For those who are indecisive (like me) and tend to take a bit longer to get dressed, may I present an option to solve this problem? Layering a shirt under a dress gives you the best of both worlds. While it's not quite as retro as wearing a dress over jeans, it is versatile. Whether you want to wear something on the edgier side with leather and asymmetrical lines or you want to add extra polish to a blazer dress, the possibilities are endless. Plus, if you have some dresses you've been dreading putting away into storage, layering a shirt underneath will keep you toasty even if it's a sequined spaghetti-strap situation that's better suited for summer.
Whether you're the friend who's always chilly and needs an extra layer under your work dress, or you're looking to elevate dresses you already own, layering a shirt under a dress is like doubling your wardrobe. Read on for my favorite ways to master layering for a cozy, chic look all year round.
Keep It Classic
When in doubt, a crisp white button-down goes with absolutely everything.
Shop the Classic Look:
Amanda Uprichard Strapless Puzzle Gown
KONQUWA Teardrop Pendant Necklace
Coordinate the Colors
The only thing easier than throwing on a dress and calling it a day is putting on a shirt that coordinates with the rest of your outfit!
Shop the Color-Coordinated Look:
DONNI. The Rib Turtleneck
ELLIATT Trompe Dress
Get Voluminous
Go for extra volume by layering a bell-sleeved poplin shirt under your dress. This works especially well if you have a heavily patterned dress.
Shop the Voluminous Look:
Cicy Bell Button Down Shirt
Kurt Geiger London Extrasmall Bond Top Handle Bag
Mix In Mesh
Adding a mesh top is a sneaky way to be an outfit repeater and re-wear your favorite metallic dress, and it also gives your outfit an extra edge. While it won't keep you warm, it will give you a tad more coverage if you have a dress with a deeper v-neck.
Shop the Mesh Look:
Afrm Zadie Mesh Turtleneck Top
Endless Rose Metallic Faux Leather Sheath Minidress
Brandon Blackwood Luna Zip Leather Shoulder Bag
Try Adding Texture
One way to add interest to any outfit recipe is by layering a shirt with a different texture than your dress. Whether you want to wear a silky dress and a ribbed knit or opt for a ruched style, it'll be eye-catching.
Shop the Textured Look:
v28 Stretchable Turtleneck Knit
Azazie Raychelle Steel Blue A-Line V-Neck Chiffon Dress
Add Some Asymmetric Allure
Pairing an asymmetrical shirt with leather makes for a trendy and subtly edgy look. Put on a pair of matching black boots for a foolproof glam look that's anything but basic.
Shop the Asymmetric Look:
Brother Vellies Brandy Boot in Midnight
Sneak In Something Cozy
Just because temps dipped doesn't mean you must put away your dreamiest short-sleeved dresses. Make them work for you year-round by layering a cashmere blend shirt, preferably a turtleneck for extra toasty-ness. Investing in a luxe base shirt in a cream tone works beautifully with a snakeskin print, making it feel seasonless.
Shop the Cozy Look:
Joes Jeans The Tony Knit Turtleneck Top
Layer Ladylike Pieces
Whether you're getting dressed for the office or want to give your favorite blazer dress some new life, go for a pussybow blouse underneath—it'll give it that vintage-inspired bit of flair.
Shop the Posh Look:
UNIQUE 21 Luxe Stain Breasted Asymmetric Blazer Dress
Steve Madden Kari Black Patent
