Essential Maxi Dress - Black

$160.00$60.00
Save 62%

4.8 rating from 205 customers

Essential Maxi Dress - Black

$160.00$60.00
Save 62%

4.8 rating from 205 customers
The “one and done” maxi customers live in: buttery-soft, flattering, and finished with real pockets. Dress it up for dinner or throw it on for travel—this one earns its “Essential” name.

"The Essential Maxi Dress in black was my first purchase, the fabric feels so soft and it fits perfectly, it is a dream to wear.. Thank you 🫶. - Wyn B"

Winifred W. Verified Buyer

"A great dress, so comfortable, so flattering. Will look forward to wearing it on future holiday trips. I will be able to wear casually or dress up with jewellery."

Mandy M. Verified Buyer

"Yay! Very happy with this versatile dress! Lovely material, hangs really nice, with pockets!"

Holly H. Verified Buyer

"Perfect dress for any occasion. I bought it for work & it is the most flattering & comfortable dress."

Maria M. Verified Buyer

"This is the third dress in this style I have. I find them extremely comfortable and so easy to dress up or down"

Annette A. Verified Buyer
Size
Australian Owned
Shipped from Australia
Easy Returns

Payment options available Afterpay Zip

Make 4 interest-free payments of $15.00 AUD fortnightly with AfterPay

This item is FINAL SALE and cannot be returned
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 modal Travel-friendly, easy-care fabric Flattering drop-waist silhouette Deep, functional side pockets Perfect, easy-to-style length Comfortable for all-day wear Made without PFAS or harmful chemicals

The model wears a small and is 178cm tall.

Shipping

Australia Standard Delivery - $12 (Free over $150)

Australia Express Delivery - $15

New Zealand Standard Delivery - $20 (Free over $200)

International Standard Delivery – $20 (Free over $200)

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% Micromodal, 5% Lyrca

Customer Reviews

4.8

Based on 205 Reviews

Reviews Summary

Shoppers keep calling this their new go-to because it’s “ridiculously comfy” while still looking polished enough for work, dinner, and everything in between. The soft, drapey fabric gets constant praise for flowing rather than clinging, and many love that it’s an easy throw-on piece that travels well (no ironing, no suitcase creases). Fit feedback is strongly positive across heights and body types, with frequent notes about the flattering cut and the joy of having proper pockets.

What Customers Love Most

  • Buttery-soft / “silky soft” fabric that feels beautiful on skin
  • Versatility: easy to dress up or down (casual to dinner/work)
  • Flattering cut that “flows rather than clings” (drop waist/“skirt starts at the hips”)
  • Pockets (often called out as a deal-maker, including “deep pockets”)
  • Travel-friendly, low-fuss wear (won’t crease, “throw on and go,” no ironing)

Customers Say These Are Perfect For

  • Travel and holidays (packing light, “won’t crease in suitcase,” day-to-night)
  • Work days (with a blazer/jacket; office-appropriate and comfortable)
  • Dinner, casual drinks, and day-to-night plans (swap shoes/jewellery)
  • People who don’t usually wear dresses but want something they feel confident in
  • Cross-season styling (boots and jacket in winter; sandals/sneakers in summer)

Customer Feedback on Quality

  • Fabric described as “good quality,” “beautiful,” and “thick enough not to be see through”
  • Holds up as an everyday staple—customers buy multiples and talk about wearing it “all summer long” and getting a backup
  • Construction and drape noted: “hangs really nice,” “flows rather than clings,” and “beautifully made”

Customer Fit Feedback

Most customers report: mostly true to size (with a notable minority sizing up for bust or preferred drape)

Many describe the fit as “perfect” and “true to size,” especially when using the size guide/size chart. Several mention it suits different heights with “great length” (e.g., 175cm ‘perfect length’; 164cm size 8 ‘length is perfect’; 170cm size 10 wearing Medium), while some shorter buyers note it can be full-length maxi and a few had it taken up. Busty shoppers report a comfortable fit (e.g., size small fitting a “big busted” wearer; others choose L/Medium for more room).

What Customers Say

  • "No need to iron just throw on and go. Good dress for travel."
  • "Worried it would be too clingy - it’s not ."
  • "My friend saw me in this yesterday and said I LOVE you in this dress! "

Frequently Asked Questions

Real answers based on customer reviews

Performance

Does this maxi dress have pockets (and are they actually usable)?

