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A classic little black dress is the ultimate style essential that every gal needs in her wardrobe. From work to weekends, the LBD is the most versatile piece of fashion that you can buy. The best part is – by changing your accessories, you instantly refresh this must-have staple.

In today’s style guide, discover a few easy, effortless ways to make a classic little black dress look modern.

How To Make a Classic Little Black Dress Look Modern

How To Make a Classic Little Black Dress Look Modern

How To Make a Classic Little Black Dress Look Modern

Shop for a Flattering Silhouette

When shopping for a little black dress, start by thinking about your body shape. Are you an hourglass, ruler, apple, triangle, or pear shape? This will help you best determine what type of silhouette will be the most flattering on you.

As an example, my figure is a cross between an hourglass and a pear. That means, wrap dresses (like the dress pictured here) and fit-and-flare or a-line silhouettes look best on me. Whereas, a woman with a “ruler” (or straight) body shape, might look best in a peplum dress (which creates the illusion of more curves) or a bodycon dress (since they tend to have narrow hips).

To learn more about how to shop for a flattering silhouette, check out this previous style guide as a reference.

How To Make a Classic Little Black Dress Look Modern

How To Make a Classic Little Black Dress Look Modern

Highlight Your Best Features

Do you have a small waistline? Show it off with a cinched wide waist belt. Do you love your decolletage? Give the “girls” a lift with a push-up bra and show off a peek of cleavage. If you think your legs are your best feature, opt for a shorter hemline on your dress, but keep the rest of your look a bit more covered up (to balance it out).

How To Make a Classic Little Black Dress Look Modern

How To Make a Classic Little Black Dress Look Modern

Add a Trendy Touch with Accessories

The quickest and easiest way to make a classic little black dress look modern is by adding a trendy touch with accessories. As an example, one of the hottest fall fashion trends this season is animal prints. That’s why pairing an animal print clutch with your LBD instantly makes your outfit look contemporary.

Accessories are also an effortless way to add a pop of color or a fun print to your outfit. Have fun switching up your look by varying which types of accessories you pair with your little black dress.

How To Make a Classic Little Black Dress Look Modern

How To Make a Classic Little Black Dress Look Modern

Use Jewelry To Dress Up Or Dress Down Your Look

Figuring out what to wear, where, is often like a game of chess. If you make the wrong move, it’s game over. But, when you think strategically about your outfit, you make a great first impression that helps you win points.

If you plan on wearing a little black dress to work, it’s wise to pare down your jewelry to chic, understated pieces. A simple, yet timeless piece of jewelry, such as a traditional link watch, a gold tassel necklace or a ladylike strand of pearls are always office-appropriate. Think of the “less is more” motto for work settings.

However, if you intend to wear your little black dress on a romantic date night or for a cocktail party, feel free to up the glam factor with dazzling jewelry. Luxurious diamond earrings paired with a coordinating necklace light up your face while dressing up your outfit.

How To Make a Classic Little Black Dress Look Modern

How To Make a Classic Little Black Dress Look Modern

Put Your Best Foot Forward with Your Shoes

Depending on when and where you plan to wear your LBD, opting for the right pair of shoes will ultimately help you put your best foot forward. If you’re heading to an elegant dinner or a work event, opt for understated yet sophisticated closed-toe pumps. If you’re going to a fun party, turn up the heat in a pair of embellished heeled sandals. In chilly weather, opt for opaque tights paired with suede knee-high boots.

How To Make a Classic Little Black Dress Look Modern

As you can see, a classic little black dress can take you virtually anywhere you want to go. This versatile style staple is one of the best investments you can make in your wardrobe. Just make sure to find a figure-flattering silhouette that is constructed out of quality fabric and tailored to fit your body.

For more fashion tips and inspiration, check out the Fashion & Style section on Inspirations & Celebrations.

How To Make a Classic Little Black Dress Look Modern

Shop The Guide:

 


Featured Outfit: Dress: Hutch (sold-out, similar style here); Bag: Diane von Furstenberg; Shoes: Stuart Weitzman; Earrings and Necklace: Vintage Christian Dior; Watch by Caravelle (sold-out, similar style here); Belt: Francesca’s (sold-out, similar style here). (Affiliate links included)

Photography: Rachel Krueger

Styling, Modeling, and Photo Editing: Christina-Lauren Pollack

Shoot Location: Nestled on a dramatic cliffside in Carmel Highlands lies a majestic $52 million dollar compound (named “Seven Coves”) surrounded by over 4 acres of towering trees and meandering gardens. With sweeping views of the rugged California coastline, this secluded estate is situated on the legendary Spindrift Road. The unique property boasts five incredible homes, including four storybook cottages and a spacious main house (that comes complete with a grand library and a pool).

The bespoke compound has even made its way into the spotlight, as it was featured in the movie “Basic Instinct” (with Michael Douglas and Sharon Stone), and most recently was seen on HBO’s hit TV series “Big Little Lies” (in a scene with Reese Witherspoon). The property has been seen in Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, Forbes, and other publications and is currently listed by Tim Allen Properties (of Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage).


 


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