You’ve wondered at the allusiveness of it. You've heard rumors about it. You hope that someday maybe your fantasies will be realized. I'm not talking about true love y'all! I'm talking about THE black dress that every woman is supposed to own.

Going shopping is totally over whelming for most.  When you're swimming in a sea of clothing and stores as you comb the mall or the Internet, it can be extremely frustrating. Now, I'm not a professional, but I am a freak when it comes to reading and watching shows about fashion. I don't mean the high-fashion-runway-who-would-really-wear-that fashion. I'm mean fashion that an everyday woman would look good in with out spending an arm, leg, maybe even a foot for. OK, I'm also addicted to What Not to Wear. Is that what you were fishing for?

So what is the perfect black dress? Well, for every woman the answer is different. I think the first thing you need to look at is shape. Now, to maximize your gorgeousness ability (EVERY WOMAN has this ability whether she realizes it or not!) you need to be honest about your shape. It's your body type. Like it! Love it! OWN IT Y'ALL!

Hour Glass - This is the figure that everyone says is the best, but guess what, it doesn't matter if you don't have the "perfect" figure or if "you're working on it." You can look beautiful now! Wow, am I on a soap box or what? So an hour glass shape is, well shaped like an hour glass. A true hour glass figure is about 10 inches smaller than your bust and hips.

Good- A wrap dress where the waist is emphasized is good for just about anyone. Some wrap dresses have more of an empire waist and some are at your true waist. For the hour glass figure, go for the second.

Better- Curves up ahead. Play it up a little! I think a sheath style dress, maybe with a belt even would awesome, or if you want a skirt go with a pencil.  http://hubpages.com/hub/A-Little-Black-Dress-Hour-Glass-Figure

Pear Shaped- Being pear shaped means your hips are the widest part of your body. You are going to want to de-emphasize them by getting something with a V- neck and some interest at the top; beading, ruffles, etc.

Good- Again a wrap dress is always figure flattering. You're going to want to find one that IS more of an empire waist. Having a good sleeve can also bring width to your top portion, which is what we want. The skirt should float away from your body.

Better- A dress with an empire waist and a beautifully cut A Line skirt is perfect. One with embellishments up-top or a pretty necklace would be even better. We don't want to all walk around in wrap dresses!!http://hubpages.com/hub/littleblackdresspearshaped

Apple Shaped- Apple shaped women tend to have a rounder shaped body. If you are apple shape you probably gain weight in your stomach first.

Good - A dress with an empire waist is a must for you. Really look until you find one that hits right at your smallest point, most likely RIGHT under your bust.

Better- A dress with flowing fabric, like silk is a great choice. You want a nice neckline like a scoop or V. Apple types tend to have great legs so look for a shorter hem, either just above or below the knee is perfect. Show those legs off!

http://hubpages.com/hub/LittleBlackDressforAppleShapedFigures

Ruler Shaped- These are the athletic typed women. Ruler types usually look good in most everything. Adding curve and/or some femininity is a good goal for you. Look for dresses with emphasis on the bust line, like ruching or beading again.

Good- A Maxi Dress is gorgeous, long, and flowing. It is wonderful for this shape. Again, look for one with details on the top to give more attention to the bust.

Better- Show off a small waist with a dress that has a belt of ribbon across the middle. If the fabric flows out at the skirt and the top has some details and /or sleeves, it will make a curvier appearance.

http://hubpages.com/hub/Little-Black-Dress-for-a-ruler-figure

I know that these tips are helpful in the hunt!

One last tip for everyon.  Usually, when you grab for that black dress it's for a slightly more formal event. Be careful not to pick something too short or too low cut. It will distract from the classy woman that you are!!! ;) Also, if you decide to order something online, MEASURE and look at the company's size chart before you order. As we all know, woman sizes can change depending on what store you're at, or which designer you are ordering from. Good luck y'all!

Happy Shopping!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!