One of the perks of being a woman is getting dressed in 10 seconds flat. Enter the shirtdress. Every woman has at least one dress in her wardrobe she can count on in a pinch, when running late or in a frantic mid-fashion crisis. Rejoice—this season, it seems every design house has their own version of the shirtdress. If there was ever a perfect time to replenish that supply of wardrobe staples, it’s now.

The shirtdress is a classic essential for any woman. Based on the traditional button-front dress shirt, shirtdresses are all variations of this form, with buttons down the front and simple lines. They can be belted or unbelted, collared or not, worn with heels, boots, or sandals, dressed up or dressed down; you get the picture. A shirtdress is nearly the perfect dress and easily rivals the little black dress for its versatility and superhero ability to avert fashion disasters. One adds polished sophistication in mere seconds, everyone looks fabulous in them, and this year, more than ever, there’s a glorious selection to choose from. The traditional cut is still as ubiquitous and fresh as ever, but there are other options ranging from cool resort chic to those with modern, edgy touches.

Shirtdresses were first introduced during the postwar period as a direct rebuff to French couture. Their simplicity and inherent elegance were a refreshing change to the elaborate and occasionally fussy details of continental designs. They became more popular and entrenched in everyday fashion when they were brought into the realm of resort wear. This spring, Banana Republic has two shirtdresses that make envisioning a tropical holiday all the easier.

Always a summertime favourite, linen (blended here with cotton) provides the perfect foundation for a navy and white floral-print shirtdress ($165, $109 on sale). With a Peter Pan collar, gathered short sleeves, and a hemline coquettishly above the knees, this small-scale dress with delicate features is perfectly balanced by its large, bold graphic pattern. For a breezier option, Banana Republic also has a silk shirtdress in an abstract paisley print of bright orange-red, white, and navy blue ($130). With such a busy pattern, the cut here is clean with a mandarin collar, open front (buttons start partway down), simple short sleeves, and a hemline that also falls above the knees.

For a stylish variation, The Block (350 West Cordova Street) offers a lovely shirtdress in a cotton-linen blend (90 percent to 10 percent) in lilac with white pinstripe by Filippa K ($275). It has a thin collar, three-quarter–length sleeves with buttons and cuffs, and two front slash pockets. It also hits mid thigh and has a dropped waist, giving it an overall sleek, chic flapper-esque feel.

Gravity Pope Tailored Goods (2203 West 4th Avenue) can always be counted on to stock the wares of fresh, innovative designers, and this spring their collection of shirtdresses is wonderfully modern. Sweden-based Rodebjer has three variations of the shirtdress, each available in grey or black. “Faye” ($458) has a rounded neckline, wide elbow-length sleeves, two front pockets, and a stunning double row of chrome buttons down the front, ending at the knees. The “Cornelia” ($497) has a more streamlined silhouette, with darts at the bust, waist, and hips; a front zipper; and a pencil skirt that ends at the knees. The “Nadja” ($458) is considerably fuller in shape, with gathers around the neckline which flow out and extend into kimono sleeves and a full, knee-length skirt. There are side pockets and a neat, single row of chrome buttons. All are made of a very lightweight polyester with a slight sheen, which gives them a lofty, airy, butterflylike quality.

Linked to last season’s return of the waistline, shirtdresses continue to be a classic style statement. Originally revered for their celebration of the female form, showing off the waist and legs, the shirtdress remains a versatile wardrobe staple, able to morph from polished professional to cabana casual. Throw in that sexy slept-over-at-the-boyfriend’s vibe, and you have the perfect all-occasion dress—in 10 seconds flat.