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Pre 1920's
During the 19th Century, wearing black was accepted as a symbol of mourning and respect to the dead. It was only until artist John Singer painted the portrait "Madame X" that wearing a black dress was considered as fashionable. The picture caused a great deal of controversy because of its "sexiness". -
1920's
The first "Little Black Dress" was designed by Coco Chanel. Published in the 1926 edition of Vogue, it was referred to as 'Ford' because of its simplicity in style and potential for long-lasting success; just the beginning of its career as a timeless piece of fashion. It became the epitome of liberation, freeing women from the corset and providing the gift of time due to its easiness to change into. -
1930's
The little black flapper dress made its mark in the 1930's, taking the fashion industry by storm with its beaded decoration and loose fitting design. Famous for association with jazz and "rebellious behavior", its understandable why the flapper because such an instant classic. -
1940's
During the war, the Little Black Dress also became an aspect of rationing. Women found it easy to accessorize with and embraced it for its effortlessness, making it the ideal item to wear for any occasion. -
1950's
As the allure of Hollywood begin to sweep the nation, changes started to appear to the Little Black Dress. The 1950's saw the LBD transform from a conservative piece to a sexy, edgy dress; perfect for onscreen glamour! Dior's 'New Look' collection, which featured full-skirted shapes, became a really popular trend. It was viewed by many as a statement of hope after the war which offered people a welcome contrast to the 'made do and mend' attitude present throughout the war. -
1960's
The regeneration of the LBG carried on into the 60s. There were two distinct types of styles; whilst the older generation preferred a more conservative style of dress, the younger generation favoured shorter lengths, slits up the leg and netted detailing. Mary Quant was paramount to this change in fashions - she encouraged women to dress for fun, view fashion as a game. The most iconic LBD of the 60s has to be Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany's. -
1970's
Building on the embellishments of 60's fashion, the 70s saw more sheer fabrics, more lace and more variation with LBD styles. An aspect of 1970s fashion that remains iconic to its day is the punk rock era. Clothes became an expression of attitude - and the LBD was no exception. Dresses were ripped, cut, safety pinned for effect and sometimes made from PVC, worn with fishnet tights. -
1980's
The 80s celebrated the LBD by not only crowning the peplum trend which is so popular today, but also encouraged elaborate broad shoulders and embellishments, such as the sequins featured in this picture. -
1990's
Grunge culture of the 90s brough fashion right back to to basics as simplicity took over from the elaborate 80s. The LBD was worn with sandals and combat boots with a distinct 'Spice Girl' feel - the LBD was simple, tight fitting and usually quite short. -
2000's
In the mid noughties the LBD celebrated its 80th birthday in style, showing off its eternal space in the fashion sphere. Bandeau and babydoll party dresses were all popular LBD styles last decade. -
2010's
Today mesh detailing and the bodycon fit are fashionable LBD styles, harnessing a definite 80's feel. The 80's influence can clearly be seen on the design with velvet paneling and body-sculpting shape.
