Shirtwaister meaning

A shirtwaister is a blouse style dress designed to look like a shirt tucked into a skirt.


Shirtwaister definitions

Word backwards retsiawtrihs
Part of speech The word "shirtwaister" is a noun.
Syllabic division shirt-waister
Plural The plural of shirtwaister is shirtwaisters.
Total letters 12
Vogais (3) i,a,e
Consonants (5) s,h,r,t,w

Shirtwaister

Shirtwaister is a term used to describe a type of dress that became popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This style of dress was characterized by a fitted bodice, often with a high waistline, and a full skirt that fell to the knees or slightly below. The shirtwaister was a versatile garment that could be worn for various occasions, from everyday wear to more formal events.

Design and Features

The defining feature of a shirtwaister dress was its button-down front, resembling a shirt. This design element gave the dress its name and also allowed for easy wear and removal. The bodice was typically tailored to fit closely to the body, accentuating the waistline, while the skirt was full and gathered for a feminine silhouette. Shirtwaister dresses often had collars and cuffs, adding a touch of sophistication to the garment.

Popularity and Influence

The shirtwaister dress was a popular choice among women during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Its practical design made it suitable for both work and leisure, and its versatility meant that it could be styled in various ways. The shirtwaister also played a role in the women's rights movement, as it allowed women to move more freely and comfortably than the restrictive fashions of previous eras.

Modern Interpretations

Today, the shirtwaister dress continues to be a popular style, with modern designers creating updated versions of this classic garment. Contemporary shirtwaisters may feature different fabric choices, patterns, and embellishments, but they still maintain the signature button-down front and tailored fit. The timeless appeal of the shirtwaister dress speaks to its enduring influence on fashion. Whether worn for a casual outing or a special occasion, the shirtwaister remains a versatile and stylish choice.


Shirtwaister Examples

  1. She wore a vintage shirtwaister dress to the garden party.
  2. The boutique featured a collection of colorful shirtwaister tops.
  3. The fashion designer created a modern twist on the classic shirtwaister style.
  4. Her grandmother's shirtwaister blouse was a treasured family heirloom.
  5. The retro fashion enthusiast loved to pair her shirtwaister skirts with ankle boots.
  6. The shirtwaister silhouette accentuated her hourglass figure.
  7. The vintage shop specialized in selling authentic 1950s shirtwaister dresses.
  8. The fashion magazine featured a spread on how to style a shirtwaister outfit.
  9. She accessorized her shirtwaister ensemble with a wide belt and statement necklace.
  10. The shirtwaister trend made a comeback on the runway this season.


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  • Updated 17/05/2024 - 13:24:52