Essential Maxi Dress Ruby

$160.00$70.00
Save 56%

4.8 rating from 191 customers

Essential Maxi Dress Ruby

$160.00$70.00
Save 56%

4.8 rating from 191 customers
The one-and-done maxi that’s as comfy as it is polished. Soft, flattering, travel-friendly—and yes, it has pockets.

"I have 3 of these dresses now but this colour is beautiful. In ❤️ perfect shape can dress up or dress down. Black, brown and red!"

Tara T. Verified Buyer

"This dress is comfortable and soft and the colour is gorgeous too!"

Vanessa V. Verified Buyer

"I love this dress and colour. I have the same dress in a few colours."

Liz L. Verified Buyer

"I have 3 of these dresses now but this colour is beautiful. In ❤️ perfect shape can dress up or dress down. Black, brown and red!"

Tara T. Verified Buyer

"This dress is comfortable and soft and the colour is gorgeous too!"

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

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Ends June 6, 2026 at 7:30 am
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 modalTravel-friendly, easy-care fabricFlattering drop-waist silhouetteDeep, functional side pocketsPerfect, easy-to-style lengthComfortable for all-day wearMade without PFAS or harmful chemicals

Model is wearing a size Small.

Fit: true to size

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

4.8

Based on 191 Reviews

Reviews Summary

Shoppers describe this as the rare maxi dress that feels “ridiculously comfy” while still looking put-together enough for work, dinners, and events. The fabric gets constant praise for being silky-soft with a beautiful drape—skimming the body rather than clinging—plus it packs well, needs little to no ironing, and layers easily across seasons. Many end up buying multiple colours, calling it their “go-to” and an “Essential” that lives on high rotation.

What Customers Love Most

  • Dress it up or down versatility (sandals/sneakers by day, heels/jacket by night)
  • Silky-soft, buttery fabric that feels amazing against the skin
  • Flattering cut with a fitted bodice and flowy skirt that drapes/“drops beautifully”
  • Pockets (often called deep/handy/secure)
  • Easy-care, travel-friendly wear (doesn’t crease, “no need to iron,” wash-and-wear)

Customers Say These Are Perfect For

  • Travel and holidays (Italy, Vietnam, cruises, overseas trips) because it packs well and wrinkles drop out
  • Work and office days (easy to smarten up with a blazer or jacket)
  • Hot weather/summer days when you want something cool, light and comfy
  • Apple shapes/curvy bodies and anyone wanting a forgiving fit that “skims the bumps”
  • Year-round styling: layering with long sleeves/knits, tights and boots in winter, sandals in summer

Customer Feedback on Quality

  • Fabric drapes/flows with a ‘good weight’ and isn’t see-through (“thick enough not to be see through”)
  • Washes well and holds up without pilling (“washes so well. No ugly balling.”)
  • Construction noted as well made/beautifully sewn; pockets described as deep/secure without adding bulk

Customer Fit Feedback

Most customers report: mostly true to size, with a notable minority sizing up for a more comfortable fit through the fitted bodice/bust

Many say “true to size” and that the length is “perfect” even for shorter heights (around 152–160cm), though some petite reviewers (around 156cm/5'2") still needed hemming. The top is repeatedly described as fitted/form-fitting; several customers sized up (e.g., usually size 10/small choosing medium) especially if busty, while others like the close fit. Specific fit notes include “no gaping armholes,” covers normal bras, and a waist/hip seam that “skims the bumps” or disguises a “menopause middle.”

What Customers Say

  • "“Quite possibly the most perfect dress ever! Dress it up or down. Great for travelling.”"
  • "“No need to iron just throw on and go.”"
  • "“The deep pockets are so handy and secure, fitting mobile phone and car keys in them without even being able to see them.”"

Frequently Asked Questions

Real answers based on customer reviews

Style & Versatility

Can you actually dress this maxi up or down, or is it more of a casual lounge dress?

