The little black dress: everyone has one, and if you don’t, go out and get one now! You never know when a funeral/wedding/fancy dinner party/date may happen and you need that little number in your closet ready and waiting.

There are a number of styles to choose from when it comes to the little black dress: wrap, tank, A-line, princess cut…I could go on for a whole paragraph, but you get the point. My suggestion, however, if you are going out to buy a new black dress is to find the most basic one you can. No embellishments, special cuts, strange waistlines, etc. because this will give you the most options. Observe:

Basic

Michelle Williams (source)

For all you know, Michelle Williams woke up 15 minutes before this premier and threw on her dress and shoes and was out the door. This is the kind of look you last minute fashionista’s should go for if you can never make it anywhere on time. Simple,chic, and ridiculously easy, this is the little black dress working its’ hardest.

Edgy

Rachel Bilson (source)

If you love to accessorize then this look is for you…again, find the simplest little black dress you can and then go wild with the accessories. Do you think that Rachel’s giant gold belt would work with a wrap dress? No. If you are going to wear over the top accessories then go with a simple sheath.

Ethereal

Cate Blanchett (source)

This is THE semi-formal look for all of you indie-rock naturalist beauties out there…the master of ethereal beauty herself, Blanchett rocks this flowy number to a “T.” Loose bell sleeves and an interesting neckline make this look interesting and unusual but not weird.

Uptown Chic

Jessica Simpson (source)

What makes Jessica uptown-chic look rock isn’t just the dress, but the whole package! The shiny satin (sans-wrinkles, I might add…bravo) black dress is easy enough to make it go whichever way you want…a funky clutch+up-to-the-minute trendy nude colored shoes paired with a sassy updo make this dress look less dressy and totally hot. Add pearls and a classic clutch with black pumps instead and you are ready for any dressy event.

Whatever your style, make sure it shines through with your “little black dress” to get them most mileage!

Technorati Tags: how-to wear, what to wear, how-to, style tips, little black dress, celebrity style, fashion blog, style, trends, fashion expert, Couture in the City