Little Black Dresses (at every price point)

Final Fashion posted this great quote on her Twitter:

Basic = a black dress that costs more that $50. Functional = a black dress that costs more than $100. Nothing = a black dress that costs more than $200. Understated = a black dress that costs more than $300.
- Eve Merriam

I was really struck by the simplicity and beauty of the comment. Maybe because it resonates so much in me–that a $20 little black dress and a $300 little black dress are not the same beast, and I really don’t believe there is one little black dress that can cater to all of your needs.

The “Basic” black dress, from Trashy Diva, $99 and from ModCloth, $52.99.  Cotton pieces for easy wear and easy wash, warm summer days and layering on cold winter nights.

The “Functional” black dress, takes you from first dates to interviews to Fashion Week. From Trashy Diva, $108 and Bluefly, $104.55.

The “Nothing” dress took me a moment to understand. Then when I realized it, I realized how hard it was. “It’s nothing,” you say after a compliment and with a wave of the hand. It’s effortless, elegant, and makes a strong impact, which means it’s quite the opposite of nothing at all. Nothing brought to you by Trashy Diva, $263 and Bluefly, $258.

“Understated” in a little black dress–seems almost redundant. Understated in a LBD though means being a belle at the ball without calling attention to yourself. Effortless and elegant for a queen’s audience, knowing that your bright light is only enhanced by the dress….you make the dress, it’s not making you.  It’s the Michelle Obama of little black dresses.  From Trashy Diva, $363 and Bluefly, $312.

This isn’t a confession at all, but I have to admit, I probably own 3 little black dresses from Trashy Diva. Or maybe it’s four?  They’re one of my favorite stops for beautiful dresses at steals of prices, pieces I know will last me my lifetime…