The maxi dress is one of the most versatile garments any woman should have in their closet due to its comfort and it being a low-key alternative to the mini-skirts. The maxi dress used to be a voluminous mound of polyester in the 1970s. However such is no more since the maxi dress has embraced the 21^st century.

The designers of today rely on cotton and other fine fabrics, which keep the wearer feeling cool and breezy, and modern maxi dresses also offer a much more flattering fit, with plenty of styles to accentuate any figure.

This dress gives the wearer a look of casual sophistication which is appropriate as casual or even as formal wear. But the trick to its versatility is the accessories the wearer must adorn. If aiming for a relaxed effect, flip-flops, flat sandals, and low-heeled platforms are the best option. In earth-tone leather they reinforce the polished but effortless vibe. Maxi dresses look grand with a little layering. By adding a denim jacket and a belt makes the look more relaxed whilst a sharp blazer and an elegant necklace can make the dress look more sophisticated for a formal function.

Contrary to popular belief, you do not have to be a runway model to pull off this look since this dress can work for bodies of all shapes and sizes. If you have a boyish frame, the waist-cinching drawstring adds curves or if you have a pear shaped figure, a shoulder-baring top and empire waist draw attention up and away from your bottom. So the trick to flaunt a maxi dress is choosing the right accessories.

By Radhi De Silva