Essential Maxi Dress Sangria

$160.00$50.00
Save 68%

4.9 rating from 8 customers

Essential Maxi Dress Sangria

$160.00$50.00
Save 68%

4.9 rating from 8 customers
The throw-on-and-go maxi customers keep buying in more colours. Soft, flattering and genuinely versatile, it moves from sandals to heels, work to travel, summer days to layered winter looks.

"Great dress / quality, versatile, fab with boots"

Meredith M. Verified Buyer

"I can see this becoming a staple in my wardrobe. It’s very versatile. And I love the pockets."

Linda L. Verified Buyer

"Love this dress, beautiful soft fabric, and the style. Easy with sanals or sneakers and a jacket. A must have this summer"

Karen K. Verified Buyer

"It feels great and elegant. love that you can dress up or down! True size"

Cassia C. Verified Buyer

"Love the fabric, flattering and will definitely become a fav. Perfect for travel - dress up or wear to the beach."

Tanya T. Verified Buyer
Size
This item is FINAL SALE and cannot be returned
Australian Owned
Shipped from Australia
Easy Returns

Payment options available Afterpay Zip

Make 4 interest-free payments of $12.50 AUD fortnightly with AfterPay

Description
Designed for versatility, the Essential Maxi Dress blends effortless style with everyday comfort. Crafted from soft, breathable, sustainable modal, it’s the perfect all-day dress—lightweight, flattering, and beautifully easy to wear. A best-selling timeless essential, it features a soft drape, a flattering drop waist, and deep side pockets for practicality without compromising style. Finished at the perfect length, it transitions seamlessly from day to night. Why You’ll Love It: Ultra-soft, breathable sustainable modal Travel-friendly, easy-care fabric Flattering drop-waist silhouette Deep, functional side pockets Perfect, easy-to-style length Comfortable for all-day wear Made without PFAS or harmful chemicals
Shipping

Australia Standard Delivery - $12

Australia Express Delivery - $15

New Zealand Standard Delivery - $20

International Standard Delivery – $20

DHL Express Service - $35 where available

Returns

If you want to return your products you must inform us within 7 days of receiving your order and we must receive your garment within 10 days of submitting your return request in the portal. View our returns policies for more information.

FINAL SALE items cannot be returned or exchanged.

Care Instructions
  • Cool machine wash, 30 degrees
  • Wash inside out with like colors
  • Do not bleach
  • Dry in shade
  • No not tumble dry
  • Do not dry clean
  • Warm iron
Fabric

95% Lenzing Modal, 5% Elastane

Customer Reviews

4.9

Based on 8 Reviews

Reviews Summary

Customers describe the Essential Maxi Dress as an easy wardrobe staple that feels soft against the skin, drapes beautifully and looks polished without trying too hard. The repeated appeal is its balance of comfort and shape: a fitted top, flowy skirt, useful pockets and a cut that can be dressed up or worn casually. Many reviewers bought a second or third colour after finding it worked for travel, work, holidays, dinners and everyday wear.

What Customers Love Most

  • Beautifully soft fabric that feels “fabulous against the skin” and is often described as silky, buttery, dreamy or divine
  • Flattering fit and drape that “skims the bumps”, “glides over hips” and feels forgiving in the right places
  • Easy versatility: customers repeatedly say they can “dress it up or down” with sandals, sneakers, boots, heels, jackets or jewellery
  • Pockets, especially the deep pockets customers love for phone, keys and everyday convenience
  • Comfortable, low-maintenance wear with no ironing, easy washing and a throw-on-and-go feel

Customers Say These Are Perfect For

  • Travel, cruises and overseas holidays where one dress needs to pack easily and work for multiple occasions
  • Everyday summer wear, hot days and Queensland-style warm weather because it feels light, cool and comfortable
  • Work, working from home and smart-casual dressing with a blazer, denim jacket or cardigan
  • Dinner, casual drinks, Christmas events and occasions where customers want to look stylish without feeling overdressed
  • Women wanting a comfortable maxi that still gives shape, including curvy, apple-shaped, big-busted and petite shoppers

Customer Feedback on Quality

  • Fabric is repeatedly praised as good quality, well made, soft, smooth and thick enough not to be see-through
  • Easy-care feedback includes “washes well”, “no ugly balling”, “no ironing needed” and wrinkles that fall out after hanging
  • The weighted fabric is valued because it “falls well”, “drapes nicely” and has enough substance that it does not blow around

Customer Fit Feedback

Most customers report: Mostly true to size with many customers calling the fit perfect, but the top is more fitted; several shoppers sized up for a bigger bust, extra room through the bodice or a less clingy feel.

