12 Unique Ways to Style Your LBD For the Holidays
A little black dress, otherwise known as an LBD, is a classic fashion staple for a reason. Regardless of the shape or silhouette, this go-to garment is capable of transcending time, trends, and seasons. And as we approach the holiday season, you have an excuse to pack on a little extra glamour. So allow your black dress to be the foundation of your look, rather than the entirety.
Whether you cinch your high-neck satin number with a corset or vest, throw a sequined cardigan over your strapless tube dress, meet your ribbed sweater dress with sparkly knee-high boots, or add dimension to an already-textured look by employing a leather belt, there are plenty of ways to turn heads in an LBD that you've probably never thought of before. All of the styling tips ahead will help you pave the way to festive party outfits that start simple and are easy to wear but feel a little more intentional than the tried-and-true combinations you've been recycling since fall.
Some of the most popular styles on the market right now include pouf sleeves, intricate cutouts, sheer panels, and even fringe, but it's all about the way you draw attention to these elements. Scroll through for several styling tricks that will help you achieve a memorable ensemble using the LBD you already own. Or you can shop a few inspired pieces in case you're needing a closet refresh. From La Ligne's tiered midi to Selkie's ruffle-trimmed dress, get ready to make a stylish statement in any of these chic, timeless designs.
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Black Blazer Dress
Style an oversize blazer as a dress, completed with an ornate choker necklace and midrise heeled leather boots.
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Shop the Look: Boohoo Blazer Dress
Boohoo Extreme Oversized Blazer Dress ($38, originally $95)
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Black Victorian Dress
Cinch a modest, high-neck number down the bodice with a figure-defining vest in a holiday-festive color that pops. Accent the look with shimmering shoes and jewelry, such as drop earrings.
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Shop the Look: Materiel Satin Draped Mini Dress
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Black Ruffled Dress
Highlight the playfulness of a flouncy ruffle trim with a bow in your hair and wedges on your feet. Add texture and dimension with a sharp leather clutch and cat-eye sunglasses.
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Shop the Look: Selkie The Caviar Marie Dress
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Black Fringe Dress
A lace-up stiletto bootie helps attract the eye downward, leading to the fringe detail at your hemline without taking away from it. Complement your boho-inspired look with pearls and architectural sunglasses.
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Shop the Look: Raey Rouleau-Fringed Silk-Satin Dress
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Black Pussy-Bow Dress
Aim for sophistication with regal gold stud earrings, a box bag, and a slicked-back hairstyle in your pussy-bow dress. Coordinate the look with knee-high boots that meet the hemline and a colorful handbag.
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Shop the Look: Lauren Ralph Lauren Tie-Neck Velvet Dress
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Black Silk Wrap Dress
Simplicity usually reigns supreme, especially when you are short on time but still want to go for the glamour. In this case, combine your dress with a go-to strappy sandal that you're comfortable in. Statement earrings and a simple black bag complete the look.
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Black Lace Dress
Leather and lace is a trusty combination that never fails. Try this foolproof mix with a midi dress that falls over the top of your knee-high boots. You'll bring the right amount of toughness to an otherwise delicate look.
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Shop the Look: Paco Rabanne Frilled Neck Lace Midi Dress
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Black Tube Dress
Your LBD automatically becomes fancy enough for the holiday party when you throw on a sequined duster and a pair of slingbacks. Let it be the foundation of your look, and you can't go wrong regardless of your outerwear and accessory choices.
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Shop the Look: Forever 21 Ruched Bodycon Midi Dress
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Black Peasant Dress
Opt for a silhouette that stops before the ankle so you can have a standout shoe moment. A pair of smart, strappy ballet flats or kitten heels will convey both chicness and functionality.
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Black Textured Dress
Belt your look with a thick leather belt at the waist to mix materials and add dimension. Finish the ensemble with neutral-toned pieces so as not to take away from the details.
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Shop the Look: ASOS Design Satin Plisse Midi Dress With High Neck
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Black Pouf-Sleeved Dress
A whimsical dress like this one can be pared back for a more casual event with leather lug-sole boots. Select accessories with shiny hardware to complement whichever jewelry you decide to wear.
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Black Turtleneck Dress
Style yours over sheer tights with knee-high boots and a contrasting purse. A tailored blazer that comes to just the same length will be the ideal outerwear option.
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