Depending on which part of the world you call home, holiday parties may be heavily limited this year. Still, the need – scratch that, the necessity – to dress up and slap on a smile is greater than ever, if only to mark the end of the calamity that is/was 2020.
While a metallic sparkle or bold red is an obvious choice for those in need of an instant mood boost, there’s no denying the timelessness, styling potential and sheer class of black. From the season’s ubiquitous midi lengths to kaftan shapes, puff-sleeves, crystal embellishment and 80s power shoulders, the CBD (Classic Black Dress) isn’t only a safe option, it can be a fashion-forward one, too.
Season-after-season, designers welcome the black dress back into collections like an old friend showing up for dinner. For Dolce & Gabbana, strappy black bodice dresses are pretty much the backbone of their label. Saint Laurent, too, loves a black tux dress or barely-there mini. Mademoiselle Chanel, of course, was credited with popularizing the LBD and the house has continued to revisit and reinvent the look decades later. Evidence indeed that true style lasts a lifetime, and beyond.
Entering the final chapter of the year, there’s a cautious hope that 2021 will be better (it must be better!), than the past 12 months. Dressing the part may just instill a sliver of confidence and optimism – something that a party dress, particularly a CBD, delivers in spades. Scroll through to see our pick of the best new styles to buy now…
