10 Ways to Style Shirt Dresses for Women

Shirt dresses are a timeless option for women.

These dresses are inspired by the classic button-down shirt, combining the features of a shirt with the length and design of a dress. They have become popular choices in women’s fashion due to their adaptability, making them suitable for various occasions and body types.

In this article, we will discuss what shirt dresses for women are, their history and types, as well as the various styles available.

Related: Best Work Dresses

What Are Shirt Dresses?

A shirt dress is a type of dress that borrows design elements from a traditional button-down shirt.

Typically, it has a collar button down the front and often includes a belt to cinch the waist. The length can vary, ranging from above the knee to ankle length, providing options for different preferences and occasions.

A Brief History of Shirt Dresses

The origin of shirt dresses can be traced back to the early 20th century when women started adopting more practical and comfortable clothing.

The concept gained popularity during the 1950s and 1960s, when designers began incorporating men’s shirts into women’s fashion, creating the dress we know today.

This style has evolved over the decades, embracing various designs and fabrics while maintaining its fundamental shirt-like structure.

Why Choose a Shirt Dress

1. Versatility and Styling Options

One of the main reasons women opt for shirt dresses is their versatility. These dresses can be dressed up or down, making them suitable for a range of occasions, from casual outings to semi-formal events.

Depending on how you accessorise and style them, shirt dresses can effortlessly transition from a day at the office to a night out with friends.

2. Comfort and Ease of Wear

Shirt dresses prioritize comfort without compromising style. The loose and relaxed fit allows for ease of movement, making them perfect for all-day wear.

The breathable fabric and simple design ensure that you feel comfortable even during warm weather.

Where to Buy Shirt Dresses

You can either choose to do this online by buying from various online stores like 9jalist, Jumia etc.

Or if you’re in Lagos, you can visit cloth markets in places like Oshodi, Ikeja, Lagos Island etc.

Types of Shirt Dresses

1. Classic Button-Down Shirt Dresses

The classic button-down shirt dress features the traditional collar and buttoned front, resembling a long shirt. It’s a timeless and versatile choice suitable for various settings.

Classic button-down shirt dresses are timeless and versatile pieces of clothing that can be dressed up or down for any occasion.

They are typically made from a crisp fabric such as poplin or cotton and feature a pointed collar, button-down front closure, and a tailored fit. Shirt dresses can be found in a variety of lengths, from mini to maxi, and can be plain or patterned.

Classic button-down shirt dresses are a popular choice for workwear, as they are both professional and flattering. They can be dressed up with a blazer and heels for a more formal look or dressed down with a cardigan and flats for a more casual look.

Shirt dresses are also a great option for travel, as they can be easily packed and dressed up or down depending on the occasion.

2. Wrap Shirt Dresses

Wrap-shirt dresses have a wrap-around design that creates a flattering silhouette by cinching at the waist. This style accentuates the figure while providing a comfortable fit.

Wrap shirt dresses have a front closure formed by wrapping one side across the other and tying the fabric at the waist or back. They are typically made from soft, stretchy fabrics such as jersey, cotton, silk, or polyester. They come in various lengths, colours, prints, and styles.

Wrap shirt dresses are a popular choice for women of all shapes and sizes, as they are flattering and versatile. They can be dressed up or down for any occasion, from a casual day out to a formal event.

3. Shirt Dress with Belt

Shirt dresses with belts offer a way to define the waist and add a touch of elegance to the outfit. The belt can be tied or buckled, allowing for a customized fit.

A shirt dress with a belt is a timeless and versatile piece of clothing that can be dressed up or down for any occasion. It is typically made from a crisp fabric such as poplin or cotton and features a pointed collar, button-down front closure, and a tailored fit.

The belt cinches in the waist and accentuates the figure, making it a flattering choice for women of all shapes and sizes.

Shirt dresses with belts can be found in a variety of lengths, from mini to maxi. They can also be plain or patterned, making them a great option for any personal style. Pair your shirt dress with a belt and sandals or flats for a more casual look. For a dressier look, pair it with a belt and heels. You can also add a statement necklace or scarf to accessorize.

