Long dresses: length, hem and occasion
Maxi or gown
A maxi reaches the ankle and is drafted to be walked in, often with a side or front split. A gown reaches the floor and may carry a train, which changes what it can be worn to and what shoes work underneath. Both use the same fabrics; the difference is whether the hem clears the ground.
| Type | Hem | Shoes | Occasion |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maxi | Ankle | Boots visible | Everyday gothic |
| Split maxi | Ankle, split | Boots visible | Evening |
| Gown | Floor | Hidden | Occasion |
| Trained gown | Floor + train | Hidden | Formal, shoot |
Sizing
Long dresses are cut close through the bodice and the length is fixed, so height matters as well as size. Product pages state the garment length in centimetres from shoulder to hem: measure yourself rather than assuming.
Frequently asked
- What is the difference between a maxi and a gown?
- A maxi clears the ground and can be walked in. A gown reaches the floor and may have a train.
- Is the length adjustable?
- No. Garment length is stated in centimetres from shoulder to hem on each product page.
- Can a corset-back gown be adjusted?
- Yes, by several centimetres at the waist and bust, which makes corset-back styles the most forgiving.
- How do you care for a velvet gown?
- Dry clean only. Velvet marks permanently with water and loses its pile if washed.