LBD Look Book

Slip Away

By Robin Sayers

The slip-style, lace-embellished LBD is a classic look, whether you layer with a shrug, shawl or sweater to go the sophisticated route, or add only jewelry.

SHOP NOW: Boutique Cage Strap Slip Dress, $135

Drape Up, Or Hip Out

Two figure-friendly components — a draped sash and viscose fabric — join together to make this Grecian-inspired number a flattering, comfortable LBD.

SHOP NOW: French Connection Summer Shadow Dress, $60

Band Together

Looking for an LBD to bring the sexy? Look no further. All eyes will be on you and moving from shoulder to waist and back up and down again and again.

SHOP NOW: Arden B. Asymmetrical Strap Bandage Dress, $49

Fringe Elements

Sometimes more really is more. A plethora of details is what makes this piece a charmer. Keep jewelry to a minimum; the design alone will dazzle.

SHOP NOW: Twelve by Twelve Fringe Neck Dress, $16

Balance Of Flower

Get comfortable being the center of attention in this oversize corsage-adorned curve-hugger. You'll feel so "SATC," you'll respond to the name "Carrie."

SHOP NOW: Topshop Corsage One Shoulder Dress, $80

The Long & Short Of It

Your left arm won't be the only body part visible in this downtown-cool LBD: The tencel-and-spandex fabric is sheer, so plan underpinnings accordingly.

SHOP NOW: T by Alexander Wang Asymmetric Jersey Dress, $125

So Studly

The brass studs atop the wide shoulder straps and at the end of the waist tie of this washed-silk v-neck LBD will add a little edge to any outing, day or night.

SHOP NOW: Sanctuary Fiore Faux-Wrap Dress, $77

Shirting The Issue

The hippest girl at the party is often working a shirt dress — it's chic, without looking like she's trying. Silver and gunmetal beads adorn the washed silk.

SHOP NOW: Rebecca Taylor Evening Shirt Dress, $350

Fold Hearted

When delicate meets delicate: Chiffon pleats, spaghetti straps and a skinny tie waist work together to make this LBD the definition of the word "ladylike."

SHOP NOW: Rare Pleated Dress, $78

Cut It Out

Sometimes, less-is-more refers to minimalism — clean lines, no detailing. And then there's the literal less-is-more: waaaaay less fabric.

SHOP NOW: Quontum Cut Out Dress, $90

Just Bead It

Taffeta and embellishment make this LBD worthy of a special occasion. Pair with flats for understated elegance; go for stilettos to give it more va-va-voom.

SHOP NOW: Newport News Beaded Bubble-Hem Dress, $49

Modal Citizen

This tank LBD made of super-soft modal is a day-to-night transformer: Wear it free-flowing when the sun is shining, then belt it up for after-hours glam.

SHOP NOW: Nation Ltd. Aruba Dress, $108

Chain Spotting

The hug of this LBD makes it body-con, but so does the super-low back. Delicate silver chain detailing along the neckline kicks the pizazz up a notch.

SHOP NOW: Motel Jolie Chains Dress, $35

Zip Service

There's an undeniable sexy factor here — don't exposed zippers always scream "provocative"? But the cotton and silk fabric, plus roomy cut, sigh "comfort."

SHOP NOW: Love Silk Zip Dress, $38

Empire Strikes Back

When the invite calls for formal attire, but you still want to go LBD, reach for this stunner with gorgeous draping, shoulder pleats and shirring details.

SHOP NOW: J. Crew Silk Tricotine Sophia Dress, $50

Grecian Yearn

Some LBDs say "sexy" in a different language. The high neck, three-quarter sleeves and just-below-the-knee length should look matronly, but sooo don't.

SHOP NOW: Isabella Oliver Athena Dress, $80

Diane von Furstenberg

This style icon herself is known the world over by three letters. DVF's LBD incorporates her signature wrap-tie action, complete with deep v-neck.

FOR EXHIBITION UPDATES: Diane von Furstenberg made with Swarovski Elements for 22 Ways to Say Black

3.1 Phillip Lim

With his geometric entry, the designer exhibits the innovative fashion thinking that won him the Emerging Talent in Womenswear Award from the CFDA.

FOR EXHIBITION UPDATES: 3.1 Phillip Lim made with Swarovski Elements for 22 Ways to Say Black

Marios Schwab

The man whose eponymous line earned him legions of fans — and is now in charge of the legendary Halston label — saved the dazzling drama for the back.

FOR EXHIBITION UPDATES: Marios Schwab made with Swarovski Elements for 22 Ways to Say Black