The Little Black Dress

One is never overdressed or underdressed with a Little Black Dress – Karl Lagerfeld

Wonderful words by Mr Lagerfeld and I feel very much the same about the LBD.

It’s a topic I actually enjoy writing about. The LBD is an absolute classic, a wardrobe staple and the one item that you can work over and over again to countless occasions.

If you are like me, you might have more than one LBD. Or perhaps that is just me? I’m completely obsessed with black 🙂

When I talk about a LBD, the Givenchy dress worn by Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany’s always comes to mind. You might think of Coco Chanel or a modern Victoria Beckham exuding the subtle yet striking elegance the LBD brings with it.

Now if you’re sitting there thinking “I would love a new LBD”, then our shopping tour today may give you some inspiration on where to find yours. But first – a few tips:

1. If possible, buy a LBD with versatility that you can layer items underneath. E.g with a blouse, roll neck or long sleeved t-shirt.
2. You should be able to wear it as a trans-seasonal piece to wear in winter with tights and boots or summer with bare legs and a simple court shoe.
3. Choose a LBD that can be accessorised with wide or thin belts to help change the look.
4. If you want it as an investment piece, opt for a high-quality fabric.
5. There are also seasonal fabrics such as cotton, chiffon for light and flowly summer looks or a thicker wool and structured fabrics for winter. Consider the finish as well – shiny fabric or textures will show curves and shape while a matt finish is more subtle in appearance.
6. Consider length. Knee or just about the knee will offer longevity. If you’re going for a full/maxi length perhaps consider a leg split. For short LBD’s, opt for a little more coverage on top such as a high neckline or sleeves.
7. Not all black dresses are slimming despite what they say. Consider your body shape and buy accordingly. Slight  A-lines can suit many of us so if you’re not sure, try this style first.
8. For an on trend LBD, consider leather or lace panels built in or accessorising with seasonal colours.

For myself, a great LBD is one that is versatile. I do look for quality where I can, but also something that just won’t date (which most LBD’s don’t).

In the photo below, I’m wearing one of my favourite LBD’s that I have now owned for about four years.

I can layer it with a thin long sleeved t-shirt, wear it on a hot day with bare skin and add accessories to dress it up or down.

If you are sitting there thinking, I can’t afford a new LBD, then perhaps these few tips can get you thinking about how to re-vamp your old fave:

1. Buy a new statement accessory from Lovisa or Mimco – it’s amazing what a new necklace can do to an old outfit
2. Try some of your belts on over the top, perhaps using a colour. If not, this is an inexpensive option to buy over a new dress.
3. Shoes – try a new shoe, work them with a boot or wedge or explore different colours.

Have you got a favourite LBD or maybe you’ve fallen head over heels for one that we’ve featured today?