Welcome to The Essentials, our weekly series highlighting a must-have classic, key to building a timeless, pulled-together closet.
While inspired by a classic menswear piece, the shirtdress is, in fact, very feminine and ladylike. It's also the perfect dress for those days when you don't know what to wear and don't want to put together a tricky outfit. The best shirtdresses will always make you look polished, whether they're crisp and white, printed, or brightly colored. They're fantastic for work, but quickly transform into beach attire when styled over a bathing suit as a cover-up. That's versatility! We love seeing how different people style this closet staple (and pay special attention when Meghan Markle steps out in one as well). So pick your favorite, and get busy enjoying the most effortless dress look around.
WHITE COTTON SHIRTDRESS
The original throw-it-on-and-don't-think twice, classic shirtdress.
WINTER SHIRTDRESS
A shirtdress crafted from warm wool is your go-to style in cold weather. Finish with lug-sole boots for edgy-chic, or go more classic with a knee-high silhouette.
STRIPED SHIRTDRESS
Once you've secured a crisp white shirtdress, make a classic blue-and-white striped style your next purchase.
PRINTED SHIRTDRESS
A shirtdress is truly seasonless—this mixed-print style works well from spring to fall.
LINEN SHIRTDRESS
The perfect spring-to-summer shirtdress, crafted from a breathable linen blend in a fun color.
DENIM SHIRTDRESS
Make this denim chambray shirtdress your go-to weekend look.
LEATHER SHIRTDRESS
A luxe and buttery soft shirtdress to wear everywhere, from work to dinners and special events.
TAILORED WAIST SHIRTDRESS
If you prefer a fitted waist, look to this shirtdress featuring a tailored bodice.
PINSTRIPE SHIRTDRESS
Whether worn with heels, boots, or flats, a pinstripe shirtdress exudes polish—a bonafide work wardrobe staple.
A MINI SHIRTDRESS
A puff-sleeve shirtdress is the ultimate modern shape—we love the utilitarian vibe of this mini to balance out the inherent femininity.
RUCHED SHIRTDRESS
Lean into Y2K nostalgia by styling this ruched shirtdress with a mini bag, thong sandals, and colored-lens sunglasses.
TIE-WAIST SHIRTDRESS
We love the wrap waist tie of this shirtdress—if pink isn't your color, it comes in classic blue and white stripes, too.
UTILITY SHIRTDRESS
At ease. Whether worn for house chores or not, this utilitarian shirtdress exudes casual cool.
FLORAL SHIRTDRESS
A muted palette and asymmetric cut takes the fussiness out of this floral print shirtdress.
OVERSIZE SHIRTDRESS
Go bold in this roomy shirtdress in a can't-miss-me shade of pink.
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Laura Lajiness Kaupke is a freelance writer and editor covering fashion, accessories, fine jewelry, and lifestyle topics, including beauty, home, fitness, and travel. You can see her work across various outlets, including VOGUE, Harper’s BAZAAR, ELLE, Glamour, Town&Country, InStyle, Esquire, Women’s Health, Brides, Refinery 29, Coveteur, The Zoe Report, Popsugar, Byrdie, WWD, Footwear News, Well+Good, The Editorialist, among other titles and brands. Laura has worked in the fashion industry for over 11 years and held senior fashion editor positions at Popsugar and The Zoe Report, with additional experience as a copywriter and fashion publicist.
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