Yes—pockets are one of the most-mentioned features, with about 20% of reviewers calling them out specifically. Customers describe them as genuinely practical, including “deep pockets,” and several say the pockets are a big reason they love the dress and bought additional colours. If pockets are a must-have, this dress consistently delivers on that.

Based on 16 customer reviews
Is it good for travel and holidays (hot weather and sightseeing days)?

Yes—travel is a repeated use case, with many reviewers calling it a “travel essential” and mentioning upcoming trips (Vietnam, South America) or holiday wear. People like that it’s comfortable for long days, easy to style from day to night, and packs well. Several say it will be their go-to for vacations because it’s easy, light, and versatile.

Based on 11 customer reviews
Does it work for work, or is it more of a weekend dress?

Several reviewers specifically wear it to work and describe it as flattering and professional enough, especially with a blazer. Others call it great for “working from home” because it’s comfortable but still looks put-together. If you need a one-and-done outfit that can transition from casual to office-ready, reviewers say it fits that role well.

Based on 6 customer reviews

Style & Versatility

Can I really dress this up and down, or is it mostly casual?

Reviewers repeatedly describe it as highly versatile (about 35% mention dressing it up or down). People wear it casually with sneakers/sandals or a denim jacket, and dress it up with jewellery or a blazer for work, dinners, and drinks. Multiple customers say it’s an “essential” or go-to piece because it works across lots of occasions.

Based on 27 customer reviews
Can I wear this in different seasons, or is it just a summer dress?

Reviewers wear it year-round by layering—denim jackets, blazers, cardigans, boots, and long sleeves are all mentioned. Multiple customers say it works in winter with a jacket/boots and will be perfect in summer with sandals. The fabric is also described as a good all-season weight by at least one reviewer.

Based on 9 customer reviews
Are people asking for more colours—what colours do customers want?

Yes—requests for more colours come up repeatedly (about 10% of reviews). Customers specifically mention wanting navy, chocolate, mulberry, green, and grey, and several say they’d buy multiple colours if available. Some reviewers already bought it in more than one colour (including red/cherry).

Based on 8 customer reviews

Comfort

Is the fabric actually soft and comfortable for all-day wear?

Yes—comfort and softness are the dominant themes, with roughly 45% of reviews using words like “super soft,” “buttery soft,” “silky soft,” “dreamy,” or “ridiculously comfy.” Many customers say it’s a “throw on and go” dress they wear constantly (including for working from home and travel days). Several reviewers bought a second (or third) one specifically because it feels so good to wear.

Based on 35 customer reviews

Fit & Sizing

Is it flattering, even if I’m curvy or carry weight around my middle?

Most reviewers describe the cut as very flattering (about 35% mention flattering fit/shape). A few give specific reassurance that it “flows rather than clings,” the skirt starts at the hips, and it disguises a “menopause middle.” People who don’t usually wear dresses also report feeling surprisingly confident in this style.

Based on 27 customer reviews
How does the sizing run—should I order true to size?

Sizing feedback is generally positive and often described as “true to size,” especially when using the size guide/size chart. A small number of reviewers did prefer sizing up for their best fit (for example, someone usually a Small/10 found Medium best), and one noted receiving a smaller size than expected felt close-fitting. If you’re between sizes or fuller-busted, some reviewers suggest sizing up for comfort.

Based on 10 customer reviews
What’s the length like—will it be too long if I’m short, or too short if I’m tall?

Length is frequently praised as “great/perfect,” including by customers around 164–175cm who say it sits just right. Shorter customers also had good experiences: one reviewer at 5' tall loved where the waist and length sat, while another shorter reviewer said she did need to hem it since it’s a true maxi. If you’re petite and want no alterations, you may want to be prepared for hemming depending on your height.

Based on 12 customer reviews
Is it a good option if I have a bigger bust?

Yes—multiple reviewers mention bust fit positively, including one who bought a Small and said it fit great despite being “big busted,” and another tall, big-busted customer who chose a Large and said it fit perfectly. The fitted bodice with a flowy skirt is also noted, which can help create shape without feeling tight through the hips. If you’re fuller-busted and between sizes, some reviewers preferred sizing up for their best fit.

Based on 3 customer reviews

Material & Quality

Is the fabric thick enough not to be see-through?

Reviewers commonly describe the material as good quality with a nice weight, and one explicitly notes it’s thick enough not to be see-through. Others say it drapes/flows and “hangs really nice,” suggesting it doesn’t cling or reveal too much. Overall, customers seem confident wearing it for work and outings without mentioning transparency issues.

