Timeless and versatile, a dress is an easy styling option for your upcoming special occasion, social event or everyday wear. Style a knitted dress with boots and a denim jacket for the winter, floral dress with sandals for the summer, or throw on a smart bodycon dress for a chic office look. Having an assortment of dresses is essential to a well-rounded wardrobe!

But with all the different cuts, hemlines and fits, it can get a little confusing when buying your next dress. If you're left Googling "midi dress meaning"  then this guide is a helpful tool for you!

We love the mini for its fun and flirty vibe!

It is easy, versatile and can be dressed up or down depending on the footwear and accessories you pair with it. A mini dress can take you from beach to bar with a quick change of shoes and jewellery.

A mini dress has a hemline that finishes anywhere above the knee. It can be casual and sweet as well as fun and sexy depending on the accessories, pattern and style! A mini dress length in inches ranges between 32 to 36.

Popular silhouettes: Skater, bodycon, babydoll, wrap & full skirt mini dress.

A mini is the most versatile of the dresses. Depending on the pattern, style and accessories, a mini dress can be worn at the beach, brunch or even dressed up for a night out. This hemline is best suited for social and casual functions.

The midi has become increasingly popular in the last few years! It's a modest length that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. 

A midi dress has a hemline starting below or at the knee and ending before the ankles. This style is best worn with strappy heels to give the illusion of longer legs. If you have a short figure, opt for a hemline that ends above the mid-calf.

Popular silhouettes: A line, cocktail & bodycon dress.

Mid calf length dresses and skirts are best suited for professional work dresses, smart casual, weddings and almost all social occasions depending on the style. 

Mini:

• Wear a mini for a fun, party vibe! Simply add heels and a handbag and you're ready for a night out!
• Mini dresses have left fabric so are a cooler option for summer.
• They come in a larger range of silhouettes so you're spoilt for choice!
• They suit a greater range of body types.

Midi:

• If chic is what you're looking for then a midi dress is the answer!
• A midi dress protects more of your body from the sun.
• The midi is a more formal length than the midi, making it a better option for weddings and functions.

Max out your look with a floor- sweeping maxi dress. From bohemian dresses to ball gowns, these long dresses are every bit elegant and classy.

Ending below the ankle, a maxi dress is the longest of the hemlines. Some sweep the ground while others sit nicely just below the ankle. Style your maxi with heels to help lift the hemline off the ground! Alternatively, opt for a boho maxi with sandals and a woven bag so you feel like a free-spirited goddess. 

Popular silhouettes: summer maxis, bodicon, boho & mermaid

Suitable for many formal and social events, the maxi is a fail safe! Throw on a boho frock for a day at the beach or a bodycon maxi and heels for an evening spent dining.

Shop all these fabulous dresses and more at Ally Fashion now.