Every girl needs a little black dress, according to one of the most well-known fashion norms. Audrey Hepburn popularized this look, and she wasn’t incorrect. You can wear a little black dress to almost any occasion, at any time, and look wonderfully put-together.
It’s a simple style choice for a dinner date, a night out with the girls, a crucial meeting with clients, or practically any other occasion…
If you wear it on a fishing trip, you might get some strange glances. However, there are so many diverse styles that qualify as a little black dress that deciding which one to wear might be difficult. To be well-dressed and ready for every event, what types of little black dresses should you have in your closet?
What is Little Black Dress?
What is a little black dress, exactly? It’s difficult to discern what would qualify for this well-known fashion label when there are so many various designs of gowns. A small black dress, on the other hand, has a hem that ends somewhere above the ankle. And, of course, it has to be completely black.
There’s a huge world of style to discover within these very loose limitations. When it comes to style, which types of little black dresses are considered the most essential?
A sheath dress has a straight skirt and is somewhat form-fitting. It can be sleeveless or sleeved, low-cut or high-cut, and sleeveless or sleeved. A little black sheath dress is a terrific alternative for businesswear or daywear of any kind as long as you don’t reveal too much skin.
You may add a jacket for a more formal look, a string of pearls for a touch of refinement, and still, be ready to kick some ass in those high heels. But if you must wear a sheath dress in the evening, no worries! For a stunning midnight outfit, add some statement earrings, a sequined clutch, and a pair of eye-catching heels.
Since the 1950s, the flared little black dress has been popular. This silhouette has a timeless retro vibe that’s great for daytime activities as well as formal occasions like weddings and funerals. The flared skirt is easy to wear and quite forgiving if you missed a few workouts last month. It also has a way of making your waist look smaller by slimming it.
A slip dress is the perfect little black dress for a sultry twilight appearance. Slip dresses are simple and lovely, usually with spaghetti straps in a relaxed, straight form. Because slip dresses are often constructed with thin fabric in basic, straight patterns that let your natural curves do all the talking, it’s a really comfortable and sensuous dress to wear.
Wrap dresses are a great option for curvaceous people. This style accentuates your curves while slimming your waist. The wrap style is versatile enough to wear to the workplace or to a dinner party, allowing for a seamless transition from day tonight. A wrap dress can be worn practically anywhere, so it’s a terrific thing to have in your closet. Wrap dresses might be difficult to wear for slimmer ladies since they can suffocate your style.
The shift dress is a terrific choice for women who aren’t very curvaceous. The straight, clean lines and simple design flatter a thin figure. Shift dresses are simple and unadorned, falling in an A-line sweep with a hem that ends above the knee. This look can effortlessly transition from a business lunch to a cocktail party, especially if you switch out your traditional pumps for some stunning stiletto heels in the style.
History of Little Black Dress
Although Audrey Hepburn is credited with popularizing the little black dress, Coco Chanel is credited with developing it. In the 1920s, she designed a dress known as “the Ford.” She was inspired by the black habits of the nuns she observed while growing up in a rural French monastery, according to folklore. The nickname “the Ford” was inspired by the Model T automobile. At the time, this new car was all the rage, and it was only available in black.
It was a risky move. It was the Roaring Twenties, and color was the most fashionable fashion trend of the time. Pastels, jewel tones, and dazzling white were all over the place. Black, on the other hand, was created solely for the sake of sorrow.
However, Cocoa Chanel’s creation of the first couture little black dress irrevocably transformed fashion. Since then, the little black dress has never gone out of style and is currently considered a fashion must-have.
Tips of Wearing a Little Black Dress
Black is regarded as a universal color since it may be worn by everyone. That does not, however, imply that everyone should. For some complexion types and hair hues, black can be highly unattractive. It’s not always simple to wear this color. You’ll want to wear colorful makeup with a little black dress since black has a habit of wiping you out.
If you use dark lipstick or eyeshadow, your features will blend together. You should also wear jewelry to break up the look. Try rich gems like pearls, something gleaming like diamonds, or vibrant jewel tones.
The accessories are the key to wearing any little black dress (or anything else). Choose shoes and a purse in a bright jewel tone or even a neon color to add pops of color to the appearance. Another excellent method to add a splash of color is with a belt, although this will only work with certain dress designs. With a flared skirt, a belt can be really attractive.
