Last week I was at a client's house, creating looks out of her wardrobe and the amazing styles that we bought together. She loves dresses, so among the dresses she has for work are the iconic little black dress (aka LBD), along with a killer red dress, a grey wool one with an a-line skirt, and a printed silk dress that we belt to give her shape. So, of course, I created fun and unique looks with her black dress - but I also made just as many outfits with her other dresses. Even though the LBD deserves it's status a fashion icon, other dresses can be just as versatile - and as much of a wardrobe workhorse.
THE LCD (little color dress)
A boldly colored dress has amazing impact. Yes, it's a bit more memorable than a black dress - but everyone wants to be remembered, right?
Red dress by Diane Von Furstenberg. Cardigan by Karen Millen. Nude patent heels by Kate Spade.
Red is a power color, so it’s ideal for work when you're running a meeting or just need to bolster your confidence for the day. You can tone it down by pairing it with a not-too-basic black cardigan – then, add your go-with-everything nude heels and a pendant necklace, and you're good to go.
Black cardigan by Vince. Cheetah print heels by Ivanka Trump. Belt by Vince Camuto.
Kick it up a notch for work by trading your nude heels for attention-getting animal print, and show of your figure with a thick black belt.
And remember, a red dress isn't just for the office. Take it out on the town with a distressed leather jacket, printed scarf and a pair of sexy knee high boots.
Faux leather moto jacket (with detachable hood) by Free People.
THE LND (little neutral dress)
Black is supremely versatile because it's a neutral - so why not trade it for another neutral?
Grey wool dress by Theory. Cheetah print heels by Ivanka Trump.
This grey wool dress is just as home at work with a blazer and printed pumps as it is on date night with a lace-accented cardigan and neutral heels.
Lace trim cardigan by Karen Millen. Nude patent heels by Kate Spade.
Neutral becomes sassy by pairing your dress with a (faux) suede moto jacket and matching suede boots. And what makes it more sophisticated is keeping it all in shades of grey...
Faux suede moto jacket by Glamorous.
THE LPD (little print dress)
Prints are a great way to inject interest in your look, especially if you're more comfortable in subtle color.
Long sleeve print dress by Club Monaco. Metallic belt by J. Crew. Nude patent heels by Kate Spade.
Of course you can take your LPD to work with heels and a blazer - but add a little shine (and draw attention to your figure) with a metallic belt.
The same suede moto jacket that goes sophisticated in an all grey look adds some edge to your silk print dress - it's the subtle contrast of a traditionally masculine silhouette against a drapey texture and feminine pattern.
Faux suede moto jacket by Glamorous. Belt by Vince Camuto.
Dress up (pun intended) your weekend look by wearing a long cardigan over your printed dress. Just add tights and booties and enjoy your time off!
Long zip cardigan by Karen Millen. Black booties by Rag & Bone.
If you're not yet sufficiently inspired to occasionally ditch your LBD in favor of color, a non-black neutral, or print - check out how I accessorized three colored cocktail dresses for holiday parties (previously on the blog). I promise - you may just never go back to black...
