by Kathy Deutsch

Created on: August 31, 2009   Last Updated: September 04, 2009

In the 1960's it was the "maxi" dress. Long, falling almost to the floor (or sweeping it-depending on the style), it was often associated with hippies and counterculture. The maxi has been renamed the "town gown," a day dress of unusual length to be worn casually like jeans. From high end boutiques to discounters, the day dress/town gown is in stock. How is it worn, and who can wear it?

Depending on the season, the town gown takes on different forms. In spring and summer, it appears as a swirly dress with the higher, empire, waist. Falling from the bust, with multiple filmy layers, the skirt grazes the floor. This is the most common way to wear it, as a light dress, a bit loose. The dress is usually patterned with paisley or abstracts, in bright or pastels on a black or white background. The neckline is scoop, v-neck, or just a halter. Shoulders have cap sleeves or are bare. The idea is of a graceful, floaty, almost fairy-like dress.

Fall and winter show a style of town gown that is more covered-up for the season. The maxi skirt - in denim or lightweight corduroy - will be seen. The do-it-yourself 60's style of pants that were sliced at the inner seam and made over with a fabric insert is hot. This time around, the pants-into-skirt can be bought ready-made. Embroidery highlights the pockets and thigh. The fabric, denim or corduroy, looks authentically worn and faded with no brights. Muted browns and greens are seen, along with faded blue jean types.

The colder season's town gown is a long jumper to be worn over a turtleneck. In solid color flannel or light wool blends, the dress has no waist, or an elastic at the true waist, and pockets at the hip. It is A-line to the floor, perhaps with a slit for walking. This dress looks practical and warm. The colors range from gray and camel to deep red and jewel tone blue or green. The turtleneck or tee underneath is usually dark-brown, navy or black.

Undergarments are tricky with the bodice of the summer day dress. The fabric is very thin, and seeing a naked body under the shifting layers ruins the graceful effect. A pretty bra will cover nicely, and the straps that show will be decorative. A long slip is important if the dress body is not lined. The dress won't stick to the legs if a layer is worn underneath. The fall/winter town gown is easier to wear, but static cling can be a problem with something that long. A de-static spray will help.

Footwear for the town gown has to fit the theme of the outfit. If the free-living hippie look is wanted, then the barest flat sandal is great. A more heavy clog is perfect with the maxi skirt or winter dress. Boots look great with the winter town gown, especially if there is a slit to expose the top of the boot.

Who should wear the town gown? How bold is your fashion style? This outfit looks best with unfussy hair, accessories and make-up. The effect has to be understated because the long dress will be the star. Since the long skirt moves, it announces itself and draws attention. Let it. Keep the rest of your look smooth and simple, and you can pull off the look at any age.

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