Reviewers consistently describe this as a true “dress up or dress down” piece—many wear it casually with sandals/sneakers or WFH, and also style it for dinners, events, and work with a blazer, jewellery, boots, or a denim jacket. Several people mention getting lots of compliments when wearing it to work or outings. If you want one dress that can shift from day to night with accessories, this is the most repeated theme in the reviews.

Based on 50 customer reviews
Does the color look the same as the photos online?

Feedback is mostly positive on color, with several reviewers calling the shades gorgeous/stunning and at least one saying it was the exact color depicted. However, one reviewer noted the ruby/red was less vibrant in person than it appeared online. If you’re very particular about exact vibrancy, expect slight variation depending on screen/settings, though most still loved the color they received.

Based on 3 customer reviews

Material & Quality

Is the fabric really soft, and does it drape nicely instead of clinging?

Many reviewers call the fabric “buttery soft,” “silky,” and “velvety,” and frequently mention that it drapes/flows beautifully. A common note is that it skims the body rather than clinging, especially through the hips and skirt. A small number of reviewers do mention it can be more form-fitting through the top, so your fit there may depend on sizing and body shape.

Based on 35 customer reviews
Is the fabric thick enough and good quality (not see-through)?

Reviewers frequently praise the quality and “good weight” of the fabric, saying it feels firm and drapes well. At least one reviewer specifically notes it’s thick enough not to be see-through, and others mention it feels substantial while still airy/breathable. A small number of repeat customers felt some colorways seemed a bit thinner than other Dharma Bums dresses, but still described the dress as great overall.

Based on 11 customer reviews

Fit & Sizing

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

Most reviewers report the dress is true to size, especially when using the size guide, but there are repeated comments that the bodice/top is fitted. Several customers chose to size up for comfort in the top or to get more length, and a few specifically say it “runs small.” If you’re between sizes, fuller-busted, or prefer a less fitted top, sizing up is a common recommendation from reviewers.

Based on 18 customer reviews
Is the maxi length too long if I’m petite (around 5'0"–5'2" / 152–160 cm)?

Petite reviewers have mixed experiences: several around 152–160 cm say the length is perfect and not too long, while others around 156 cm mention needing a hem/alteration. Fit also seems influenced by where the drop waist sits on your torso. If you’re petite and prefer a true ankle-skimming maxi, you may be fine, but some shorter customers do plan to shorten it.

Based on 8 customer reviews

Performance

Does this dress have pockets, and are they deep enough to be useful?

Yes—pockets are one of the most celebrated features in the reviews. Multiple customers say the pockets are deep/secure and can fit essentials like a phone and keys without looking bulky. One reviewer did mention the pocket lining could be stronger for heavier items, but overall pocket feedback is overwhelmingly positive.

Based on 16 customer reviews
Is it a good travel dress—does it pack well and resist wrinkles?

Many reviewers bought it specifically for trips (Italy, Vietnam, cruises, overseas travel) and describe it as an easy “throw on” travel staple. Several mention it doesn’t need ironing and that wrinkles drop out after hanging overnight. The combination of comfort, versatility, and low-maintenance fabric is why it’s repeatedly recommended for packing.

Based on 16 customer reviews
Is the dress suitable across seasons (summer heat and cooler months with layers)?

Many reviewers describe it as comfortable on hot days and light/airy enough for summer, while also saying it layers well with denim jackets, cardigans, long sleeves underneath, tights, and boots for cooler weather. Several people bought or wore it to winter events because it’s easy to layer without looking bulky. Overall, reviewers commonly describe it as an all-year-round staple.

Based on 18 customer reviews

Comfort

Will it show lumps and bumps, or is it forgiving through the stomach and hips?

A lot of reviewers find the cut very flattering and “forgiving in the right places,” especially because the skirt starts around the hips/drop waist and drapes over the lower body. However, a few mention the bodice is quite form-fitting and can show curves and body lines, with one reviewer recommending smoothing/shape underwear if you prefer more coverage. Overall, it’s widely described as flattering, but the top is more fitted than the skirt.

