30 Ways to Make the Most Out of Your LBD

When you think about style basics, the LBD is right up there with a good pair of skinny jeans. We've all got one, if not five, hanging in our closet at the ready for when the need strikes. But sometimes the most overworked pieces of our wardrobes also end up feeling the most uninspired. If you're looking to add some life to your little black dress, we've rounded up 30 street-style-inspired outfits sure to move you in a new direction with your favorite frock. Read on for surprising styling tips – you won't believe how fresh one LBD can look when layered over leather pants one day and paired with bold sneakers the next.

Greg Kessler

There's something classic about a head-to-toe black look that's also impeccably tailored. To achieve it, stick with a fit-and-flare dress and a streamlined blazer.

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Add femininity to a black leather jumper by layering it atop a cuffed white blouse.

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Keep the fact you're wearing a basic little black dress altogether hidden by belting a buffalo plaid poncho on top.

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If your LBD has any colored embellishments, play it up by coordinating accessories. An oversize blue handbag, for example, will help infuse a jolt of interest.

Tim Regas | @wheresmydriver

If your dress is sheer, going all black with accessories won't ever feel too heavy. Plus, patent-leather loafers add some dimension.

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If you opt for a t-shirt-style black dress, stick to a downtown vibe with studded booties, like these Chloé ones, a bold-colored clutch and a wide-brimmed felt hat.

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Even the most basic LBD can wow onlookers — just top it with a statement jacket and and some sparkly statement heels.

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Extreme layering, especially when done in a monochromatic motif, can altogether hide any sign of an LBD.

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A dressy frock doesn't always require heels. Sleek sneakers — and a punchy green purse — add youth to a more formal silhouette.

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When wearing a slinky full-length dress, create easy eye relief with contrasting heels.

Tim Regas | @wheresmydriver

Don't be afraid to mix prints . . . or textures. This eyelet black dress got added dimension thanks to a pink striped tweed jacket and plaid slip-on sneakers.

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Even the most delicate of dresses, like this high-collared embellished piece, can still get an edgy spin with the help of a simple pair of lace-up combat boots and Ray Bans.

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There's nothing that looks quite as good with a black dress as a bold, black-and-white graphic coat.

Tim Regas | @wheresmydriver

Just because you've got a statement LBD doesn't mean you can't still go big with accessories. Punch up all angles with burgundy loafers, a metallic gold clutch, and sleek sunglasses.

Greg Kessler

Pair a sporty zippered jersey dress with equally athletic-inspired accessories — colored high-tops and an Alexander Wang bag.

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When you have a highly structured black dress, streamlining the rest of the look — black-and-white heels and tortoiseshell cat-eye sunglasses — keeps the attention where you want it.

Tim Regas | @wheresmydriver

No clue how to style that sexy slip dress? Wear it over a borrowed-from-the-boys button-down to make it more wearable.

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Give your LBD a cozy spin with mix-and-match pieces, like this oversize gingham coat, tweed bag, and yellow stone statement necklace.

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Want the perfect off-duty look? Turn an oversize varsity tee into the perfect little black dress, and stick to flats for added comfort.

Getty | Vanni Bassetti

If you have an edgier black dress, channel the new punk '70s trend by pairing it with plaid, a fur coat, vintage sunglasses, or all three.

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Make any LBD Fall ready with a great pair of over-the-knee black boots.

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If you've got It accessories — like a Fendi bag chain or star-spangled creepers — on full display, onlookers might not even notice your dress.

Tim Regas | @wheresmydriver

Your LBD on the shorter side? Opt for an oversize well-draped cover-up, preferably in a light hue, like this powder-pink version.

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If your LBD is the statement piece, as is the case with this cutout fringed dress, maintain minimalism with the rest of the look.

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Add a bold pop of color, by way of a canary yellow tote, to an all-black dress.

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Just because you're wearing an LBD doesn't mean you can't also wear your favorite pair of distressed jeans. Layer up to add a fun effect to a more oversize dress set.

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Neutral wedges can lighten up an overtly sexy slit in any black dress.

Greg Kessler

Cover up the exposed shoulders of a halter dress with an oversize white jacket, and add a hint of color with sky-blue suede pumps.