When spring arrives, we love being able to throw on a great dress and go.

And one of the best, most effortless dress silhouettes out there? The shirt dress.

This style looks good on virtually all body types and is perfect for work, weddings, date nights and so much more.

If you've never mastered the art of wearing a shirt dress, we're here to help.

Sure, it may seem tricky to make a button-front dress work for you, but it' actually quite simple once you master a few simple styling tricks.

Here are five to follow and you'll be wearing shirt dresses with confidence in no time.


Belt It

Many shirt dresses actually come with belts to cinch the waist and enhance your shape.

You can certainly use the one that comes with your shirt dress, but don't be afraid to swap it out for a stylish belt in leather or suded.

Another fun option is to tie a printed silk scarf around the waist of a solid shirt dress for an unexpected pop of personality.


Choose A Bold Color

When it comes to shirt dresses, don't be afraid to go bold.

Because the silhouette is fairly prim and proper, this gives you a little freedom to wear a bright color you might ordinarily shy away from.

Our recommendations? Deep red, cobalt blue, emerald green and royal purple are perfect picks all year round.


Pick An Eye-Catching Print

Another option? Try a shirt dress in a bold, statement-making print.

Designers like Diane von Furstenberg and Kate Spade are beloved for their bright, whimsical prints and their shirt dresses are definitely investment pieces you'll wear year after year.


Pair With Flat Sandals

Unless you're headed to a formal event, play down the bold color or print of your shirt dress by pairing it with a simple pair of flat sandals.

Ballet flats also work well when it's too cold to expose your toes.

This look is particularly chic when your shirt dress features a full skirt.



With Espadrilles

If you're just not a flats lady, wedge espadrille shoes also look super stylish with slim-fitting shirt dresses.

Find a pair that lace up your leg for a flirty, feminine look.