The little black dress is one of the most enduring icons. Its powerful appeal has outlasted decades of shifts in fashion. So, what is a little black dress, anyway?
Historically, a black dress had to be a cocktail or evening dress in order to get the distinction. This definition has expanded greatly over the years to encompass black dresses in more casual styles as well. Increasingly relaxed socially dictated dress codes are largely responsible for this change. Casual styles are more widely accepted in more settings than they were in the past.
Calvin Klein Sleeveless High-Low Wrap-Hem Dress is one of the most versatile little black dresses. The classic design consists of a sheath silhouette, ruffled high-low hem and round neckline.
What to know before you buy a little black dress
The little black dress is anything but basic. There are several factors to take into account when shopping for one.
Accessorize to maximize style
When you have a dark canvas like a little black dress, it’s critical to punch up the look with accessories. Add jewelry that enhances the design of the dress without overpowering it or detracting from it.
Select according to your taste, not trends
Your little black dress should be a piece you’ll love years from now. This is the reason why you should choose it based on your individual taste, not current trends. If you genuinely like a current trend and it’s a look you’ve liked for years, then by all means, buy that puff-sleeved or off-the-shoulder black dress.
Choose a versatile style
If there’s one rule about a little black dress (aside from being black, of course), it’s versatility. The original concept revolved around a go-to piece that works for many different occasions and takes the guesswork out of getting ready. This is still a great theory to put into practice, because it saves you time and helps ensure you can get dressed with confidence.
Little black dress features
Little black dress sleeves
You have a large variety of sleeve designs and lengths at your disposal when you shop for a little black dress, including:
Cap sleeves
Flutter sleeves
Sleeveless
Three-quarter length sleeves
Long sleeves
Tulip/petal sleeves
Draped sleeves
Batwing sleeves
Little black dress neckline
Much like sleeves, there are quite a few neckline options from which to choose. When it comes to a little black dress, it’s wise to err on the side of caution and stick to a modest neckline that will be appropriate anywhere. These options include the following:
Bateau neckline
Square neckline (avoid a deeply cut square)
Mockneck
Scoop neckline (avoid a deeply cut scoop)
V-neckline (avoid a deeply cut V)
Round neckline
Cowl neckline
Little black dress silhouette
When it comes to silhouette, your body type and comfort level trump all other considerations. You should choose a silhouette that makes you feel confident and flatters your proportions. The different types of silhouettes for little black dresses include:
A-line
Fit-and-flare
Shift
Sheath
Swing
Little black dress cost
A little black dress is a wise investment. For this reason, it’s OK to spend a bit more on it than other pieces. In general, you can feel confident that you’ll get a high-quality little black dress if you spend $40-$200.
Little black dress FAQ
Are all little black dresses cocktail, semi-formal or formal?
A. Absolutely not. These days, any versatile black dress can count as a little black dress. The rules around this look have become virtually nonexistent as creativity and individuality have become respected in the fashion industry.
Do dresses that incorporate colors into the design count as little black dresses?
A. Yes, they do. As long as the dress is primarily black, a splash or accent of color won’t detract from its little black dress status. Examples include white contrast stitching on pockets and royal blue piping around the neckline.
Which little black dress should I get?
Best of the best little black dress
Calvin Klein Sleeveless High-Low Wrap-Hem Dress: available at Macy’s
Our take: You’ll be the epitome of ladylike grace in this sophisticated black dress with a sheath silhouette and ruffled high-low wrap hem.
What we like: Falling just below your knees in feminine ruffles, this little black dress strikes the perfect note of understated elegance. The round neck preserves your modesty, making this dress appropriate for any occasion. It’s set off by the stylish gold-toned exposed zipper in the back.
What we dislike: The length of the dress may cause the hemline to hit at or near the ankles on shorter people.
Best bang for your buck little black dress
MISSMAY Women’s Formal Floral Lace Sleeveless Maxi Dress: available at Amazon
Our take: Lace on the bodice and neck of this lovely black dress paints a pretty picture, while the billowing chiffon skirt means you’ll make an entrance.
What we like: The lace bodice is set off by a vertical insert that runs down the middle in the front and a flattering fitted ribbon belt around the waistline. Since this dress is sleeveless, you can wear it year-round to functions.
What we dislike: Among the smattering of negative reviews was a buyer who said the color of the fabric in person didn’t match the image online.
Honorable mention little black dress
Style & Co Short-Sleeve A-Line Dress: available at Macy’s
Our take: If you’re looking for a versatile little black dress that you can dress up or down, this easy-breezy A-line dress will suit your fancy.
What we like: The A-line silhouette and rayon/spandex blend fabric ensure this dress will flatter all body types. The scoop neckline and straight hem give the design a classic look that’ll make it a wardrobe staple for years.
What we dislike: A handful of unhappy buyers complained that the material was thin and the fit of the dress was shapeless.
Megan Osteris a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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