The dress has a fitted bodice and a flowy, dropped-waist skirt that many say drapes over the hips and creates shape. Petite reviewers around 5'1–5'2 often found the length workable or perfect, though some shorter customers around 152–156cm needed hemming. Taller reviewers around 170–175cm also praised the length, while a few noted the dress can show curves or lumps because the upper body is form-fitting.

What Customers Say

  • "“Love the way it feels, love the way it falls, love the way it fits. It is forgiving in all the right places.”"
  • "“The deep pockets are so handy and secure, fitting mobile phone and car keys in them without even being able to see them.”"
  • "“Perfect for day to night, slouching or schmoozing.”"

Frequently Asked Questions

Real answers based on customer reviews

Comfort

Is this dress actually comfortable enough to wear all day?

Yes—comfort was one of the strongest themes, with 118 of 240 reviewers describing the dress as soft, comfortable, easy to wear, or a go-to staple. Customers used phrases like “didn’t want to take it off,” “barely feel like you are wearing it,” and “ridiculously comfy.” Many also said the fabric feels soft against the skin while still looking stylish rather than overly casual.

Based on 118 customer reviews

Style & Versatility

Can I really dress this up and down, or is it more casual?

This is one of the most-mentioned benefits: 92 reviewers said the dress works for both casual and dressier outfits. Customers wore it with sandals, sneakers, denim jackets, blazers, heels, boots, jewellery, and cardigans, describing it as suitable for errands, dinners, work, holidays, Christmas events, and casual drinks. Many called it a true wardrobe staple because changing shoes or accessories changes the whole look.

Based on 92 customer reviews
Can I wear this in different seasons, or is it just a summer dress?

30 reviewers said the dress works across seasons, not just summer. It was described as cool and comfortable for hot days, light enough for a Queensland summer, and easy to layer with denim jackets, blazers, cardigans, long-sleeve tops, tights, boots, or knits in cooler weather. Several customers called it an all-year-round or mid-season travel dress.

Based on 30 customer reviews
Are the colours accurate and are people buying more than one?

49 reviewers mentioned the colours or buying multiple versions, with lots of praise for black, navy, cherry red, plum, brown, cornflower blue, and chocolate. Customers often described the colours as stunning, gorgeous, vibrant, rich, or exactly as depicted. Many liked the dress enough to buy second, third, or even multiple colours, and several asked for more colour options.

Based on 49 customer reviews
Would this work for work, dinners, or a more dressed-up event?

20 reviewers specifically mentioned wearing or planning to wear the dress to work, dinner, events, Christmas occasions, casual drinks, or more formal settings. Customers styled it with blazers, jackets, heels, boots, jewellery, and dressier accessories to elevate it. Reviewers liked that it feels comfortable but still looks classy, polished, and not too casual.

Based on 20 customer reviews

Material & Quality

What does the fabric feel like, and is it good quality?

101 reviewers commented positively on the fabric, most often describing it as soft, buttery, silky, velvety, flowy, or beautifully draping. Several noted that it has enough weight to fall well and not feel flimsy, while still being light or breathable enough for warm weather. A small number of customers mentioned fabric weight differences between colours or batches, but the overall feedback strongly points to a quality, well-made feel.

Based on 101 customer reviews

Fit & Sizing

How does the sizing run—should I order my usual size or size up?

Sizing feedback is mostly positive, with 69 reviewers discussing fit or sizing and many saying it is true to size or perfect when using the size guide. However, several customers sized up because the top is more fitted, especially around the bust or torso, and were happier with the extra room. If you prefer a relaxed fit on top, are between sizes, or have a larger bust, reviews suggest considering the larger size.