At times, Audrey Hepburn wore magnificent hats with her small black gowns. This appearance is still appropriate for daytime occasions. It’s especially useful if you’re heading to a racetrack, a wedding, an Easter event, a picnic, or to watch an outdoor sporting event such as tennis or golf. Put on a pair of black sunglasses like Audrey Hepburn and channel your inner glam diva.
The little black dress is so much fun to wear since you can experiment with the style and pair it with almost anything. It’s a blank canvas for you to play around with different looks and experiment with your own style. You can transform a single little black dress into a variety of outfits by changing your hair, accessories, and jewelry. Stock up on a few of these dresses, or even more, and you’ll be ready to take on any style challenge. Why can’t it work for you, too, if it worked for Coco Chanel and Audrey Hepburn?
Is a Little Black Dress Formal?
The little black dress is usually considered as a casual or cocktail dress. The classic LBD is a cocktail dress designed for after-work or semi-formal occasions. To a white tie event, you should only wear a formal gown. An LBD is appropriate for a prom or other school dance.
The little black dress (LBD) is a staple in every woman’s wardrobe. This flexible fashion piece can let you accept a lot of invitations for a night out. In general, an LBD can meet the wardrobe requirements for a casual or semi-formal occasion. A cocktail-length LBD is not considered a formal gown.
When an LBD deviates from the norm and hangs about the ankles or reaches the floor, it’s ideal for a formal occasion. The classic LBD, on the other hand, falls just above the knee or mid-thigh. It has a mini-dress length, which explains the LBD portion.
A little black dress is any cocktail dress that is entirely black, regardless of length. You can wear it to any event except a wedding or a formal event if you wear it with matching heels and an evening bag.
These dresses come in a wide range of styles. They’re available in almost every cut and style. A sheath dress, formal dress, bodycon dress, mini dress, cocktail dress, slip dress, party dress, maxi dress, and basic black dress are among the LBDs available. A little black dress can be any style of dress as long as it is seductive and completely black.
Necklines and hemlines differ. Some LBDs include exquisite needlework, while others have sequins. A tight and flared cocktail dress, as well as a one-shoulder or off-the-shoulder LBD, may be found. For a black-tie event, you might wear a longer LBD or tea-length gown, but for a white-tie event, you must wear a suitable evening gown, which implies a full-length formal gown.
How to Style with a Little Black Dress
You have a wealth of wardrobe possibilities because Little Black Dresses come in so many different patterns. You can buy multiple LBDs to provide yourself a variety of options for sophisticated occasions. LBDs are appropriate for both summer and winter. It’s easy to style because of its adaptability. While you can occasionally break the laws of fashion, you must first learn the dos and don’ts.
- Dress appropriately for the occasion, which entails learning what to wear for different types of events.
- Wear your LBD with a belt. It will draw attention to your waist.
- In the cold, layer your outfit. Add a leather jacket for a more edgier look. Choose a denim jacket for a laid-back look.
- If you need to wear an LBD to work, pair it with a black formal blazer.
- Underneath your dress, wear black leggings. You’ll still look great while being toasty.
- Accessorize with a vibrant stole or a patterned scarf. You don’t have to go overboard with these accessories when it comes to pairing them with your jacket.
- In the summer, wear sandals, and in the winter, strappy heels, statement heels, or boots.
- Under your black dress, avoid wearing metallic leggings or colored hose.
- Even if you think black is too dreary, don’t go crazy with jewelry, purses, or accessories.
Outfit Ideas with Little Black Dress
Simply pair your stylish LBD with black shoes and a wallet purse, sometimes known as a wristlet, and you’re ready to go. You can also take your styling to the next level and create a trendy mood that becomes a neighborhood trend.
Wear an overcoat with a Little black dress
You can dress up in a trench coat or a wool coat. A duster length works with any dress length, but a pea coat requires a shorter dress. The length of your coat should be equal to or more than the length of your dress. This blend offers a splash of color to your ensemble without taking away from its refinement.
You can wear shoes with multiple hues, such as strappy heels with thin straps of various colors. Remember that with pants, thicker strapped heels and sandals work best. A slinkier shoe is required for a dress.
