Tunics as a trend have been present for a few seasons now, cropping up on street-style mavens including Yasmin Sewell and Miroslava Duma and gracing the Spring ’15 runways at The Row, Marni and Calvin Klein. But why? The appeal lies in the pieces’s versatility—a tunic does just as well in a boardroom as it does in a ballroom, managing to feel both retro (think ’60s shift dresses) and modern (think clean, sculptural lines). What’s more it looks best layered over pants, which officially makes it the ideal transitional piece in your wardrobe. Here, 3 ways to wear the trend now.

The tunic is a hybrid between a top and a dress with a hemline that hits mid-thigh.

Photo: Ben Rosser/BFAnyc.com

For Work

Take it to the office with a simple color palette and modern accessories.

For The Weekend

Layer a sleeveless knit version over a white tee and finish with embroidered extras.

For A Night Out

A plunging long-sleeve style is great for a chilly spring evening. Add more drama with shimmering pants and a luxe clutch.