It doesn’t come much easier than the humble shirt dress. Simply throw one on first thing and style up with a few simple add-ons and accessories. Going into autumn I’m always on the hunt for those bridging pieces, the ones that transition smoothly from chilly mornings to warm days and cold winter snaps when layered up with long sleeve tops or some knitwear. The shirt dress ticks all the boxes.
The perfect roomy shape for my ever expanding baby bump, for any other expectant mums who are reading, I generally buy everything up a size or two. This piece is mainline White Stuff, not maternity, and I’ve found there’s no need to just flock to the maternity lines if you’re prepared to ignore the sizes on the labels and concentrate on fit! I’ve still got a few months to go until bubba arrives and want to leave a little room for growth. The best thing about shirt dresses while pregnant is you’ll easily be able to belt them afterwards too, (when you can finally see your waist again), making them a clever bump to birth and beyond buy.
This White Stuff shirt dress is the right shade of goes-with-everything khaki, in a linen-blend light enough for those last muggy spells, yet suitably heavy so that it feels like a winter staple later on. It provided the perfect outfit for a day exploring Chichester gardens (the ones surrounding the cathedral) and a little mooch around the shops. The utilitarian feel of a fuss-free shirt dress shape means sports trainers just go so well, and for my mum-to-be swollen feet that’s pretty much the best news ever! I’d smarten things up a bit and gain a little extra height with a cool ankle boot if I was going out anywhere special though.
Play around with buttoning collars to the top and cuffing and rolling sleeves. Pop a striped Breton top underneath and let the sleeves peep out a little to create interest. Try a fine knit polo neck underneath for warmth or a chunky cable knit jumper on top for cosy layering. A long line thick knit cardigan would work too.
Shirt Dress Edit: Military Cool
A no brainer way to tap into this season’s utility military trend, look for army greens, camouflage prints and contrast collars that lend a uniform quality to your look. Throw a classic trench coat on top for extra coverage.
Shirt Dress Edit: Relaxed Denim
Oozing with wardrobe mileage, this denim addition will provide endless outfit options. Strip it back with simple off duty components like a rucksack, biker boots and scarf, then ramp it up in the evening with knee high boots and a bold lip.
Shirt Dress Edit: Punchy Print
Lending a more feminine feel to the basic shirt dress, opt for a powerful print to create a statement ensemble. Winter florals, geometrics, block colours and anything whimsical will all work wonders for the autumn/winter season. The ruffle detail on the shoulders here really adds impact.
Shirt Dress Edit: Vintage Glam
An antique pattern like these oriental leaves instantly lends a retro vibe. This would look just as good with Converse and a biker jacket as it would a strappy sandal and heirloom jewellery for a night out or winter wedding.
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