The little black dress, five ways: from the office to a wedding

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The little black dress has lasted a century because it changes with what you wear around it. Choose a simple shape in a good fabric and it can go to work on Monday and to a wedding on Saturday. Here is how to style one dress five ways.

Choosing the dress

The most versatile little black dress is knee-length or just above, sleeveless or with a cap sleeve, and plain at the neckline, such as a high halter, a boat neck or a simple crew. Crepe, heavy jersey and wool blends hang well and do not crease. Avoid heavy embellishment: the accessories should do the talking.

1. For the office

The work formulaA tailored blazer in camel or grey over the dress, black slingbacks with a low heel, a structured tote and small gold hoops.

Add sheer black tights in winter and a fine knit cardigan if the office runs cold.

2. For dinner

The dinner formulaThe dress with pearl drop earrings, a leather clutch and pointed pumps. Keep the makeup simple and the lip bold.

3. For a cocktail party

The cocktail formulaMetallic sandals, a beaded or satin clutch, statement earrings and a cropped faux-fur or velvet jacket for the trip there.

4. For a wedding

Black at a wedding is now widely accepted, especially for evening and city weddings. Lift it with color and texture so it reads as celebratory.

The wedding formulaA printed silk scarf or colored wrap, jewel-toned heels and a small top-handle bag. Check the invitation's dress code first.

5. For the weekend

The weekend formulaAn oversized denim or leather jacket, white sneakers or ballet flats and a crossbody bag. The dress becomes the easiest thing in your wardrobe to put on.

Looking after it

Black fades with washing. Turn the dress inside out, wash it cold or have it dry-cleaned, and dry it flat or on a hanger away from sunlight. A fabric shaver takes care of any pilling under the arms.

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