There is one great foil within your life, one nemesis that cannot be denied — dresses. The lengths baffle; the shapes obscure your figure. It’s a constant struggle for flattering styles and pleasing colors: with so designs many sacrificing comfort for tight fabrics and dizzy patterns. And so you refuse them all, relying instead on the familiar trousers. Those are at least constant. Their silhouettes are understood; their designs are standard. They don’t force you to suffer through attempt after attempt, trying to emphasize your legs while shielding your calves (which is not an easy battle).
Dresses — you have decided — are simply not worth the effort.
In 2011, however, they will be. Fashion Week (which recently ended, offering a wide variety of trends and styles) sparked new possibilities — and individuals will soon find their closets filled with midi gowns.
Simply explained: midi gowns are figure hugging dresses that extend just below the knee (are meant to draw attentions downward, creating the illusion of height). These were once a staple of the 1980’s and now they have returned — with many stylists choosing to offer them.
British designer Hannah Macgibbon led the trend: her simple dresses were paired with bold accessories, for a style that was universal and easy. Innovative Elie Saab (of Lebanese descent) provided muted pallets and romantic sensibilities. Fashion house Marks and Spencer offered spring friendly colors and whimsical patterns. And other designers also showcased this style throughout the show, proving that they all were aware of its potential.
It should be noted, however, that such potential can require certain precautions. Never wear a midi if you are of below average height; this dress will only serve to distort your proportions, causing your lower half to appear shorter than it is. Also avoid ballet flats or sandals with this style. Its length demands some form of heel to increase the leg line. And be certain that the fabric is composed of natural fibers to ensure breathability.
Remembering those simple rules will help to utilize the midi and make them (and other dresses) far more appealing.