Warm weather is bringing an old favorite back to the stores — the shift or T-shirt dress. It’s a shape I love for its comfort and easy style. A T-shirt dress is a great addition to any summer wardrobe and I recently added this little statement version to my closet.

Now, you might think that the bold pattern would make it less versatile, but that isn’t the case. Half of this shattered-stripe design is grounded in four neutrals: tan, gray, white and black. Those neutrals make it play well with other members of my wardrobe, while the accents of soft green, sky blue, coral and a punchy yellow keep the design interesting.

When I add a new item to my closet, I “shop” my existing wardrobe to see what it will work with. Here are seven new outfits I created out of my T-shirt dress and items I already owned:

 

1. Simple and Chic

Shifts, or T-shirt dresses, are designed to hang loosely on the body, only giving hints as to the wearer’s figure as she moves. That laid back, breezy fit makes them an ideal choice for our hot Texas summers. Here, I’ve paired it with my suede ghillies (I’m a Celt, so I’m tickled that these are so “in” right now) and a bold bangle. It’s perfect for running around town.

2. Business Ready With a Black Skirt

Work wear doesn’t need to be bland to show you mean business. In fact, throwing some extra style into your wardrobe can make you more memorable in a fast-paced world. Tucked into the refined shape of a pencil skirt, the dress takes on a sophisticated edge. Gold heels and petite crystal hoops finish off this office-appropriate look.

3. After Five Flair

This look is a prime example of how changing your shoes and earrings can take a look from day to evening. By adding long, sparkling earrings and strappy, platinum snake skin heels, this dress is perfect for after 5 p.m. fun. The bold stripes will stand out at the cocktail hour, when many women default to black. I’m not opposed to black generally, but it never hurts to bring a little color to the party — especially at night.

4. Cold Weather Ready

A statement belt accents the waist when it’s worn over an asymmetrical zip sweater. I added black tights, riding boots and silver concho earrings to complete this ensemble, which is perfect for brightening a cold day.

 5. Belted

The simple addition of a leather belt has a profound impact on the dress by instantly adding shape. I gave it my personal flare by shifting the buckle to the side, rather than center front. Cork heels and sculptural rose gold wire earrings finish off the look.

6. Evening Elegance

This T-shirt dress and full-length black satin skirt play off each other for an eye-catching evening ensemble. The skirt gives the dress elegance, while the dress brings sophistication and glamour to the party with its bold pattern and unusual color combination. It reminds me of something you might see at dinner party in a late 1930s black-and-white movie, worn by the likes of Myrna Loy. A vintage rhinestone necklace with touches of pink and aqua in the stones, sparkling dragonfly earrings, and a rose gold and crystal ring reinforce the evening wear statement of the skirt.

7. Boots!

Cowboy boots, an antiqued brass chain belt with gold and turquoise earrings give a little nod to my Texas roots. Can’t get better than that!

Let these seven outfits inspire you to add an old favorite to your wardrobe, and see where a simple, chic T-shirt dress can take you!

 

 

 

 

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