Coco Chanel introduced the first “Little Black Dress” in 1926. It was simple, plain and elegant and she intended it to be an essential wardrobe basic for every woman. Chanel believed in fashion that was functional and this simple dress was suitable for any occasion, easy to look after, didn’t mark easily and suited everyone.
It quickly became a wardrobe staple and, combined with big sunglasses, has been the wardrobe of the fashionista for many years.
The LBD comes back to the forefront of fashion occasionally, but as fashion becomes cheaper on the high street the necessity to own a timeless, elegant and versatile good quality item of clothing has diminished for many women, as a high turnover of disposable fashion is possible for a low cost.
However, as we become more aware of the conditions in which our cheap clothes are made, the wasteful nature of “disposable” low quality high street clothing and a global economic downturn gives us all pause for thought, maybe it’s time for the return of the LBD to the wardrobes of high street shoppers everywhere?
When jeans and trousers are so easy to throw on we all forget just how versatile and elegant a Little Black Dress can be. So here’s how to wear it for Work, Rest & Play.
This Little Black Dress is a strapless Vero Moda Dress available for just £29.99 from Retro Chick.
Work
Keep your colour palette muted and low key for a professional look for the office. Team a tailored pinstripe jacket with smart grey court shoes (£50 from Topshop) and a designer look quilted shoulder bag (£39 from ASOS)
REST
Make your LBD work for day by adding casual accessories in pastel baby blue. A 50s style round neck cardigan (Just £7.50 at Debenhams!), cute deck shoe pumps, nautical striped shoulder bag (both Top Shop) big enough for all your nick nacks and a simple swatch watch dress down your LBD for a trip to the shops.
PLAY
The LBD always comes into it’s own at night. The perfect foil for glamorous jewellery and statement shoes. The catwalks were full of romantic black lace and gothic style for Autumn Winter 2008, work the look by adding this lace bolero (£17 from Oli) statement jewellery from Butler & Wilson and killer heels. This vintage clutch from Candy Says and a cinch belt finish the look for gothic evening glamour. Pile on the eyeliner and you’re good to go.
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