A belt of a similar color to the dress could give you a waist emphasis without breaking up the line too much between top and bottom. A wider belt could give a more structured look, maybe. Just make sure the dress doesn’t look rumpled or bunched up, and i think a belt would be nice :) Add to the SC vibe with delicate accessories, and you’ll look great! Sometimes if I wear something non-SC, it helps to just balance that out with some details that are at least somewhat SC :) More on reddit.com

The patterns in the final photo remind me of Marimekko. Maybe some knitted tunics might match, I don't think they have any shift dresses in their current collection by maybe on Etsy they have some from a previous collection. More on reddit.com

I think your friend meant sheath dresses when she said "fitted shift dresses". Sheath dresses somewhat skim the curves of the body but not bodycon tight, while shift dresses are much looser/baggier, usually with a slight a-line or straight up-and-down cut. Some stores sometimes mixes/switches the terms between the two though :/ You didn't mention the formality, but I'm assuming you're looking for business-casual dresses? Here are some that lean more towards "business" than "casual": sheath dress shift dresses 1 , 2 (these are much too short, but you get the idea.) wrap dresses (except for the last one, it's too short and leans a little too casual) They need to hit just a few inches above the knee at the shortest. You can wear sleeveless dresses, but only if you are wearing a cardigan or blazer on top of it which you don't take off. You can check your company's/HR's policy on bare arms, too, but for the most part, it's usually a "no" for somewhat formal to formal business environment. More on reddit.com

I'm currently on a bus in Portugal wearing the Athleta V Neck Elation Hybrid Dress it checks all of your boxes, has a built in bra and deep pockets too! More on reddit.com