The term “effortless” is thrown around a lot when talking about fashion (probably too often), but one usage we can get behind is describing style essentials that genuinely make it easier to get dressed and feel great. The long shirt dress is a perfect example. The wardrobe staple exhibits all the traits of a polished button-down shirt (pointed collar, crisp cuffs, versatile material) but is designed in a silhouette that can make quickly putting together a compelling outfit a—yes—more effortless task.
While the belted shirt dress has had its time in the spotlight, we’re taking a less preppy approach this season. This year’s top styles favor looser shapes with longer hemlines. It’s the kind of dress that you can wear on its own (as a roomy maxi paired with crochet flats), but also how all the cool girls are right now: unbuttoned and styled with a camisole and baggy jeans, shorts, or even a mini skirt. It’s just as useful as your favorite button-down shirt, but with more layering combinations at your disposal.
With warm temps and breezy style as the framework, we searched through hundreds of options to find the best long shirt dresses for summer. Dress them up with a sleek leather purse and slingback kitten heels for running around the city or dress them down with raffia accessories and statement jewelry for a bohemian feel.
Frank & Eileen Maxi Shirtdress
Banana Republic Cotton Poplin Shirt Dress
Polo Ralph Lauren Cotton Shirt Dress
Nordstrom Button Front Shirtdress
Rails Val Linen Shirtdress
COS Printed Fluid Shirt Dress
Alex Mill Kerry Shirtdress
By Malene Birger Perros Dress
