Shirtdresses are back and better than ever—Shop our favorite styles

This summer, a 1950s staple is back in a big way: the shirt dress. The waist-accentuating silhouette first hit the mainstream in the 1920s. In June 1938, Vogue dubbed the shirtwaist dress to be an “American institution.” Then, in the late 1940s, Christian Dior debuted his luxe version of the stylish silhouette as part of his “New Look” couture designs. It wasn’t until the ‘50s, though, that the silhouette became a coveted style (at every price point) for women all over the world.

Now, we’re seeing the shirt dress make its grand re-entrance into the world of fashion, with brands like Anthropologie, Tuckernuck, Lilly Pulitzer, and Abercrombie & Fitch getting in on the fun. While various brands have slowly been rolling out new shirt-inspired styles, we have Gap to thank for making the shirt dress perhaps the most coveted dress silhouette of summer 2024. Ever since Anne Hathaway attended a Bulgari event in a beautifully styled Gap maxi shirt dress (designed by the brand’s newly appointed creative director, Zac Posen) in mid-May, conversation surrounding the silhouette has only grown. Although the organic cotton dress is currently back-ordered, these alternatives are just as stylish and eye-catching.

Katie Kime Retro Stripe Sophia Shirtdress

Harness that Euro-summer vibe we’ve all seen and loved on Instagram with the Katie Kime Retro Stripe Sophia Shirtdress, available in sizes XS to XL. The above-the-knee cotton dress, which comes with a removable fabric belt, is casual yet refined and offers a playful take on classic stripes.

Universal Thread Long Sleeve Cinch Waist Maxi Shirtdress

The Long Sleeve Cinch Waist Maxi Shirtdress from Universal thread, available in women's sizes XS to 4XL in six colors, offers a fresh and wallet-friendly take on the classic. Style it with espadrilles and a rafia bag for an easy summer look.

Pomander Place Lilac Meryl Shirt Dress

The Pomander Place Lilac Meryl Shirt Dress, sold in sizes XXS to XXXXL, features a relaxed fit-and-flare silhouette, complete with spacious front chest pockets. Just keep in mind that it’s made with 100 percent cotton, so it can shrink if not washed with care.

By Anthropologie The Pollie Short-Sleeve Swing Tunic Mini Dress

There’s something so charming about the relaxed shirt dress, and the By Anthropologie Pollie Short-Sleeve Swing Tunic Mini Dress only adds to the silhouette with its fun array of colors and patterns. It’s sold in seven colors in petite, standard, and plus sizes XXS to 3X.

Tuckernuck Callahan Shirt Dress

The Tuckernuck Callahan Shirt Dress has so much potential. It’s the perfect throw-on piece for mornings when you don’t feel like getting ready but want to look put together, but it can also be beautifully styled for a more refined evening look. It’s sold in 12 colors in women’s sizes XXS to XXXL.

Eloquii Asym Sleeveless Shirt Dress

Stay cool this summer in the Eloquii Asym Sleeveless Shirt Dress. The midi-length dress features on-seam pockets, a unique zig-zag seam design, and a chic asymmetric hem. It’s sold in women’s sizes 14 to 32.

Steve Madden Nadia Dress

The Steve Madden Nadia Dress, available in sizes XS to XL, looks like a silhouette that made the rounds in 2016. It’s a classic men’s shirt design in dress form, and we love the look. Whether you pair it with heels or your favorite white trainers, you can expect to look and feel fully put together.

Gap Striped Midi Shirtdress

Make a chic summer statement in the Gap Striped Midi Shirtdress, available in women's regular, petite, and tall sizes XXS to XXL. It comes in both blue and khaki striped colorways, and is the perfect look to get you from the car to the beach and off to dinner, too.

Hyacinth House Mint Green Geo Floral Graham Mini Dress

This mint-printed shirt dress, sold in sizes XXS to XXL, is an instant winner in our book. With an exaggerated collar, smocked neckline, puff sleeves, and tiered skirt, it’s flirty and fun, not to mention comfortable to run around in. Consider pairing it with the Rothy’s Limeade Espadrilles for an especially colorful summer ‘fit.

Good American Poplin Shirt Dress

We love an off-the-shoulder moment and the Good American Shirt Dress, sold in sizes XS to 5X, reminds us of just that. The tomato red mini dress can be worn for full upper coverage or unbuttoned for an off-the-shoulder look. In that way, it’s a great office-to-happy-hour wardrobe option.

Ralph Lauren Tie-Front Linen Shirtdress

The Ralph Lauren Tie-Front Linen Shirtdress is sold in four colors in women’s sizes 14 to 22. With half sleeves, a knee-length hem, and a tie-waist accent, it’s a classic silhouette that can easily be dressed up or down with footwear and accessories.

J.Crew Elena Shirt Dress in cotton poplin

The J.Crew Elena Shirt Dress is a bit more refined with its smocked, bow-tie waist and flared midi skirt. It’s sold in black, white, and green in women’s sizes 00 to 24. Don’t be surprised if you want to buy all three after slipping into the first one you try.

Corey Lynn Calter Long-Sleeve Printed Mini Shirt Dress

If you prefer less structure, check out the Corey Lynn Calter Long-Sleeve Printed Mini Shirt Dress. Sold in four colorful prints in women’s sizes XXS to XL, this mini dress works well as a cover-up, casual brunch dress, or effortless going-out look. If you opt for the latter, just consider adding a belt or corset to the mix for a bit more definition.

Abercrombie & Fitch Utility Maxi Shirt Dress

For a sportier, more utilitarian shirt dress, check out this safari-inspired silhouette by Abercrombie & Fitch. It’s sold in three colors in women’s sizes XXS to XL and features a breathable polyester-nylon blend designed with an elastic waist, side pockets, and front chest flap pockets.