The little black dress is a closet staple that adapts to the fashion landscape. Modern variations of this timeless style feature unexpected silhouettes, asymmetrical cuts, and more.
Textured fabrics add depth to the little black dress, making it tactile and contemporary. This velvet midi dress elevates the LBD to the next level. Wear it with heeled pumps for a night out.
The Classic
The classic little black dress is the staple you need in your closet to elevate any outfit. It is the perfect piece to wear for any occasion and flatters all body shapes. The LBD covers whether you want to make an elegant impression at a cocktail party or keep things casual with a midi length.
While Coco Chanel may have devised the little black dress, Audrey Hepburn solidified it as a fashion icon when she wore her Givenchy dress in Breakfast at Tiffany’s (1961). The movie is considered one of the most iconic moments of pop culture and has withstood the test of time.
The popularity of casual fabrics for dresses during the 1980s brought the LBD back into style. This era was also marked by the rise of “grunge” fashion, which blended elements from both traditional and punk. Joan Collins’ dazzling costumes in the TV show Dynasty sparked demand for glamorous evening wear, met with new designs that emphasized a sexy yet classic figure.
The Mini
Whether you like the classic silhouette or the more contemporary form-fitting options, you’ll find countless black dresses to suit your style. Look for minis that showcase alluring embellishments and stylish details like a gold chain neckline or off-the-shoulder designs that flow with refined ease. You’ll also discover sexy wrap-front dresses that hug your curves and backless bodycon options that ooze sensuality.
Regardless of size, a black dress is a versatile wardrobe staple that will never go out of style. You can wear a simple sheath dress with sneakers and a denim jacket for a chic casual look or a mini with heels and a dainty clutch for a night out with the girls.
Try this Balmain style if you want a dress that can do both. Its padded shoulders channel the fashion icon Jackie O, while its subtly structured grain de poudre wool softens the edgy look. This cocktail dress-meets-LBD from Francescas masterfully merges retro structuring with modern allure—it’s the perfect choice for a night out on the town.
The Midi
Nothing whispers effortless grace quite like a midi LBD. From floral midi dresses that are ready for a romantic beach day to chic options with sleeveless details, this collection has them all.
The midi dress emphasizes your curves with an oh-so-sexy and oh-so-sophisticated silhouette. Whether you opt for the Midi Dress with a boned bodice that nods to ’90s glam or the Closet London Plus Twisted Neckline Midi Dress that exudes woman-about-town elegance, the midi length ensures you’re never over- or under-dressed.
Versatility is a prerequisite for the little black dress, and this Cuyana Pleat-Back T-Shirt Dress takes it to new heights. It’s simple enough to wear as a lone wolf with chic tights and pumps or layer it with glitzy jewelry for a smoky cocktail evening. It’s also sustainable, ethically sourced from soft silk, and minimizes environmental impact.
The Maxi
Regarding classic style staples, few pieces have encapsulated the varying projections of women and the little black dress. From infamous creation to the midi LBD of today, this essential wardrobe can take on every era’s nuances and imagery.
While the timeless shift silhouette of this Cuyana midi dress is sure to appeal to your inner Audrey Hepburn, it’s the intricate Torchon lace and mischievous back keyhole detailing that makes this dress stand out. Pair it with elegant drop earrings and a statement clutch for a night out, or layer over a longline cardigan for traveler chic at its finest.
Dayle @artfulcitystyle rocks this long sleeve, black jersey midi dress from Closet London with sandals and accessories for a casual lunch with friends. The textured fabric of this slinky number gives it an otherworldly texture while still feeling lightweight and comfortable to wear. You’ll always want to take this dress on; perfect for daywear or eveningwear!