Reinventing that Little Black Dress (LBD)

 I cannot emphasize more on how important a little black dress is for your wardrobe. It is a staple piece and it never goes out of style. You can wear it to work, to a cocktail party, on a casual day at a museum, or even to a black tie dinner. Therefore, investing in a nice LBD is a must because it is versatile and can be worn all year round. However, when shopping for a LBD, keep these things in mind:

1. Make sure the cut and design flatters your body (not every thing black is slimming and flattering)
2. Make sure that it is made well and the fabric is long lasting
3. If you're planning on wearing your LBD to work, keep the length and style in mind. You don't want to look like you just stepped out of a club or a bar- so think "classy"
4. Make sure your LBD fits you well- there are plenty of options to choose from, therefore there is no room/excuse for looking frumpy in your LBD
5. If it means spending a little bit more on your LBD, go for it!!! it's worth it!!!
6. If you are trendy and a risk-taker like myself, go for a LBD that has a modern touch to it- like a shoulder pad, a plunging neckline, an empire waist, strapless, ruffles, sheerness, lace etc. etc..
7. Here's a little LBD mantra: If you're more of a classic person and does not care for the trends, go for a cut and design that is simple and versatile.

If you're looking for an affordable LBD, think Ann Taylor, Banana Republic, Macy's, Limited and even Express.

Ways to wear your LBD for Fall and Winter:

1. Add a pair of black opaque tights to your LBD- it will keep you warm in a chilly weather yet it will give you that sophisticated look that will work for your office, even during a cocktail hour outside of work or depending upon the style, it can even work for a night-out with your girlfriends
2. Pair your LBD with colorful cardigans such as mustard, purple, beige, green and even red to brighten the look
3. Accessorize, accesorize and accesorize...Add belts (chunky or thin- depending upon your style) to define your waistline. Belts come in various colors and styles, so have fun with it
4. Scarves are always in style and are chic, therefore for fall weather- add a light scarf to your LBD in abstract prints (which are in) and for a winter look- add some chunky scarves and shawls
5. Add some interest to your LBD by pairing it up with a nice strand of pearl, a more sophisticated necklace with a flair, or a bold necklace that screams attention
6. Do not overwhelm your LBD by going overboard with accessories- for e.g. if you're wearing a bold necklace, go for a subtle touch on the purse and shoes
7. You can also spruce up your LBD with a pair of bright colored shoes for a cocktail hour or during a night out, but remember-  if  you're wearing a pair of purple shoes with your LBD, do not make a mistake of burying yourself in purple from head to toe. Add  just a hint of color to your LBD. Remember, sometimes less is more
8. Want to add some drama to your LBD? Layer it over a faux fur,  fitted tweed blazer, cropped jacket, or leather jacket and finish it off with a pair of black golves

For more information on accesorizing your LBD, please go to http://www.suite101.com/content/how-to-wear-the-little-black-dress-a40690