How to Find Your Size in a Maxi Dress

A maxi dress should skim the floor, not drag on it, and sit comfortably through a long afternoon. Ordering online makes that a little harder, because you can't try it on first. The good news is that a tape measure and five minutes give you almost everything you need.

1. Measure Yourself, Not Another Dress

Stand straight in light clothing and measure three places with a soft tape measure:

• Bust: around the fullest part, keeping the tape level.
• Waist: around your natural waist, the narrowest part above your belly button.
• Hips: around the fullest part of your hips and seat.

Write the numbers down in centimetres. Measurements from a dress you already own can be misleading, because every fabric and cut fits differently.

2. Compare With the Size Chart on the Product Page

Every dress at Coast & Clove has its own size chart, taken from the garment itself. Find the size where your bust, waist and hip measurements fit. If you fall between two sizes, choose the larger one for a relaxed fit, especially in fabrics without stretch such as chiffon.

Some styles run small. When that is the case, we say so on the product page. The Mikaela, for example, runs slightly short, so we suggest one size up.

3. Check the Length

The size chart also lists the length of the dress, measured from the shoulder to the hem. Measure yourself from the top of your shoulder down to where you want the hem to fall, then compare. Remember to add a few centimetres if you plan to wear heels.

4. Think About the Fabric

Flowing fabrics like chiffon and crepe drape around the body, so they forgive a little. Fitted styles with a defined waist or bodice need a closer match to your measurements. Lace often has little stretch, so if you are unsure, go for the size that fits your largest measurement.

5. Still Unsure?

Send us your bust, waist and hip measurements at info@coastandclove.com and we will happily check them against the size chart for you. You can also find general advice in our size guide.

Shipping is free across New Zealand, and you have 30 days to request a return if the fit isn't right.