Little Black Dress: Everything You Need to Know

Fashion historians say that the origin of the Little Black Dress (often abbreviated as LBD) began when French designer Coco Chanel put this fashion staple at the forefront in the 1920s, breaking social norms that associated black with mourning and sombre occasions.

The revolution worked because the LBD offers not only practical design and versatility, but it’s also one of the few clothing options that are ideal for any event, from office wear to evening soirees. Since then, the universal appeal of the LBD has been appreciated by women everywhere, as it serves as the perfect canvas to express their personalities with just a few tweaks and accessories.

Thinking of picking up a designer little black dress? Here’s your guide on what to know and how to style it effortlessly.

Texture, Fabrics & Silhouettes

Throughout the decades, the little black dress has gone through countless reinventions, from silhouettes and designs to even materials. On the runways, we’ve seen iterations ranging from cinched-waist, low-neckline eras to LBD mini versions, and luxury designers continue to give this quintessential piece a fresh touch.

Brands like Jacquemus offer a melange of shapes, volumes, and tailoring for the LBD, including asymmetrical designs or even turtleneck dresses. Meanwhile, Solace London puts a playful twist on the little black dress, featuring bow-neckline details or fun one-shoulder styles that will definitely elevate your eveningwear.

Whether you go for an A-line or a sheath dress, our advice is simple: choose the style that makes you feel most comfortable.

Hollywood & Royalties

Yes, the LBD also has its fair share of history in pop culture!

In 1994, the late Princess Diana made history when she wore her unforgettable “revenge” LBD, an off-shoulder piece by designer Christina Stambolian, which she wore the same night Prince Charles admitted to infidelity. Not only does she look glamorously nonchalant, her dress became an enduring symbol of strength and independence for women everywhere.

Meanwhile, Audrey Hepburn’s iconic little black dress, designed by Hubert de Givenchy for her film Breakfast at Tiffany’s, redefined elegance on the silver screen. Her classic dress, crafted in black satin, was further polished as she paired it with long gloves, a pearl necklace, and oversized sunglasses. Sounds familiar? Yes, because this style can still be seen everywhere to this day, proving that the LBD is indeed a timeless fashion staple.

If you’re searching for an exquisite Little Black Dress, French luxury brand Balmain offers a slew of sharp yet sophisticated varieties of little black dresses for you.

Style It with Statement Accessories

Now, we have come to the most important question of all: how do you style your little black dress?

First off, the perfect dress needs only minimal add-ons to shine through, and it all depends on the occasion. For instance, if you’re going to a wedding, you can accessorize your LBD with a classic pearl necklace and earrings, and perhaps a pair of gorgeous Christian Louboutin heels to capture that royal, elegant look. Finish your look with a top-handled bag in a neutral palette from brands like Gucci or Ferragamo.

Elsewhere, for a more casual event, like a Saturday date night or even an office day look, you can style your LBD with a statement belt to define your silhouette, add a pair of bold shoes for that instant pop, and layer it with contemporary outerwear. Nothing beats the perfect tailored blazer from Emporio Armani or a cozy cardigan from the Italian luxury brand Brunello Cucinelli to complete your little black dress style.

Last but not least, it’s impossible to own just one or two Little Black Dresses, as this important and stylish piece of clothing is the epitome of a woman’s best friend.

Find your next favourite designer LBD only at MAYFEYR.