Do you own a little black dress? Or maybe you have a few? The Little Black Dress (LBD) is a classic, versatile, and timeless fashion piece that has become a must-have in most women’s wardrobes. It is a simple yet elegant dress that is typically knee-length (but can be shorter or longer) and with minimal embellishments. 

1. TWIST DETAIL SHEATH DRESS from Talbot’s – The little black dress I chose as an example to create the outfits in this article.
2. R & K Originals Short Sleeve Midi Sheath Dress from JCPenny – Pullover knit dress with round collar and short sleeves.
3. NY COLLECTION Plus Size Ruched A-Line Dress at Macy’s – This dress features a flattering ruched waist and ¾ sleeves.
4. Cap Sleeve Front Slit Knit Dress from Nordstrom – Pretty LBD designed with a flattering jewel neck and cap sleeves.
5. Chiffon Ruffle Midi Dress from Chico’s – This sleeveless ultra-feminine dress is styled with a flattering A-line skirt.

I have my favorite little black dress that I have had for several years now. I have brought it to my dressmaker a few times to alter the look a little, but to this day it’s still my favorite little black dress.

History of the LBD

The LBD first gained popularity in the 1920s when fashion designer Coco Chanel introduced it as a fashion must-have. Its popularity soared in the 1960s when fashion icon Audrey Hepburn wore a Givenchy LBD in the movie Breakfast at Tiffany’s.

The LBD has since become a fashion staple that can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion. It can be worn to work, a wedding, a cocktail party, or even a funeral. Its simplicity allows it to be paired with different accessories, such as jewelry, shoes, and handbags, to create a variety of looks.

The LBD’s versatility and timeless style make it essential in any woman’s wardrobe. It is a classic piece that will never go out of style and can be worn for years to come.

The little black dress, or LBD, is something that many women turn to when they want to look elegant and also want to be comfortable. The little black dress can go from office to evening wear with ease, which is why this one basic piece of clothing has withstood the test of time.

Accessorizing Your LBD for Every Season and Occasion

It’s astonishing how many looks we can get out of a simple black dress! This foundational piece can be dressed up or dressed down for any occasion. It’s important to find a dress that is comfortable and meets your individual needs whether it’s long or short, straight or flowy, sexy or conservative.

I chose this LBD from Talbot’s and will show you how you can easily dress it up and dress it down.

TWIST DETAIL SHEATH DRESS

Outfit #1 – Formal Wedding

This LBD is easy to dress up with gold accessories and a luxurious shawl wrap for the perfect formal look.

INC INTERNATIONAL CONCEPTS Floral Evening Wrap at Macy’s

Flier Pointy Toe Pumps at Nine West

INC INTERNATIONAL CONCEPTS Hether Shiny Mesh Clutch at Macy’s

Round-Cut Diamond Pendant Necklace and Earrings Set at Macy’s

Outfit #2 – At the Office

The dress can also be accessorized to achieve a professional and put-together look.

KASPER Tweed Open Front Contrast Trim Blazer at Macy’s

Cobb Hill Laurel Rivet Boot at Zappos

Kyelle Jet Set Satchel at Nine West

TORY BURCH Miller Huggie Hoop Earrings at Nordstrom

Outfit #3 – Casual Afternoon Birthday Party

You can dress this LBD down with casual accessories to transform it into an everyday casual dress.

KAREN SCOTT Plus Size Luxe-Soft Ribbed Cardigan at Macy’s

Naturalizer Maxwell flats at Zappos

ECHO GEO NECKERCHIEF at Talbots

Dooney & Bourke Gretta Backpack at Zappos

Did you notice how simple it is to dress up and dress down an item of clothing? When choosing a little black dress, opt for one that has the least embellishments. That way it will be more versatile and it basically becomes a blank canvas for you to work with.

Here are a few more great LBD options from various retailers and designers.

R & K Originals Short Sleeve Midi Sheath Dress

NY COLLECTION Plus Size Ruched A-Line Dress at Macy’s

Cap Sleeve Front Slit Knit Dress from Nordstrom

Chiffon Ruffle Midi Dress from Chico’s

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Do you own a little black dress? Where did you purchase it? Do you wear it often? Do you think that you will purchase a little black dress if you don’t already have one in your wardrobe? Leave your thoughts and comments below.