Flattering Little Black Dress Styles for Every Body Type

By now, you must already know that every woman should own at least one little black dress. Why? Because they are elegant, slimming, versatile, timeless and don’t need to be dry-cleaned that often. And, for some reason, everything looks more expensive when it’s black!

As we pass the mid-century mark, women still want to look alluring, but sometimes showing too much skin can come off as tacky or trying too hard. It’s best to focus on your favorite physical feature, whether it’s your shapely legs, long neck, sexy shoulders, toned arms, generous cleavage or hourglass proportions — and to keep the spotlight there.

You don’t need to be all covered up. In fact, showing some skin somewhere is more flattering than showing none. And if you choose your black dress wisely and accessorize strategically, I guarantee you will look and feel great for any upcoming occasion.

With the holidays fast approaching, this is the perfect time to shop for the perfect LBD. So, let’s go find yours!

(Left to right) Pleated Halter Midi Dress in Black ($160 whitehouseblackmarket.com); Oversized-Fit Wool T-Shirt Dress in Black ($135, cos.com); Plus Size Sheer Sleeve Dress in Black ($158, karenkane.com)

CHICO’S DISTRIBUTION SERVICES, LLC. / COS / Karen Kane

A right to bare arms

If you love your arms, perhaps you are comfortable going sleeveless? If so, keep the length of your dress at or below the knee to keep the focus on your upper body. Another nice option is a bracelet- or half-sleeved dress. I don’t know any woman who worries about displaying her forearms or wrists! And let’s not forget the magic of a sheer sleeve. Showing just a hint of skin can be as seductive as completely baring arms.

Pleated Halter Midi Dress in Black ($160 whitehouseblackmarket.com)

Oversized-Fit Wool T-Shirt Dress in Black ($135, cos.com)

Plus Size Sheer Sleeve Dress in Black ($158, karenkane.com)

Key accessory: Bracelets are a no-brainer: a bold cuff, some bangles, perhaps a chain-link or charm bracelet? With sheer long sleeves, consider wearing a dramatic “cocktail ring” or rings on multiple fingers. The point is to draw the eye to your arms.

(Left to right) Style & Co Women’s Mock-neck Sweater Dress in Deep Black ($35, macys.com); Crepe Midi Dress in Black ($70, zara.com); Willow Jersey Dress in Black, Petite ($98, bodenusa.com)

Macy’s / ZARA / BODEN US

Get a leg up

If you love your legs, keep the length of your dress just a few inches above your knees or go for a longer dress with a slit hem. Leave the thigh-high minis behind. Been there, done that! By wearing dresses with long sleeves, you can truly highlight your gorgeous gams.

Style & Co Women’s Mock-neck Sweater Dress in Deep Black ($35, macys.com)

Crepe Midi Dress in Black ($70, zara.com) 

Willow Jersey Dress in Black, Petite ($98, bodenusa.com)

Key accessory: Go all in with an attention-getting shoe. It doesn’t have to have a high heel: Sexy straps, pointy-toes, slingbacks, jeweled or bow details will all draw the attention to the right place.