The LBD: Everything You Need to Know About This Versatile Piece

by EW Group on November 01, 2017

The LBD is probably the most popular piece in fashion. More content has been written about it than any other item of clothing. At EW, the LBD is a must-have for any capsule wardrobe. Here, we take a look at the origins of this versatile piece and how it has changed over the years.

Before the 20th century, black dresses were associated with mourning and mostly worn at funerals. In the 1920s, the iconic fashion designer Coco Chanel reinvented the little black dress as a stylish item for women. It was the beginning of the LBD’s success. By the 1930’s, it had become popular with stage dancers who wore a variety of styles and Hollywood actresses because it looked great on the big screen. Soon it became the foundation of every woman’s wardrobe, suitable for day and evening wear.

Marilyn Monroe in 'Asphalt Jungle'

Some famous actresses of the era made this piece iconic. Blonde bombshell Marilyn Monroe wore a figure-hugging dress in Asphalt Jungle. The real breakthrough, however, was in 1961, when Audrey Hepburn appeared in Breakfast at Tiffany’s in the unforgettable Givenchy dress.

Audrey Hepburn in 'Breakfast at Tiffany's'

 

Since then, the LBD has been a regular feature of the Red Carpet and women’s wardrobes. In 2010, the term ‘LBD’ was added to the Oxford dictionary and is now widely used both within and outside the fashion industry.

Styling your LBD

LBDs come in a variety of styles, lengths and shapes, so it’s easy to choose a dress that suits your body shape. It can be elegant or casual. Its versatility makes it a truly great piece to have. There are figure-hugging, knee-length black dresses and ones with A-line skirts. They can be loose fitting or straight-cuts with a boat neckline and short sleeves or sleeveless V-necklines.


When choosing your LBD, pick a style that makes you feel feminine and that’s comfortable to wear because this is going to be a key item of your wardrobe.

An LBD can be combined with heels or flats. You can opt for a more elegant or a more casual look by accessorizing with belts, jewelry and a handbag.

EW offers styles to create a truly individual look. Check out collection of black dresses and colourful Moods Ribbons, Belts and Bracelets.

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