Ever since the SATC girls sashayed onto our screens for their Arabian adventure in floor sweeping gowns in eye popping colours, the world has become obsessed with maxi dresses. There’s nothing like the feel of a hemline grazing your ankle to make you feel glamorous, lets call it the princess effect. And with very unlikely weather conditions sweeping the country there’s no better time to get into this particular trend.

Celebrities have loved this particular wardrobe item for a long time, blissfully forgiving the long and loose shape hides a multitude of sins without forsaking a thing in the style stakes. And no longer is it the staple look reserved for boho babes (think Nicole Richie, Mischa Barton and Rachel Zoe) it has evolved and we’re all getting in on the act.

Approach with caution however, your look can go from festival fun to fashion fail quicker then you can say DVF. The rules are simple, only wear with flats if you are over 5ft 7, wedges the higher the better are needed on those not blessed with such height (drowned by a dress so not a good look). If you are wary of this trend you don’t need to jump straight in with a full on psychedelic print, plain jersey maxis are just as chic.

Here are the best buys whatever your budget:

LUXE:

The masters of maxi, Missoni £495. Keep it chic in this white Alice by Temperely dress £360. Both at Net-a-porter.com.

MID RANGE:

Bag yourself a bargain, this Antik Batik is on sale at My-wardrobe.com for £170. Ooze laid back cool in this jersey maxi by T by Alexander Wang £135 at Net-a-porter.com.

BUDGET:

Goddiva have a fab selection, we love this tiered monochrome £32 Goddiva.co.uk. Alternatively go for a minimalist look in this Topshop number £28.

[Photo Credit via Picapp.com]