Ah the infamous little black dress. Every girl has their own rendition. Whether its a simple fitted cotton dress or an ornately beaded shift, the whole point of the LBD is to feel instantly transformed into whatever woman you want to be. Is she mysterious, glamourous, understated and cool, confident, coy? All of the above? This metamorphic ability is what I’ve always loved most about fashion. The change is unique to that of putting on a costume, as it is not about being someone else, but instead allowing specific aspects of ourselves to take on a leading role. I always try to remember that, regardless, I can be whatever woman I want to be, how I dress is just the outward expression of her. And it ain’t so bad when that expression is leather, gold, sheer and chic!

Your resident LBD should evolve with you because you’re not always going to feel empowered in the same style. For instance, I had a clingy jersey version throughout college that just doesn’t have the same sense of invincibility to me now. Currently I am completely smitten with this updated one (from Aritzia). The little slip (from Free People) gives the look a body con element and the gauzy silk leaves more to the imagination, with hints of what’s really going on. It’s a dress that makes me feel instantly elegant and let’s be honest, pretty damn sexy. It’s also the most versatile item in my closet. I paired it with all black here but could put it with just about anything else in my shoe, bag, jewelry and coat collection. What does the little black dress in your closet do for you? If you’re not sure, it might be time to consider an update.

1. Dress Wilfred 2. Slip Free People 3. Clutch Clare Vivier 4. Sandals Zara 5. Jewelry Gorjana Griffin 6. Watch Vintage 7. Lips CoverGirl Hot Passion 8. Nails Essie Russian Roulette