Shirred dresses are a stylish staple and perfect for spring – here are 9 to have on your radar now

Shirred dresses are a stylish staple and perfect for spring – here are 9 to have on your radar now

Credit: Courtesy of brands

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Shirred dresses are a stylish staple and perfect for spring – here are 9 to have on your radar now

By Soraya Gaied Chortane

24 days ago

All products on this page have been selected by the editorial team, however Stylist may make commission on some products purchased through affiliate links in this article

3 min read

This throw-on-and-go style will have you out of the door within minutes. 


Some dress trends come and go in the blink of an eye – especially the ones that take off on social media. One season, it’s all about tie-strap sundresses; the next, off-the-shoulder minis are everywhere. But some styles have staying power, making them worth the investment (smock dresses, black dresses, and shirt dresses –we’re looking at you).

One such timeless contender? The shirred dress. Defined by rows of elastic thread that gather the fabric while allowing it to stretch across the bust, waist and neckline. Meanwhile, the rest of the dress drapes effortlessly, creating an easy, relaxed silhouette.

So, whether you’re looking for an easy spring/summer dress or something to kick-start your warm-weather wardrobe, look no further – the shirred dress is ready to cover all of your sartorial needs, and we’ve rounded up the best versions out there to shop now and wear forever.


Albaray shirred waist gingham dress, £99

Albaray shirred waist gingham dress

Checked dresses are having a moment this season, adding a sweet touch to spring wardrobes – and we can’t get enough of this Albaray find. With its high neck, shirred details and a chic gingham print that steers well clear of picnic blanket territory, it’s a standout piece.

Shop Albaray shirred waist gingham dress, £99

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Oliver Bonas leopard print shirred bodice puff sleeve midi dress, £82

Oliver Bonas leopard print shirred bodice puff-sleeve midi dress

If you’re looking to liven up your wardrobe, Oliver Bonas has you covered with this shirred offering. The leopard print and puff sleeves make for a bold design. 

Shop Oliver Bonas leopard print shirred bodice puff sleeve midi dress, £82

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Simply Be floral print shirred midi dress

Simply Be floral print shirred midi dress

Simply Be’s offering has a dainty ditsy print with shirred accents, putting it firmly in the fashionable cute-meets-kitsch category.

Shop Simply Be floral print shirred midi dress, £45

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& Other Stories midi dresses shirred sleeveless midi dress green

& Other Stories midi dresses shirred sleeveless midi dress

For a more luxurious look suitable for balmy evenings, & Other Stories edit of shirred dresses is, quite frankly, stunning. This gorgeous green option will partner well with a chic gold arm cuff and matching earrings. 

Shop & Other Stories midi dresses shirred sleeveless midi dress green, £125

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Nobody's Child red ruched collar tiered Teresa midi dress

Nobody’s Child red ruched collar tiered Teresa midi dress

To break up the overwhelming amount of black dresses, we’re encouraging everyone to give cherry red shades a go, and this Nobody’s Child number may be the perfect place to start. With exaggerated frill collar and bright hue, it’s a striking style that’s not at all overpowering. 

Shop Nobody’s Child red ruched collar tiered Teresa midi dress, £89

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Printed-Tie-Front-Midaxi-Shirred

M&S printed tie front midaxi shirred dress

If you’re after a frock you can wear to the office, this M&S buy is your best bet. It has a relaxed midaxi silhouette and subtle check, making it a workwear delight. 

Shop M&S printed tie front midaxi shirred dress, £55

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Anouk cotton craft-stitch shirred midi dress in khaki, £158

Reiss Anouk cotton craft-stitch shirred midi dress in khaki

This chic khaki-coloured frock will become a go-to for any occasion. Wedding guest look? Done. Brunch with friends? No problem. Less formal office environments? It certainly fits the bill. Plus, for a more modest look, layer a T-shirt underneath too. 

Shop Reiss Anouk cotton craft-stitch shirred midi dress in khaki, £158

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Monsoon Briar shirred maxi dress white, £59

Monsoon Briar shirred maxi dress white

All-white outfits are a fashion fan favourite year-round but they really make quite the striking statement come spring. This Monsoon style adds even more interest, and it’s formal enough to wear to work, too.

Shop Monsoon Briar shirred maxi dress white, £59

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ASOS DESIGN Curve shirred bust cotton sateen maxi dress in chocolate

Asos Design Curve shirred bust cotton sateen maxi dress in chocolate

Wear this square-neck chocolate brown number with gold ballet flats and matching jewellery at the weekend. The maxi silhouette and cotton-sateen finish makes it formal enough to wear to work too.

Shop Asos Design Curve shirred bust cotton sateen maxi dress in chocolate, £32

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Images: courtesy of brands

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