Martha Stewart’s Linen Shirtdress Is My Go-To for Summer

As per usual, I can’t believe how quickly summer is flying by. It’s unfair—what’s arguably the best season of the year (Beach! Picnics! Peaches!) seems to go by in the blink of an eye, so naturally, when I realized it was already mid-July, I told my husband, “Okay, it’s time we seriously plan our honeymoon.” It’s our one big vacation of the year, so this means business, and it also means I have to level-up my beachside looks ASAP. Good thing Martha Stewart served up summery outfit perfection at the perfect time. 

Last week, 83-year-old Stewart shared a photo of herself and a few friends on her Instagram Stories (and TBH, I can’t get enough of these little snippets into her life). But, behind-the-scenes sneak peeks aside, I couldn’t stop admiring Stewart’s simple, elegant, and highly practical outfit of choice: a breezy Eres shirtdress that appeared to be cut from airy, lightweight linen, a no-brainer for summer time.

Naturally, after seeing Stewart in her simple—and quite frankly rich-looking—summer staple, I was convinced I, a 31-year-old, needed to pack it for my upcoming vacation. It’ll be hot, so something that feels light and flowy is a must, but I also need something that feels dressy and casual. Simple styling swaps make a linen shirt dress equally suitable for a beachside dinner and for a casual boat day. Of course, I also plan on following Stewart’s lead and styling my crisp whites with metallic sandals (a go-to of hers and a trending footwear style that’s 

7 Stewart-Inspired Linen Shirt Dresses

Quince 100% European Linen Button-Front Dress

This Quince dress hits on everything I want in a shirtdress and more: the linen fabric, the midi cut, the button-front closure, and the tie-waist belt for customized fit. The $60 price tag is only the cherry on top. Plus, I love that it comes in so many colors, though I’m keen on the simple white because, well, that’s what Stewart went with.

Nordstrom Button-Front Shirtdress

While I love a fitted dress when I see one, I tend to gravitate toward something a bit more loose and oversized come summer—and this button-front dress from Nordstrom is the perfect example of my dressing desires right now. It’s simple and billowy, but the side slits give it shape. Not to mention, if I want to accentuate my waist, I can easily throw on a dramatic belt for some style powers.

Gap Poplin Roll-Cuff Midi Shirtdress

For a slightly more fashion-forward take on a shirtdress, I’d like to direct your attention to this roll-cuff midi from Gap. It has subtle corset seams at the waist, giving it a bit more shape, as well as a subtly A-line flare that makes it feel a bit more feminine. Dress it up with lace-up espadrilles or keep it cool with white sneakers. 

Read on to shop more shirtdresses inspired by Stewart that I’m adding to my vacation wardrobe.

Wilfred Eleta Linen Maxi Dress

Frank and Eilee Rory Maxi Shirtdress

Everlane The Oxford Short-Sleeve Shirtdress

Eres Aimée Linen Maxi Dress