There’s more to the shirt story than you think you know. According to springtime news, the good ol’ shirt has got dressier. Of course, a little extension and some innovations later. Hard to miss out was Simone Rocha’s sheer white shirt dress with metallic embellishments at the London Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2014. And c pristine white shirt dress, with minimal texturing, was particularly loved at the Paris Fashion Week S/S 2014 show.
“Shirt dress is a trendy take on a classic piece,” says designer Chhaya Mehrotra about this S/S 2014 trend. “Monotones are ideally a safe zone for the shirt dress accompanied with the conventional collar, cuffs and front buttons. As the look pertains to a subtle definition of fashion, keeping the colour code muted and embellishment limited, work favourably. That in no way gives the message of restricting your choices, for you can give versatility free rein through different collar patterns. Check out round collars and Peter Pan collars (preferably the collar in white lace) or the simple V-neck collar. Narrow belts serve as the best accessories for the attire,” mentions the designer.
On the other hand, designer Shraddha Murarka is throwing caution to the wind while relying on the charm of the shirt dress. “Keep it loose and keep it carefree,” is her mantra.
“Let’s unfollow the hard and fast rules in this shirt-like affair. And in that pursuit for something different, collars can be left behind. The dress can have a breezy feel minus the collar and you can also shun the cuff on the sleeves. Play with the sleeve length or keep it basic. Checkered patterns stand out and large floral prints in light shades win hands down. As long as the silhouette is deconstructed, you can happily experiment.”
She adds, “Take the printed route in a big or small way and for that additional glam value, use the subtle with shimmer contrast card on your shirt dress. Exhibiting a completely casual appearance are jersey and denim fabrics. The sweltering summers are still weeks away, and it’s your best chance to try out some layers in style. A shirt dress can very conveniently have a layering like effect right at its hemline. Lengthwise too, you can be in complete control. But do not go overboard with accessories, the choice narrows down to a belt or neckpiece, but clubbing them is strictly not allowed.”
“Bring in an element of digital prints to add pizzazz to an otherwise simple yet smart look,” suggests designer duo Prasansha Saha and Ashish Tagra. They add, “The prints can be good enough to seal the deal without adding the clutter of embroidery on your latest shirt dress.”
