Fashion Freakout: A New Breed of Little Black Dresses

Q. I adore my LBD but am starting to crave a new silhouette. Anybody know of some cute LBDs with a fresh twist?

A. The always-indispensable LBD turns feistier as fall approaches. Designers have transformed prim, proper styles into fiercely bold, no-nonsense cuts made with leather, bursting with ruffles and molded into futuristic shapes.

As ever, though, the transition from runway to real world can be a bit rocky. These dresses bridge the gap by addressing some of the season’s defining trends and keeping you comfortable at the same time.

Hardly the LBD of old, this chic ruffle dress by Zoe (http://www NULL.edressme NULL.com/dr4015jb NULL.html) ($275) is dramatic and playful at once, thanks to a practical straight cut and an unexpected shot of tri-color texture down the side. In fall’s most desired hues, it adds leverage to an otherwise basic black dress.

Count on new designers to set the tone and usher in a fresh take on conventional LBDs. Christian Siriano’s Park Ave. shirt dress (http://www NULL.bluefly NULL.com/Christian-V-Siriano-black-cotton-sateen-Park-Ave-shirt-dress/cat350020/301050201/detail NULL.fly) ($305) is a little bit dainty, a little bit daring and completely memorable thanks to a ladylike cut accentuated by his signature ruffles and peek-a-boo organza sleeves.

A softly sculptured neckline elevates this airy, embellished Kookai Cornelli dress (http://www NULL.asos NULL.com/Kookai/Kookai-Cornelli-Embellished-Dress/Prod/pgeproduct NULL.aspx?iid=336530&cid=5589&clr=Black&Rf-100=Evening%20Dresses&sh=0&Rf-200=4) ($140). The T-bar back strap supports the Grecian style collar, while the gathered body adds rich texture. Despite all this, it’s relatively lightweight. 

 

 

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