Based on 69 customer reviews
Is the dress flattering, or will it cling to my lumps and bumps?

64 reviewers described the dress as flattering, often saying it skims, drapes, or falls beautifully over the body. Customers specifically mentioned it being forgiving over hips, belly, “menopause middle,” apple shapes, curvy figures, and hourglass shapes. A few reviewers did find the upper body or overall fit more form-fitting and suggested shape-wear if you are concerned about visible lumps, so fit preference matters.

Based on 64 customer reviews
How long is the maxi dress, especially if I’m petite or tall?

Length feedback came from 24 reviewers and was generally positive across different heights, including customers around 152 cm, 160 cm, 164 cm, 170 cm, 173 cm, and 175 cm. Some petite reviewers said the length was surprisingly perfect, including one 5'0 customer and another 5'2 customer, while others around 156 cm said they would need to have it taken up. Taller reviewers commonly found the length comfortable and appropriate, so petite customers may want to check measurements carefully.

Based on 24 customer reviews
Does the cut suit different body shapes?

18 reviewers gave body-shape-specific feedback, including apple shapes, curvy figures, hourglass bodies, big busts, short torsos, and customers concerned about hips or midsections. Many said the fitted bodice and flowy or dropped-waist skirt gave shape while skimming over areas they did not want highlighted. A few shorter-torso or petite customers found the waist placement or length less ideal, so checking proportions may help.

Based on 18 customer reviews
Is the top fitted, and does it cover a normal bra?

8 reviewers specifically mentioned the bodice, armholes, bust fit, or bra coverage. Positive comments included no gaping armholes, normal bra coverage, a comfortable fitted top, and good fit even for a big-busted customer. Because several others said the top is fitted or runs small, sizing up may be more comfortable if you prefer extra room across the bust.

Based on 8 customer reviews

Performance

Is this a good dress to pack for travel?

Yes—43 reviewers specifically mentioned travel, holidays, cruises, overseas trips, or suitcase packing. Customers planned to take it to places like Italy, Vietnam, South America, and cruises because it is comfortable, versatile, and easy to style for different occasions. Several also liked that it can be layered and that wrinkles either don’t show much or fall out after hanging.

Based on 43 customer reviews
Does it have pockets, and are they actually useful?

Yes, the dress has pockets, and 38 reviewers called them out as a major bonus. Customers described the pockets as deep, handy, secure, and able to hold items like a phone, keys, or essentials without adding obvious bulk. One reviewer noted they would prefer a non-stretch pocket lining for heavier items, but most feedback about the pockets was very positive.

Based on 38 customer reviews

Care & Maintenance

Is it easy to care for, or does it need ironing?

14 reviewers mentioned easy care, washing, or creasing, and the feedback was strongly positive. Customers said it washes well, is easy to wash and wear, does not need ironing, and has no ugly pilling or balling after washing. Several travel-focused reviewers also liked that it packs well and looks presentable with minimal maintenance.

Based on 14 customer reviews

Value

Is it worth the price?

16 reviewers mentioned price, sale value, bargain buys, or that the quality made the purchase worthwhile. Several customers bought it on sale and called it a great buy, a steal, or a total bargain, while others said they planned to buy more colours because of the fit, fabric, and versatility. One reviewer initially questioned the value before trying it on, then changed their mind because of the comfort and drape.

