How to measure

Measure yourself wearing light, form-fitting clothes or a bra you plan to wear with the dress. Keep the tape measure parallel to the floor and relaxed—don't hold your breath.

1. Bust: Measure the fullest part of your bust with arms relaxed at your sides. For off-shoulder styles also check the high bust (above the breasts, under the arms) to ensure the neckline will sit comfortably.
2. Underbust: Measure directly under the breast around the ribcage—important when the neckline/elastic is meant to sit snug.
3. Waist: Measure at your natural waist (the narrowest part of your torso), usually about where your body bends side-to-side.
4. Hips: Measure around the fullest part of your hips and buttocks (about 8–10 inches / 20–25 cm below the waist for most bodies).
5. Upper arm: Wrap the tape around the fullest part of your upper arm—useful for short sleeves to avoid a tight sleeve.
6. Center-back length (dress length): Measure from the center back where the elastic or top edge will sit down to where you want the hem to fall (ankle for a maxi). For off-shoulder dresses, also measure from the top edge of the elastic (when worn) to hem.

Measuring a dress you already own (flat)

• Lay the dress flat and smooth. Measure across the bust from underarm seam to underarm seam and multiply by 2 to get the chest/bust circumference.
• Measure waist and hips the same way (flat measurement × 2).
• Measure the full length from the top edge of the bodice (where elastic sits) down the center back to the hem.

Fit advice: For off-shoulder styles, the elasticized neckline should feel snug enough to stay in place but not so tight it restricts breathing or movement. If between sizes and the fabric has little stretch, size up; if the fabric is stretchy and you prefer a more fitted look, size down.

Materials

Printed off-shoulder maxi dresses are made in several common fabric types. Always check the garment label for the exact fiber content—below are typical materials and what to expect from each.

• Rayon / Viscose — soft with great drape and a breathable, natural feel. Holds prints beautifully. Prone to wrinkling and can shrink if washed too hot; treat gently (hand wash or gentle machine cycle, reshape while damp).
• Polyester — durable, colorfast and wrinkle-resistant. Often used for printed dresses because prints stay vibrant; generally machine washable on gentle and quick to dry.
• Cotton or Cotton Blends — breathable and comfortable; may have less fluid drape than rayon. Cotton may fade or shrink slightly on higher heat; wash cold and tumble low or air dry.
• Jersey Knit (Cotton/Poly/Modal blends) — soft, stretchy and comfortable with body-skimming fit. Great for casual maxi dresses and easy care (cold wash, tumble low or line dry).
• Chiffon / Lightweight Crepe — airy and semi-sheer; often lined. Delicate—prefer hand wash or dry clean, and avoid harsh agitation.
• Elastane / Spandex — typically a small percentage (1–5%) added to give stretch in the bodice or neckline (helps off-shoulder elastic keep its shape).

Typical construction notes: an off-shoulder maxi often includes an elasticized neckline and may have a lining in the skirt or bodice. Prints are most commonly applied by digital or rotary printing; to keep colors bright, wash inside out and avoid long exposure to direct sunlight.

Model information (reference)

Use the model measurements below as a reference when choosing your size. These are example measurements commonly used for product photos:

• Height: 5'9" / 175 cm
• Bust: 32" / 81 cm
• Waist: 24" / 61 cm
• Hips: 35" / 89 cm
• Wearing: Size S (for reference)

Note: Your best fit is determined by your own measurements compared with the size chart. If you fall between sizes, consider fabric stretch and desired fit—choose the larger size for less restriction, smaller for a more fitted look.

Care guide — to keep it lovely longer

Follow these general care tips to preserve shape, print and color. Always follow the garment's care label first.

Everyday care

• Wash inside out on a gentle cycle or hand wash in cold water to protect the print and prevent fading.
• Use a mild detergent and avoid bleach or harsh stain removers unless the label permits.
• For delicate fabrics (rayon, chiffon), prefer hand washing or professional dry cleaning.
• Use a mesh laundry bag for machine washing to reduce friction and snags.

Drying & ironing

• Air dry flat or hang to dry away from direct sunlight to prevent color fading. Reshape the elastic neckline while damp if needed.
• If tumble drying is allowed, choose low heat; high heat can damage elastic and shrink fibers.
• Iron on low to medium heat inside out or use a steamer. Avoid direct high heat on prints and elastic—use a pressing cloth when necessary.

Storage & wear

• Store on a wide or padded hanger to preserve the neckline and shoulder shape. For delicate elastic, folding and placing in a drawer can be gentler.
• Rotate wear to avoid overstretching the neckline or over-stressing seams in one spot.
• Avoid rough surfaces and jewelry that can snag lightweight fabrics.

Quick fixes

• To remove small snags, gently pull surrounding threads—not the snag itself—or use a small snag repair tool.
• Treat stains promptly: blot (don't rub) and test stain removers on an inconspicuous area first.
• If the neckline loses elastic recovery, a professional tailor can replace the elastic to restore fit.

Style tips

Casual daytime

• Pair with flat sandals or espadrilles and a woven tote for an easy summer look.
• Add a straw hat and oversized sunglasses for beach-ready flair.

Date night or evening

• Elevate with block heels or strappy sandals, a slim belt to cinch the waist, and statement earrings.
• Layer a lightweight shawl or a cropped blazer for cooler evenings.

Smart-casual / events

• Choose a refined clutch, delicate layered necklaces, and wedge heels to dress up the maxi for daytime events or garden parties.
• A tailored cropped jacket or bolero keeps the off-shoulder silhouette elegant and appropriate for semi-formal settings.

Transitional weather

• Throw on a denim jacket or fitted leather moto for a stylish contrast; ankle boots work well with maxi lengths.
• Layer a thin long-sleeve tee under the off-shoulder for a trendy, cooler-weather look.

Accessories & undergarments

• Undergarments: strapless bra, adhesive cups, bandeau, or built-in shelf bra for support without visible straps.
• Belts: a braided or leather belt can transform the silhouette from flowy to fitted.
• Jewelry: off-shoulder styles show the neck—try statement earrings or layered delicate necklaces.
• Hair: an updo or half-up hairstyle highlights the neckline; loose waves give a bohemian vibe.

Tip: Changing just one element—shoes, belt or jacket—can take this dress from beachy daywear to polished eveningwear in minutes.