Maxi Dresses & the perils of vacuuming...

Didn't think I'd have time for another post before I head to Tipp but Friday worked out well and I managed to do this one and another for Monday. Spoiling you...I know :)

I have to say, I'm not a big fan of wearing patterned maxi dresses. I like them on other women but on me, I am never sure if they are not just a bit 'too much' - I much prefer a plain (preferably dark) one. However, although I've never bought a patterned one myself, I do have two in my wardrobe. One I got at my clothes swap and I've not worn it yet, and the other got an airing for the first time today. It was given to me by a friend and I like that it's got black in the pattern and isn't too girly...

Photographer today was the 3 year old...so there were lots of 'have you got mummy's head in the photo - and mummy's feet at the same time?'

The dress is by Apricot and unlike many maxi dresses, it has proper straps. It's quite low cut though, so I paired it with a black vest underneath.

My sandals are the bargain Matalan sandals that I featured last week and my cardigan is an old H&M black cropped one - I have loads of these from past season at H&M and they come in so useful year after year.

My maxi guidelines? 

• Find something with a bit of structure on top, preferably one you can wear a bra with and ideally one with a waistband. Maxi's with high empire lines can lead to pregnancy rumours!
• Avoid overly fussy prints - you'll not wear it if it's too bright or flowery. If you get a plain one or one with black in the pattern, you can style for day or night.
• Personal opinion here but I think you should only ever wear maxi's with flat sandals and ensure your hem just skims the ground. I don't find wedges with maxi's flattering. You should be able to glide along in comfort - not clump along in a wedge with your hem 4 inches off the ground.
• Don't vacuum when wearing a maxi...when you go to scoot around the corners with the hoover hose, it will suck up your dress. Actually, to be totally sure of not damaging any of your clothing, just don't vacuum ever. Kids love hoovering and actually enjoy clearing swathes of lego and random plastic tat and that ensures no guilt for mum!

Off now to do some DIY pampering...had a Tesco haul earlier and the grey hair will be history once more. Also picked up this Amie daily moisturiser for just £2.97. It's got UVA and UVB filters, SPF 15, free of parabens, sulphates and mineral oils and smells lovely thanks to natural fruit oils. Finally, my desert island beauty product...Batiste Dry Shampoo..never ever go anywhere without it.

Have a great weekend! x