The shifting shape of shift dresses...quite possibly working in our favour. Are you listening sticky out tums?!

There was a time when shift dresses tend to be fitted, particularly at the waist, but in the last few seasons, as with lots of clothing, they have become looser and less structured. They don't always look that much on the hanger (and I'm not saying that they look any better on me) but their looser shape can have certain advantages in the tummy region!

Unsurprisingly (Hello Mrs Predictable) this flouro animal print shift dress from Warehouse (£50) jumped out at me as I walked past the shop the other day. Whilst initially quite fitted on the arms, as the fabric warmed up and loosened slightly, it was fine - so just bear that in mind if trying one on.

Hasty snaps with bad shadows and poor light taken at the end of a long day aren't always a good idea. These are more akin to a dodgy Hugh Grant shot taken by the LAPD for even dodgier shenanigans with ladies of the night in the back of cars - but you get the gist and if not, the shot of the model should help with that. Heels would be preferable but with a day in town ahead of me yesterday morning, they weren't really an option so instead I wore navy patent Hobbs loafers.

 

For a couple of other alternatives, Whistles has this sculptured dress (£65 in the sale, reduced from £120) which also comes in a coral colour, with elbow length sleeves, but that's still full price. I like the scooped neckline and the curved seams at the front.

There's also this Crepe Tee Shift Dress from Topshop £85 which comes in eight colours, some of which are also in the petite and maternity ranges.

Whilst I'm not particularly loving either of the model looks, they give an idea of the shape and length of the dresses, how easy they would be to wear either dressed up or at the weekend. Great to throw on with a necklace, heels and leather jacket, or with a long chunky cardi and boots for a casual look. The shifting shapes of shifts are quite possibly to our advantage!