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With its feminine, nostalgic silhouette, shirtdresses are a fashionable addition to a woman's spring and summer wardrobe.

"We are seeing a new take on shirtdresses where they have a little bit of a safari or utilitarian look with pockets and a look of a military style," says Gregg Andrews, Nordstrom fashion director. "They are made of silk and cotton and even some lightweight gabardine. The shirtdress is universally flattering and its style is timeless."

The key to wearing this trend is to keep it defined at the waist and control the volume so it's not too overwhelming. The best length is at the kneecap. Anything shorter might create the appearance of too much bulk. But if you choose to go shorter, pair the dress with leggings or some other kind of hosiery. Your footwear can be anything from a caged-heeled sandal to a flat.

A 1950s retro-style shirtdress with a full skirt offers comfort with room to breathe. You can show some skin at the top by undoing a few buttons since you won't be showing a lot of leg in the styles that come to the knee. Shirtdresses can be found in all sleeve lengths.

If you are curvy, try shirtdresses with skinny belts and V-necks for a slimming effect, says Suzanne Mauro, a stylist accredited by the Association of Image Consultants International. Pear-shaped women should try a shirtdress with a fuller, swingy bottom.

Keep accessories simple with a statement necklace or bold cuff.

"The shirtdress is the multi-tasker, because it can be worn so many ways," says Erin Sumwalt, InStyle market director. "I love the shirtdress. You can choose so many colors and styles. You can choose stripes or chambray or white with some texture. Shirtdresses are great for spring and summer."

Shirtdresses come back season after season, says Laura Schara, trend expert for Macy's. It's a piece you should pay a little more for to get the perfect fit, because if it pulls across the bust or isn't the right length, it will look sloppy.

"Don't be afraid to have a shirtdress tailored," Schara says. "Make sure it fits at the hip and the bust. Try a color such as khaki, black or navy and you will have this item for a long time because it will always be in style."

shirtdresses are also a good item for those women on the go because they travel well, Sumwalt says, which makes them vacation friendly. Bring several belts to change up the look or add some bright accessories for a different style.

"I love it with ballet flats, or strappy sandals," Sumwalt says. "I would stay away from actual heels, but a wedge espadrille can work because most of them aren't too dressy. If you buy a silk shirtdress, then it's OK to go with a dressier shoe.

"When you are in the dressing room, sit down to make sure the dress fits you right, and when you find one that fits right, you will love it," she says. "It will be such an easy outfit because you won't have to really think about it."

Copyright (c) 2010, The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review   

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