December is in full swing, and so is party season. From your annual work function to family get-togethers, the stress of knowing what to wear over the festive period can be real. Whether you’re browsing the high-street rails or scrolling endlessly online, the abundant opulence of sequins, glitter and feathers can be somewhat overwhelming. If you’re looking for a tamer, understated take on party season, an iconic black mini dress is a great way to achieve a chic, paired-back look.
Let’s be honest, an LBD never fails. It’s sleek and timeless attributes make it an evening wardrobe go-to for nearly everyone I know. Whilst the monochrome design may lack standout patterns and prints, the simple nature of a black mini dress means it can solely focus on what it does best, the silhouette. With a variety of styles to choose from, including a figure-hugging bodycon all the way to flouncy A-line cuts, truly what’s not to love?
Giving credit where credit’s due, Norma Kamali, Sportmax, and Victoria Beckham are notable mentions when it comes to championing the LBD. Whilst H&M, COS and Zara are bringing quality high-street options to the table this season. But, if you want something more extravagant, the versatile style can easily be jazzed up with accessories galore, think statement earrings, a chunky bangle, or a crystal-embellished necklace.
Well, we hear those of you with minimalist style, I’ve done all the scrolling for you and put together a list of some of the best black mini dresses on the market this season, all you have to do is just keep reading!
We’ve seen this sheer tights and mini dress trend for a while now, and I’m still obsessed with it. Amalie models the trend for the evening with pointed-toe kitten heels and a relaxed-fit trench coat.
Bows are an underrated timeless party style and a great way to add a twist to a classic LBD. Coco pairs her bow-embellished mini dress with statement earrings, platform pumps and a glittered bag.
Gia sandwiches her cowl-neck satin dress between a double leather ensemble to create an evergreen day-to-night outfit that will keep you warm, and looking chic, whilst heading to the party.
Speaking of tights, let Sara introduce you to the trending red iteration. This festive look shows how a simple pair of tights can amp up any minimalist outfit.
Kristin makes a statement with her organza puff sleeve design. Let the dress do the talking by styling with a heeled leather ankle boot and a monochrome mini bag.
If you’re looking for the ultimate party dress, Self-Portrait is the answer.
You can always count on H&M to provide the goods.
Or, get your hands on this little H&M X Rabanne number while it’s still in stock.
Elevating a simple velvet mini dress, the Michaela style from RIXO sports a bow embellishment at its cut-out back.
Take the sleek sartorial route with this tailored Gucci horsebit dress.
This is a classic, convince me otherwise.
This wool-blend Reformation design has a vintage feel to it. The floral appliqué also adds an extra touch to such a simple cut.
Norma Kamali is known, and loved, for championing slinky LBDs. This asymmetric style is one that will last a lifetime in your wardrobe.
Talking of floral appliqués, Staud’s Delilah dress is an elegantly delicate option for your upcoming festive events.
Add tights and statement earrings in the winter or wear with strappy sandals come summer.
Part of COS’ Atelier capsule collection, this crafted style promises a draped neckline, dual straps, and a moulded bra construction for extra support.
This Victoria Beckham dress jumps on the ruffled draping detail that we’ve seen quite a lot recently, and completed with a lace-trimmed plunging V-neck.
Despite what you may think, this LBD proves tulle can still be understated.
The square neckline with the long sleeves really does it for me.
I can see this Jacquemus off-the-shoulder taffeta number being worn all year round. Style with sheer tights and a pointed-toe mule in the winter and with lace-up sandals and cat-eye sunnies in the warmer months.
The Internet went into meltdown after this minimalist mini was spotted on Hailey Bieber, and I can understand why.
Wait until you see the back of this one…
This Free People option is giving glitterball in the best way possible.
Zara is bringing bardot back with this chic puff sleeve mini.
You can’t go wrong with a silky satin number.
A real investment style, but one that you’ll bring out year after year.
Next Up: I’ve Found My Perfect Party Dress (and It’s From Marks & Spencer).