4. Oversized and Boyfriend Shirt Dresses

Oversized or boyfriend shirt dresses provide a relaxed, laid-back look. They offer comfort and a trendy, casual style that’s perfect for a day out or a relaxed gathering.

Oversized and boyfriend shirt dresses are a popular fashion trend that has been around for many years. They are characterized by their loose and relaxed fit, which gives them a casual and effortless look.

These dresses can be made from a variety of fabrics, including cotton, linen, denim, and chambray. They are also available in a variety of lengths, from mini to maxi.

Oversized and boyfriend shirt dresses can be styled in a variety of ways. For a more casual look, pair your dress with sneakers or sandals. For a dressier look, pair it with heels or boots. You can also add a belt to cinch in your waist and create a more flattering silhouette.

10 Ways to Style Shirt Dresses for Women

There are some of the ways shirt dresses for women can be styled. Take note:

1. Casual Style

Pair a classic button-down shirt dress with white sneakers and minimal jewellery for a stylish, everyday look.

2. Office Style

Combine a tailored shirt dress with pumps and a structured handbag for a professional and sophisticated ensemble.

3. Bohemian Style

Choose a flowy, wrap-shirt dress and pair it with ankle boots and layered accessories for a bohemian-inspired outfit.

4. Denim Style

Opt for a denim shirt dress and wear it with ankle boots or sandals for a casual and trendy appearance.

5. Belted Style

Cinch a shirt dress at the waist with a statement belt and add heels for a polished and feminine touch.

6. Sporty Style

Pair an oversized shirt dress with sneakers and a cap for a sporty and comfortable outfit that’s perfect for a day of running errands.

7. Layering Style

Layer a shirt dress over leggings or skinny jeans and add a jacket for a fashionable layered look.

8. Feminine Style

Choose a shirt dress in a soft pastel shade and pair it with ballet flats and delicate jewellery for a feminine and graceful style.

9. Night Out Style

Wear a shirt dress with a deep V-neckline, and add high heels and statement jewellery for a glamorous look perfect for a night out.

10. Beach Style

Opt for a lightweight, airy shirt dress and pair it with sandals and a sun hat for a breezy and stylish beach outfit.

Occasions and Places to Wear Shirt Dresses

Shirt dresses are suitable for a wide array of occasions and settings:

1. Work:
Depending on the dress code, a tailored shirt dress can be a stylish choice for the office.

2. Casual Outings:
Shirt dresses are ideal for casual outings like shopping, brunch, or a day at the park.

3. Evenings Out:
Dress up a shirt dress with accessories and wear it to dinner, theatre, or a night out with friends.

4. Beach or Pool:
Lightweight and breathable shirt dresses are perfect as a cover-up at the beach or by the pool.

5. Parties:
Choose a more elegant shirt dress and style it with heels and statement jewellery for a party or gathering.

DIY Shirt Dress Customization

If you’re feeling creative, you can customize a shirt into a dress. Let’s discuss the following steps to do it:

Choose a Shirt: Select a button-down shirt that’s long enough to function as a dress.
Add Length: If needed, sew additional fabric at the bottom to achieve the desired dress length.
Tailor to Fit: Tailor the shirt to fit your body by taking in the sides or adding darts for a more tailored look.
Accessorize: Add a belt or ribbon at the waist to cinch and define your figure.
Personalize: Get creative by adding embellishments, patches, or embroidery to make your shirt dress unique.

Conclusion

To wrap up, shirt dresses for women offer a blend of style, comfort, and versatility. From classic button-downs to oversized designs, a shirt dress suits every taste and occasion.

So, if you need to get one, kindly visit any of the vendors mentioned in the article and make your choice.

If there are any questions, post them below.

FAQs About Shirt Dresses

Are shirt dresses still in style in 2023?

