Black Dress Styles | COCKTAIL REVOLUTION

Six Black Dress Styles For Your Wardrobe

Every fashionista knows and understands that the black dress is a truly iconic garment. Whether it’s for a casual daytime event or an extravagant evening out, a black dress can be adapted and transformed to suit any occasion. That’s why it’s become a staple in every woman’s wardrobe. There are six black dress styles everyone should know.

If you’re searching for versatile women’s dresses that effortlessly take you from day to night, black dresses are the ultimate solution. Not only do black dresses promise unlimited styling options but they also offer instant style credibility, any where and every where. So let’s take a look into our six must-have black dress styles and how to make the most of these wardrobe staples.

The Casual Black Dress: Your Everyday Heroine

An essential for every woman is to have a casual black dress. It will take you from errands to casual outings. Selecting breathable and easy-to-wear cotton or jersey fabric styles makes for a perfect choice. Wear this black dress stye with sneakers or flat sandals and it’s perfect for brunch dates, shopping, or walking your dog in the park.

You could add a denim jacket and a crossbody bag for an off-the-cuff cute touch, while a small smattering of jewellery would elevate the outfit. Think simple pendants or a stack ring.

The Classic Little Black Dress: Timeless Elegance

This is a classy little black dress; every woman deserves it. It’s perfect for dinners, parties, and cocktails, not to mention semi-formal occasions. Choose styles that flatter, like sheath or A-lines, and then select fabrics like silk, satin or lace for that oh-so-elegant appeal.

To elevate your evening look, complete with nude or metallic heels and carry a clutch bag. Then go for that extra flair with a statement necklace or a bold red lip. 

The Work-Ready Black Dress: Professional and Polished

While dinner and party black always work with the right styling, black can also be the right colour for your professional office look. Semi-casual and polished is what we’re looking for here. Some shirt, midi, or structured black work dresses with minor dabbling either by way of a belt or pleats will do very well for chic workwear.

Pair your work black dress with a jacket for an altogether impressive power dressing and humility style-put within heel box shoes with closed toes. Therein also comes a structured bag and a watch with a hint of sheen.

The Maxi Black Dress: Comfort Meets Glam

A black maxi dress is perfect for comfort. Versatile as well, the maxi dress in black can handle everything from casual afternoon get-togethers to elegant evening occasions. Look for easy, flowy designs with adjustable straps or wrap style dresses with comfortable flats.

For daytime, espadrilles and wide-brimmed hats are mandatory with this maxi dress. In the evening, change espadrilles to strappy heels and cinch the waist with a statement belt.

The Cocktail Black Dress: Party-Ready Perfection

When in doubt, it’s the cocktail black that you can count on to come to the rescue. Good for weddings, gala events, or any special occasions, look for something that will set you apart from the crowd like an asymmetrical look, ruffles, or sequins. The knee length or midi cut will strike a balance of elegance and fun.

Source: Vecteezy

Accessorise with bling like chandelier earrings or a metallic clutch. Add high heels and flaunt your legs to finish the look.

The Versatile Black Wrap Dress: Universally Flattering

The wrap dress has arguably the most versatility out of all women’s dress styles. One of the best things about them is their adjustable fit that looks good on all body types while being suitable for both casual and formal events. By changing footwear and accessories, a black wrap dress can change into a whole new look for any occasion.

For a casual look, pair with ballet flats and your everyday tote. For a dressier occasion, wear it with stiletto high heels and a bold clutch.

Transitioning from Day to Night

One thing is absolutely true of black dresses. All of these styles are hugely adaptable. Just a little accessorising change can convert a chic daytime dress into glam. Switch bags from daytime to evening, say, by swapping a tote for your evening clutch. Then change out of your flats into gorgeous heels. Layering also does magic. Add a blazer or cardigan during the day, then drape a shawl or statement jacket over the top for the evening. And, yes, make-up. Keep your daytime look minimal with nude tones, but make way for dramatic smokey eyes or simple red lips for the night. Don’t forget about experimenting with jewellery. Layer delicate pieces during the day, saving the big bold statement accessories for evening glamour.

Why They Are Essential

From any angle, black dresses are wardrobe essentials. They are confidence boosters. They offer a background tone that allows for personal expression and experimentation with different styles, textures and added colours. They are timeless, never out of season so last forever in your wardrobe. That’s huge for those of us who want to practise sustainability. A quality black dress that might seem like an investment in the short term will undeniably end up saving you a small fortune in the long run.

From an easy brunch morning to a glamorous late-night adventure, black dresses remain the hardcore multitaskers of any woman’s wardrobe. Choose styles that match your lifestyle whether you’r running errands, office-bound or getting ready for a night out. There’s at least one black dress out there that’s perfect for you, while also being timeless and flexible enough for you to fall back on again and again.

All images: Vecteezy

See more: Your Ultimate Mini Dress Styling Guide