“When French designer Christian Dior launched his groundbreaking A-Line collection in spring 1955, a new silhouette was born, one that has become a fashion staple ever since. Dior called it the A-Line because his dresses were narrow and fitted at the top, flaring out from the bust or waist in a straight line to the hem just above the knee, in a shape reminiscent of the letter “A”. Vogue called it the most wanted silhouette in Paris”. (source book: “Bikinis, Bell-bottoms and Little Black dresses – 70 Great Fashion classics” by Kate Mulvey)
Every woman has at least one Little Black Dress in her wardrobe. I have a few for several occasions. The A-Line Mini dress is the perfect shape for my pear shaped body: It hides my tummy and bum but accentuates my legs and smaller upper body. The shape is clean and simple, with black contrast piping and a fluttery silk skirt for some girly appeal.
During the day, this is the perfect casual yet elegant day dress paired with flats and a big shopper tote. At night, I can dress it up with heels and a cute clutch.
As a dreamy dresser, I’m always up for a bit of embellishment, embroidery and frills!
This month marks the 50 year anniversary of the iconic movie “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” in which Audrey Hepburn popularised the Little Black Dress.
So, 50 years on, how has the LBD changed? Audrey’s version of the LBD from Givenchy was very sophisticated and serious but not fun. These days, designers have to re-invent the wheel each year, making the classic LBD fun, innovative and most of all wearable. Designers go crazy utilising rich fabrics like organza, mohair and lace in all different shapes: Shift dress, Empire line, Drop waist, insertion of sheer panels as seen in Stella McCartney’s collection. Stella’s dotted LBD is modern and fun.
Fashion has to work harder to accommodate modern womens’ lifestyles: Juggling home life, work life, travelling: Women no longer want separate evening and day wear: They want to dress down evening wear during the day and dress up casual wear at night.
The LBD was, is, and always will be a fail-safe option, making us look chic. When in doubt, wear an LBD and you will never be over or under dressed!
Rachel Bilson combing a playful, girly ruffle LBD with a masculine leather jacket.
Below: I’m wearing an LBD from Milla Jovovich for Mango.