That 1970s Maxi Dress!!

In the late 1960s hemlines started to come down from the iconic mini dresses of the early years of the decade. The maxi dress made its debut on the runways in 1967 as a sharp contrast to the mini dress but designed with the same bold prints iconic of the 60s “flower child” era. Although maxi - or long gowns - had been around for decades, the maxi dress was a new casual wear style for women. These late 60s maxis are among my favourites as many have little details such as pleats or gathers at the back that give them just that extra bit of elegance. The 70s maxi evolved over the decade, of course, but its attractive sweeping hem was maintained throughout.

When I look at this style of dress I realize how easily they blend with today's styles. We are lucky to be in a fashion era where pretty well anything goes and the maxi dress is suitable for any event, even business meetings! Maxi dresses are not just for “dressing up” but can be stunningly gorgeous when worn for a night on the town or just out doing a little shopping. The easy and comfortable style of the maxi is very flattering for any body shape. That’s the beauty of it.

And let’s not forget about the maxi skirt. The maxi skirt was a favourite of the 1970s and made a big comeback in the 1990s paired with boots and blazer or jacket. I’m a 60s girl at heart but the 1990s maxi skirt was, and still is, one of my favourite’s to wear.

The maxi style works in any season with flowy summer dresses that have hemlines that romantically fall to the ground and sensible wool or velvet tailored skirts for the fall. It’s a style we should all own.

So, don’t pine any longer over that 1970s maxi dress style. Go and get one! They are flattering, casual or elegant … and always very stylish. I believe every closet should have a maxi dress. You never know when you may need (or just simply want) to wear one.