The LBD

The little black dress – also known as an LBD – is without a doubt the most important item in your entire closet. It’s a big claim, I know, but it’s so true. A little black dress – if chosen carefully – has the potential to be the most versatile piece of clothing in your wardrobe. 
The iconic dress stems from the 1920s when high end designers were looking for an affordable silhouette and colour that was accessible to a wide audience. The intention for the dress was for it to be classic, timeless and long-lasting – which is certainly what they achieved. 
There isn’t a ‘perfect’ or most desirable shape or cut, as this will vary from person to person depending on individual preferences. My ideal little black dress happens to come in the form of a body con, sleeveless, midi. For me, this shape gives me the most versatility.
Styling an LBD is super easy, because you’ve essentially got 50% of your outfit sorted. The magic lies purely with accessorising, and I’m going to tell you about three different ways you can style your little black dress for three different occasions. 
If you’re a young person with any social life at all, it’s likely that you’ll end up at a bar at some point in time, whether it’s for a birthday or because of your giant HECS loan. For either of those occasions, you’ll need the appropriate attire. Pairing our main attraction with a leather jacket and a pair of black ankle boots really amps up an outfit for night time wear, making it a perfect meeting point between edgy and classy. Add a black clutch to complete the ensemble.
On the other end of the spectrum, a LBD is perfectly suited as work attire. Costume jewellery can be a great, cheap way to change up any outfit. Toss on a statement necklace to add interest to the neckline, and add a wristlet to carry your life essentials, such as lipstick, phone, wallet, etc. Add a relaxed blazer and a pair of court shoe pumps, and you’re set for a day of paper pushing at the office. 
Finally, if you’ve ever been running late for a coffee date, this little outfit combo will save your life. Chuck on your dress of choice, and find a chambray shirt to either put over your shoulders, or tie around your waist. Pop a pair of cat-eye sunnies on your head and a pair of slide on sandals on your feet. A cross-body bag with plenty of room for life’s essentials completes this outfit.
Basics are essential to a wardrobe, and there are a million ways to wear an LBD, but these are by far my favourite. Three very distinct, complete working outfits that recycle the same main component: to get you the most bang for your buck. Try switching up, adding and removing accessories, and doing your hair and makeup differently to get even more options from the one simple, but very reliable, dress. 
Written by Jessica Alves / @jessicazalves