Little black dresses: from mini dresses and midi dresses to wrap and pleated styles
Some fashion trends come and go with the seasons but there’s one dress that never goes out of style and you need at least one in your wardrobe.
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While some pieces in your wardrobe barely last a season before they’re cast aside, there’s one timeless item that will always earn its spot on a hanger.
We’re talking about the little black dress. The little black dress, or LBD as it’s affectionately known, is said to have originated in the 1920s when Coco Chanel wanted to create something stylish yet versatile – and its relevance lives on today.
According to head of style at The Iconic, Nicole Adolphe, the LBD is an essential in every woman’s fashion line-up.
“The reason you will so often find a little black dress in any fashionista’s wardrobe is because it is the perfect basic that never dates and is, in many ways, foolproof – it’s hard to go wrong with it,” Nicole tells news.com.au. “The beauty of an LBD is that once you find one that suits you, it can be one of the most versatile pieces in your wardrobe.”
LITTLE BLACK DRESSES TO TRY
EVERYDAY
Whether you’re heading to work, dinner with friends or a cocktail event, these LBDs cater for it all.
Camilla And Marc Corsica Pleated Dress, $499
A wrap style dress with a cinched waist and pinched pleats for added fun.
Country Road Flounce Mini Dress, $179
The beautiful button detailing and linen blend material makes this dress perfect paired with boots, heels or sandals.
Witchery V-neck Pleat Dress, $169.95
The V-neck and collar makes this flattering pleated dress an everyday winner.
Seed Heritage Black Broderie Dress, $99.95
Beautiful broderie detailing and ever so slightly puffed sleeves make this dress at home in any environment.
One Fell Swoop Wrap Dress, $349
This drapey wrap dress can be worn with sneakers, boots or heels in the boardroom and beyond.
Reformation Chianti Open Back Tie Detailed Crepe Midi Dress, $221.27
With a captivating open back, this simple, figure-hugging slip dress can be worn over a turtleneck in winter and with simple sandals in summer.
CASUAL
Yes, the LBD powers can extend to the beach and casual barbecues, too.
The Hidden Way Layla Babydoll Dress, $69.99
Detailed bell sleeves and a relaxed fit make this cotton dress a hit.
MVN Margot Midi Dress In Black, $89.95
Puffy sleeves, button detailing and its soft, fine knit material make this dress supremely versatile.
Supre Juliet Split Front Midi Dress, $40
A reimagining of the classic ‘90s slip dress, the deep split and chest detailing will see you through summer and beyond.
AERE Casual Linen Dress, $99
Made from breathable, breezy linen, this dress is your spring/summer throw-on-and-go dress.
Rue Stiic Nia Shirt Dress, $199
A simple, relaxed and timeless short shirt dress you can lounge around in effortlessly.
Roxy New Indigo Night Dress, $89.99
The long sleeves and coconut buttons make this dress a laid-back go-to.
DRESSY
Lucky enough to have a big event coming up? Try one of these more formal, dressy options.
Bec + Bridge Emeline Asymmetric Midi Dress, $350
With a sculptural fit and asymmetric neckline, this black dress can make an appearance at any formal event for years to come.
ASOS DESIGN Asymmetric Wrap Mini Dress With Contrast Buttons, $76
The padded shoulders and asymmetric button detailing make for a chic, dressy LBD.
Third Form Tie Up Neck Midi Dress, $220
Meet your new favourite cocktail dress with a chic adjustable nape.
Forcast Joslyn Textured Pencil Dress, $99.99
As timeless as the LBD itself, a pencil dress has a place in every woman’s wardrobe.
Pasduchas Idol Belt Midi Dress, $329
Combining a 1950s silhouette with a modern bust zip, this dress is a classic, timeless evening option.
What accessories work well with a little black dress?
“The beauty with black is that it works with whatever you may have on hand – from feminine gold or silver jewellery, to adding a bit of flair and colour with a printed silk scarf or statement earrings,” Nicole recommends. “When it comes to bags, keep it simple by pairing with black, or add a contrast colour to make it pop. If you’re a minimalist, but want to still add a bit of visual interest, opt for bags in tones like cream, tan or khaki.”
What shoes should I wear with a little black dress?
The wonderful thing about the LBD is its ability to be worn everywhere from cocktail events down to a casual picnic in the park.
“Personally, a chunky black boot is a go-to, as it gives the look a cooler edge while offering comfort,” says Nicole.
“Other must-have boots this season include the bold knee high or a classic flat ankle boot. For a more casual aesthetic, you can never go wrong with white or playful coloured sneakers for an effortless day look. Opt for a mule or sandal for a slightly dressier feel, and of course, if you have the opportunity to go somewhere special right now, a strappy heel is always a winner in my books.”
The other fashion staple everyone needs in their wardrobe is a great white T-shirt.
Looking for more style ideas and fashion staples? Check out our Best Of Fashion section.