Little Black Dress styles & Outfit Ideas
Five ways to style this versatile must-have that are anything but boring.
Fashion trends may come and go, but a little black dress (or LBD in sartorial speak) will never go out of style. Made popular by fashion icons like Audrey Hepburn, the little black dress is a wardrobe staple every style-conscious woman should have hanging in her closet. Why? The key lies in its versatility.
It doesn't matter if your taste is traditional, trend-driven, or tomboy, there's a perfect option for every aesthetic and occasion. You can easily style a little black dress outfit for work, the weekend, and beyond with the right accessories. To show you how, we're breaking down five fail-safe styles so you can find the best LBD to add to your closet.
Chic cocktail
Want to make the best-dressed list at this year's string of weddings without blowing your budget? A sheath is the perfect little black dress for wedding occasions. Not only does this style exude a romantic air, but it will also fit nicely into a range of different dress codes. Give your LBD a fresh spin with each wear by swapping out different accessories. Bold earrings and a muted clutch might be perfect for an oceanfront occasion, while a pair of strappy sandals and a gemstone necklace will give this dress an elegant flair.
Modern update
Who says an LBD has to be, well, a dress? To put a spin on this wardrobe classic, consider a chic jumpsuit as an alternative to the little black dress for work. The right option can seamlessly take you from day to night. While a fitted blazer and spacious tote bag will help you put your fashionable foot forward in the boardroom, statement earrings and a pair of block heels will keep you looking sharp long after you clock out. And don't be afraid to mix prints, like we did here with a plaid blazer and snake-print shoes—the all-black jumpsuit gives you room to play.
Casual cool
Never underestimate the power of layering, especially if you're always on the go. If your schedule is packed with coffee dates, meetings, and that big work dinner, layer a jean jacket over a flouncy little black dress. Between the adjustable ties and a nipped-in waist, this number is classy and will flatter a range of body shapes. Not sure which shoes to wear with a little black dress? Try a sensible pair of pumps in a ferocious animal print. Complete the look with dainty hoops and a versatile tote.
Weekend wardrobe
Just because you're off duty doesn't mean your fashion choices should take a backseat during the weekend. A T-shirt dress is ideal for everything from running errands to chasing your kids at the park to meeting friends for brunch. Give this casual little black dress a cool, effortless flair by pairing it with layers of delicate jewelry, a cross-body bag, and some crisp, white sneakers. Throw on the same denim jacket from the outfit above for a casual finishing touch, or if you want to bring this look to your coworking space, add a blazer to the mix.
Bold bodycon
If you're looking for a fitted silhouette that hugs all your curves, a bodycon style is the perfect little black dress for your body type. Wear it for a fun—and fashion-forward— night on the town. Like most little black dresses, this silhouette can be accessorized to match wherever the night takes you. For a look that's equal parts edgy and elegant, couple this LBD with a leather jacket, silver jewelry, a small shoulder bag, and some black booties. By simply switching up your accessories, you can wear this look again (and again) without ever growing bored.
