The LBD

It’s impossible for a Little Black Dress to look dated. However as our shape and style shift through the years, even iconic wardrobe pieces like the classic LBD need refreshing. Over time elements like fabric, design and versatility are considered more seriously to ensure comfort and ease, setting a new standard and reason to upgrade. But the one thing that remains the same at any age is that a Little Black Dress is absolutely, positively THE most essential, must-have item in every woman’s wardrobe. Period.

Keeping that in mind, here is recap of the best 5 LBD’s to consider this season:

1. Shift dress
   Every woman should have a wardrobe of shift dresses. The shapeless, straight cut is forgiving, camouflaging and provides a simple, clean blank canvas to build on. They are often sleeveless which is ideal for layering — a light sweater or pashmina wrap in warmer months; a blazer, trench or overcoat in cooler months; a white shirt underneath year-round. Style with a colorful scarf, pendant necklace or choker at the neck, or strands of pearls for a Holly Golightly look.

2. Wrap-style dress
   A wrap-style dress is flattering to every shape, size and age thanks to its jersey stretch material that breathes, hugs and forgives. It cinches at the middle to create a waist for straight bodies, while emphasizing curves for hourglass figures. The flared hem balances top-heavy shapes and camouflages bottom-heavy ones, plus its long sleeves provide arm coverage for all shapes making it the ultimate winter LBD. Style with equestrian-style riding boots and a tailored, double-breasted wool coat; or tights, ankle boots and a stadium coat; or dress it up with heels, statement jewelry and a wool wrap for evening. The variations are endless.

3. The miracle sleeve
   The perfect year-round style, a 3/4-length sleeved LBD works miracles. Stopping just beyond the elbow, this truncated sleeve draws attention to — and punctuates — the waistline which gives the illusion of curves for those without, while emphasizing those with. It’s also a perfect sleeve length for accessorizing — bracelets, cuffs, bangles, watches or a scarf tied around the wrist. Endlessly versatile, it can be worn as-in in warmer months; or layered with a tailored blazer, fur vest, cropped jacket or puffer coat in cooler months; or paired with a velvet blazer, tuxedo jacket or silk kimono for a chic evening look. This style is the best of both worlds — arm coverage and air flow at once.

4. Silk slip dress
   Silk slip dresses are classic, timeless and an essential piece in every woman’s wardrobe. Thanks to their versatility, they can go the distance and serve you for decades. Try layering with a turtleneck underneath for added support or a blouse over for more coverage. Style with a cozy sweater coat or silk kimono, but leave both unbelted for a relaxed, slouchy effect. There’s something about silk that softens us, our mood and attitude, so leverage these powerful emotional benefits and wear your silk slip dress on date night.

5. Mini LBD
   Mini hem lengths work at any age when styled correctly. Proportion is the secret to pulling-off this look so consider a hemline that’s modestly above the knee and style with opaque tights, low-heeled knee-high boots and a menswear-inspired overcoat that sweeps below the knee. Watch how coat length balances dress hemline to create a harmonious and tasteful mini silhouette. Voilà! A fabulous mini look for any age.

See BestLifeOnline.com press feature here.