A Shirtdress or Oversize Button Up is (and Always Will Be) the Perfect Summer Uniform

Hot days call for comfortable and cool silhouettes. Classic versions that are practical for summer’s many occasions are all the better. For that reason, shirtdresses and oversized, borrowed-from-the-boy shirts are ideal. Both are summer staples in their own right because they’re casual enough for a weekend at the beach and sophisticated enough for days in the city. Choose one in light linen or cotton poplin, and you’ll be reaching for it whenever temperatures are too hot to wear pants.

Their classic button fronts, collar necklines, and simple stripes make for an effortless and timeless look that pairs well with any occasion. The oversized shirt is particularly versatile. You can wear one with practically everything. Try a tunic-length button-up atop wide-leg pants or denim shorts, dress it up for work, or wear it open over a swimsuit at the beach (a personal favorite!) and go pants free. Same goes for a boxy shirtdress: just swap in and out your sandals and summery jewelry to go along with it and voilà! You have a summer uniform.