Based on 7 customer reviews
Can I wear a normal bra with it, or will straps show because it’s sleeveless?

At least a few reviewers specifically mention that it “covers normal bras,” and others praise the upper bodice for being fitted and secure. One reviewer also noted no gaping armholes, which can help with coverage. If bra coverage is a concern, reviewers generally found it wearable with standard bras.

Based on 3 customer reviews

Care & Maintenance

Does it wash well—will it pill or need special care/ironing?

Multiple reviewers say it’s easy to wash and wear, washes well, and doesn’t require ironing. One review specifically mentions “no ugly balling” (pilling), and several note it’s low maintenance for travel and everyday wear. Based on reviewer experiences, it holds up well with regular washing and simple care.

Based on 7 customer reviews

Value

Is it worth the price—especially if I’m buying it on sale?

Value feedback is strong, particularly from customers who purchased on sale and called it a bargain/steal or a great price for the quality. Some reviewers own multiple colors (often 2–5+) which suggests they feel it earns its keep as a repeat-wear staple. One reviewer initially questioned the price until trying it on, then felt the comfort and drape justified it.

Based on 9 customer reviews

Shop the Style

Reviews and Counting

I have 3 of these dresses now but this colour is beautiful. In ❤️ perfect shape can dress up or dress down. Black, brown and red!
— Tara T.
Essential Maxi Dress  Ruby
This beautiful Ruby dress is number 5 for mein this style. So comfortable and can be worn casual or dressed up, on its own or with a long sleeved top underneath, a shirt tied at the front on top, a jumper over the top. The colour isn’t as vibrant as it appeared online, but still beautiful.
— Fiona F.
Essential Maxi Dress  Ruby
I love this dress and colour. I have the same dress in a few colours.
— Liz L.
Essential Maxi Dress  Ruby
This dress is comfortable and soft and the colour is gorgeous too!
— Vanessa V.
Essential Maxi Dress  Ruby
4.8
Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars
Based on 191 reviews
Total 5 star reviews: 170 Total 4 star reviews: 11 Total 3 star reviews: 4 Total 2 star reviews: 4 Total 1 star reviews: 2
95%would recommend these products
191 reviews
  • VG
    Vanessa G.
    Verified Buyer
    Reviewing
    Essential Maxi Dress Ruby
    I recommend this product
    Height 5'3-5'5
    Body Type Athletic
    Rated 5 out of 5 stars
    17 hours ago
    Beautiful dress!

    This dress is comfortable and soft and the colour is gorgeous too!

  • TC
    Teresa C.
    Verified Buyer
    Reviewing
    Essential Maxi Dress - Black
    I recommend this product
    Height 5'3-5'5
    Body Type Curvy
    Rated 5 out of 5 stars
    19 hours ago
    Such good quality

    The material flows so beautifully and feels ‘firm’. This dress fits perfectly and is of amazing quality.

  • TK
    Tara K.
    Verified Buyer
    Reviewing
    Essential Maxi Dress Ruby
    I recommend this product
    Height 5'9-5'11
    Body Type Athletic
    Rated 5 out of 5 stars
    22 hours ago
    Love

    I have 3 of these dresses now but this colour is beautiful. In ❤️ perfect shape can dress up or dress down. Black, brown and red!

  • FC
    Fiona C.
    Verified Buyer
    Reviewing
    Essential Maxi Dress Ruby
    I recommend this product
    Height 5'9-5'11
    Body Type Curvy
    Rated 5 out of 5 stars
    4 days ago
    Love these dresses!

    This beautiful Ruby dress is number 5 for mein this style.

    So comfortable and can be worn casual or dressed up, on its own or with a long sleeved top underneath, a shirt tied at the front on top, a jumper over the top.

    The colour isn’t as vibrant as it appeared online, but still beautiful.

  • S
    Samara
    Reviewing
    Essential Maxi Dress Ruby
    I recommend this product
    Rated 5 out of 5 stars
    6 days ago
    5 Stars

    Looks really nice and very comfortable

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.