Combine black knee-high boots with a casual midi- or maxi-length dress.
Boots should never be worn with a formal gown and should never be worn with a party dress. With a gown, heels or slippers are appropriate.
Purchase a stretchable little black dress that can snap back into form after washing to keep your sexiness while pregnant. This also allows you to wear it post-partum. In the early months of pregnancy, wear it with black pencil heels, then move to flat pumps in the third trimester. You can appear fashionable while remaining at ease. Accessorize with an evening bag in leopard print or a gold or silver beaded bag.
Traditional lacy black dress with cutwork is the perfect LBD fashion
Sleeveless or long-sleeved see-through sleeves are available. With cream or nude-colored heels and a matching purse, you can amp up the romanticism.
Choose an LBD with red piping or a red lace overlay for the winter holidays. If you celebrate Christmas, a long-sleeved LBD paired with black and red heels and a red purse can keep you warm while looking festive.
New Year’s Eve look
Try an LBD with silver or gold metallic shoes and a purse for New Year’s Eve looks. Stick to the nude hose for this outfit. Metallic and black hose don’t match well with metallic shoes. Anything metallic should only be used as a decorative element.
Plus-size women rejoice
The little black dress is stunning on you. The color black is the most slimming. LBDs are available in a range of lengths, as well as sleeve lengths. Choose a skirt length that elongates your legs and a sleeve length that conceals any arm fat just beneath the armpit. A three-quarter-length sleeve or a full-length sleeve is ideal.
Women with toned arms
In a strapless or spaghetti strap little black dress, women with toned arms can flaunt their arms. These styles are available in a variety of lengths, ranging from a mini-dress to a full-length ball gown. Strapless or spaghetti straps are always lovely in their appearance. They’re ideal for any semi-formal gathering or dance.
Little Black Dress On a chilly night
A cape or a fur stole can be worn instead of a coat to keep you warm. You don’t have to limit yourself to trench or pea coats.
Make sure your jewelry is in sync. Wear a modest gold necklace and bracelet with gold dangling earrings. Wear a statement necklace in a matching metal or with matching jewels if you’re wearing simple earring studs or solitaires. Always wear one or two discreet pieces of jewelry to balance out your one bold piece.
Coffee date or dinner
The LBD may also create a great casual vibe. It’s also suitable for concerts and opera. When it comes to the latter, wear a semi-formal LBD if your seats are in a box. You can wear a “Sunday dress” if you sit in the main auditorium. Pair a black shift or simple black T-shirt dress in midi-length with white mules and a black and white clutch purse for a coffee date or other informal occasion. Wear it with a black cardigan with white piping or a black bomber jacket on a chilly day.
Ways to Accessorize the Little Black Dress
A little black dress is a must-have item in any woman’s collection. It’s suitable for both day and night and maybe dressed up or down. It’s critical to switch up your look to keep your dress from becoming stale. The secret to wearing the right little black dress is to accessorize it correctly.
There are a few different ways to accessorize a little black dress, but they all fall into one of a few categories. Jewelry and shoes are among the accessories for a little black dress. Let’s look through each category for ideas on how to accessorize your dress for any occasion.
Jackets
A jacket can keep you warm while also serving as an excellent LBD accessory. Pair your black dress with a leather jacket for an edgy modern style. A contrast is provided with a black leather jacket with zippers. A plain tan jacket is also an option.
A black jacket is a terrific choice for a casual dress. The jean jacket’s blue contrasts well with the black.
For sophisticated casual, a cardigan or blazer is ideal. Choose a muted color for a modest look. Choose a bright hue like pink or lime green for a vibrant, cheerful effect. You can’t go wrong with faux fur if you want to add a touch of luxury to your wardrobe.
Shoes
The correct shoe can help you freshen up your little black dress. For an evening appearance, go for a heel, and for a casual look, go for sneakers. Combat boots give your black dress a stylish edge. A heeled shoe can help you transition your dress from day tonight.
Although black heels are timeless, you can add some color to your ensemble by wearing contrasting shoes. Your little black dress will look more trendy with white and brightly colored shoes.
