We focus so much on work dresses, but what about the tradition LBD?  The going out dress.  The party dress.  The I-Feel-Absolutely-Fabulous dress.

Hi Abra, 

I am going on a bachlorette weekend trip next month, and one night we’re doing a “night on the town” in your best little black dress.  We’ll be in scottsdale, so no vegas-esque (thankfully) dress needed; however, I feel like all of my dresses I own I could wear to work.  Any fun going out dresses you love or have come across?

Thanks and best wishes with the job and move! EG

A black cocktail dress is a must.  I have one from Zac Posen that I bought at a sample sale years ago.  I always enjoy when I get a chance to wear it.

When choosing an LBD, follow a few rules to ensure maximum wearability:

1. Accentuate the part of your body that you love the most.
2. Choose a dress that suits your style, not that follows the trends.  This way, no matter how long you own it, (as long as it still fits) you can wear it.
3. I usually size up in an LBD and then tailor down so it fits perfectly.  My Zac Posen dress was two sizes bigger when purchased.  It cost about $80. I had it altered down and had them leave a little room in the seams in case I wanted to let it out later.  The alterations weren’t cheap, but I’ve been able to wear the dress dozens of times over the years.

Here are a few LBD options that would be perfect for your night out, and nights beyond.  (You didn’t specify a price point, so I chose from a variety of prices under-$500.)

Bardot Lace Sheath Dress ($129)

Black Halo Ally Sheath ($345)

Lark & Ro Cross Front Sheath ($89)

Eliza J Cold Shoulder Dress ($148)

Nanette Lepore Lace Trim Dress ($138)

Tadashi Shoji Brocade Dress ($388)

Likely Driggs Strapless Dress ($178)

ASOS Midi Dress with floral embroidery ($103)*

*Not really an LBD, but a fun, stylish option if you don’t find the dress that will last for years, and just need a dress for right now.

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