If fashion would have one item of clothing that would be considered a workhorse, it would be the shirtdress.

Shirtdresses are all the rage for Fall 2021, however, they have been around for quite some time. History notes that the shirtdress was once known as the shirtwaist dress, deriving its name from the shirtwaist blouse, that emerged in the 1890s as part of the uniform for the New Woman. Its obvious form was, and is, based on a traditional man’s shirt. It was a practical option for nurses and other female workers back in the day. Since then, the shirtdress has stood the test of time, and evolved into more fashionable versions, including sporting full waist skirts in the 1950s and 60s. Today it is still a staple in women’s fashion, and for obvious reasons.

A shirtdress is more than just what its name dictates. Yes, they are dresses, but they also serve as tops and jackets.

Shirtdress or Shacket?

Todays’s longer shackets are shirtdresses in disguise. They can easily be worn as dresses as we head into the colder months. Pair one with a belt and some boots, and you are ready to go, or you can wear them as their name suggests, layered over anything you wish. You will find several different styles and colors and a range of affordable options at stores like H&M, such as this blue one. I also love a denim one that’s very affordable at Joe Fresh.

How to Wear a Shirtdress?

Styling a shirtdress is simple, and there are many options, depending on how you will be wearing it.

A Dress

If you are wearing it as a dress, as its name suggests, you have two options - belt it to add shape if the dress is full-on straight, or you can leave it loose for a more comfortable and relaxed look.

Pair It up as a Top

If you opt to wear it as a top, you can pair it with leggings, trousers, or even jeans. Take note, that if you are pairing it with trousers, make sure to pair lighter fabrics together. So, if your dress is made of lighter material such as cotton, silk, or linen (like my green one below), you can easily pair them with a slim, or even wide leg pant of similar fabric so the look is cohesive. (I chose a pair of leggings.) Flannel and heavier fabric shackets can be paired more easily with jeans.

As an Overshirt or Jacket

If you’re wearing your shirtdress as a jacket, then pretty much anything goes. It’s the perfect layering piece that you can layer over a shirt, or under a vest or shawl for chillier days.

No matter how you choose to wear a shirtdress, it’s a timeless staple that everyone should have in their closet. With its popularity for fall, it’s the perfect time to find one that you love.