It is not just a dress. It is an icon. The Little Black Dress, more popularly known in the fashion circles as the LBD, is a signature piece of clothing which is an entity on its own. So much so that there is an interesting history, a colorful story, a quasi epical saga behind this cultural favorite. The Little Black Dress denotes the timeless classic piece which never goes out of fashion and has become a fashion staple in the wardrobe of women all over the world, young or old. It is thus, truly, a cosmopolitan icon more than just a simple dress in black.
The History Of The Little Black Dress
Like most landmarks in fashion, the LBD or the little black dress made its first premiere as a Coco Chanel production. This happened about eighty years ago. The special thing about Coco Chanel’s Little Black Dress was the bold new cuts and designs, which set it apart from the simple black colored gowns of the times before the LBD. The Little Black Dress was part and parcel of the fashion revolution that was taking place. With interesting new concepts in fashion, the little black dress became a must have in every woman’s wardrobe.
The Charm Of The Little Black Dress
As any fashionista will tell you, the color black never goes out of style. Also, it flatters almost all body types, shapes and sizes. Add to that the fact that black is the classic color for evening wear and looks fantastic. Therefore, the little black dress emerged as a timeless winner. It is also essentially sexy, the color is slimming and the dress makes the wearer feel and look glamorous no matter how old she may be.
The ‘little’ in the little black dress means that more often than not, the dress is cut quite short, as a result adding oodles of sensuous appeal. It tends to hide one’s flaws, while giving a sexy look to the wearer. It is the winning combination of class and oomph.
Another essential feature of the little black dress is that it is versatile. It may be made of silk or cotton, or any other fabric. It may be a tube dress; it may be off shoulder or even with balloon or cuffed sleeves. It may have a hemline that barely touches the knees, or it may be sky high. The point is that although it is a universal entity in itself, the Little Black Dress comes in various avatars and forms, lending itself to a variety of occasions, be it a formal dinner party or a night out in town. One can don a little black dress to a cocktail party, a romantic date or even on a company dinner, and it always looks right in place. Therefore, it is also something that women tend to carry with them when they travel.
It can be accessorized with almost anything. It also goes well with a simple silver bangle, a brooch or even nothing at all, for that clean, formal look. When it comes to shoes, the dress can be worn with heels, flats or sandals…most footwear works amazingly well with the little black dress. Covering it with a smart jacket or a cardigan also works for those chilly nights, and stockings can be paired with the dress too. Many women also accessorize their look with a waist cinching belt to add a splash of color. Black as a color goes well with almost all other colors.
The LBD As A Fashion Staple
With all these advantages that a little black dress provides, surely it is a crime not to own one. Stylists universally recommend buying one as an investment, as it has so many uses and it never goes out of fashion. Remember the fact that the first official LBD came out more than eighty years ago, and it is still in fashion! Eighty years is a long time in a creative field where fashions and trends change with seasons. The little black dress has stood the test of time and is therefore rightly regarded as a timeless wardrobe essential, just like a pair of blue denim jeans and a white shirt.
How Do I Choose My Perfect Little Black Dress?
Although a good little black dress will suit and flatter almost every body type, it can make one look even better if one chooses the right dress. Here are a few tips to help you out:
Look at yourself properly and assess your strong and weak points when it comes to your body. Have flabby arms? Choose a dress that has sleeves. Are you the proud owner of superb collar bones? Select a dress with a neckline that emphasizes the same. If you have an hourglass figure, well, congratulations! You are one of those lucky few who can wear almost anything without a care in the world. If you have a boyish figure, go for full skirted dresses or accessorize it with a belt that cinches your waist to give a more feminine look.
Look for one that is more appropriate than the other LBDs if you are shopping for a special occasion. High hemlines are okay for a night out or clubbing, but they may make you feel uncomfortable if you are attending a formal office dinner. Similarly, it can be accessorized with a scarf and a jacket for a board meeting, but the same worn with a hot pair of stilettos will get you ready for that party in no time!
The material of your little black dress should be compatible with the weather in your area, and also the season. These dresses are available in a wide variety of fabrics as well as leather, and you should opt for a fabric that suits your style and makes you feel comfortable.
