
Welcome to The Essentials (opens in new tab), 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 (opens in new tab) as a cover-up. That's versatility! We love seeing how different people style this closet staple (and pay special attention when Meghan Markle (opens in new tab) steps out in one as well). So pick your favorite, and get busy enjoying the most effortless dress look around.
The original throw-it-on-and-don't-think twice, classic 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.
Once you've secured a crisp white shirtdress, make a classic blue-and-white striped style your next purchase.
A shirtdress is truly seasonless—this mixed-print style works well from spring to fall.
The perfect spring-to-summer shirtdress, crafted from a breathable linen blend in a fun color.
Make this denim chambray shirtdress your go-to weekend look.
A luxe and buttery soft shirtdress to wear everywhere, from work to dinners and special events.
If you prefer a fitted waist, look to this shirtdress featuring a tailored bodice.
Whether worn with heels, boots, or flats, a pinstripe shirtdress exudes polish—a bonafide work wardrobe staple.
A puff-sleeve shirtdress is the ultimate modern shape—we love the utilitarian vibe of this mini to balance out the inherent femininity.
Lean into Y2K nostalgia by styling this ruched shirtdress with a mini bag, thong sandals, and colored-lens sunglasses.
We love the wrap waist tie of this shirtdress—if pink isn't your color, it comes in classic blue and white stripes, too.
At ease. Whether worn for house chores or not, this utilitarian shirtdress exudes casual cool.
A muted palette and asymmetric cut takes the fussiness out of this floral print shirtdress.
Go bold in this roomy shirtdress in a can't-miss-me shade of pink.
Laura Lajiness Kaupke (opens in new tab) 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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