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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