Summer must have’s

It’s just great when there is one key item of the season. Not only is it cheaper than have several pieces to choose from, but it is far more straightforward and you can be almost 100% sure you’ll be on trend whenever you step foot out of the house. This summer, the one ‘must have’ item is the maxi dress.

The maxi dress has been around before, but it made a strong comeback last summer. It was a dress that anyone and everyone could wear, no matter your style, size, shape or age. The trend is back for summer 2011 with even bolder colours, prints and more flattering shapes. Versatility and flexibility define the maxi of 2011. You can add sleeves, synch in the waist, go for a halter-top, strapless, a-line shape with fitted bust or figure hugging bodycon styles. It’s all there, in just one dress. 

Of course, knowing how to accessorise the maxi is a little more tricky but you can easily put your own stamp on it with the right accessories and turn this trend of the masses into something much more personal and unique.

So, here are three ways to accessorise your maxi this summer allowing you to put your own stamp on it. 

The waistcoat

Maxis can be so loose and floaty that you can loose your waist altogether. To avoid this happening don’t just strap it up in a belt. Don a waistcoat. You have several choices when it comes to style. For those that like something more urban and edgy a bleached cropped denim waistcoat is best. If you want to give your maxi a bit of a rocker feel, look for a denim waistcoat with studding and even some leather. 

If you want to tie in to the hippy trend, go for a lace or crochet waistcoat. Pale, nude colours look great with the natural hues of the 70s inspired maxi dresses. A delicate fabric adds a sense of luxury and is a great way to dress up a maxi in time for an evening party. 

Hats

Again, there are two real choices in terms of hats. The first is the floppy, unstructured hat symbolic of the late 60s and early 70s hippy chicks. This kind of hat was made iconic by Bianca Jagger and it is back again in time for summer 2011. Look for light brown shades in felt or cotton. A ribbon and bow will add an extra slice of girliness. 

Hat number two is a bowler, boater or trilby. These more structured hats look great with the urban rocker style waist coast and some flat shoes. 

Bags

The long strapped, over the body small handbag is big for the summer, especially with buckles and chain detailing. The alternative is an oversize satchel with fringing preferably in leather or suede. 

Get the season’s must have maxi dress at House of Fraser.