10 Classic LBDs That Never Go Out Of Style

Ever since Coco Chanel took once-unfashionable black and stuck it on a dress, the LBD has been a wardrobe staple.
CREATED IN PARTNERSHIP WITH KAREN MILLEN

Fast forward 100 years, and we’re looking to the Great British high street for a dose of the fail-safe style look – from structured, work-appropriate offerings to sexy, date-night styles, Karen Millen has every version of the flattering look you could want. Here are our favourites…

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Forever Dress, £245
Forever Dress, £245

What: Forever Dress

Why: This is the LBD you’ll want to wear to every big meeting going forward. A flattering, structured fit coupled with statement shoulders and a hardware belt make this the killer dress to help you transform into your powerful alter ego – just add red lipstick for an extra dose of sass.

Wear with:  Kitten heel slingbacks for a dose of femininity.

Asymmetric Tuxedo Dress, £225
Asymmetric Tuxedo Dress, £225

What: The Asymmetric Tuxedo Dress

Why: Thanks to Balmain and Saint Laurent, the tuxedo dress is officially in fashion favour, and it gets team SL’s approval for an evening look with impact. This double-breasted design fits in all the right places.

Wear with: Staggering heels and oversized embellished earrings for an homage to Kaia Gerber’s killer YSL runway turn.

Contrast Waist-Belt Dress, £180
Contrast Waist-Belt Dress, £180

What: Contrast Waist Belt Dress

Why: Corporate ladies, listen up; this structured black style with subtle belt detail is a winner for big office functions. Ideal for drinks and client dinners, it’s the timeless design you’ll come back to again and again.

Wear with: Pointed black courts and a power-dressing coat.

Crossover Neck Maxi Dress, £225
Crossover Neck Maxi Dress, £225

What: Crossover Neck Maxi Dress

Why: Not a little black dress per say, but this classic black maxi is an events wear hero you’ll never tire of. The crossover detail adds drama (plus highlights your décolletage), whilst the style is versatile enough that you can transform for multiple occasions.

Wear with: Strappy metallic heels and a statement evening clutch. Add lashings of faux fur for winter parties.

Gathered Detail Midi Dress, £90 (was £180)
Gathered Detail Midi Dress, £90 (was £180)

What: Gathered Detail Midi Dress

Why: Another workwear hero, we love this style’s feminine characteristics – a ruffled cap sleeve and hourglass shape give it the perfect professional/stylish balance.

Wear with: Double-breasted blazers to offset the figure-hugging fit.

Halterneck Bodycon Dress, £110
Halterneck Bodycon Dress, £110

What: Halterneck Body Con Dress

Why: The epitome of LBD, this is the could-be-designer party dress we love. A statement neckline adds interest, but the slick, unfussy design makes this the perfect foundation for multiple party looks.

Wear with: Everything from strappy heels to statement flats.

Strappy Pencil Dress, £190
Strappy Pencil Dress, £190

What: Strappy Pencil Dress

Why: Who said you can’t wear black in summer? Another classic LBD, skinny straps give this style a warm weather-appropriate feel.

Wear with: Lashings of metallics for weddings and parties.

Wrap Dress, £215
Wrap Dress, £215

What: Wrap Dress

Why: You can’t beat a wrap dress for day-to-night style. Ideal with trainers off-duty and heels for a night out, this is the multi-purpose design that gives you more bang for your buck.

Wear with: Bikers and smart flats for an office-to-dinner edit.

Asymmetric Wide-leg Jumpsuit, £235
Asymmetric Wide-leg Jumpsuit, £235

What: Asymmetric Wide Leg Jumpsuit

Why: Not strictly an LBD, we couldn’t let an edit slide without getting this perfect black jumpsuit in. The asymmetric necklines keeps things interesting, whilst wide leg cut has a modern feel – we’re adding this one to basket, pronto.

Wear with: Swept-up hair to show off that neckline.

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