When designer duo Falguni and Shane Peacock showcased their spring-summer 2009 collection at the London Fashion Week, the biggest draw was their printed maxi dresses. The two had combined busy prints, including their favourite animal prints, with jewelled empire lines and worked out a dishy cocktail. “I think prints look best on maxis. As for the fabrics, georgettes and chiffons are ideal,” says Falguni.

The difference between a more formal evening wear and a maxi dress is in the length, points out designer Nida Mahmood. It’s mostly till your ankle and allows you to show off your footwear, rather than going all the way down. “High heels are the norm, but of course jewelled sandals work well too. For those who have a quirky sense of humour, I would recommend sneakers,” she smiles, pointing out how, in keeping with the mood of her recent collection “High on Chai”, she has incorporated street motifs on her maxis.

“The whole idea is to be fun, comfortable and flamboyant, and if you’d rather be more toned down, then go for neutral shades off-set with chunky accessories,” says Dayal.