The Little Black Dress: Finding Your Perfect Festive Look

The festive season will be here before we know it, as it seems to get into full swing by mid-November these days. I’m sure your thoughts will soon be turning to what to wear to a Christmas party, a ball, or special evenings out with friends or family.

The one item that every woman feels she needs in her wardrobe is a ‘Little Black Dress (LBD)’! Ever since Coco Chanel introduced the world to her simple, sophisticated design in the 1920’s it has been the go-to item of clothing in your wardrobe when dressing for an occasion.

If black isn’t in your colour palette it can wash you out, which is the last thing we want on our biggest night out of the year, so make sure you read on to find out how to wear black if it’s not your best colour and some fabulous alternatives too.

From my recent blogs, we’ve discovered how textures, statement jewellery and unique cuts can completely transform an outfit. So, in the spirit of sustainable fashion, why not breathe new life into your little black dress this year? We are seeing a number of different elements coming into the spotlight this autumn/ winter season, so let’s start there:

Velvet revival: Velvet is a rich, tactile and decadent fabric and is back in a big way this season. It’s perfect for winter evenings and feels instantly luxurious, even if you’re keeping the dress silhouette simple. If you’re looking for a new one this season this stunning Hope and Ivy black velvet dress with sparkling bow embellishments is in sizes 10-28 on the Simply Be website.

Colour: whilst the Little Black Dress is the classic, we are also seeing some beautiful alternative colours coming out for evening wear, such as deep claret red, black with a sparkle and deep forest green. Sosander have a fabulous collection this season with most going up to a size 20.

Statement sleeves: Whether puffed, sheer or sculptural, sleeves are having a come back, they add instant drama and make even the most minimalist dress feel festive.

Top Tip: Big sleeves may not fit under your coat so wear a large scarf/pashmina or maybe wear another of this year’s trends, a cape.

Wrap silhouettes and ruching: A wrap-style dress or one with gentle ruching across the waist is incredibly flattering, offering shape without feeling restrictive. It enhances your curves in all the right places and gives a feminine, elegant finish. Phase Eight and Hobbs often feature these cuts in inclusive sizes and premium-feeling fabrics.

Lace detailing: Lace never really goes out of style, whether it’s a full lace overlay or just a hint at the neckline or sleeves, it adds romance and subtle sophistication. Look for styles with a soft lining to keep things comfortable while still feeling elegant. Monsoon and Roman Originals have some beautiful lace options this season.

From Reiss and Whistles to Rixo and Nobody’s Child, British brands are serving up endless interpretations of the Little Black Dress this season, all with their own take on glamour.

Styling your outfit for every occasion

In our December blog we are going to delve a little further into what to wear for different occasions over the festive season, but below we share some of the ways you can wear your Little Black Dress:

The office Christmas party: pair your little black dress with sheer tights and gold accents for understated glamour or statement jewellery for impact.

Cocktail evening: Think strappy, elegant heels with a bold red lipstick and a faux-fur jacket to mix up materials.

Style Tip: Faux fur is another big trend for this season, you can also wear it with your jeans and boots for glamorous everyday wear.

Family lunch or gathering: layer your little black dress with a tailored blazer, cashmere cardigan and boots for a softer, more casual look.

The key is versatility is to invest in a little black dress that you can dress up and down, depending upon the occasion.

Use Accessories to complete the look

Jewellery, bags and footwear can help to completely transform your outfit, depending upon the occasion. Use a mix of jewellery to add a touch of sparkle or glamour.

Wearing a different bag can also completely change the look from day to evening. A compact clutch will give a polished evening look and a more structured or cross body will bring style and practicality for your daytime engagements.

Footwear can also help to elevate the look, from strappy heels adding elegance to ankle boots that can add an edge.

How to Wear Black and Not Look Washed Out!

Black can often be considered as a wardrobe staple, but what can you do if it makes your complexion look flat and overpowers your natural colouring. To avoid this, choose fabrics that bring your skin tone to life. Satin, silk, or lightly shiny fabrics reflect light and add a subtle glow.  Sheer panels or lace inserts allow a hint of skin to show, softening the look without being revealing.

An Alternative to the Little Black Dress

If you’re looking for something different from the classic little black dress, try a coordinated separates look that’s just as chic. Floaty crepe trousers paired with a drapey, sheer or silk jacket create an elegant silhouette that moves beautifully and feels modern. You could keep it monochrome for a sleek effect or introduce a deep jewel tone, like emerald or claret, for extra sophistication. Finish the look with delicate jewellery, heels or chic flats, and you’ve got an outfit that’s effortlessly stylish, comfortable, and perfect for evening occasions or festive gatherings.

Comfortable Shoes to Wear with The Little Black Dress

I’m always being asked how you can still look chic in a dress when wearing comfortable shoes. Choosing the right shoes can elevate your little black dress without compromising comfort. Here are my three top tips to keep your look stylish and elegant:

Choose a flattering shape: A low sandal or shoe with a slightly rounded toe is both comfortable and flattering, giving your feet shape while still looking sophisticated.

Opt for elongating colours: Neutral tones, nude shades, or metallics like gold or silver help to visually lengthen the leg, creating a streamlined, elegant effect.

Match wisely: If you’re wearing tights, it’s best to choose shoes in the same colour as your tights to keep the line of your leg uninterrupted.

An eye on sustainable fashion

Amid all the festive sparkle, it is important to make thoughtful purchases and keep sustainable fashion in mind. Being conscious about what you buy, considering if you can amend or adjust something you already own, or purchase items second hand is a good place to start. Platforms like Vinted or local charity shops are brilliant to find pre-loved gems.

Before you purchase something new, take a look at what you have already in your wardrobe. Could you make small adjustments to something you already have to bring up to date and make an old favourite feel brand new. Think of investing in a new or different pair of shoes, jewellery or a new bag, instead of a whole outfit. I have a friend who was amazing at sewing and with a little imagination she could transform and old outfit into something new with just a few sparkles.

If you do wish to purchase a new outfit, think about choosing sustainable brands such as Baukjen, Ninety Percent and Albaray, who are all leading the way with ethical production of clothes. Dressing sustainably doesn’t mean compromising on style, it’s about expressing your individuality while making choices that feel as good as they look.

Final thoughts

The Little Black Dress has stood the test of time because it evolves just like great style. This festive season, think about mixing textures, refreshing the accessories you choose and make conscious purchases with sustainable fashion in mind.  If you would like some help in creating the perfect outfit for that special occasion please get in touch to find out more about my personal shopping days and online shopping service.