How to Find the Perfect Little Black Dress for You

A perfect little black dress is a must-have for every woman's wardrobe. It is a short, simple black dress that a woman can either dress up, or dress down depending on the occasion and time of day it is worn. A little black dress (popularly known in fashion as "LBD") worn with a jacket during the day, is considered chic business attire for women. This same little black dress worn with accessories such as beautiful scarves and fashion jewelry, turns the LBD into a stunning evening dress for cocktails, dinner or dancing.

Black dresses used to be worn by women during times of mourning. This all changed when Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel published a picture of a short, simple black dress in American Vogue in 1926. From then on, the little black dress has been a mainstay in fashion.

And how did the word "perfect" get attached to the name? Well, it could be said that because of the LBD's versatility, a fashionista somewhere, sometime, must have uttered "What a perfect little black dress!" And the rest, as they say, is history.

So, what is a perfect little black dress for you?

A perfect little black dress is different for everyone. What is perfect for Sarah Jessica Parker, Cynthia Nixon, or Kristin Davis (above) might not be perfect for you.

According to fashion experts, to find the perfect little black dress, there are four main factors to consider:

1. Body Shape
2. Comfort
3. Design
4. Budget

Ok, let's go through these four factors to find out what is a perfect little black dress for you.

Factor #1 - Body Shape

The first step in finding that illusive dress is knowing what body shape you are. Strip down to your undies and look in the mirror to see what your body shape is.

There are five different body shapes: banana, pear, apple, hourglass, and round. From the names we get an idea what those shapes look like.

So, what do think? Are you shaped like a banana, a pear, an apple, hourglass, or round?

What is the perfect little black dress for a banana shape?

The perfect little black dress for a banana shape is a dress that will give your body curves.

• Ruffles or detailings are good.
• Wear a push-up bra or padded bra, if you must.
• Wrap dresses will do your body wonders.
• Choose dresses that will define your waist.
• Most importantly, stay away from loose fitting dresses. Remember your goal is to create curves or shapes, not hide your body.

Here is an example of a perfect little black dress for a banana shape. The short sleeves make your shoulders wider and with the flowing skirt, your waist looks smaller, giving your body curves. The burgundy bolero shrug jacket gives your little black dress striking color, and with the black and fuchsia platform ankle boots, your little black dress is elevated to chic perfection. The black and white rosette zebra print shoulder bag is a great finish to your perfect little black dress ensemble.

What is the perfect little black dress for an apple shape?

A perfect dress for an apple shape is one that elongates your upper body, and defines your waist.

• V-necked tops draw the eye in and away from your shoulders.
• Wrap dresses are also very good.
• Get fitted for a good bra that will let you look your best and show off your best assets. I always say if you got 'em melons, by all means show 'em off.
• Belted jackets and dresses will help your waist look smaller.
• Wear high heels to help elongate your body.
• And, stay away from puffy sleeves and too much detailing on top.

Here is an example of a perfect little black dress for an apple shape. This halter top with a V-shape the eye in and away from your shoulders. The form fitting detailed waist band makes the waist look smaller. The pleated skirt finished this to perfection.

What is the perfect little black dress for a pear shape?

The perfect little black dress for a pear shape is a dress that draws attention away from your hips and bottom, and emphasize your top half. This will help create balance.

• Choose tops that have ruffles, or interesting details to draw attention away from your lower body.
• Empire waist and wrap dresses are also good choices.

Here's an example of a perfect little black dress for pear shape.

What is the perfect little black dress for an hourglass figure?

The perfect dress for an hourglass shape is a simple fitted dress that draws attention to your beautiful perfect figure.

• Pencil cuts will do your figure justice.
• Wrap dresses will accentuate your curves.
• Avoid empire dresses, shapeless dresses in general.
• Do not wear wide belts.
• And avoid short skirts.

What is the perfect little black dress for round shape?

If you happen to be round, forget baggy clothing. Baggy clothing is unflattering on a plus sized woman.

• Number one rule - Do not wear baggy clothes.
• Number two rule - Do not wear ill-fitting tight clothes.
• Fitted clothes, which nip in in all the right places, can make any woman look wonderful, curvaceous and sexy.

If you are plus sized then hold your head up high and try not to wear that baggy clothing.

Factor #2 - Comfort

Once you know your body shape, the next step to find the perfect little black dress is to make sure you choose a comfortable dress. This means choosing a fabric that molds to your body properly, does not itch or pinch, and does not make you feel self-conscious. Since the idea is that you should be able to wear this dress to both formal and casual events, you need to make sure you can sit and walk in it comfortably.

Factor #3 - Design

The next step to find the perfect little black dress is to select the right design. Avoid excessive decorations, such as lace, sequins, or flowery applications. Simple is better, no matter if the dress is short or long. Even the most simple dress can be made stunning by adding the right jewelry or an impressive bag, and matching pair of shoes.

Factor #4 - Budget

Finally, when buying a perfect little black dress, keep in mind that you don't need to spend a fortune in a little black dress specially if you are just going to wear it occasionally, like attending a funeral or that once in a blue moon last-minute invite to dinner that you cannot possibly pass. Yes, you can wear the same dress to both. Accessorize for your dinner date and don't for a funeral and look sad enough and you will be fine. Spend a little more if you are going to wear it more often. Just keep in mind simple is better.

So, what is a perfect little black dress?

A perfect little black dress is a simple cut dress that can be used over and over again.

And to find the perfect little black dress for you, choose one that will enhance your figure, and comfortable enough so you can wear it all day, if necessary.