What is a sundress and why is it seen as such a quintessential clothing item?

A heated discussion about one of the most ubiquitous garments grapples with questions like femininity and tradition. Photo: The New York Times

Many people say sundresses are bright and floral, maybe blue or yellow. White is widely accepted. Pastels are classic. Black is divisive. No one really talks about grey.

On the resale platform Depop, a seller named Bianca Steele listed a “Boho Black Sundress 100% Viscose sundress made in India”.