The Shirt Dress 2.0 Is Here, and It's Actually Better Than the Original

It's easy, fancy, casual, and sexy, all at the same time.

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Updated on September 23, 2021 @ 09:00AM

Ruched Shirtdress — Photo: Getty Images, Courtesy/InStyle

As someone who enjoys getting dressed up and playing around with fashion, I'm often drawn to pieces that are the opposite of traditional. I'll reach for a polka-dot top over a crisp white shirt, and excitedly add leopard pants to my cart rather than mom jeans. This method of shopping has both benefitted me and led to some stressful situations. While I definitely enjoy 'fun' clothes — bright colors, bold prints, Y2K designs, etc. — I've also found myself wishing I owned more staples, aka pieces I can then personalize based on my mood.

That's where the shirt dress comes in — or, rather, the new version of the shirt dress, which has been growing in popularity over the past few months. This one is ruched and a bit more form-fitting, adding flair and making it seem special. Yet, at the same time, it's just as versatile as the original, meaning it'll come in handy mid-dilemma, no matter what the plans are.

Celebrities and influencers have been styling this scrunched-up shirt dress with sandals and strappy heels over the summer, but because so many options include long sleeves or even come in sweater material, it's kind of the perfect piece for transitioning into fall, too. The more I think about one styled with tights, knee-high boots, or even chunky socks and loafers, the more I realize: this is the go-to item my closet needs. It's easy but fancy, casual yet sexy. It'll save me in pinch but still fits right in with my whimsical style.

Clearly, the ruched shirt dress is something I need, ASAP, and if you're feeling this trend, too, I've rounded up the best options I could find.