Toronto fashion stylist Zeina Ismail shares her tips on how to choose the best LBD for you.
Commandment No. 1: Do not let trends dictate your taste
Trends should be used as an inspiration to add to or enhance your wardrobe. "Trends -- like this season's polka-dots, for example -- look great on some women, but not so great on others," says Ismail. Stick to your own personal style and incorporate the trends that work for you. Also, if you opt for a more classic style of LBD, you'll get more wear out of it.
Commandment No. 2: Dress for your body type
Choose the silhouette that best suits your shape. If you have a curvy figure, you can either embrace your curves by wearing a formfitting (not tight) dress that highlights your assets or look for an A-line dress that skims your hips and camouflages the lower part of your body, says Ismail. If you're petite, dresses that fall above the knee will help you look longer. Top-heavy women should opt for dresses with V-necks or high round necks, while women with a straight or rectangle shape should look to a fuller skirt to help give their bottom half a more feminine shape.
Commandment No. 3: Accessorize
"Accessories are a great way to spiff up and modernize a little black dress," says Ismail. But stick to one statement piece or you'll risk overdoing it. A strong statement piece, such as an amazing pair of classic pearl studs or a bold collar necklace, is always better than multiple strands of baubles. When in doubt, follow Coco Chanel's tried-and-true aphorism: "When accessorizing, always take off the last thing you put on."
Commandment No. 4: Add a shot of colour
A pop of colour can instantly perk up any dull outfit, whether it's in the form of heels, a belt or a clutch. Another fun way to inject colour to your little black dress? Add a bright printed scarf for a bit of personality.
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