A striped shirt dress in classic proportions works as a layering piece because stripes have enough visual interest to keep the piece from disappearing under your other clothes while staying understated enough not to compete. Vertical stripes elongate which helps when you are layering. Horizontal stripes work if the scale is small and the color contrast is not extreme. Navy and white stripes or black and cream stripes create enough pattern interest without overwhelming the piece. The shirt construction provides actual functionality with pockets and a collar. Stripes feel intentional without requiring you to think too hard about print choice. A striped shirt dress proves that a layering piece can be interesting on its own and still play nicely with others.