If you have browsed the Internet lately, then you must have stumbled across long, full-length maxi dresses filling your TikTok for your pages and Instagram feeds. While these beautiful elegant garments were never truly out of fashion, the rise of nostalgia core, cottage core, and the general addition of the suffix core to describe aesthetics has led to the resurgence of evening dresses. Below, we break down the trend and ways you can style it to have your glamorous, elegant, main character moment. 

Styling tips for long dresses

There are many different ways to create formidable looks with full-length dresses. The following tips are simple guidelines to achieve an elegant and fashionable look. But do not let it restrict you in your creativity when it comes to styling. 

To provide more structure and have a defined waist, a belt with flowy dresses can be amazing. Brown belts with gold buckles are very chic but you can also go for black belts with buckles that are subtle rather than loud. Thin belts can be a good choice too. Leather belts will elevate the look, adding a rather chic and elegant air to your aura. Belts made of the same fabric as that of the dress can bring more uniformity to the look, but they are more suited for daytime casual looks.

Weave-style belts will make you look more bohemian, combined with a straw hat. Corset belts and Viking belts can be your friend if you want that horse rider look. They are very trendy and you can stand out in the crowd with the bold choice. Taking a cue from TikTok creator Benulus, you can wear multiple layers of jewellery or belts to live out your maximalist fashion dreams. 

With the continuing heat waves and the scorching summer heat, this is your chance to be comfortable and protect yourself against sun damage by wearing wide-brimmed hats. Hats do not have to be tropical beach accessories only. Wide-brimmed straw hats with bows made of fabric will look lovely with practically any bright summer-coloured flowy dress. Brown and off-white are also nice colour choices for hats. 

Photo: Sazzad Ibne Sayed

For daytime wear in the summer, slides and sandals with beige and neutral tones will work with almost every colour of the dress. Ballerina flats, strappy sandals, kitten heels and strappy low heels can lend a more feminine look. But if you are looking for ultimate comfort, then white sneakers or any other coherent sneaker will be your best friend. 

The shoe styles mentioned above can also be worn at night. However, classic pumps and boots will make you look the chicest at any event you attend. 

Accessorising has the power to take your look from a 5 to a solid 10. When it comes to accessorising with modern-day dresses, less is more and simplicity is key. Take inspiration from the old Hollywood glamour and do not go overboard with your jewellery. Simple rhinestone and white stone neck pieces, dangle earrings, drop earrings, and teardrop earrings are very elegant. Stone studs, elegant bracelets and large stone rings look great.

You can also opt for simple statement gold jewellery like chain necklaces, and small gold hoops. Choker-style necklaces will look perfect with off-the-shoulder gowns. Pearls are the perfect accompaniment for any classy event. It is best to refrain from wearing shiny jewellery and antique silver and oxidised jewellery. They can look good in dresses but runs the risk of looking too stuffy and outdated. Finally, a brooch can be a fun addition to complete the design of your dress. 

Simple straight hair can be boring with these dresses. Tousled, breezy beach waves look absolutely stunning with dresses, especially this summer season. Sleek buns will transport everyone to the glamorous old Hollywood era. Some other hairstyles could be side swept curls, side buns, fishtail braided updos, messy buns, messy ponytails, double braid ponytails, etc. Accessorise these hairdos with beaded clips and bands. 

Finally, if you want to emulate the fun, flirty and girly side of yours, then wear fun matching headbands with your dresses. From velvet thick bands to bands with floral attachments and polka dots. Let Blair Waldorf from Gossip Girl serve as your inspiration for headbands and dresses. 

Model: Antora

Styling: Sonia Yeasmin Isha

MUA: Sumon Rahat

Wardrobe: Enigma by Molly

Location: Radisson Blu Dhaka