Guide to Wearing the Classic Little Black Dress (LBD)

The tiny black dress is the only piece of clothing that never goes out of style (LBD). This composition is not only popular now, but will continue to be so in the future.

No lady’s wardrobe is complete without the little black dress, but what’s the secret to the timeless appeal of fashion’s most iconic item? It’s the kind of dress you can wear to any occasion, whether a family or office party, a formal event or just out on the town.

The little black dress is adaptable – and it’s much older than you think. It’s only a decade or more away from its centennial – and it’s come such a long way in the last 90 years. This article will present how to pick the ideal little black dresses for you and how to style them, whether you’re buying a new one or raiding your closet.

The Origins of the Little Black Dress

 

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The little black dress is a real fashion statement. There are many different types of LBDs, but they are all ageless and easy to wear. It existed long before Coco Chanel, but she was the one who popularized it the most.

The black dress was first seen in Victorian wardrobes as a symbol of mourning. When her husband, Prince Albert, died, Queen Victoria wore it for 40 years.

The dress was introduced in the traditional flapper style with a dropped waist during the 1920s. Gabrielle Coco Chanel is responsible for the modern-day little black dress. Chanel made this dress more feminine with a straight-cut bateau neckline that hung loose to the lower or middle calf.

During the 1920s and 1930s, other designers popularized the dress as well. Audrey Hepburn may have worn Hubert de Givenchy’s most popular black dress in the 1961 film Breakfast at Tiffany’s, and the rest is history.

The LBD had become a fashion statement in the 1990s. Elizabeth Hurley wore a provocative and sexy Versace black dress on the red carpet, Princess Diana wore it as a revenge dress, and Calvin Klein made their popular black slip dress.

The LBD’s distinguishing feature is that it can be conservative and sexy. Consider it a blank canvas on which you can paint a variety of outfits. It can be worn as part of a professional work wardrobe or a perfect cocktail dress. And besides, it is you who will make the final decision.

Why Does Every Woman Need a Little Black Dress?

Woman lying in black shoes heeled
Woman reclining in small black dress, slender legs in heeled shoes

Consider these if you’re still looking for an excuse to wear an LBD.

It Is Versatile

The LBD is a versatile garment. It’s appropriate for business dinners, weddings, cocktail parties, date nights, etc. The list could go on and on. You can spruce it up more by wearing different accessories, jewelry, and shoes.

It Is a Timeless Classic

As previously stated, a little black dress is a timeless piece. You can wear it without fear of looking out of place. It’s just timeless. You’ll look stunning in an LBD no matter where you wear it, from a late-night office party to an early work meeting.

It Is Practical

If you need something to get you through the day, a little black dress is a way to go. It’s simple to transition from day to night by adding other accessories and staples.

It Is an Emergency Must-Have

We’ve all had the experience of not having anything to wear at some point in our lives. In times of despair, the LBD can be a lifesaver. So, bye-bye to unexpected situations, stressfully searching through your closet and staring in the mirror.

It Is Flattering

We all have different looks, but the little black dress flatters all body types. You can be certain that you will discover a black dress ideal for you. If you don’t like colors, you’ll be glad to know that black is slimming and complements your curves.

How to Pick the Perfect Little Black Dress

 

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The little black dress knows no bounds when it comes to styling, shapes, and versatility. That can be a blessing as there are so many to pick from, so there is bound to be one ideal for you out there.

Though it can also be a curse because, with so many options, how do you know where to begin? Here are some preliminary tips for selecting an LBD that will work for you.

Think About When You’ll Wear It

Are you looking for the ideal little black dress for day or evening wear (of course, you can wear it both ways)? Consider luxe fabrics like velvet or lace if it’s primarily for evening wear. However, if you only intend to wear it during the day, a more casual fabric, such as a jersey, might be a better option.

You Almost Certainly Want More Than One Little Black Dress

Although many black dresses will carry you to any occasion, you should probably buy more than one. Choose one that is more appropriate for daytime and one that you can wear to an unprecedented evening event.

What Do You Want to Show Off?

Consider how it will compliment your body type, conceal your “flaws,” and highlight the body parts you like, just as you would with any other item in your closet.

You may prefer a dress with sleeves to conceal your upper arms or a one-shoulder dress because you adore your shoulders. You should also look for a dress with ruching around your tummy to hide the belly. The options are limitless.

You May Need to Put On More Make-up

While black is universally flattering on the body, it is not always flattering on the skin tone because it can wash you out. Remember that you may want to wear more make-up or a piece of brighter jewelry or scarf near your face.

Accessorize to Change Your Look

The charm of a black dress is frequently a blank canvas. No one will remember if you’ve worn it to a slew of events because the accessories you choose can make it appear different each time.

See here for a more comprehensive guide to dresses!

How to Wear a Little Black Dress

Elegant Young Woman Is Looking Away, Smiling And Thinking
Beautiful young woman in elegant black cocktail dress is holding hand on chin, looking away and thinking. Three quarter length studio shot on pink background.

There are numerous ways to wear a little black dress. We’ve discovered some of the best ways to style it for various occasions, from casual to formal.

Little Black Dress for Every Day

The little black dress isn’t just an elegant piece of clothing. You can dress it down for more casual occasions as well. When you wear the same thing every day, it can get pretty boring. Make it more interesting by wearing an A-line knee-length dress with a V-neck and long sleeves.

