Every woman needs a little black dress or so we’re told, but is it true? What about those of us who look completely washed out in black?
The idea behind this so-called “essential”
is excellent. The LBD should be simple and elegant, something that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. It can be worn to work, to dinner, on a date, to a professional event, to a funeral, to church, to a party – the list is endless. It’s a classic piece that can be quickly and easily accessorized making it a simple choice when something unexpected comes up. It stands the test of time and never goes out of fashion.
But, does it have to be black? Absolutely not!
For those of us with warm skin tones who don’t look good in black, navy is an excellent alternative, but your LBD that isn’t black could be another neutral colour or even bright red.
So, whether your LBD is black, navy blue, chocolate brown, charcoal, camel, or red, how do you choose the right one? First of all, make sure that the fit is perfect and choose a simple style that flatters your body shape. When you slip into it, you should feel glamorous. Length is optional. You can go as short as above the knee, choose a longer maxi style, or go for something in between. Avoid trendy hemlines as you want to wear it for many, many seasons. Though the LBD is most often sleeveless, this is also a matter of choice. If you aren’t keen on your upper arms being seen, you can certainly opt for one with sleeves. If you travel a lot, choose a fabric that doesn’t come out of the suitcase looking like a wrinkled mess, ideally one that you can wash in a hotel sink and hang to dry.
The power and versatility of the LBD of any colour is in the accessories. You can wear it with shiny jewelry and heels for a fancy party or pair it with ballet flats and a cardigan for a casual night out. Play around with scarves, wraps, necklaces, belts, and other accessories. Wear it with a blazer, a jean jacket, or a sparkly sweater. With one simple dress and the things you already have in your closet, you’ll create a multitude of different looks.
So ladies, if you don’t already have a dress like this in your wardrobe, what are you waiting for? Just remember, it doesn’t have to be black!
Following Augustine 
I know you follow some of the same blogs as I do, I kept looking for a new post by Brenda Kinsel. A comment on another blog had me googling her, sorry to say she passed away
Yes, I received a message from her daughters letting me know. I was absolutely shocked! We never met in person, but we had a lot in common and reading her blog felt like having a chat with a good friend. She will be missed.
My “little black dress” is often my “go to” for daily wear or for travel.
I usually wear it with an elegant Vince Camuto belt.
It is a sleeveless dress by Simplii (a Canadian label) that looks lovely under a jacket,
for an elegant look with a scarf and pearls, in any season.
It can also be used as a skirt, with a sweater over it. Belted and classic.
With a black jacket, it is suitable for more sombre events.
With a sparkly jacket, you can dine at a gala dinner.
With a lace jacket, it’s ready for a party.
With an animal print cardigan, it can go almost anywhere.
It gives me the black column I like as the foundation for a variety of outfits.
My second LBD, and one that has more than compensated for its cost per wear.
My first LBD was my high school graduation dress. Now I realize just how classic it was.
Last week, I wore my LBD under an artsy, designer denim jacket to visit a Group of Seven
exhibition (their 100th anniversary of founding) at a wonderful Art Gallery. Simple,
but so appropriate.
Here’s to more beauty to add consolation to these uncertain times.
Honey Bee
Thanks, Honey Bee! You have perfectly described the role and versatility of a LBD! I do have one, but I’m looking to replace it with navy. Black is so elegant on those who can wear it well, but sadly I’m not one of those.
Navy is another wonderfully versatile neutral. It can look so stunning.
Hope you find the perfect LND and enjoy it to the hilt.
I love the colour inspiration found on the blog “Vivienne Files”.
Sunshine and smiles,
Honey Bee
Yes, I love how Janice starts with a scarf, a piece of jewelry, or even a piece of art and builds an outfit using those colours. So creative! I’m actually thinking about trying that with one of the scarves I picked up recently. Perhaps I’ll even write a post about that. Of course, I’d give her credit for the idea.
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