A little black dress is one of those items on every wardrobe essential list. It's a back-up dress for any sort of event worth dressing up for, easy to put on, and can be found at any store. And while everyone claims you "need" a black dress, sometimes they can be a bit boring. If you're not into the minimalist trend, there is no use trying to force yourself to be something that you're not (this includes buying a basic black dress that everyone swears you have to have to be stylish). But sometimes there are more ways than one to interpret other's fashion advice.
Personally, I've never particularly been into anything basic. My closet is filled with unorganized colors and prints and I can't understand how some girls can look so stylish while wearing only basics (ex: Kate Moss). I've learned to embrace some more minimalist outfits, but when buying basics, I still prefer something a little more unique. So for my take on a little black dress, I chose one with a textured fabric and modern 70's silhouette. This For Love and Lemons dress from Marmalade is the perfect example of an un-basic little black dress. For this styling, I chose to contrast the black with some unexpected big and bright jewelry. I also think this dress can easily be dressed down with a denim jacket and white sneakers.
So maybe everyone else is right that you need a little black dress, but that still doesn't mean that it has to be basic.
Photos by Nick Alexander