I recently worked with a client who has an amazing closet – colors, textures, patterns, in both clothes and accessories – so our work together is focusing on new and different ways to wear them.  In our styling time, we concentrated on the versatility of a few specific items – one being her black shirtdress.  She’s taking a vacation in June, so we worked on multiple looks with this super versatile and eminently wearable (and oh-so-packable) style that would be perfect for her trip.

Once I got home, I was still thinking about that shirtdress, and how it’s not only ideal to get through a few weeks in Europe, but also to get through the next several months of weather.  And the best thing?  It’s a classic piece that is very on trend for spring, so there’s a wide selection in stores.  So here it is – six month’s worth of looks with one shirtdress, inspired by the outfits created in my client’s closet.

APRIL

April showers bring May flowers, so it’s not time to put away your coats and jackets yet!  A neutral trench, brown boots and wide belt are all you need to take your shirtdress to the office.  Throw a tortoise clutch and some sparkly earrings into your work tote, and you’re ready for that dinner date, too.

TIP: If your shirtdress comes with a detachable self-belt – take it off!  Wearing a non-matching belt will make your look much more sophisticated.  And while you’re at it – snip off those pesky little belt loops that are barely attached to the dress.  They force your belt to sit where the manufacturer thinks it should, as opposed to where your waist actually is.

MAY

If your Saturday mornings consist of drop-offs and errands, then an easy dress is your new best friend.  Grab your favorite denim jacket to stave off the morning chill, and stick to a focused color palette for accessories so you can get dressed in a snap.

JUNE/JULY

When temperatures rise, it becomes all about your accessories.  Pair your super-versatile shirtdress with chunky heeled sandals and wedges, printed belts, and bags with attitude.  Add a dose of metallic with colorful necklaces, classic sunglasses and a men’s-style watch.

AUGUST

The dog days of summer bring end-of-season getaways – so a packable shirtdress is a must-have.  Head down to the beach or stroll the boardwalk in easy sandals, a holds-everything tote and colorful scarf.  Even use your shirtdress as an impromptu swimsuit cover-up if you need it!

SEPTEMBER

When the weather starts to cool, turn your shirtdress into a lightweight topper!  Toss the belt, roll the sleeves and throw it over a striped tank and white skinnies.  Simple jewelry and pop color flats complete an easy breezy late summer look.

TIP: The shirtdress-as-coat-alternative look works best if the dress is straight up and down, or just slightly a-line.  A full skirted dress with a defined waist is not as adaptable, but still looks great deeply unbuttoned with a striped tank underneath.

Paul Julch helps busy people to streamline, organize, and update their wardrobes so they can get dressed with ease and always look stylish and feel confident. Any budget, any lifestyle, any body.  His business is Urbanite|Suburbanite, and he works with clients to develop a modern, current, versatile wardrobe that expresses personal style rather than trends. Paul is based in the SF Bay Area, and remote wardrobe & style coaching is available for out-of-towners. Visit Paul’s website  for more style advice, and follow him on Facebook , and Instagram to stay up to date on the best styling tips and tricks.