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7 Fun & Affordable Little Black Dress Styles

Ahhh, the little black dress. Such an iconic piece, and most of us probably already have at least one on standby for the holiday season.

Still, have you really looked at your LBD lately? It may be classic and iconic — and the perfect backdrop for updated accessories to switch out from event to event for the season. Even so, like everything else, your old faithful LBD could stand an update once in awhile.

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The most classic version of the little black dress features a knee-length hemline, natural waist, no sleeves, and a scoop of square neck. That description should bring to mind the one and only Audrey Hepburn. Sadly, while that style of LBD works now and forever, it’s not always the most exciting garment for a fun night out.

Smiling woman wearing little black dress while leaning against wall outside.
Source: Envato.

You can spice things up with some amazing accessories. But even your silver clutch can only carry the load for so long.

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You see where I’m going right? There’s room in the closet for more than one LBD, one that’s a little more contemporary and has a personality all its own. Below are a few affordable little black dress styles for your inspiration.

1. Wrap it up

Sale
Amazon Essentials Women’s Classic Cap Sleeve Wrap Dress (Available in Plus Size), Black, Small
  • CLASSIC FIT: Close-but-comfortable…
  • MATTE JERSEY: Soft, compact…
  • CLASSIC WRAP DRESS: This…
  • DETAILS: Features an adjustable…
  • LENGTH: 40 1/2″ from side neck on…

This dress is pitched as an office work dress, but it’s so, so much more. The front ruching, v-neckline, and short sleeves give you a versatile canvas on which to paint your best evening ensemble. Imagine wearing this dress with a dramatic updo, dangling earrings that sparkle, and a killer set of heeled sandals. Add a bucket bag of the bright red variety and you are ready for a night on the town.

2. Give ’em the slip

The Drop Women’s Ana Silky V-Neck Midi Slip Dress Dress, -Black, S
  • Staples by The Drop
  • Models are 5’10″/178 cm and wearing…
  • A lightweight silky…

Dress it up or down, the little black slip dress is all field player. For holiday parties, pair it with a pretty pendant, high heels, and a faux fur wrap. When the warmer months roll in, wear this slip dress with flat-soled mules, your best dark sunglasses, and no jewelry at all.

3. Never let them see you sweater

The Drop Women’s Laila Power Shoulder Twist Back Side Slit Midi Sweater Dress, Black, S
  • Staples by The Drop
  • Models are 5’10″/178 cm and wearing…
  • This dress is 44″/112 cm long
  • Fit: snug fit, worn close to the…
  • Viscose nylon blend

A knit black dress with an open back is another versatile pick. It’ll wear beautifully with heels and jewels to cocktail parties and even the office holiday party. But in the spring you can don this piece with tidy sneakers for your poshest errand-running look of the season.

4. Grade A-line

Sale
Dress the Population womens Catalina Solid Sleeveless Fit & Flare Midi Dress, Black, Small US
  • Textured crepe fabric
  • Built in pockets
  • Concealed back zipper
  • Skirt is lined
  • The Catalina is a crepe cocktail…

For a sweet and slightly vintage take on the LBD, try a fit-and-flare silhouette. It’s flattering and classic — a combo that’s sure to be a hit at cocktail parties and date nights.

5. Faux sure

The Drop Women’s Hank Vegan Leather Square Neck Mini Dress, Black, S
  • Staples by The Drop
  • Models are 5’10″/178 cm and wearing…
  • This dress has a length of 34″/86…
  • Fit: snug fit, worn close to the…
  • Vegan Leather

A faux leather mini dress makes a statement like no other. You can get away with the short hemline here because the neckline is conservatively square. The fitted silhouette and structured fabric is sure to show off your curves in the best possible way.

6. Heavenly halter

Sale
MEROKEETY Women’s Sexy Halter Neck Sleeveless Evening Dress Slim Split Mermaid Prom Dresses,Black,S
  • US SIZE, Small=(US 4-6), Medium=(US…
  • Feature: Halter neck, sleeveless,…
  • The halter neck style and tight…
  • Occasions: The elegant party dress…
  • Washing Instruction: Machine wash…

If you’re ready to show off your shoulders, a halter top dress is the right pick. This one features a curvy mermaid silhouette and a split hem for just enough sex appeal. You aren’t going to wear this dress to the supermarket (unless you want to be a major distraction to shoppers), but you’ll look great at parties.

7. Mesh to impress

Allegra K Women’s Velvet Mesh Panel Stand Collar Long Sleeve Party Dress Medium Black
  • Velvet, Stand Collar, Mesh Panel,…
  • This soft and stretchy velvet put a…
  • Occasion: Cocktail, Party, Holiday,…
  • Regular Fit. Machine Wash Cold with…
  • Model is wearing in size X-Small.

Mesh sleeves or a well-placed mesh panel transforms a conservative dress shape into something much more alluring. The dress shown here by Allegra K is velvet — another interesting LBD twist — with long, mesh sleeves. This is a gorgeous pick for the party girl who’s routinely cold. Add tights and heels for a dress you’ll love to wear when it’s cold.