An LBD is arguably the most versatile, confident, and fashionably long-lasting piece of clothing in your closet. The best little black dresses offer an impeccable fit, are made from luxurious fabrics, and require virtually no thought—or stress—to put on.
The prettiest little black dresses are chic, flattering and easy to style, making dressing up a breeze.
IMAGE: FORBES / PHOTO: RETAILER
If you’re wondering what to wear to a last-minute cocktail party, impromptu night out, after-work party, formal celebration, or any occasion where you want to be the best-dressed wedding guest, a great little black dress is the answer to your fashion dilemma. Here are some of our favorites: Reformation’s Barclay dress for its comfort and quality construction, Steve Madden’s Roslyn faux leather mini dress for its edgy take on a classic, and MacDuggal’s sleeveless ruffle mini dress for its flirty hemline. Given the variety of styling options, we’d say you should have several little black dresses in rotation. Read on to learn all the chic styles to invest in this season.
Editors’ recommendations at a glance
This dress is understated in its simplicity but will still make a big impression. It’s made from matte black fabric and features a corset and darts for a body-hugging fit that will accentuate your figure. It also has pockets – although these probably won’t fit much more than a lip gloss.
This dress is an investment, but this style will pay for itself with every wear. Seams at the waist artfully define this figure-hugging mini dress, and the square neckline and perfect pleats are endlessly flattering.
Derek Lam is known for bringing modern femininity to his styles. This more casual take on a little black dress is made from cotton, making it suitable for summer or vacation. Gathering at the waist and little bow details give the dress a playful vibe – and another plus point is that it’s bra-friendly, so you don’t have to worry about complicated underwear.
Contrast is a key part of what makes this LBD so special: pearl embellishments and jacquard fabric are balanced by a sexy mini length and open back. Keep the jewelry minimal, add a pair of dressy shoes, and you’re good to go.
This leg-baring style features chic roll sleeves, V-neck and a small slit for an edgy look. The faux leather – ideal for fall and winter – is soft and hugs your body for a snug fit. Pair this mini with pointed-toe pumps.
This LBD is one of Tuckernuck’s best-selling styles for a reason – the Chloe dress looks and feels luxurious. It has a crisp, textured moiré fabric and chic sleeve and collar design details, so it’s anything but boring. Note: This style suits women with smaller busts best.
Knit dresses have the advantage of being comfortable and easy to wear. Accessorize this dress with statement jewelry and strappy sandals, or go for a simple dress with minimalist accessories and styling.
This A-line style with a fitted bodice is a mix of flattering and comfortable. It’s made from a soft, stretchy modal fabric that’s lightweight and has a beautiful drape. The contrasting tonal details give it that extra something—and as a bonus, it even has pockets. Reviewers say you may need to size up on this one.
Turn
Norma Kamali Grace strapless mini dress
Norma Kamali’s collections are known for their easy, comfortable fit, and this sweater-style dress is the definition of throw-on-and-go. Made from a polyester-lycra blend with four-way stretch, it has vertical darts that create a glove-like fit.
Staud’s timeless pieces become must-haves in every closet. The stretch cotton poplin material of this style makes it comfortable and gives it an elevated structure. The square neckline is flattering, supportive and bra-friendly. Add a contrasting belt for even more styling options.
For an Audrey Hepburn moment, try this universally flattering V-neck bodycon silhouette. This dress sits differently at different heights, so you may need to have it shortened if you’re on the petite side. Reviewers love the pockets, but some say it runs small.
With its fold-over neckline and full pleated skirt, this dress’s timeless silhouette is a stylish choice for cocktail parties and formal weddings. The faille fabric has a slight sheen that enhances the dress, but it also has side seam pockets to keep you comfortable all night long.
Cut from a textured fabric with a hint of stretch, this calf-length dress is effortlessly elegant. It has a collarbone-baring silhouette and a slit at the back hem, so it’s stylish without being too stiff and stuffy.
anthropology
Sleeveless ruffle mini dress by MacDuggal
This fully lined crepe style will be a staple in your wardrobe season after season. The ruffles move as you walk, giving it a playful feel—all you need to style it are strappy sandals and a chic bag. Reviewers say this cut runs large, so you may need to size down.
This dress is both a sculptural piece and an LBD. Artful pleats add chic, structured volume to the playful empire waist style. And even better: it has pockets.
A master of its minimalism, the Alexis Libra dress is made from a mid-weight fabric with a round neck and simple side buttons. The ’60s-inspired style can be dressed up or down, making it a versatile purchase.
Nordstrom
Reformation Nataly Mini Dress
At first glance, this dress may seem simple, but the fit is anything but. It’s made from a cotton and spandex blend that will accentuate your curves, and the boat neckline looks great when you wear your hair up. Keep in mind, though, that this dress isn’t lined and the fabric isn’t particularly thick.
ALC is known for sophisticated cuts and chic silhouettes – the square neckline and pronounced shoulders make this dress your next power party dress. Styling tip: Wear with kitten heels or pointed-toe flats for a chic look.
If you need a no-fuss cocktail dress on a whim, this midi dress is made from flowing, lightweight chiffon. It has a godet hem that creates a slight volume and movement as you walk.
Bodycon dresses can feel obvious and predictable at first glance, but this one is a fresh take on stretchy faux leather. It’s soft (translation: comfortable), smooth, and just slinky enough that you’ll definitely want to wear it season after season.
This gathered waist midi dress features unique contrast stitching that is both flattering and visually elongating. The non-stretch crepe has a beautiful drape that isn’t too heavy. This is an ideal dress for transitioning from business to cocktail.
Why trust Forbes Vetted?
At Forbes Vetted, we carefully research, review, and test products to provide you with guidance in your fashion purchases. We only recommend the best clothing, shoes, and accessories to help you optimize your purchase. When it comes to women’s fashion, we’ve written about the best shirt dresses, the most comfortable heels, and the best dress pants for women, among other things.
This story was written by longtime Forbes Vetted contributor Molly Calhoun. She’s covered topics like the best linen dresses, the best wide-leg pants, and the best places to buy wedding dresses online. She believes in having several little black dresses in different fabrics and lengths. She’s got a structured midi cocktail dress, a black summer mini dress in stretch cotton poplin, and a knee-length black dress in mid-weight crepe that’s perfect for both work and cocktails.
Forbes Vetted Deputy Editor Kari Molvar reviewed this article. She has written and edited countless fashion articles and is responsible for all coverage of Forbes Vetted fashion content.
This is how we selected the most beautiful little black dresses
Material
The season and temperature will determine which little black dress will suit you best. In warmer climates, look for black dresses in crisp cotton, linen or flowing chiffon – they’re a good choice because they’re breathable and lighter. For cooler months, crepe, polyester and wool blends are more appropriate, and many have a beautiful drape too. In general, a more structured fabric will look more formal.
length
Traditionally, little black dresses are mini length, but the definition of LBD means something different to everyone. The length you choose can depend on your comfort level and in many cases, it will also affect the formality of the dress. Knee length and midi length can often be more formal than a mini length. Ultimately, your little black dress should be the length that you are comfortable with and that serves as your all-in-one dress option.
Silhouette and style details
The most versatile little black dress is often a fit-and-flare dress, as this silhouette is classic and never goes out of style or looks overly trendy. But you can also find stylish bodycon LBDs, as well as mod styles and shift dresses.
Part of the beauty of black fabrics is that they are enhanced by their color alone, and style details on a black dress are often more subtle and nuanced. Chic fashion elements can include things like pleats, floral details, structural seams, unique cutouts, and ruffle hems.
