HOW TO WEAR: THE MAXI DRESS

AS WITH house prices, so it is with fashion: what goes up must come down. But, even the most clairvoyant fashion follower might be forgiven for not predicting quite how rapidly or far hemlines would fall this spring. Possibly as an antidote to the proliferation of teeny, tiny skirts in the shops, the maxi- dress looks set to be the season's runaway hit with shoppers too pasty, bow-legged, old or just plain terrified of the micro-mini trend.
But just because it covers a multitude of sins, it still needs a bit of consideration because there are pitfalls aplenty.

Firstly, make sure the maxi dress doesn't wear you. Too full and flowing, and tiny, petite figures face being swamped; similarly, those with fuller shapes should avoid anything too voluminous as it will add bulk .That said, however, the maxi's floor-skimming length can be very slimming and flattering, especially when combined with a v-neck. That's because the empire-line shape accentuates the narrowest part of our bodies, while gracefully concealing the rest.

And it's a myth that you can't wear a maxi just because you're petite. Just choose a small pattern to match your stature, rather than a bold and brazen one, and you'll look well proportioned. Avoid overly voluminous skirts and be sure to team with heels or wedges. If you're on the bigger side, choose a skirt that's long but not too full, so it doesn't add extra pounds to your profile.

Empire lines are perfect for showing off a full bust while hiding a jelly belly, so curvy girls should choose this style if you want to show off your assets to best effect. Tall girls can find a maxi that won't suddenly become midi and shapeless when they put it on, by heading to specialist stores like Long Tall Sally. When it comes to shoes, stick to casual flats, flip-flops and dainty sandals or chunky wedges and platforms if you want a heel.

Avoid anything too formal or stiletto-like; neither work with maxis, with their suggestion of easy-going, summer-of- love freedom. Matching your maxi to the occasion is all about fabric - easy-to-wear cotton for day, sexy silks for evening. If the weather turns chilly, avoid layering and instead stick to a simple shrug, cropped cardi or short fitted jacket, which will stop you looking too floaty.