Beyond the Basic Black Dress (How to Spice Up a Little Black Dress)
When you’ve worn that new red dress three times already, and you’re going to yet another party, what do you reach for? That little black dress that always does the trick, right? But it doesn’t have to be boring…here are five ways to bring black back and make it festive.
Add a statement jacket.
A black sheath dress is probably one of the best classics you can have in your wardrobe. But if you top it off with a glittery metallic coat or edgy leather jacket, then you’ve got a whole new way to shine. Velvet or fur vests are other chic ways to add extra glamour to the classic. Since a black dress acts as a neutral background, you can experiment by adding updated toppers that will steal the attention and transform your LBD into glamorous holiday attire.
Fluff it up.
Black is also a great way to show off a colorful fur scarf or wrap. Leopard is a classic, of course, but this year, accent black separates or dresses with pastel furs that brighten up dark neutrals and adds lots of drama for very little money. These fur wraps make sleeveless dresses much more wearable, especially in chilly weather.
Bring on the bling.
Rock those jewels. Bigger is still better when it comes to necklaces and earrings this holiday season. So, what better way to dress up the LBD than with bold baubles that sparkle for attention in statement choker crystal necklaces, long chains, ropes of pearls or swinging chandelier earrings? Anything tasseled is all the rage, so look for these frilly little accessories to freshen up any basic black stand-bys.
Get artsy.
Leave those bulky totes at home! The clutch handbag is a party essential, and one of the best buys you can make to boost the style power of traditional black. Choose from quirky little minaudieres in all shapes and sizes to add some whimsy to your holiday outfits. Embellished cross-body bags or wristlets offer lots of hands-free possibilities, too.
Dazzle with show-stopping footwear.
There’s no better time to let your toes twinkle than the holidays. If you’ve always worn black pumps with your LBD, then it’s time for a change. Switch to something a little unexpected like tapestry ankle boots, feathery stilettos, sequined sandals or velvet slides. And if your LBD is on the short side, then think about changing it up with over-the-knee suede boots.
Go to the opera.
If you haven’t shopped for gloves in a while, then you don’t know what you’re missing…long elbow-length gloves in soft leather or velvet are holiday favorites, and what better way to do the diva for a night thing than to wear a pair of elegant opera gloves with a sleeveless LBD? Channel Audrey Hepburn in “Breakfast at Tiffany’s,” and enjoy a little Hollywood glamour for a special occasion.
Amp up the makeup.
When the focus is on your face, then it’s the perfect time to play up the makeup. Go darker red on your lips and nails, do a winged eyeliner or dust on a little glittery eyeshadow. When the dress is simple and sleek, then you can let your face make a bold statement. Ditto for hair. Clip-in hair ornaments and even “Game of Thrones” gilded crowns exude party magic.
Wear the pants.
One of fashion’s newest looks is the dress over pants trend. This one definitely depends on the style of LBD, and of course, may not work with all silhouettes. But consider layering your favorite little black dress over narrow leggings or lace pants and go way beyond basic black to transform any holiday wardrobe.
Update the little black dress with ankle boots for the holiday season. Vince Camuto dress at Nordstrom.
- Color blocked
- Sleeveless
To find out more about Sharon Mosley, and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate Web page at www.creators.com.
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