How to Wear It: A Summer Shirtdress

A girlfriend texted me Saturday with a question that was uniquely D.C. Her office is no longer suits and sheath dresses, but it’s not jeans and athleisure either. “Can an office be ‘semi-formal’?,” she pondered. “What do I wear for that?!”

Enter the shirtdress, the solution for summer.

A shirtdress is an easy, versatile look for work, weekend events, a casual wedding, religious services, or just brunch on Sunday.  This photo from Pinterest nails the ease of a shirtdress.  Let’s recreate it.

Dress // This look just shouts Mid-Atlantic Summer. And while I adore the look of a classic shirtdress (like these ones from Talbot’s, also in plus/plus-petite and Quince), I wanted something a bit more modern.  

This Tuckernuck dress has a stronger sleeve and a sleeker style, which is perfect for updating this look.  The dress comes in nine colors, sizes XXS-3X.  I’m hoping they restock the black before my work trip in June, because it is sublime.  

Looking for a more relaxed shirt dress?  I own this Caslon gauze dress and I highly recommend it.

Shoes // Finding an office appropriate summer shoe can be a challenge.  These slingback sandals from Reformation would fit in in many workplaces, but not all.  These Aldo Dorrena sandals are also a nice option.  Looking for something more like the photo?  Cole Haan has you covered.

Need a summer shoe for a professional office?  Try a peep toe low wedge or a peep-toe d’orsay flat.

Purse // This Coach bowling bag is a fantastic piece.  It’s professional, but approachable.  I love that you can wear it crossbody or carry it with the handle.  It’s fab.  And at under-$500, it’s nice but not too nice to carry every day.

Looking for something more summery?  This Demellier straw bag with a brown leather handle is sublime.  Also, for summer elegance, this $79 Mango shoulder bag is not to be missed.

Accessories // This belt from Fossil is perfect.  No, I mean it, perfect.  No designer buckles, but something classic and simple.  I bought it two weeks ago because I need belts in my post-pregnancy, working Mom size, and I love it.  Great belt, great price.

Also, these grey tortoise sunglasses struck me as a slightly unexpected choice for the outfit.  Basically, the “wrong shoe” theory sunglasses version.  I loved this pair from Amazon for an affordable pick.  For something a bit pricier, these Illesteva sunnies are wonderful.  J.Crew also has a chic pair.

Styling // Never miss a chance to wear red lipstick when an outfit needs a lift.  This Jane Iredale lip color feels weightless and the color is perfectly buildable.  A great find.

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