From year to year, I find my personal summer style does not vary much. Give me a good pair of crisp white jeans with a navy top, a blazer and shorts or a great pair of jeans shorts with a graphic tee, and I am all set. And when it comes to brunch, lunch, or more casual business meetings, a classic shirtdress for summer is an easy, go-to look that is understated and effortless. Who does not want a one-and-done outfit for summer? If it requires a low level of thinking, and looks nice, sign me up. The faster I get out the door, the faster I can be outside, which is an ongoing summer goal.
DVF Got It Right
When Diane von Furstenberg introduced the wrap dress, in the 1970s, she also brought the shirtdress back into vogue, and it’s remained a staple for the last 50 years with good reason. Short, solid, or a fun pattern or print, it’s a flattering style on all figures and versatile enough to wear for work or weekend.
Add heels and classic accessories for your business meeting. Throw on cool (sustainably-made) sneakers and a baseball hat to run around town on the weekends, or strappy sandals for cocktails and you’ve got a look that can carry you from day-to-night with just a few changes.
I’ve rounded up some that I love from various retailers. Prices range from $25 and up, and I’ve added solid, striped, and bold prints.
Classic Solid Shirtdress
Solid shirt dresses are a great addition to your summer wardrobe. White or chambray are summer staples. Dress the white up with gold accessories and high-end bag and heels, make it casual with a rattan bag and sandals. Wear the chambray with sneakers or wedges.
Bold Prints
There is no better time to wear colorful, bold prints than summer. A classic silhouette in a bold, colorful print gives your pieces a longer shelf-life. Just like a Lilly Pulitzer shift stands the test of time so will a shirtdress in a bold pattern. The Alice + Olivia shirtdress would be perfect for a rehearsal dinner or wedding shower. This floral shirtdress from Amazon can take you from work to cocktails. It’s a fun, flirty style, but still conservative enough because of the silhouette.
Classic Striped Shirtdress
Like white or chambray, eyelet or blue, a striped shirtdress will stand the test of time. Keep this for the next several decades. The black and white BCBG dress is so chic. That is a perfect dress for summer meetings and straight out for cocktails at upscale restaurant. The Derek Lam blue and white shirtdress is another great dress for work and this would be perfect for a casual baby shower or brunch.
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