How to Style a Little Black Dress – 10 Ways

If you were to ask me to name a fashion staple that is always in style and has been popular for ages I would say a little black dress, hands down. Almost every woman has one in her closet because it is the most versatile piece she can own and it belongs in my list of wardrobe essentials. It may be the only fashion mainstay that can look good no matter how to decide to wear it. A LBD can be worn during any of the four seasons when done so appropriately. One day in H&M and found a little black dress for only $10. I decided to purchase it and to challenge myself to figure out 10 ways to style it using pieces that you already have in your closet. By the end of this post you will come to understand that a little black dress can be the most valuable piece that you own.

1) As it was intended to be

When thinking about how to style a little black dress I cannot ignore it’s original purpose. You can always wear the dress as is and add in some heels, jewelry, and a clutch. A little black dress can be worn for any dressy occasion, be it date night, a wedding, or anything in between.

2) Business

A little black dress can always be transitioned into a piece that meets dress code requirements at work. Pair the dress with a blazer, flats, and your lady boss tote bag and prepare to have a killer day at the office.

3) Grunge/punk

The word “dress” does not always have to be associated with a girly or frilly aesthetic. Try tying a shirt around your waist and wearing a graphic tee under the dress. Finish the look off with plenty of leather and you have gone from dressed up to “grunged” down.

4) Casual

Who would have thought that a little black dress can make for a comfortable and stylish casual outfit, perfect for a day out shopping or running errands. Your favorite denim shirt looks great layered over or tied around the waist of your little black dress.

5) Shirt over

Perhaps one of my most favorite ways to style a little black dress is by wearing a shirt layered over top. I am trying a cropped sweater and an open blouse. Depending on the shirt and shoes you select you can create an outfit that is dressy or casual. The layers make you look like you put a lot of thought into your style.

6) Shirt under

If you can put a shirt over your little black dress then you can surely put one under! Try experimenting with long sleeve and short sleeve shirts, as well as solid colors and prints.

7) Layered with something sheer

I have seen looks where people have layered mesh, sheer, or otherwise see-through shirts over their little black dresses. Here I am going with a sheer black blouse and some gold accents. Sheer pieces are not made to be worn alone, so try matching them up with your dress.

8) It is all in the details

Sometimes all you need are the fine details to really jazz up your little black dress. I am demonstrating four different accessories that you can try out and mix and match. You do not have to wear them all in one outfit like I did. Your little black dress will work well with scarves, belts, boot socks, and tights.

9) With outerwear

When I say “outerwear” I am not taking about coats and hoodies, but rather layering pieces that you wear on the outside of your outfit. You can use your little black dress as a base for wearing vests, ponchos, kimonos, and cardigans.

10) With a statement coat

A final way that I can dream up for how to style a little black dress is with a statement coat. If you do not have a puffy, faux fur, runway ready coat like I do, try something a bit more tame like a leather moto jacket.

Now that we are at the end of my 10 ways on how to style a little black dress I am dying to hear which looks are your favorite! For me, it is hard to choose. I like casual, grunge, and the sweater over top the most. If you re-create any of my looks or can think of any additional ways to style a little black dress, please share with us all in the comments. I would also like to remind you to not limit your creativity to the 10 ways listed in this post. There are endless ways to style your little black dress, and the sky is the limit. Use my ideas as inspiration and run with them. Until next time, continue to let your true beauty shine.