Yes, shirt dresses are in style in 2023. They are a classic and versatile piece of clothing that can be dressed up or down for any occasion. Shirt dresses are also very flattering on a variety of body types.
Here are some of the top trends in shirt dresses for 2023:
Oversized and boyfriend shirt dresses: These dresses are loose and relaxed, giving them a casual and effortless look. They can be styled with sneakers or sandals for a more casual look or with heels or boots for a more dressy look.
Wrap shirt dresses: Wrap shirt dresses are a great way to accentuate your waist and create a flattering silhouette. They can be styled with a variety of accessories, such as belts, scarves, and necklaces.
Shirt dresses with belts: Belts are a great way to cinch in your waist and create a more polished look. You can choose a thin belt in a neutral colour for a more casual look or a wider belt in a statement colour or material for a more dressy look.
Shirt dresses are also available in a variety of fabrics and colours, so you can find one that is perfect for your personal style. For a more casual look, choose a shirt dress in a neutral colour such as white, black, or navy. For a more dressy look, choose a shirt dress in a statement colour or print.

What’s a T-shirt dress?

A T-shirt dress is a type of dress that is made from the same fabric as a T-shirt, typically cotton or a cotton blend. It is typically loose-fitting and has a casual look. T-shirt dresses can be found in a variety of lengths, from mini to maxi, and can be plain or patterned.
T-shirt dresses are also sometimes called T-shirt frocks or T-shirt shirtdresses. However, the term “T-shirt dress” is the most common and widely used term.
T-shirt dresses are a popular choice for women of all ages and sizes, as they are comfortable, flattering, and versatile. They can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion. For a more casual look, pair your T-shirt dress with sneakers or sandals. For a more dressy look, pair it with heels or boots. You can also add a belt, necklace, or scarf to accessorize your look

What is the difference between a shirt dress and a shift dress?

The main difference between a shirt dress and a shift dress is the fit. A shirt dress is typically tailored to the waist, while a shift dress has a looser, straighter fit.
Shirt dress: A shirt dress is a dress that is made from the same fabric as a shirt, typically a crisp fabric such as poplin or cotton. It has a pointed collar, button-down front closure, and a tailored fit. Shirt dresses can be found in a variety of lengths, from mini to maxi, and can be plain or patterned.
Shift dress: A shift dress is a dress that is cut straight from the shoulders to the hem. It has a loose, boxy fit and does not accentuate the contours of the body. Shift dresses can be made from a variety of fabrics, including cotton, linen, and jersey. They are typically found in mini or knee-length lengths and can be plain or patterned.

What is a Marcella Shirt?

A Marcella shirt is a type of dress shirt that is made from a special type of fabric called Marcella. Marcella is a double-faced, quilted cotton cloth that is characterized by its raised geometric patterns. It is a very durable and stiff fabric, which makes it ideal for dress shirts.
Marcella shirts are typically white and have a pleated bib front. They are often worn for formal occasions, such as weddings and black tie events. Marcella shirts can also be dressed down for a more casual look, such as with chinos and a blazer.
Here are some of the benefits of wearing a Marcella shirt:
Durable: Marcella is a very durable fabric, so Marcella shirts can last for many years.
Stiff: Marcella fabric’s stiffness helps keep dress shirts looking crisp and polished.
Versatile: Marcella shirts can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion.
If you are looking for a high-quality, durable, and versatile dress shirt, a Marcella shirt is a great choice

What is a girlfriend-style shirt?

A girlfriend-style shirt is a loose-fitting, comfortable shirt that women typically wear. It is often made from a soft fabric, such as cotton or linen, and has a relaxed, oversized fit. Girlfriend-style shirts can be button-down or pullover, and they often have features such as dropped shoulders, longer sleeves, and a rounded hem.
Girlfriend-style shirts are popular because they are versatile and can be styled in many different ways. They can be worn on their own, tucked into jeans or skirts, or layered over other tops. Girlfriend-style shirts are also popular for wearing to bed or lounging around the house.