Polka-Dot Halter Maxi Dress in Burgundy

A burgundy ground scattered with polka dots, cut long — this maxi manages to be playful and formal in the same breath.

The neckline is a halterneck closed with a tie, leaving the shoulders open, while short off-the-shoulder sleeves soften the frame. Gathered ruching moves through the body of the dress, so the print never sits flat, and an invisible zip at the back keeps the closure out of sight. The dress is lined throughout.

The maxi length settles it firmly in occasion territory: garden weddings, evening dinners, a race day. Because the print does the decorating, keep the rest restrained — a plain heel or flat sandal, hair up so the halterneck and open shoulders read clearly. It also photographs well, which matters more often than anyone admits.