How to Style the Classic LBD

If the little black dress is your go-to party outfit, it's time to try one with a bit more pizzazz. My picks are eye-catching but always classic.

By Adam Glassman

Photo: Peter Rosa/Studio D.

Ready, Set, Fête!

Find your fit
An A-line is universally flattering, while a V-neck works best for larger busts, and a bateau style balances a pear shape.

Do the details
Embellishments, from full-on sequins to sheer panels or lace overlay, transform an LBD from staple to showstopper.

Add accessories
Edgy earrings, bold rings, and a "notice me" clutch are the finishing touches for a head-turning holiday ensemble.

From left: Sequined Dress, Michael Michael Kors, $395. Earrings, Lulu Frost. Ring, Dannijo.
Sheer-Panel Dress, BCBG Max Azria, $366.
Lace Appliqué Dress, Maggy London, $178. Choker and pin, Tina Craig x Nouvel Heritage. Ring, Noir Jewelry. Cuff, Stella & Dot.

Photo: Stuart Tyson/Studio D.

#RetroStyle

Old-school glamour feels modern when dark florals and dazzling extras update an embellished A-line.

Bangles, $38 each; BananaRepublic.com
Coat, Ted Baker London, $449; TedBaker.com
Dress, Liz Claiborne, $86; JCP.com
Heel, SJP, $485; Luxury.Zappos.com
Clutch, Franchi, $98; 718-375-2000

Wear it with a brilliant fuchsia lipstick.

Photo: Stuart Tyson/Studio D.

#ModSquad

Channel the Swinging '60s with a grommet-detail shift,bold graphic prints, and starburst jewels.

Earrings, $38; BaubleBar.com
Coat, Tory Burch, $495; Nordstrom.com
Clutch, Kayu, $510; KayuDesign.com
Dress, French Connection, $228; USA.FrenchConnection.com
Bangles and Charms, Pandora Jewelry, $60 each; Pandora.net
Heel, $158; AnnTaylor.com

Wear it with a simple nude lipstick.

Photo: Stuart Tyson/Studio D.

#UpAllNight

Lingerie styles are stepping out of the boudoir. Paired with a tuxedo jacket and diamanté jewels, the slipdress is sultry, not racy.

Necklace, Chloe + Isabel, $98; ChloeandIsabel.com
Jacket, $189; Talbots.com
Brooches, Chloe + Isabel, from $48; ChloeandIsabel.com
Mule, Chatelles, $567; MyChatelles.com
Clutch, Lulu Townsend, $40; DSW.com
Dress, Topshop Unique, $530; TopShop.com

Wear it with a daring cherry red lipstick.

Photo: Stuart Tyson/Studio D.

#AlmostFamous

The '70s boho look is all about fringe benefits, like a frayed-edge dress, a shaggy faux-fur topper, and tasseled earrings. A velvet platform heel pulls the look together.

Dress, Parker, $498; ParkerNY.com
Earrings, Sequin, $78; Sequin-NYC.com
Scarf, Mossimo Supply Co., $13; Target.com
Heel, $140; ImagineVinceCamuto.com
Jacket, Donna Saylers' Fabulous-Furs, $179; FabulousFurs.com
Bag, Whiting & Davis, $298; WhitingandDavisBags.com

Wear it with a deep merlot lipstick.

From the November 2016 issue of O, The Oprah Magazine