Jewelry
With her little black dress, a woman wears pearl necklaces, bracelets, and earrings.
One of the simplest ways to accessorize your black dress is with jewelry. When it comes to jewelry, the neckline is the most important consideration. If you want to wear a statement necklace, this is very vital.
A pendant necklace will echo the contour of your dress if you have a v-shaped neckline. Consider a dramatic pendant or a delicate necklace with statement earrings if your dress has a plunging neckline.
For a sweetheart neckline, a thick necklace is ideal. Wear it with a pair of understated earrings. Deep daring necklines look great with chandelier earrings and a simple necklace.
A bracelet can also help to spice up your style. It’s preferable to make one standout piece and keep the rest of your outfit simple. Keep your necklace and earrings basic if you choose a striking bracelet.
Miscellaneous Accessories
Other accessories can round out your look and make your little black dress suitable for almost any event.
In the fall and winter, a scarf is the ideal LBD accessory. It can be used to add a splash of color. For a boho or feminine vibe, choose a flowery scarf. Choose a vibrant, vividly colored scarf for a daring style.
In the cooler months, tights are another method to accessorize your black dress. They are appropriate for casual occasions. Tights in black are timeless. Just be sure to add a splash of color with your other accessories.
Your black dress can be spiced up with a belt. It’s an easy technique to spruce up your dress. It gives you an immediate waistline, which may be really attractive.
Choose a black belt with a prominent buckle for a stylish outfit. You can also add a splash of color with a colored belt.
A little black dress accessory can also be a purse or clutch. A black clutch is classy and appropriate for any formal occasion. Choose a brightly colored purse for date night to provide a splash of brightness. Choose a vivid pattern purse or beach bag for a boho style.
Red heels, a red purse, and red lips complimented this woman’s little black dress.
Begin with the dress itself. Is it intricate and subtle, or is it straightforward? If your dress is embellished, keep accessories to a minimum so that the dress can show. Use a simple dress as a backdrop for killer accessories if the dress is simple.
You can choose where the eye is drawn by accessorizing your LBD. Choose a brightly colored heeled shoe to draw attention to your legs. Choose statement earrings if you want to draw attention to your face.
Choose a statement necklace if you’re self-conscious about your waist. It may seem counterintuitive, but wearing a belt can help you trim down. It focuses attention to the belt rather than the waist. When coupled with a blazer, this looks quite good.
Although black goes with every hue, it’s crucial to pick a color scheme. This does not imply that all of your accessories must be the same hue. All you have to do now is pick colors that go nicely together. If you choose one bright, dramatic color, the rest of your palette should be muted or neutral.
Little Black Dress Types
Bodycon Little Black Dress
Show off that amazing body with the help of a bodycon dress. These figure-hugging items are ideal for highlighting your hourglass figure and adding drama to your ensemble. With the help of certain accessories, a black bandage LBD looks best in a solid color. They’re a bright and sensual addition to your wardrobe that can be worn to practically any occasion!
Casual Little Black Dress
With a casual LBD, you can stay cool while still looking fashionable. They’re easy to match with a leather moto jacket and sneakers because they’re laid-back and comfortable. Whether you’re headed to the zoo or the grocery store, this casual outfit will keep you warm while also appearing effortlessly attractive. If it’s a little chilly outside, wear it with an ankle bootie and a bomber jacket. You can wear these dresses with nearly anything because they’re so adorable!
Classic Little Black Dress
If something isn’t broken, don’t try to fix it! Every woman’s collection should have a classic LBD – exquisite and timeless, you can’t go wrong! A mock turtleneck or a Bardot-style neckline can be both enticing and timeless. Everyone’s attention is drawn to you in a sleeveless or long-sleeved black dress. Keep it simple with a single black color, then add interest with accessories and shoes. Cocktail or tea-length gowns are ideal for occasions such as weddings, corporate evenings, or dinner with friends. You won’t go wrong with this classic, whether it’s in an A-line, bodycon, empire waist, or shift silhouette.
Cocktail Little Black Dress
With a black cocktail dress, you may be flirty and trendy. They’re ideal for a date night or a semi-formal occasion. This LBD is distinguished by its length, which falls just above or below the knee. Experiment with different fabrics to add drama — silk and satin are good alternatives for a summer occasion. Dare to add a smidgeon of glitz to your ensemble – cocktail attire looks fantastic with a smidgeon of glitz!