Little Black Dress for Special Occasions

Weddings, birthdays, and engagement parties are ideal occasions to flaunt your little black dress ensemble. Whether you choose a sexier and provocative dress, such as a black lace one, or a more traditional A-line cut, you will look stunning.

Little Black Dress for the Office

The LBD is ideal for wearing to work. Your work attire should be not only functional but also fashionable. A stunning black dress with an all-over floral print is ideal for office wear. Knee-length seems more than appropriate, and half sleeves make it comfortable to wear indoors.

Little Black Dress for Family Events

We enjoy all family gatherings, such as birthday parties, dinners, and holidays. If you’ve ever wanted to know how to dress for such occasions, there’s only one answer: the little black dress. Opt for block heels and midi lengths if the event isn’t too formal. If it’s a special occasion, go for something more elegant, with a V-neckline and unique fabric.

Little Black Dresses For Petite Women

 

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Anyone under 5’4″ is considered a petite woman. And just because a lady is petite in stature does not imply that all shorter women are the same size. Many petite women have curvy, busty, or plus-size bodies.

However, there are some guidelines that all petite ladies should follow when selecting an LBD:

  • Pick an LBD with vertical details to make you appear longer.
  • Large details, such as ruffles, should be avoided as they may overpower you.
  • Wear sheer black stockings or nude shoes to lengthen your legs.
  • Choose a shorter dress or one that falls 2-3 inches below the knees.
  • A three-quarter sleeve lengthens your arms.
  • Have your LBD custom-fitted by a local tailor.
  • If you’re a big-busted petite, a higher, empire-waist dress will elongate your body.
  • Keep your accessories as simple and as dainty as possible.

Little Black Dresses For Curvy Women

A little black dress is among your best friends if you’re curvy. Black is naturally slimming, and the right dress can help you achieve a sexy look that highlights your best assets.

Here are tips for finding the perfect LBD:

  • Choose one with a v-neck or a sexier cut that draws attention to your chest.
  • Choose a length that is slightly above or below the knee.
  • To lift, use a good, supportive bra.
  • Wear your LBD with a belt.
  • Alternatively, choose an LBD with a waist-cinching detail or a belt.
  • Curvy women should opt for a wrap or sheath dress as their LBD.

Little Black Dresses For Plus-Size Women

There is no reason why plus-size women should dress in oversized, flowy clothing. Consider which assets you value the most and highlight them.

Here’s how it works:

  • Wear a long black dress if your legs make you feel self-conscious.
  • Wear a shorter LBD if you’re proud of your legs.
  • Do you adore your butt? Look for a little black dress with a sultry pencil-skirt cut.
  • Wear brightly colored and patterned bags, accessories, and shoes to avoid looking too solemn.
  • The most useful tip for plus-size women looking for the perfect LBD is finding the highest quality material that supports and flatters.
  • Avoid materials that are too tight, too thin, or too shiny, as these will highlight “flaws.”

How to Make a Classic LBD Look Modern

Rear view of barefoot female legs of black african american woman on high heels shoes
Rear view of barefoot female legs of black african american woman on high heels shoes.

Discover a few quick and easy ways to modernize a classic little black dress.

Look for a Flawless Silhouette

Begin your search for a little black dress by considering your body shape. Are you an apple, an hourglass, a ruler, a triangle, or a pear? This will assist you in determining which silhouette will look best on you.

Wrap dresses and a-line or fit-and-flare silhouettes look best on you if your figure is a cross between an hourglass and a pear. A woman with a “ruler” (or straight) body shape, on the other hand, might look best in a peplum dress or a bodycon dress.

Highlight Your Best Qualities

With a cinched wide waist belt, you can highlight your small waistline. You can lift your decolletage and show off a little cleavage with a push-up bra. If you believe your legs are your strongest asset, choose a dress with a shorter hemline but keep the rest of your outfit more covered up.

Add a Trendy Touch Using Accessories

The simplest and quickest way to update a classic little black dress is to add a trendy touch with some accessories. Animal prints, for example, are one of the hottest fashion trends. That’s why wearing an animal print clutch with your little black dress revamps your look instantly.

Accessories are also easy to incorporate a fun print or a pop of color into your outfit. Change up your look by varying the accessories you wear with your LBD.

Use Jewelry to Dress Up or Down Your Outfit

 

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Choosing what to wear and where to wear it is frequently compared to a chess game. It’s game over if you make the wrong move. However, when you plan your outfit strategically, you create a terrific first impression, which helps you score points.

If you’re going to wear a little black dress to work, limit your jewelry to chic, subtle pieces. Simple yet timeless jewelry, such as a gold tassel necklace (check this guide to necklaces for women out!), a classic link watch, or a ladylike strand of pearls, is always appropriate for the office. Consider the “less is more” mantra in the workplace.

If you plan to wear your little black dress to a romantic date night or a cocktail party, feel free to accessorize with dazzling jewelry. Diamond earrings and a matching necklace illuminate your face while working your outfit.

The little black dress is essentially a blank canvas. You can accessorize, change up your jewelry, add details, and layer it in different ways, allowing you to wear that one staple dress in various ways. Whether you own one or ten LBDs, don’t be afraid to experiment with your styling.