For me, the perfect example of a sophisticated look is Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany’s. The clean and impeccable hairdo with the little bright ornament, the lovely and thick pearl necklace, long black gloves, and the tight yet elegant sleeveless black dress. One would think that Hepburn’s character was the consolidation of the so popular term LBD or little black dress, and the one who made it not only an essential of any woman’s wardrobe, but also into an icon of simplicity and elegance we all still follow. Her timeless outfit has become an icon, but the idea of the LBD dates back to the early twentieth century, when women discovered the versatility of this piece. However, the one we should really credit for making it such an icon in fashion history is none other than Coco Chanel. It was in a spread for Vogue Magazine where she showed a sketch of a simple long-sleeve black dress accessorized with a pearl dress. Since then, the LBD became a uniform and a basic piece. I bet you have at least one in your wardrobe. So here are some tips you can follow to create many styles and looks with this simple and adaptable piece.
Jewelry and pashminas
Just like Hepburn’s brilliant outfit, necklaces, other types of jewelry, or even bright and colorful pashminas make a perfect match with black dresses. Its simplicity makes it the best setting for your jewels to shine and become the statement pieces for your outfit. Now, not all-black dresses can be combined in the same way with jewelry. If the dress has an intricate embroidery or the fabric has its own patterns and textures, I think you shouldn’t add complex pieces of jewelry. Just balance your look.
Statement jackets and cardigans
If you like wearing statement jackets, cardigans, and vests with bright designs or stunning fabrics, your simple LBD will be a great choice to make the jacket stand out, adding an elegant and feminine essence to your look. Depending on the cut of the dress, you must pay attention to the length of both the jacket and the dress. Also, pay attention to the silhouette both pieces create so that you balance them in relation to your legs. You don’t want to look too wide on the top and extremely slim at the bottom.
Shirts and sweaters
One great and versatile idea is wearing a shirt or sweater over it to make it look like a skirt. You can also wear a loosely buttoned shirt as a jacket or cardigan to make it casual. Another idea could be to wear a t-shirt underneath a sleeveless dress to add a nineties’ vibe. There are too many options you can play with. Just experiment.
Sheer fabrics
See-through items are a huge trend nowadays. Just go inside a store and you’ll find many types of clothes made with this sheer material. Actually, this trend is expected to be worn only with underwear, following the ultimate celebrity choices, but as shy mortals, the best way to embrace it is by wearing clothes underneath. So, black dresses are the best simple piece to make your transparencies stand out.
Shoes
The simplicity and versatility of black dresses allow you to combine any style of shoes with them. High heels for a more formal outfit or to go out partying, sneakers for more casual looks, and sandals for the summer. You know the drill; basically, any type of shoe works with these. Play with colors and textures to make your look more interesting and fashionable.
Stockings and socks
Another important trend of this year is playing with the colors, fabrics, and length of stockings and socks. Just like with jewelry, if your dress is solid and simple, you can add a bit of craziness to your outfit through these accessories. If the dress is already complex, try to combine it with solid colors and textures.
The great thing about black dresses is that you can use them as the foundation of your outfit and make of accessories the statement pieces. Don’t be shy and play with all the different options out there. Today’s fashion is all about going beyond the rules, so just go for it.
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Check these fashion ideas:
6 Sophisticated Ways To Wear Socks With Heels
The Best Fashion Advice From The New Romantics
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