Back in Black

Written by Morgan Johnson, Contributing Writer | Illustrated by Lola Crowley, Staff Illustrator and Designer

“Black clothing is out of fashion,” said no one ever. Simply put, the “little black dress” is a classic — its eff ortless shape and structure have made it a yearround favorite. History has proven that the little black dress can be styled for any event — from casual wear to high fashion. It has been featured in movies, day-to-day streetwear and was even key during a royal scandal. It may be a simple piece, but the little black dress is one of the most iconic fashion pieces of all time. If you’re still not convinced, its universality has earned the little black dress its own acronym: the “LBD.”

Coco Chanel is credited with creating the LBD in the roaring ‘20s, an era when women were fi ghting for equality.1 Congress passed the 19th Amendment which allowed women to vote in 1919 and empowered women to experiment with bolder clothing. This ultimately led to the fl apper era, which is most commonly known for beaded, fringe dresses with lots of detail.2 The little black dress emerged around the same time, and it became increasingly popular. By 1961, British actress Audrey Hepburn donned the LBD in the fi lm “Breakfast at Tiff any’s,” and it became

1 Kat Eschner, “Why Coco Chanel Created the Little Black Dress,” Smithsonian Magazine, 2017. 2 “What Does A Little Black Dress Mean?” La Riviere, 2020. Hepburn’s most memorable look. Hepburn famously styled her LBD with big pearls, a chic updo and cat eye sunglasses.

because it fi ts with almost everyone’s personal style. The LBD is the perfect base piece for any person of any age. Attending a black tie event? Go for a sleek, form-fi tting LBD that hits midthigh.3 Wanting the “old money” look? Pair your LBD with Mary Jane heels, a dainty fl oral headband and a tie-front cardigan. Craving an even more delicate look? Wear sheer tights underneath and add a silk neck tie scarf.

The LBD isn’t going anywhere. It’s a timeless piece that will likely never lose its symbolism. Its minimalist cuts and versatility empowers the person wearing the LBD to be their most fearless self. Even Princess Diana’s “revenge dress” is coming back, as seen in a new trailer for Netfl ix’s “The Crown” season fi ve. Thanks to the LBD’s versatility and grace, it will always be a fashion staple.

It’s important to remember that the LBD isn’t reserved for certain people or certain events. Find the style that works for you, and wear it like you mean it. A piece of clothing as delicate and treasured as the LBD shouldn’t collect dust in your closet; use it for power, use it to disrupt, use it for anything. ■

Hepburn’s awe-inspiring attire during her role in “Breakfast at Tiff any’s” is part of what makes the movie and her famous look such a muse. Her LBD is the star of the show, and it falls in line with her personality. Her character, Holly Golightly is a free-spirited socialite who stumbles upon the man of her dreams. Although Golightly was independent and seemingly fearless, she fi nds herself appreciating a genuine human connection with Paul Varjak, the man who moved into her apartment building. Hepburn’s powerful character and immaculate outfi ts create the perfect blend of professionalism and delicacy, cementing Hepburn’s portrayal of Golightly as one of the most infl uential ever.

If you’ve ever taken one of Buzzfeed’s fashion quizzes, you’ll notice that none of them exclude the color black. That is