Shoppers looking to update their wardrobe have found a “do-it-all” dress they can wear everywhere and some even claim it earned them compliments. 

The M&S Pure Cotton Printed Midi Shirt Dress, which costs £39.50, provies women with an effortless way to look stylish, as well as having a flattering bold print that “hides the tummy” – no wonder why it has dozens of positive reviews.

Customers love the “smart and fresh” pattern that’s “suitable for all occasions”, while some pointed out the cotton is cooling and comfortable, with a handy additional feature of “deep pockets”.

The retailer said in a description of the dress: “This easy shirt dress is an effortlessly stylish piece for your summer wardrobe. The collared neck leads to the button-through front to give a neat look. This short-sleeved piece falls to a comfy midi length to finish.”

M&S made the dress in three different lengths – petite, regular and long, with sizes ranging from UK6 to UK24. One shopper shared: “I bought size 18 Long as I’m 5ft 8 – this dress is perfect – sits just above my ankles. Hides my ‘problem’ area as I hold all weight in my tummy – pattern is great to deceive the eye and fullness of skirt part is just right.

“Lots of compliments when wearing it – can dress up or down. Cool cotton just in case we get another hot “‘ay’! More colours in this shape M&S please!”

Another loved that the dress is “easy to wash with no crease when drying” and a third added: “Good value cotton dress, can be dressed up or down.To my mind it looks better with a wide belt to add shape. Bought in size 10 petite and it is a good length for 5ft person.”

Some noted that they had to size down, with one saying: “The fit is strange, to tight in the top and gabs lovely from waist down.”

Another was let down and said: “The style just didn’t suit me. It felt very big and baggy. Might suit others though. Fabric was nice.”

The shirt dress has an elasticated waistband, creating a stunning silhouette. It goes well with sandals for a summery look; or you can add Duchess Sophie’s new go-to espadrilles (£60) from Toms.

Roman’s Black Abstract Print Fit & Flare Shirt Dress is another five-star option and you can get it at £19.80 instead of £42. Whether you wear it to the office with a tailored blazer or pair it with sandals for casual days in the summer, this dress is a stylish choice for any occasion.

Monochrome fans also sing praises for the New Look shirt dress with Black Abstract Leaf Print, £37.99, which “looks and feels much more expensive than it is” despite some mentioning the fabric is “sheer”.