Yes, the little black dress is an extremely versatile piece. If only you could choose the best one for each and every occasion… Well, now you can! Read on for a selection of the most flattering styles and how to wear them:
The A-line LBD
Let’s start off with the classics. An A-line dress has a gentle flaring bottom part and usually has a medium, half-calf length. This type of dress looks flattering on all figures because the slightly larger bottom part (which forms an A shape) helps keep the proportions in check. Because of the shape and the length, this dress looks down-right glamorous when the upper part has ¾ sleeves and a nicely-fitting cleavage.
Depending on the mix of fabrics, you can rely on an A-line dress to be your most trusted companion during your daily urban activities. But don’t stop there! Choose an A-line dress in a more precious fabric and take it out for a spin in the evening as well. A romantic date? Just remember to pair it with some nude pumps if it’s of medium length – it will help elongate the legs.
The skater LBD
Now that we’ve seen the wonders an A-line plus size little black dress can do, the skater version is more like its little sister. Following the same flaring A-shape, a skater dress can be recognized mainly by its length: it’s like the A has been cut off somewhere in the middle and all that remains is its upper triangle. What we are left with is a dress that ends somewhere around the knee area.
Naturally, a skater dress is perfect for all your daily activities. Remember to keep an eye out for transparencies, collars or puffy sleeves – small details can really transform the entire look and leave you presenting the coolest version of yourself. Seeing too much black? Switch it up by wearing colorful belts or shoes and, why not, go wild in the accessories department: a little color is all you need to feel fresh all over again.
The bodycon LBD
What a stunner! Sometimes a bodycon LBD is all you need to impress yourself and those around you. This is the foxiest version of the plus size little black dress yet. Not sure about it? Finding a dress that fits you absolutely perfectly is key. So keep searching and searching until you find the one. Once you do, everything else is like a walk in the park.
For daytime, choose a bodycon dress made out of a comfortable material (cotton might be a good idea) with a simpler cut and less details. For nighttime, look for versions which feature a wild cleavage, mesh inserts, decoupages or whatever else rocks your boat. Pair it with the most precious necklace you have and you’re all set! Remember, confidence is key: if you feel sexy, you look sexy.
The peplum LBD
A trend which has really caught on in recent seasons, the peplum isn’t going anywhere just yet. What a relief! A sweet bodycon dress with a strategically placed peplum can be extremely flattering. It’s mostly about getting the proportions right and finding the dress which has the peplum insert at the right height to flatter you body. That’s all that is to it, really!
As with the bodycon dress, try on lots of these peplum dresses until you find the one that looks just right – you’ll know it when you see it. As this plus size little black dress is more on the dressy side, take advantage and choose a model which has lace inserts or an alternance of materials which can help bring that peplum to life. As for the neckline, a soft, round neckline is always a good choice. Plus, it will accommodate a statement necklace just right.
The maxi LBD
Stumped on what to wear on special occasions? You’d be surprised to see how versatile a long, maxi gown can be, especially if it’s black. Since in such a dress your legs will be covered, it’s up to the top part to balance things out, so pay extra attention to the neckline and sleeves. An asymmetrical style, ¾ sleeves and sweetheart necklines look flattering on everybody and help elevate the style of the dress. Since this variation of the LBD is meant for special occasions, maybe you’d like to go the extra mile and add a touch of glamour with a precious belt or over-the-top necklace. Add a clutch and a pair of comfortable heels and you’re ready to dance the night away!
Which one of these little black dresses would you wear? Tell us in the comments below.