Take fashion to the maxi

Fashion gurus may have predicted the mini dress as the fashion statement of the summer, but it seems that rising temperatures do not mean rising hemlines.

Instead, it's the maxi dress, with the long swishy hemlime, which is becoming the must-have of the sunny season.

Stores are full of the sweeping frocks, which are a versatile choice and far more flattering than the mini.

It's certainly ideal if you don't want to bare your pins for the summer and the full-length skirt keeps any lumps and bumps hidden.

And the maxi's halter, bandeau and strap tops reveal just the right amount of flesh and allow you to give good shoulders and collarbone. The other good news is that the maxi dress is very versatile.

You can wear it to the beach, a festival, to a picnic or summer party, and you can glam it up for a night out by teaming it up with a pair of heels.

And style and colour-wise, you could go hippy-chick with a floral maxi dress or you may prefer something more funky with bright psychedelic swirls or a multi-coloured tiered dress.

And if you're worried about pulling off the boho-ish empire line, you can achieve a more sophisticated look with a stylish bias cut.

Express & Star models Sally Mills and Lucinda Price were spoilt for choice when they tried on a host of the high street's floor-sweeping dresses for size.

The maxi dress by no means spells disaster for the mini – but at least you've got two options on the frock front this summer.

By Maria Cusine, women's editor.