I love the versatility, comfort and ease of shirtdresses. The look is often timeless, with a classy retro-twist.
Some fabulous movie and tv shirtdresses I love are:
Leighton Meester, Gossip Girl; Grace Kelly, High Society; Anna Friel, Pushing Daisies.
Kate Spade makes some fantastic shirtdresses with a clean, retro, preppy twist.
l to r: Kate Spade Candy Shop Jeanette dress, Get Ready Calista dress, and Harriett shirtdress. Notice the differences in cut, and fabric print and color. Shirtdress shapes carry unconventional patterns well; a less pleated or puffy skirt is more utilitarian in feel; ruffles add romance and nostalgia. Heeled shoes add glamour and a dressier appearance, flats create a feminine casual look.
l to r: 1950s shirt dress, Crafty Crow Vintage; Custom Dress, Modela2z; Adrian Tabin dress,Raleigh Vintage.
When buying a vintage shirtdress, the most important thing next to cut (I prefer details such as "shirt" portion not extending below belt and a flared skirt) is material. Subtle, muted colors are good for daywear, but something bold in color or pattern will be much more fun to wear. Sleeves can always be altered--shortened or removed--to modernize the look, and tailoring can be done to make a dress appear made for you. Buy a too-large-for-you dress and have it altered to your body.
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