How To Wear Shirt Dresses

For many years, shirt dresses have had a bad reputation as being unflattering. But this spring, designers are creating tons of new styles of the classic shirt dress. Even Hollywood stars have been seen rocking this cool and easy dress. Here are some tips about how to wear this classic look for all different body types:

If you are petite:

- Look for shirt dresses that fall at or above the knee. Any dress that is much longer will shorten your legs and overwhelm your smaller frame with fabric.
- Similarly, look for vertical stripes or pleating that will lengthen your body.
- Beware of big buttons that will overpower your look, but try thin cloth ribbon or sashes that will emphasize your petite waist.
- Don’t buy boxy shirt dress styles that will make your small frame appear shapeless.

If you are curvy:
- Make sure to pick shirt dresses with structured shapes. Avoid unstructured styles because all of the extra fabric will just end up showing unwanted lumps and bumps.
- In addition to a structured style, look for a dress with a v-neck and a sash or belt that cinches at the waist. An open v-neckline and a showing off a slender waist will help create the ideal hourglass body shape. Despite what you may assume, a v-neck top will actually minimize your figure by drawing the eye vertically downward to focus on your thinnest part.
- Also try and keep the hem above the knee. Any dress that falls below the knee can make your body appear larger than it is. A shorter hemline will help flaunt your curves.

If you are athletic:
- Make sure you look for a fitted cut shirt dress or your hard-earned body will be hidden beneath too much fabric. Pick a slimmer cut style to display your toned body.
- Look for extra details such as big pockets or buttons, which are hot right now with summer’s military inspired trends. These little details will help add interest to a more muscular frame.
- Also try to find shirt dresses with straight skirts that will reveal your sculpted thighs.

If you are boyish:
- Sometimes women who lack curves can appear to be too skinny. Add fullness to your frame without adding actual bulk by wearing shirt dresses in bright colors and patterns.
- If you opt for a style with longer sleeves, make sure to roll up the sleeves to show off your slender arms. Otherwise, your body can be lost beneath the dress.

What do you think? How do you wear your shirt dress?

Image Source: flickr.com/photos/castawayvintage/4260237289