Ah, the discussion of the "Little Black Dress", and how every woman should keep one in their closet. Is it a myth or is it good fashion sense? It's Good fashion sense. First, let's go over what qualifies as a little black dress, and why every woman needs one.
A little black dress leads to the illusion that the dress must be little. Not so, and please don't. There are two types of little black dresses you should have in your closet. 1)A cocktail dress and 2)A full length dress(but not a formal). A cocktail dress by design should length- wise, hit your knee or above(not too short because then we're waffling toward street walker). A little black dress can be full length sleeves for a winter occasion, or strappy and even sleeveless for a summer event. A full length dress is a bit more formal, but in itself does not have to be a "formal" dress. Please remember when wearing an ankle length or floor length dress, that it should be streamlined to almost perfection. We want to see "good" curves, and draw attention away from "bad" curves. Small details like sequins, bows or brooches are appropriate for either length, but don't get carried away......it can get tacky really quick.
Finally, the material that these dresses are made out of dictate the casualness or more formal type of little black dress that they are. Light weight knit(not to clingy)sleeveless cocktail is perfect for an evening work picnic on top of a roof in downtown K.C. Comfortable, stylish, and as always accessorize accordingly! A heavier full length black dress with sleeves is for winter events only and needs very little accessories. If it lighter in weight and is sleeveless or strappy, w/small detailing it would be perfect for a formal night wedding outside under the stars. Once again accessories and shoes are important, but that just leads to another topic completely.
To sum up.....tight, short, sleeveless "little black dress" is not for real women. And if we're being honest is not really flattering on anyone unless your perfectly toned in every way! Long black dress's should flow and have small details that make what could be a boring black dress, stand out among the crowd.i.e.sequin, cut-outs, bows(maybe).
Bottom line.......have two "little black dresses" that fit your body type correctly and follow the rules listed above and you should be fine! If there are questions on shoe choices for these type of dress's please question and comment!
Know the rules and a Fashionista you will B!
The answer was posed "When do you need a long black dress?" During the summer if it's a little more of a formal affair, or if you're the mother of the groom it would be appropriate to go long. Now, in winter it would an event that is typically more formal in nature. The ballet, opening of a gallery, even a company Christmas Party if it involves the need for more formal wear. Typically, long in any type of skirt or dress, gives off the feeling of a bit more formality, because you're not showing your legs. The is a case where this is not true, and it's when the dress is long, but has no sleeves. i.e. sundress's and maxi dresses. Although, I've see some pretty fancy maxi dresses out there. Just use good judgement. Which part of your body you cover or uncover usually dictates the formality of the dress. Hope I answered your question!:)
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