How To Style a T-Shirt Dress

T-shirt dresses my favorite garments to wear this time of year. These versatile dresses fall under my go-to pieces during the summer months because of how easy they are to style. They’re also cute and extremely comfortable–especially when it’s hot. With a staple this simple, the sky is the limit when it comes to styling. Whether you’re headed to the office, running errands, or headed out for dinner in the city, a T-Shirt Dress can be worn so many different ways.  Today I’ll be showing you how to style a T-Shirt Dress. Both dresses I’m wearing came from the COS Store. Read on for inspiration.

Choosing T-Shirt Dresses for your Body Type

A tee shirt dress can range in length from long to short and in between. If you’re short and petite like me, you’re going to want to get dresses that are shorter in length. Taller women should purchase T-Shirt dresses that have length to them. They also come with all types of sleeves. When I started looking at these dresses they came in short sleeves, cap sleeves, and sleeveless for the summer months. Regardless of the length, T-Shirt dresses can be worn with different types of shoes.

Thinking about body type, you want to make sure the dresses are flattering for your shape. Straight dresses work best for curvier body types like mine. If you are slim and have a straighter shape you want to get T-Shirt dresses that will accentuate your waistline.  It’s important to make sure the fabric doesn’t show lumps. Cotton is a fabric that I like to wear. This natural fabric is perfect to wear due to its durability, breathability, and the fact that it doesn’t show lumps and bumps.

Styling Solid Color T-Shirt Dresses

Keep it simple by adding a solid color t-shirt dress to your capsule wardrobe that you can dress up or down. For my outfits, I chose a black dress.  T-shirt dresses are also perfect for summer vacations. We’re going to Germany in the fall, and I’ll definitely be throwing this piece in my luggage.

Oversize Purse & Sandals

I first paired it with a pair of comfortable sandals I got from Banana Republic and a big tote bag and a scarf in my hair. If it is warm outdoors and a day for sightseeing this would be a comfortable look. I always go for a comfy look when I know we will be doing a lot of activities.

Crossbody + Baseball Cap

The second way I decided to wear the dress was with a pair of dad sandals, a baseball cap and a Crossbody bag. This is another easy look to wear if you’re traveling and on the move. It’s also a great outfit if you’re going to watch a baseball or soccer game. My husband and I are big sports fans and this relaxed look is great for outdoor sporting events.

Bold Accessories  

If you want a dressier look, add in some bold accessories that add a pop of color. For my third look, I styled this T-shirt dress with a pair of gold sandals, a gold statement necklace, and a Rebecca Minkoff metallic gold clutch. If I had to wear a dress to a nice dinner date or upscale event, this would be a good way to wear it.

Loafers & an Oversized Sweatshirt

When the weather starts getting cooler, you can wear your t-shirt dress as a base layer. For the final look, I decided to style the dress with loafers, socks and a big, oversized sweatshirt over my shoulders. If you want to leave off the oversize sweatshirt it would look really cute with a trench coat, knee-high tights and boots.

Striped T-Shirt Dresses

I don’t know about you, but stripes never get old to me, they are just classic. Striped T-shirt dress are a must-have piece because you can make them work no matter what your style is. Additionally, they can be worn by all age groups, during any season for multiple occasions. While you can wear stiped T-shirt dresses all year round, the looks below are summer-inspired.

Straw Hat & Vintage Bags

This striped T-shirt dress paired so nicely with this big straw hat, bag, and sandals. You know I like to protect my hair and skin from the sun! I thought it looked so adorable with this big hat. The bag is very special to me as it was my best friend’s mother’s purse. This vintage bag adds so much character and charm.

Pops of Color

One of my favorite ways to wear stripes is with pops of color. The trick is to wear just one bold color. I decided I would add this dark orange color next to the striped tee to crank it up a notch. My Antonio Melani slides are a new addition to my closet this year and I have really gotten a lot of wear out of them. They are currently on sale at Dillard’s so check them out! The necklace and cross-body bag are pieces I’ve had in my closet for a while.

Office Chic: Blazer + Platform Heels

I really like to see if I can take something and wear it from casual to dressy! This is exactly what I did for this look. I added this double-breasted white blazer to elevate the outfit. These bright Fushia platform sandals along with this colorful Kurt Geiger bag helped add some excitement to this classic dress. Remember: it doesn’t have to be “Dress down Friday” for you to wear your striped T-shirt to the office.

While these are just a few ways I styled these T-Shirt Dresses to give you inspiration, the possibilities are endless with this closet staple. When pairing with the right pieces and accessories, T-Shirt Dresses can take you through the summer season and beyond.

I hope these outfit ideas have persuaded you to either pull out the t-shirt dress you already have and wear it out or purchase one of the dresses I’ve linked in this blog. With so many outfit options, it’ll become your most-worn piece in no time!