In the early 19th century, when Britain was between wars, bright colours and heavy patterns were fashionable. Yet, Coco Chanel’s simplistic, black dress found its way into American Vogue…and the LBD was born. That was in 1926, and still we hold-fast to this style must. Perfect for any occasion, flattering, affordable for everyone, and chic, what’s not to love about the little black dress?
If you’re looking for your next LBD, consider this before you buy:
Long Live The Empire! – Apple
Apple shaped ladies are prone to piling on the weight around their middles. The most flattering cut for your LBD comes straight out of your favourite costume dramas: the empire line. This dress tucks under the boobs, rather than in at the waist, and shows off your best assets, while skimming over problem areas.
This style also works for: pear-shaped ladies.
Vintage Fantastic – Pear
Pear-shaped bodies pack on the pounds around their lower-half. Although you should showcase this gorgeous shape, it’s always flattering to balance out your body with 1950’s style dresses that poof out from the waist-down and tuck in at the midriff. For extra points, choose long-sleeved bodices that draw eyes to your upper body.
This style also works for: hourglass figures.
Mad Men Crazy – Hourglass
If you’ve been watching Mad Men religiously, you’ll have seen lots of gorgeous hourglass figures crammed into flattering, fitted dresses with pencil skirts. Embrace this style with your LBD and accentuate your waist with a belt…then let your curves do the rest of the work.
This style also works for: petite frames.
Pretty Necklines – Curvy
Curvy ladies have a best friend in the LBD. Black skims over any lumps and bumps and will show off your beautiful figure at its best. Embellished necklines are great for drawing attention to one of your best assets: your rack. Look for LBDs with detailed collars.
This style also works for: pear-shaped ladies.
Creating Curves – Boyish
Although you suit almost every dress type, boyish figures do lack one thing: curves. Peplum dresses can give you a hand here, as well as A-line skirts. Avoid any frock that comes with skinny straps, as this can emphasise your broad shoulders.
The peplum dress also works for: hourglass figures.
Keeping It Simple – Petite
Petite frames are usually characterised by being very slight and short. Your best bet for a flattering finish, is to choose a plain LBD. Fitted frocks will show off your stunning figure, but keep it classy and unadorned, so your LBD makes you appear taller.
Prints can make you look tiny, so choose a plain black. Of course, wear your LBD with high heels for that extra oomph! Just don’t put on ankle straps, as this will shorten your pins.
An oft found mistake with LBD wearers is over-accessorising. By keeping it simple, you stay looking elegant and classic. Sometimes, a red lip is all the extra glam you need, but you could wear some gorgeous pearls for that ‘Breakfast at Tiffany’s’ chic.
This article was written by Zoe, a freelance style journalist. Visit Pearl and Butler for some stunning costume jewellery to jazz up your LBDs.