Dressing from April to September used to be a straightforward task—just slip on a floral midi, pair it with white sneakers and a denim jacket, and you’re all set! This style, dubbed the “go-anywhere dress” by Vogue in 2016, proved to be versatile enough for various occasions, including holidays, weddings, backyard barbecues, and even casual office settings. It allowed for a seamless transition from a grocery run to an event at Ascot without any dramatic outfit changes.

That’s precisely why it has been challenging to part with the floral midi dress. Numerous fashion brands have built their identities around this iconic piece, which still holds a place in the wardrobe of many as a sort of contemporary national attire. Despite warnings from fashion commentators like myself about an impending decline, these dresses remain a staple in both everyday shopping and formal events.

This summer, however, it seems that many of us, including myself, are recognizing that the floral midi’s time has passed. What once felt appropriate in a pre-COVID, pre-trad wife era now appears overly frilly and convoluted in today’s world, which has shifted toward sharper, more minimalist aesthetics.

Fashion insiders have moved away from florals for a while, and now they are gravitating towards a refreshing alternative: enter the shidi, or shirt-midi dress.

Traditionally, shirt dresses were characterized by a belted A-line silhouette, but this summer’s styles are more streamlined—either featuring a straight design or incorporating asymmetrical elements. The key to achieving a contemporary look lies in the buttons and the absence of floral patterns, making them distinctively modern.

Henrietta Rix of Rixo notes, “Our designs can be worn loosely or cinched at the waist for a tailored appearance. Shirt dresses are practical and versatile, suitable for a variety of occasions.” This adaptability is reminiscent of the floral midi’s appeal. The shidi offers similar styling options with sandals, sneakers, or slides while maintaining comfortable leg coverage. In fact, it might even provide more versatility: fashion-forward individuals are now layering them over shorts and jeans.

On the high street, I’m drawn to Arket’s striped linen version, which features an asymmetrical wrap-waist for enhanced definition. Alternatively, Cos offers a cornflower blue shirt maxi that maintains a mid-calf length and an “off-body” style. I also own a khaki version from Cos that has made its appearance over six summers.

Marks & Spencer offers an appealing tiered midaxi shidi (approximately ankle-length at £39.50), while Toast presents a long-sleeve poplin design that channels the aesthetic of a French workwear jacket in a striking true blue (£245).

Finally, when styling your shidi, skip the denim jacket to avoid overwhelming the look with too many buttons. Instead, consider draping a navy sweater over your shoulders or waist for a chic finish. Emulate Gwyneth Paltrow’s effortlessly stylish vibe from The Talented Mr Ripley, and let the floral dresses remain at the Asda and Ascot events.