Based on 5 customer reviews

Care & Maintenance

Does it wrinkle easily—can I pack it for travel without ironing?

Many customers buy it specifically for travel, and several mention it packs well and doesn’t crease or need ironing. One reviewer says “no need to iron—just throw on and go,” and another notes the soft fabric won’t crease in a suitcase. If you want a low-maintenance travel maxi, reviewers consistently say this is a strong option.

Based on 9 customer reviews

Value

Is it worth the price—does it feel like a quality garment?

Reviewers frequently describe the material as beautiful, thick/good quality, and well made, and several say it’s “worth it” or a “quality product.” A number of customers bought a second (or third) dress because they expect to wear the first one heavily, which suggests strong perceived value. One reviewer also called out it being a great price for how it looks and feels.

Based on 9 customer reviews

Shop the Look

Beautiful fit& gorgeous material. I got lots of great compliments on how nice this dress was. Also, bought in red. Worth it!
— Kathryn K.
Essential Maxi Dress - Black
Perfect dress for any occasion. I bought it for work & it is the most flattering & comfortable dress.
— Maria M.
Essential Maxi Dress - Black
What a great little dress this is. I can dress it up or down. Fabric feels amazing. It has pockets so am in love. It travels well and so is definitely coming to South America with me this Xmas. So happy I want to now buy it in the chocolate. I purchased the small. Fits great and I am big busted.
— Luciana L.
Essential Maxi Dress - Black
Great LBD. Fabric is light and airy. No need to iron just throw on and go. Good dress for travel. Everytime I wear this dress I get compliments.
— Nikki N.
Essential Maxi Dress - Black
I haven’t had a black dress that I have liked so much in ages. The lines, and high neckline were fabulous. And the material is incredibly flattering.
— Belinda B.
Essential Maxi Dress - Black
I usually don't feel as though I suit dresses but this just sits so well and is so comfortable. I am eyeing other colours now.
— Kim K.
Essential Maxi Dress - Black
The Essential Maxi Dress in black was my first purchase, the fabric feels so soft and it fits perfectly, it is a dream to wear.. Thank you 🫶. - Wyn B
— Winifred W.
Essential Maxi Dress - Black
You can dress this up or down.. So comfy and so many compliments
— Lauren L.
Essential Maxi Dress - Black
Brought this one in a size small, the material and feel is amazing. Love how it fits and cannot wait to wear it.
— Mel
Essential Maxi Dress - Black
Yay! Very happy with this versatile dress! Lovely material, hangs really nice, with pockets!
— Holly H.
Essential Maxi Dress - Black
4.8
Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars
Based on 205 reviews
Total 5 star reviews: 178 Total 4 star reviews: 16 Total 3 star reviews: 4 Total 2 star reviews: 5 Total 1 star reviews: 2
95%would recommend these products
205 reviews
  • C
    Carol
    Reviewing
    Essential Maxi Dress - Navy
    I recommend this product
    Rated 5 out of 5 stars
    16 hours ago
    5 Stars

    Fantastic quality and fit

  • AG
    Ashlea G.
    Verified Buyer
    Reviewing
    Essential Maxi Dress - Black
    I recommend this product
    Height 5'6-5'8
    Body Type Curvy
    Rated 5 out of 5 stars
    4 days ago
    Best dress ever!

    So flattering for Apple shapes, soft beautiful material that washes so well. No ugly balling. Light and super comfortable

  • R
    Rachel
    Reviewing
    Essential Maxi Dress - Burnt Sienna
    I recommend this product
    Rated 5 out of 5 stars
    1 week ago
    5 Stars

    Haven’t worn yet but I have the black and love it. The colour is perfect for the summer.

  • SR
    Sarah R.
    Verified Buyer
    Reviewing
    Essential Maxi Dress - Navy
    I recommend this product
    Height 5'6-5'8
    Body Type Curvy
    Rated 5 out of 5 stars
    1 week ago
    Comfy & Flattering

    Easy wear, good cover, soft fabric. A win!

  • LW
    Leanne W.
    Verified Buyer
    Reviewing
    Essential Maxi Dress - Navy
    I recommend this product
    Height 5'6-5'8
    Body Type Curvy
    Rated 5 out of 5 stars
    1 week ago
    Love this dress

    It is cool and comfy. Light enough for a qld summer but can be layered and looks great...and it has pockets!

    It is true to size but has a lot of stretch.

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.