Print on a maxi dress creates visual interest across a large canvas which means the print needs to be worth the space. A navy base keeps a busy print from reading as frantic. The maxi length means patterns that might feel overwhelming on a shorter dress become balanced and considered. Printed navy maxi dresses work for summer occasions where you want to feel special but not formal. The length manages the informality of print whilst the darkness of navy prevents it from reading as purely casual. These are the pieces you wear to garden parties and holidays and meals out. The print gives you something to dress up or down depending on shoes and accessories. Navy means you can wear them summer through and they will not feel seasonal despite the print.