What is a Maxi Dress?

A maxi dress is typically an informal sleeveless dress which are formfitting at the top and are loose at the bottom running down to the ankle. Originating in the late 1960′s from high-end fashion designer, Oscar de la Renta, the maxi dress began it's life on the runway and was this look was quickly adopted by the masses and has been adapted into a range of styles since.

High-street Maxi Dresses

Here's a selection of gorgeous summer wrap dresses that are on-trend this season from the likes of TKMaxx, Freemans and Very to inspire your next make!

5 FREE Maxi Dress Patterns

Peruse through our round-up of floaty maxi dresses to find you next project. We're bringing you a selection of free patterns which work for a range of abilities and can be made in fabric of your choice! There's something for everyone in this collection, click the links below to find the pattern you love!

Amelia Maxi Dress

This easy-to-make, vintage-inspired dress is the perfect day-to-evening pattern with a choice of two lengths of fluttery sleeve. The shirred waist panel means getting a great fit is even easier! Amelia will look great for a sunny day out in a pretty Tana lawn, or in a glamorous viscose or silk when attending a wedding or party.

Halle Maxi Dress

Get tropical with this statement maxi dress sewn in jersey for a comfortable fit.  Download the patterns and buy a copy of Love Sewing issue 90 to find the instructions.

Wide Strap Maxi Dress

This day-to-night maxi from the Peppermint blog can be dressed up or down seasonally. Ideal for a beginner, create this breezy wide-strap maxi dress pattern with ease!

Water Lily Maxi Dress

Take the maxi to new heights with Mood's stylish Water Lily dress pattern - this on-trend garment features delicately layered ruffles and a simple silhouette. Make yours light and breathable with a stunning voile print, or let it flow more fluidly in a crepe de chine of your choosing!

Lantana Maxi Shirt Dress

If you love the maxi style with a bit of a twist then give this free pattern a whirl! Designer Courtney Norris has created a tailored shirt which flows into a gorgeous statement skirt. Follow the step-by-step guide with this project to nail the detail.

If you're looking for more sewing content on CraftWorld, check out the following links!

An Introduction to Dressmaking

5 FREE Wrap Dress Patterns

5 FREE Buffet Dress Patterns

5 FREE Cocktail Dress Patterns

5 FREE Dancing Dresses

Happy Sewing,

Betty