Very.co.uk

Our fashion experts pick the best maxi dresses on the high street...

If you're looking for a summer buy to boost your body confidence, the maxi dress is it. Whatever your body shape, it's a flattering, easy-to-wear option that keeps you covered where you need it most - and we know the styling tricks that'll make you feel and look even more fabulous...

Whether you're looking for a day-to-day maxi dress to throw on and go, something more formal for an upcoming occasion or a beach cover-up to boost your confidence, our fashion team know all the buys you don't want to miss. Shop their edit toay, and update your wardrobe with summer's most flattering buy... Pictured: Maxi dress, £26.50, Very.co.uk

Printed maxi dress, £42, Wallis

Printed maxi dress, £42, Wallis

Neutral tones and bold patterns means you can keep accessories to a minimum. This mosaic-printed dress requires minimal effort - just add sandals and go! Printed maxi dress, £42, Wallis

Red dress, £305, Maje

Red dress, £305, Maje

Make a statement without flashing too much flesh in this vibrant handkerchief hem dress with flattering long sleeves and drape body details. Team this maxi dress with a pair of luxe sandals. Red dress, £305, Maje

Printed dress, £65, & Other Stories

Embrace a fun print for your summer maxi, especially for parties and events. The deep V neck of this option will flatter a fuller bust, while the sleeves will hide your upper arms. Printed dress, £65, & Other Stories

Long Dress, £99.99, Mango

Long Dress, £99.99, Mango

Show off a small waist with a maxi that has a belt. This flowing green dress will highlight your torso while disguising arms and minimising a fuller bust - perfect for curvy body types. Long dress, £99.99, Mango

Chiffon dress, £29, H&M

Chiffon dress, £29, H&M

A sheer maxi is perfect for a night out or on holiday. Vertical stripes are super slimming and the shorter sheer skirt means that you can show off some leg without revealing too much. Chiffon dress, £29, H&M

Striped jersey dress, £275, Melissa Odabash at Harvey Nichols

Striped jersey dress, £275, Melissa Odabash at Harvey Nichols

Be daring with a beach bandeau dress. This striped style from swimwear designer Melissa Odabash is timeless and easy to wear - just throw on over your swimming costume, add some sunnies and you've got summer style down. Striped jersey dress, £275, Melissa Odabash at Harvey Nichols

Maxi dress, £100, Ted Baker

Maxi dress, £100, Ted Baker

Not all maxi dresses have to be boho and swishy - try this structured silk style for your next occasion. The stunning print and flattering waist belt will ensure you look and feel fabulous. Maxi dress, £100, Ted Baker

Ruffle dress, £55, Next

Ruffle dress, £55, Next

For a totally girly option, try bust-flattering ruffles. Add an embellished box clutch and some simple metallic strappy heels to finish the look. Ruffle dress, £55, Next

M&S Abstract Print Maxi Dress, £55

M&S Abstract Print Maxi Dress, £55

Feeling self conscious of your arms? We've got you covered! Try this kimono sleeve maxi from Twiggy's fabulous collection with M&S. Printed dress, £55, Twiggy for M&S

Chiffon dress, £315, Elizabeth and James at Net-a-Porter

Chiffon dress, £315, Elizabeth and James at Net-a-Porter

Show off your tan with a bright gown in summery blue hue. The long hem will lengthen your legs, while the high neck adds inches to the body, making this the perfect option for petite women. Chiffon dress, £315, Elizabeth and James at Net-a-Porter

Printed dress, £195, Coast

Printed dress, £195, Coast

No maxi dress round-up would be complete without an offering from Coast. Their whole range is simply stunning, but this printed maxi stood out as a clear summer must-have. The best part? This will suit almost all shapes - and the long hemline means you can wear a comfortable lower heel. Printed dress, £195, Coast

Chiffon dress, £295, Karl Laferfeld at Net-a-Porter

Chiffon dress, £295, Karl Laferfeld at Net-a-Porter

Those of you who are STILL clinging onto the dark hues of your winter wardrobe will feel at ease in a black maxi. Embrace subtle print to avoid fading into the background. Chiffon dress, £295, Karl Lagerfeld at Net-a-Porter

Ombre dress, £99.99, Mango

Ombre dress, £99.99, Mango

Whether you're by the beach or at a festival, this gorgeous tie dye dress will keep you cool - temperature - and style-wise! Ombre dress, £99.99, Mango

Samantha Rnic

Samantha Rnic is a fashion stylist and writer from Colchester. She has worked for titles such as Grazia, The Sun and Look magazine. She is currently studio bookings manager at Matches Fashion.