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We've been talking about wardrobe basics, and about how what constitutes a "basic" has more to do with your age and lifestyle and attitude than with any generic stylist's list of Must-Haves. And while I believe that your basics are the building blocks you use to create your own individual look, I also think there are few pieces that everyone needs: mid-rise dark-wash jeans, a great white shirt, a cashmere sweater and a little black dress.
The LBD is a timeless piece, one that transcends trends and seasons. When you shop for a little black dress, think about how you will wear it; consider investing in one LBD for day (a shirtdress, perhaps) and another for evening, or look for a dress that can go from day to evening with a change of shoes and jewelry (a silk wrap dress for example). Think also about weather and season; the LBD you wear to a dinner party in December is probably not appropriate for cocktails in July.
Choose a shape that flatters your shape, rather than falling for a shape that is popular right now. When you are looking for an LBD, apply the same rules that you would for any other piece; if you have a large chest, go with a dress with wide enough straps to cover a supportive bra, for instance. Wrap and sheath styles are always appropriate, and are always lovely in a beautiful black fabric. Think also about what makes a dress the most versatile.
Silk chiffon Sophia dress, J. Crew, $165.00
Consider all the ways and places you will wear this dress. Love a strapless black dress for evening? Try it with a cardigan for the office. Shirtdress perfect for work? Layer it over a tank and pair with flat sandals for the weekend. The little black dress is designed to go everywhere -- think outside the box when you shop for one and don't be afraid to really WEAR it once you bring it home.
Think, too, about your overall look: if you're not a sheath dress kind of girl in your everyday life, then maybe an LBD in a sheath style isn't the right dress for you. Choose a dress that you will love to wear, something that will look like you but dressed up. If your look tends to be more retro, say, then try on a 60s or 70s inspired shape. If your LBD is similar to the other pieces in your closet, then it becomes part of your look, rather than an anomaly.
Silk taffeta Felice dress, J. Crew, $235.00
If the idea of a basic black dress seems boring, look for embellishments, but don't go overboard; the LBD is designed to be a blank canvas, something that you can work with for a variety of events and venues. I like the J. Crew dress pictured above because the belt can be replace with a bright colored sash or a metallic belt for a completely different look. Think also about how jewelry or a sweater or wrap can change the look of your dress. If you want to have a little something on the dress itself, think about some detailing at the hem, either beading or embroidery or a flounce or pleat. Keep it simple, though; this is a dress you will wear and wear and wear. Too much embellishment calls attention to the dress itself. The goal of the LBD is to draw the attention to YOU.
You can also buy a little black dress in some other color -- navy, say, or brown or charcoal -- if black seems to harsh or funereal. Keep the color neutral, though; a teal dress, no matter how lovely, is not as versatile as a black dress.
Sarah Backhouse at G Living has some suggestions for green LBDs (green as in environmentally friendly, of course).
Amanda at Fashion Chicks has found a fabulous strapless LBD with a cool uneven hemline.
Johneen Manning at Suite101 has some specifics on how to wear your LBD.
Susan Wagner writes about fashion at Friday Style and The Working Closet and Fashion Find. Have a pressing style question? Email her at fridaystyle.susan@gmail.com.
