Bonjour lecteurs! Which shade do you wear most often? I usually go for blue, pink, and other pastels. But I am trying to experiment with my wardrobe and wear more green and yellow. Lately, every time I go to the shop, it’s all brown. But it seems a bit daft and boring, to be honest. I think that black and navy are more elegant, and a classic LBD always goes a long way. Now, it might be a bit of a cliché. But the French way to wear a little black dress is an art. Here is my fashion guide to nail the look with elegant black dresses.
Coco Chanel
Did you know? The LBD story begins in the 1920s with the French designer Coco Chanel. She revolutionised the style and turned the black dress into the most versatile clothing staple. Black was généralement associated with mourning. It was never seen as a fashion statement.
In 1926, the French designer published a sketch of a short, simple black crepe de Chine dress in American Vogue.
At the time, it broke conventions. It made an affordable, practical, yet elegant option that could be dressed up or down. Hollywood and actresses like Audrey Hepburn glamourised it in the 50s and 60s, and the rest is history. The fashionable piece is truly iconic. So much so that you can even see exhibitions on the topic.
Une Touche Elégante
Every woman needs a little black dress in her wardrobe. It’s THE timeless chic garment. The art of wearing it is all about embracing simplicity with une touche of nonchalance. The black dress should speak for itself; nothing else is needed.
So the best way is to wear it in all its glory, on its own. Or with the most minimalist accessories possible.
Wear it with some ballet flats (another French fashion staple!) and the lightest makeup possible. My favourite way would be to wear a bit of mascara and a lip gloss for a babydoll look. It screams Brigitte Bardot!
Quality Over Quantity
Le secret to looking French when you wear a black dress? Either you keep it clean and elegant, or you go all in with the pearls and the bright red lipstick.
Whatever look you go for, it’s all about quality over quantity. Invest in timeless silhouettes and prioritise natural fabrics, such as cotton or linen.
If you want more luxurious vibes, black satin or silk is also stunning. The dress is then a true piece of art. You don’t need anything else. It will do it all for you.
Pair It With Other Statement Pieces
If you want to accessorise your black dress, you must add statement pieces. Pair your LBD with a beige or camel trench coat. It’s the perfect transitional outfit right now. But it also adds some je ne sais quoi to your silhouette.
If you really want to jazz it up and turn heads, wear some black stilettos and a pearl necklace.
Le secret to doing it just right? Choose no more than one or two standout pieces. A bold necklace or some colourful earrings would usually do the trick. Don’t go overboard, or it will look too much. You need to make a statement, but be subtle.
During the Christmas season, I always wear a black dress with a black fur coat and some sparkly jewellery to feel glam. It’s the perfect party season look without trying too much.
Effortless Parisian Chic
Day-to-day, the effortless Parisian chic look is la solution. Like Inés de la Fressange, mix it up. The key is to feel comfy.
Play with conventions and textures. Pair your little black dress with more casual pieces. Par exemple, a summer black linen dress always looks fabulous with a straw bag and espadrilles or casual sandals.
Why not mix masculine pieces with the ultimate girly garment? Borrow your boyfriend’s blazer or oversized shirt. The contrast will make the LBD even more feminine. Plus, it’s ultimately comfy!
Don’t be afraid to pair items that would usually clash. There is nothing sexier than a black dress with a leather jacket (biker style) and a pair of Dc. Martens.
Whatever style you go for, a little black dress is always une bonne idée. You can’t go wrong with it, and it will never be out of fashion. Always opt for natural fabrics and pair your dress with statement accessories. But don’t be afraid to mix and match styles. Either way, you will wear it for decades. It’s the most powerful outfit a woman can own. So much indeed, you are allowed to have several for each occasion… I included some of my favourite looks to give you some ideas.
Happy styling!
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