How to Choose a Maxi Dress You Will Wear All Summer

A maxi dress is the easiest thing to wear on a warm New Zealand day: one piece, comfortable, and dressed up or down with a change of shoes. But not every maxi suits every body or every occasion. The neckline, the waist and the fabric make all the difference. Here is how to choose a maxi dress you will reach for all summer.

1. Start With the Neckline

The neckline sets the tone of the dress. An off-shoulder neckline shows the shoulders and collarbones and feels romantic and summery. The Mikaela Off Shoulder Chiffon Maxi Dress is a light chiffon maxi with an off-shoulder neckline.

2. A Wrap Shape for a Defined Waist

A wrap or crossover front pulls in at the waist and creates a flattering V-neck. It is one of the easiest shapes to wear, because you can adjust it to your body. The Lisette Wrap Cocktail Maxi Dress is a wrap maxi that works for a cocktail party as well as a summer wedding.

3. Sleeves for Cooler Evenings and Formal Events

A maxi with sleeves feels a little more formal and keeps the evening breeze off your arms. Sheer or flutter sleeves keep it light. The Rhiannon Floral Maxi Dress with Long Sheer Sleeves has long sheer sleeves and a V-neck, and the Lorena Floral Flutter Sleeve Maxi Dress has soft flutter sleeves.

4. Tiers and Layers for Movement

A tiered skirt or a cape overlay gives a maxi dress movement, so it floats when you walk. It is a lovely choice for a garden party or a wedding outdoors. The Clarabel Tiered Chiffon Maxi Dress with Cape Overlay has tiered chiffon and a cape overlay.

5. Natural Fabrics for Everyday

For everyday wear, a cotton or cotton-linen maxi is breathable and relaxed, and it only gets softer with each wash. The Junie Cotton Linen Patchwork Stand Collar Maxi Dress has a stand collar and patchwork detail for a casual summer look.

Getting the Length Right

• Flat sandals: the hem should sit just above the ground, so you do not step on it.
• Heels: choose your heels before you check the length, as the dress will sit a few centimetres higher.
• Petite: a V-neck and a defined waist help a maxi look in proportion.
• Check the size guide on each product page, as every style is cut a little differently.

Browse all our dresses to find your next summer maxi.