Little Black Dress with Sleeves
Make a statement with your LBD’s sleeves. The options for this highly beautiful collection are infinite, whether you choose long, flowing sleeves or a Victorian-inspired puff shoulder. If it’s a warmer event or you’ll be inside, go for an off-the-shoulder or an 80s-inspired dress. You’ll be the center of attention in each room you step into, no matter how you wear it!
Lace Little Black Dress
The lace LBD is a feminine and traditional piece that can be worn to any occasion. These delicate designs are opulent and adventurous, and they can elevate your night out. Whether you wear it as a subtle element or go all-out and wear lace from head to toe, you’ll make a statement wherever you go. When it comes to accessories, keep it simple: pearls and neutrals work best with the delicate fabric. Wear a leather moto jacket to add an edgy edge to the traditional look, and you’ll have the right mix of lovely and punk.
Maternity Little Black Dress
Getting dressed for two has never looked so fantastic! When worn with a baby belly, an LBD looks stunning, so why not flaunt it to the world? A loose-fitting midi dress is a perfect choice for running errands or having lunch with the family. A solid black bodycon is the right pick for you if you’re going out to paint the town red. Maintain a continuous line from the hump to your behind by keeping the length at or just below your knee. This adorable attire will highlight your pregnant glow so beautifully that you’ll light up the room!
Plus Size Little Black Dress
With the appropriate LBD, you can seduce the entire room. An A-line silhouette cinches at your waist and flares out to flatter your body. They’re ideal for a first date or a girls’ breakfast. A figure-hugging square neck bodycon style is the way to go if you want to turn heads. In any season and for any occasion, dark colors are ideal for accessorizing. Your stunning body will be exhibited to perfection with a flattering neckline and a body-skimming form!
V-Neck Little Black Dress
The V-neck is a flattering style that is excellent for all weather conditions and is ideal for women with a larger figure. This classic and elegant style is available in a variety of lengths and can be worn for a variety of occasions and seasons. Wear a wrap or a tea-length black dress to work events. You can’t go wrong with this adorable design if you’re going to a casual event like a house party.
FAQs of Little Black Dress
What Is the Best Place to Buy a Little Black Dress?
Start by looking through the main department retailers’ websites. LBDs come in a variety of styles. Some designers specialize in these gowns, and you can’t go wrong with Vera Wang, Gucci, Versace, or Calvin Klein’s current collections. These reputable haute couture houses offer flawless style selections. If you can’t buy their couture, start looking at their websites for inspiration. After you’ve developed your thoughts, check out H & M’s assortment. Charlotte Russe has a large selection as well. Good luck with your shopping.
What’s the best way to spice up a little black dress?
The answer is simple: with the correct accessories. Adding red is one way to do this. Your look can be spiced up with a red clutch, red shoes, or red nail polish. Jewelry can also give a touch of glitz to your ensemble. Upgrade your black dress with a statement item in gold or silver to add sophistication.
What kind of jewelry works well with a black dress?
The style of your dress and the occasion will determine this. A boho appearance is created by a colorful thick necklace, which is ideal for a slip dress. Choose an eye-catching pendant for an attractive style. Make sure your necklace is either above or below the collarbone.
How do you find the ideal little black dress?
The ideal little black dress is one that complements your personal style and figure. It’s best to try on a variety of styles until you find one that looks good on you. It should, of course, match your personality. You will feel gorgeous and confident in the correct dress.
What’s the best way to wear pearls with a black dress?
Pearls are timeless. A white pearl necklace looks stunning when worn with a black dress. A single strand of pearls is a refined style that looks well with a maxi or cocktail dress. Pair a multi-strand pearl necklace with a plunging neckline for a bold appearance.
Who popularised the little black dress?
Coco Chanel popularized the little black dress in the 1920s. The Chanel black dress was dubbed the “Model T” of LBD by Vogue.
What makes the little black dress so classic?
Because it’s effective! The black dress flatters every lady, regardless of her personal style or body type. It’s also adaptable. With the correct accessories, the same dress can be worn for a number of events.
