bodice make a maxi dress formal enough for evening events.