Shirt dress, shirtwaist dress or knit dress and which is most versatile
Short answer: The most versatile dress is often the one you can wear open and closed, with and without layers, and which copes with washing and travel without creasing. The shirt dress and the knit dress each have their strengths, so the choice depends on your daily life.
What versatile means for a dress
A versatile dress can change character from morning to evening with small changes. It should be comfortable to sit and walk in, work with different layers and shoes and be easy to look after, because a dress you do not feel like washing or ironing is rarely worn.
The shirt dress
A shirt dress has buttons at the front, a collar and often a belt, and it can be worn closed, open like a light coat or belted at the waist. That gives many looks in one garment. Viscose can crease, so expect to hang it up when it is dry.
Bamboo dresses in everyday life
When you look at bamboo dresses, think about how often you would wear them and what you would have underneath. Viscose from bamboo often drapes softly, but the cut and length decide whether the dress looks relaxed or smart, so try it on sitting and walking.
The shirtwaist dress
The shirtwaist dress resembles the shirt dress but often has a softer fall and a looser fit. It suits days when you want something that does not squeeze, and it can be dressed up with a belt, a scarf or a pair of nice shoes, without you having to change the whole look.
The knit dress
The knit dress is the softest and most flexible of the three and takes up less room in a suitcase, because knit creases less. On the other hand it is often less structured, so it gives a more relaxed look, and it can stretch at the sleeves and neck if you hang it on a hanger.
Layers and seasons
All three dresses can be worn all year round with the right layers. In winter you can wear a thin top or a sweater underneath, and tights keep the legs warm. In changeable spring weather, bamboo tops for women can serve as a light layer under the dress.
Care and washing
Follow the care instruction on the label, wash on a gentle programme at low temperature and let the dress dry flat or on a hanger. Knit normally lies flat, while shirt and shirtwaist dresses can be hung up, and avoid high heat in the tumble dryer, which can make viscose shrink.
How to choose the most versatile
If you are often on the move, the knit dress is practical, and at the office the shirt dress or shirtwaist dress can look more put together. If you only have room for one, choose the one you can combine with the most things and look forward to putting on. Also see bamboo clothing for women.
Frequently asked questions
Which dress is the most versatile?
It depends on your daily life. The shirt dress can be worn open and closed, the shirtwaist dress is looser, and the knit dress is soft and easy to travel with, so choose by what you use most.
Can I wear a shirt dress all year?
Yes, with the right layers. In winter you can wear a sweater and tights, and in spring a thin top underneath.
How do I care for a viscose dress?
Follow the label, wash gently at a low temperature and avoid high heat in the tumble dryer. Hang it up or lay it flat, depending on whether it is knit or woven.
