The shirtdress has been around forever and it is the one dress to wear right now.
The shirtdress is one of those dresses that work with so much, goes anywhere and saves the day when the what-to-wear indecision or it’s-too-hot-for-anything-else sets in. I have been having a few of these days recently and I have been searching through my dresses for something new and different to wear. I love my cargo pants/blouses, midi skirt/tee “uniform” but I am happy for a new repertoire to enter the wardrobe.
The shirtdress is it.
Here is the trick,
I don’t think we need to spend a fortune on a good shirtdress as there are plenty available that look fabulous and will do the same job as many of their expensive counterparts. Let’s save our powder for an accessory or two.
How do you wear the shirtdress?
Whether to wear straight or full, whether to wear belted or not depends a lot on shape and size.
I like both styles but generally, steer away from a belt as I feel it cuts me in two. I am short-waisted so that’s my reasoning. If you are fortunate enough to have a long torso then believe in a good belt, it can be a magical accessory. Remember Diane Keaton in, Because I Said So? She was the master of the shirtdress and wide belt and in true Keaton form, she rocked it.
Flats and sneakers look right with the shirtdress.
Mules are still top of my list and my sneakers never get a break. Mules look super cute with the shirtdress and the style elongates the leg and refines the ankle. Loafers don’t work as well for me with this style of dress, although the fuller the skirt the better they look. Ballet flats or pointed toes work beautifully and let’s not forget the kitten heel.
Some layer the shirtdress over pants.
I am too short but if you are tall, it’s a great look. What I do layer is a shorter style coat, not so much the blazer style. The duster jacket and 3/4 style coat are good layering options. Layers, like belts, need consideration.
After so many fashion forays I pretty much know what I can and can’t get away with and when I go against the grain I am usually caught out. xv
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images, Helena Christensen Elle France July 1989, Steevie van der Veen Marie Claire Italia March 1989
