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Choose Your LBD: Four Classic Little Black Dresses

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By Lita Sorensen


Audrey Hepburn in "Breakfast at Tiffany's." The epitome of classic LBD style.
A simple wrap-style LBD.  Easily goes from day into evening.
A simple wrap-style LBD. Easily goes from day into evening.

Some say Audrey Hepburn wore it best.

But Coco Chanel was the style icon who invented the idea and coined the term: The Little Black Dress, or LBD, as it is commonly abbreviated.

Women rely on the simplicity and allure of the LBD for everything from a go-to-work staple to dinner dates, to all out glamour.

Wallis Simpson, the American born Duchess of Windsor, famous for her elegant style, was known to own several little black dresses and herself relied on them for her signature look. “When a little black dress is right," she is quoted as saying, "there is nothing else to wear in its place.”

And truly, nothing is easier to reach for or to wear confidently.

The following are five versions of the style classic--one that is sure to be right for you.


Simple/Sophisticated

These are the simplest in line, but also can make the most visual impact and are the most versatile. They can be played up with accessories, or down with simple additions to your look. They really can go from day to evening with just a few changes. Additionally, depending on the specific cut, they are universally flattering to almost any figure:


A more structured and sophisticated LBD.  Always looks cool and put together.
A more structured and sophisticated LBD. Always looks cool and put together.
The LBD as a classic sheath.  Professional or casual, depending on how you play it.
The LBD as a classic sheath. Professional or casual, depending on how you play it.

The Romantic

Feminine lace, soft silhouettes and accents are the hallmarks of the romantic or highly feminine LBD.  For those girly-girls out there.  What they lack in versatility, at times, they make up for in charm.  Also, the usual rules can apply:  Just add a jean jacket and you have casual feminine look.  Embellished heels?  A look for an evening out:


A curve-hugging, sexy version of the LBD.
A curve-hugging, sexy version of the LBD.

Sexy

This is a dress that embodies the statement that "a little goes a long way."  Spaghetti straps, plunging necklines, body hugging curves are all traits of a very sexy little number!  Remember that your accessories dictate the 'tone' of the look.  A great way to balance a little daring is to pair it with classic shoes or bags:


The plunging neckline of this LBD goes from edgy to evening Greek goddess.
The plunging neckline of this LBD goes from edgy to evening Greek goddess.

Edgy Cool

In the history of the LBD, the 70's and 80's ushered in a new version of the classic black dress--the edgy, punk, or rocker-inspired frock.  Short hemlines, incorporating leather, the addition of beading or grommets, or asymmetrical design give this look its edge:

Five Classic Little Black Dresses in the News


Video on Accessorizing The Little Black Dress:

How to Wear The Little Black Dress:

Mennonite in a Little Black Dress: A Memoir of Going Home Mennonite in a Little Black Dress: A Memoir of Going Home
Price: $10.75
List Price: $22.00
The Little Black Dress: How to Make the Perfect One for You The Little Black Dress: How to Make the Perfect One for You
Price: $10.70
List Price: $19.95
Little Black Dress: Vintage Treasure Little Black Dress: Vintage Treasure
Price: $3.74
List Price: $18.95
The Little Black Dress Calendar The Little Black Dress Calendar
Price: $7.92
List Price: $13.95

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kartika damon profile image

kartika damon  says:
3 months ago

Fun to read! There is nothing more beautiful than a great LBD - I loved Audrey Hepburn's in Breakfast at Tiffany's! Kartika

blue dog profile image

blue dog  says:
3 months ago

hey lita,

figured i'd make a comment before my ban goes into effect. great job on the lbd's. you almost listed them in my order of preference. while i like the classic sheath, many women would find it a bit too restrictive.

good work!!

Lita Sorensen profile image

Lita Sorensen  says:
3 months ago

Hi, Kartika. Thank you. I agree. I have one, but could use a couple more, :). Yes, Audrey certainly had style.

BD/Lynn-- I don't think you will be banned. You're new, and from what I've seen, when they snip like that it is sort of a warning. They will not ban you. Doesn't begin to address the problem of the sociopath trolls, however...as we both know.

Aqua profile image

Aqua  says:
3 months ago

Yep! We've just got to own at least one LBD. I really like the first and fourth ones. Very nice!

Lita Sorensen profile image

Lita Sorensen  says:
3 months ago

Thanks, Aqua. I personally like the top dress, to the right, after Audrey. It's perfect--you could about wear that anywhere for anything! :)

torimari profile image

torimari  says:
3 months ago

Well written as always. I like the fourth dress down...but then again, Alessandra Ambrosio wears it too well so it is tricking me. Hehe, I really like your lead by the way too!

Lita Sorensen profile image

Lita Sorensen  says:
3 months ago

Hi, Tori. Hey...somebody who actually used the word lead! :) Yeah, I like that dress, but if it is jersey, probably a little unforgiving. So that is what that model's name is. She's all over Victoria's Secret, I know that! Thanks.

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