The Shopping Bag: Styling the little black dress for daytime

Header image for Interrobang article CREDIT: HAI HA NGUYEN
The LBD can be daytime appropriate with just a few styling tips. Go ahead - try it.

The little black dress (LBD) is well loved universally: It is always flattering; it can be easily styled and fool proof when you’re in a rush. Fashion embraces florals, prints, textures and different silhouettes, but nothing will ever replace the simple elegance of a little black dress.

Here are some tips on how to style or work it into your daytime wardrobe.

Fall is the season for accessorizing and layering with both soft and metallic pieces. Boot season opens up many possibilities for different looks and makes your little black dress attire more wearable.

Wearing the little black dress during the day significantly changes the function, style and look of your favourite dress.

Simplicity, elegant and flattering, the little black dress is one of the most essential pieces in your wardrobe.

If your LBD is strapless and your function is more conservative, simply adding a jacket overtop adds warmth and adds change to your outfit. Collar details and light wornout denim are trendy this year and adding either of those brightens up the outfit. The black helps balance out the ensemble. If you ever want to wear a striking print or show off the texture and details of a piece, layering with something black will really help it stand out.

Normally socks are just a functional essential. They go on before your shoes and add warmth, but fall has changed that. You can layer knee-high socks for style underneath the same-coloured boot or a contrasting boot to add interest to the outfit. Tights are also great for keeping your legs warm and adding texture.

The easiest to wear are plain sheer black socks but socks can come in zigzag, checkerboard, floral patterns and if you’re adventurous – different colours.

A great layering trick is to wear a texture tight of your choice with long knee-high black socks over top.

Wear a great piece of body jewellery, a long necklace, statement piece or comfy circle scarf to finish and will surely add dazzle to the outfit.

Fall is definitely the time to take advantage of layering and adding different textures and silhouettes to your outfit.

The LBD makes for a great base and starter for the outfit while keeping the outfit looking chic. Adding accessories and statement pieces are sure-fire ways to keep black interesting.

It is also easy to introduce fall textures, colours and silhouettes with a LBD as a base. You can add anything from fitted denim, loose denim, cozy sweaters to furry jackets.

Boots are a must for fall. You may already have one or two pairs so changing up the socks you wear with them can drastically change the look.

As always, jewelry and accessories are the finishing touches.