The Best Little Black Dresses That Work For Every Fashion Situation

While it’s understated in its simplicity, this dress will make a big impact. It’s cut from matte black fabric and is constructed with bone corsetry and darted seams for a close-to-the-body fit that highlights your shape. It also has pockets—although they may not fit much more than a lipgloss. 

This dress is an investment, but you’ll get serious cost per wear with this style. Seaming at the waist artfully divides this fit and flare mini, and the square neckline and perfect pleats are endlessly flattering. 

Derek Lam is known for infusing styles with modern femininity. This slightly more casual take on a little black dress features a cotton construction that makes it summer or vacation appropriate. Shirring at the waist along with small bow details give this a playful vibe—and another plus is that it’s bra friendly, so you don’t have to worry about complicated undergarments. 

Contrast is a key part of what makes this LBD so special: Prim pearl embellishments and jacquard fabric are offset by a sexy mini length and back cutout. Keep the jewelry minimal, add a pair of sleek shoes and you’re ready to go.

This leg-baring style features a chic rolled sleeve, V-neck and small slit for an edgy look. The faux leather—ideal for fall and winter—is soft and molds to your body for a close fit. Pair this mini with pointy toe pumps.

This LBD is one of Tuckernuck’s bestselling styles for good reason—the Chloe dress looks and feels luxe. It has a crisp, structured moire fabric and chic sleeve and collar design details, so it’s anything but boring. To note: This style fits best on smaller chested women.

Knit dresses have the benefit of being comfortable and uncomplicated. Dress this one up with bold jewelry and a strappy sandal, or opt to keep it understated with minimalist accessories and styling.

A mix of flattering and comfortable, this fitted-at-the-bodice, A-line style is cut from a soft, stretchy modal fabric that’s lightweight with a pretty drape. The contrasting tonal detailing adds something special—and bonus, it even has pockets. Reviewers say you may have to size up in this style. 

Norma Kamali collections are notoriously easy wear and comfortable, and this pullover-style dress is the definition of throw-on-and-go. Made from a four-way stretch polyester lycra blend, it has vertical darting to ensure a glove-like fit.

Staud’s timeless pieces are destined to become closet staples. The stretch cotton poplin fabrication of this style makes it comfortable and gives an elevated structure, and the square neckline is flattering, supportive and bra-friendly. Add a contrasting belt for even more styling possibilities. 

For an Audrey Hepburn moment, try this universally flattering fit and flare silhouette with a V-split neckline. This dress hits differently on various heights, so you may have to get it hemmed if you’re on the petite side. Reviewers love that it has pockets, but some say it runs small.

With a foldover neckline and full, pleated skirt, this dress’s timeless silhouette is a stylish choice for cocktail parties and formal weddings. The faille fabric has a slight sheen that elevates the dress, but it also comes with side seam pockets so you can be comfy all night long.

Cut from a textured fabric with a hint of stretch, this med-calf-length dress is effortlessly elegant. It has a collarbone-baring style and back slit hem so it’s stylish without being overly prim and proper.

This fully lined crepe style will be a closet mainstay season after season. The ruffle moves as you walk, giving it a playful feel—all you need to style it are strappy sandals and a chic bag. Reviewers say this runs large so you may have to size down.