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An Updated Classic Little Black Dress

In the last four years, I had a baby, turned forty, and lived through COVID, so my body took a big hit.

I’m finally getting back to factory settings, settled enough to start rebuilding some wardrobe pieces. I still have a ways to go, so I don’t want to go crazy, but I believe in dressing the body you have well so you feel confident in your clothes.

You may feel similar, like you need a refresh of those pieces you don’t wear daily, but you’re happy you have when you need them.

So over the next few weeks I’ll be sharing some updated pieces in a range of sizes to check off your list of classic staples, starting today with an update little black dress.

An Updated Classic Little Black Dress

Tahari ASL Side Knot Dress, $129 | Marc Fisher Block Heel, $159.99 | Bag, $49.99

This dress from Tahari ASL is a real winner.

It’s one of those dresses that will work on a lot of body types, with a few universally flattering elements.

The v-neck and side knot detail help bring the eye in and define the waist, which helps balance the body.

I am a rectangle with curves, so my shoulders and hips are proportional, and I don’t have a well-defined waist. So all these details help give my shape a long line.

The sleeves are nice, just the right length and I like the high hem in the front, help the look feel light.

If you have an hourglass shape, pick a size that fits your widest measurement and have your waist tailored in.

Pear shaped? Consider sizing up one and have the top tailored.

The key to a good fitting dress is to stop expecting everything to fit perfectly off the rack. Being open to tailoring gives you more options.

Another option is this knee length sheath from Banana Republic Factory, in sizes regular, tall and petite in sizes 0 – 20 for only $55.

Banana Republic Factory, $55

This is similar to the featured dress, with a defined waist, and a slightly longer sleeve.

Either style is a lovely option that can be worn three- for seasons a year, depending on where you live. Perfect for anything from a work dinner or corporate event, to a dress-up dinner out or conservative holiday party.

Related Posts

 Join Megan Kristel for a comprehensive, 3 hour long, LIVE Virtual Workshop sharing personal style and shopping tips for women over 40 on March 31, 2023.

MEET THE AUTHOR

Megan Kristel

Megan Kristel is an entrepreneur, working mom, and former personal stylist. Tired of the one-dimensional portrayal of women online, she founded The Well Dressed Life as a resource for other professional women.

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Katrina

Sunday 17th of September 2023

Hello - wondering if you could share some tips or secrets to wearing nylons with pumps - I find when I try to do that, my heels slip out of the shoe! Thanks!

Marilyn

Thursday 14th of September 2023

Just got the dress! Love it! The red one on the rack looks great……details?

Megan Kristel

Friday 15th of September 2023

Stay tuned! It's a DEAL!

Sharon

Thursday 14th of September 2023

Change your black bag for a pop of color! Or maybe a pop of color in the shoes? That is how I would wear this dress. It isn't my style but I can see that many people would love it. I would prefer a LBD that is midi and one I could wear with boots or sandals and a denim or leather jacket. That is my vibe. HEELS??? HA HA! Not where I live.

Megan Kristel

Thursday 14th of September 2023

I like how I look, thanks.

Rhonda

Thursday 14th of September 2023

I love your blog, the hints and ideas are great! However, in the past 2 or 3 days something has changed and the photos are exaggeratedly long and thin, can't even get the whole photo on my screen! Not happening with any other boys or accounts I read...? Just wondering if anyone else has had this happen?

Michele

Thursday 14th of September 2023

A v-neck is unflattering on me - would the other elements work with a different neckline?

Lisa

Thursday 14th of September 2023

First - thank you for including some wide options in the fall shoe post. Love that!

Second - How do wear a dress like these if your legs are not your best feature and you want to cover them with hosiery? Modern look seems to be bare legs. What's the current thought on hosiery styles and any recommended brands?

Appreciate you and your team. Look forward to your emails and often buy clothes from your recommendations. Thank You, Lisa

Leigh Richards

Thursday 14th of September 2023

Hi and thank you for all the great advice! I've been with you since you started and have followed the adventures of you and your family. I now give up the notion that I can wear off the rack clothing successfully. Can you recommend a great seamstress or tailor in the Philadelphia area. I'm having no luck finding one. Love from one of your loyal legion of fans.

Kathy

Thursday 14th of September 2023

The first dress doesn’t come in petites. The second dress has almost no sizes, available and petites. Any other options in petite sizes?