The 'shift dress' is one of the most versatile items a woman can own. It can be worn plain or with jewelry piled on, with tights or bare-legged, with flats, heels, or even boots, this dress is as versatile as your own style can be.

A 'shift dress' has a certain something that makes any woman who wears one look polished and put together. It can transcend the seasons, it's simple and classic, and it's a great work-to-play dress.Being so versatile, it's easy to dress up or dress down a shift dress, and there are several ways to wear it. Here are just a few ways to wear different styles of shift dresses:

For work: A dress with a tailored collar, short sleeves, and flattering but not too sexy fit makes any woman intelligent, stylish and clean-cut.'J. Crew'is known for their shift dresses ' even First Lady Michelle Obama has made them famous ' but other labels, like Gap,'Lauren by Ralph Lauren'and Land's End make tailored shift dresses to die for.

From work to happy hour: Bold prints make a statement. On a dress for work, make sure they're not too loud, but just loud enough. A dress like one by'Filippa K. doesn't have a crazy print ' just a nice, bold paisley that can go from day to night.

For a night on the town: Banana Republic has an asymmetrical style shift dress that is perfect for holiday parties and any nightclub in town! The soft, delicate ruffles and metallic color creates a look that's flirty, sexy and fun.

For the weekend: Don't get too lazy with your look, but just lazy enough. Worn with tights, slouchy boots and a boyfriend cardigan, a structured shift dress looks casual.It's up to you how to accessorize your look ' loads of chunky necklaces or just a simple necklace, with a belt or without, with a jeweled clutch or an oversized handbag, a shift dress matches just about anything.