Based on 16 customer reviews

Shop the Style

Reviews and Counting

First time buyer and it was SPOT ON! Perfect sizing, fits beautifully, so comfortable, and flattering.. I'm 5,2 and curvy, so I bought an XXL. Seriously the perfect dress.. IT HAS POCKETS TOO. I'm a Dharma Bums convert. Thank you
— Katerina K.
Essential Maxi Dress  Sangria
Lovely fabric. Easy wear but dressy 👌
— Lene L.
Essential Maxi Dress  Sangria
Exceeded my expectations, business up top & effortless, feminity below. I have mild scoliosis, one hip is slightly higher than the other though this does not accentuate that. It was also a great length, not too long as previous items I've purchased have been, no altering required!
— Danica D.
Essential Maxi Dress  Sangria
I first purchased this dress in black and loved it so much I then purchased the navy. This is the ultimate comfortable and elegant allrounder. You can dress it up or down. The deep pockets are so handy and secure, fitting mobile phone and car keys in them without even being able to see them. I feel I will be adding more colours to my collection soon! My absolute 'go to' dress.
— Tania T.
Essential Maxi Dress  Sangria
Love this dress, very comfortable and flattering, true to size, bought on sale will purchase another one.
— Jean
Essential Maxi Dress  Sangria
I love this dress! It’s so comfy, especially on hot days. It has become a staple in my wardrobe ❣️
— Sarah S.
Essential Maxi Dress  Sangria
I have wanted this dress for so long! Now it’s here and I love love love it 😊. Fits beautifully, feels delicious on and yes…. It has pockets 🤩
— Tracey T.
Essential Maxi Dress  Sangria
So happy with this purchase - colour is great - fit is great - material is great - Price was great
— Katrina K.
Essential Maxi Dress  Sangria
True to size. I am a Size10 and bought a Small. I also bought an XL for my Mum who is a Size 16. Dresses are comfortable. They can be dressed up or just worn casually. Great Buy.
— Aspa A.
Essential Maxi Dress  Sangria
The colour is stunning and fits well to toss on and go. Purchased mine for under $50, so it was a total bargain too!
— Emma E.
Essential Maxi Dress  Sangria
4.9
Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars
Based on 8 reviews
Total 5 star reviews: 7
Total 4 star reviews: 1
Total 3 star reviews: 0
Total 2 star reviews: 0
Total 1 star reviews: 0
100%would recommend these products
8 reviews
  • KS
    Kim S.
    Verified Buyer
    Reviewing
    Essential Maxi Dress - Matcha Green
    I recommend this product
    Height 5'6-5'8
    Rated 5 out of 5 stars
    4 weeks ago
    Love these dresses

    just ordered my 2nd one as they are on sale. They drape nicely & have a nice weight that they don't blow away.

  • SL
    Susan L.
    Verified Buyer
    Reviewing
    Essential Maxi Dress - Matcha Green
    I recommend this product
    Height 5'6-5'8
    Body Type Slender
    Rated 5 out of 5 stars
    1 month ago
    Great dress

    Really love this dress. Glad I bought a medium. Small fit. Great colour and fabric.

  • LE
    Leonie E.
    Verified Buyer
    Reviewing
    Essential Maxi Dress - Cobalt
    I recommend this product
    Height 5'6-5'8
    Body Type Curvy
    Rated 5 out of 5 stars
    2 months ago
    Gorgeous

    Great fit. Most gorgeous colour. Drops beautifully.

  • KC
    Kylie C.
    Verified Buyer
    Reviewing
    Essential Maxi Dress - Matcha Green
    I recommend this product
    Height 5'6-5'8
    Body Type Slender
    Rated 5 out of 5 stars
    3 months ago
    Fits like a glove

    Really flattering and a great fit in the upper body region. I love the flow from the waist down. A great design!

  • EB
    Emma B.
    Verified Buyer
    Reviewing
    Essential Maxi Dress - Cobalt
    I recommend this product
    Height 5'9-5'11
    Body Type Slender
    Rated 5 out of 5 stars
    3 months ago
    Soft and Stretchy

    The colour is stunning and fits well to toss on and go. Purchased mine for under $50, so it was a total bargain too!

Dresses & Skirts

EFFORTLESS STYLE

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is your Returns Policy?

Please inform us via our Returns Portal within 14 days of receiving your order that you wish to return an item.

Items purchased in sale can be returned for a Store Credit.

When will my order be dispatched?

Your order will be dispatch within 1 business day of your order being place. During busy sale periods your order will be dispatched within 7 business days.

If you require expediated delivery during sale periods, please choose Express Shipping and your order will leave within 1 business day.

What size should I choose?

Our garments are in Australian sizing and are true to size. Please refer to our size guide or contact us at customerservice@dharmabums.com.au for more detailed advice.