Long maxi kameez: ordering a floor-length kameez

Choosing the shape and the flare

The amount of flare decides how formal the maxi looks and how much fabric it needs.

• Gentle A-line: the side seams widen gradually from the waist. Easy to wear for long days, and it uses the least fabric.
• Panelled or kalidar: extra panels add volume from the waist down, like a kalidar frock, for a fuller swing that looks festive.
• Empire waist: the flare starts just under the bust, which is comfortable and suits many shapes.
• Straight maxi: a long column with deep side slits, more modern and minimal.

Measuring the length

Kameez length is measured from the highest point of the shoulder, next to the neck, down to where the hem should end. For a maxi, do it wearing the shoes you will wear with the outfit, because heels can change the right length by several centimetres. Decide whether the hem should just clear the floor, touch the top of the foot, or end at the ankle bone; a hem that clears the floor is safest on stairs and outdoors.

If measuring alone feels tricky, our measuring help page explains the options, including help over WhatsApp.

Slits, walking and sitting

A full maxi needs no slits, because the flare gives the legs room. A straight or gently A-line maxi does need side slits to let you walk, usually from somewhere around the knee. Tell us how you will spend the day: lots of walking or driving suggests a little more room at the hem, while an outfit for sitting at a dinner can be slimmer.

Sleeves and necklines need balancing too, because a maxi already gives a lot of length and fabric. Full or three-quarter sleeves keep the long line unbroken, while short sleeves on a very full maxi can make the top look small against the skirt. A simple round or V neckline usually suits the long shape; save a high collar or heavy neckline work for straighter, slimmer maxis.

Lining and fabric

Long kameez in light fabrics often need a lining, both for modesty and so the flare falls cleanly. Our guide on whether a kameez needs lining explains the choices.

• Chiffon and georgette: float beautifully but are sheer, so a full or half lining is usual.
• Lawn and cambric: cool and easy for summer maxis; pale shades may need lining.
• Raw silk, jacquard and velvet: hold a fuller shape for evenings and winter.

Trousers and ordering

Under a maxi, the trousers are rarely seen, so comfort comes first. A churidar is traditional and neat at the ankle; cigarette pants or slim straight trousers are just as practical. Wide trousers add bulk under the flare.

Choose “Floor” or “Calf” as the length on the quote form and tell us the shape you want. If you would like us to supply the fabric, the Fabric + Stitching service explains how it works, or simply start a quote. Customers in the capital can read about ordering from London.