Where to find a little black dress for any budget and style

by Brittany Anas · November 30, 2012

By Brittany Anas

The Little Black Dress is so popular she just goes by LBD. This wardrobe staple is both sexy and sophisticated and is eager to go out with you to holiday parties and on New Year’s Eve.

We break it up by your style type – from ethereal looks that define boho-chic, to dresses with classic silhouettes, to ones that have a little bit of a punk-rock influence. You know, for those who have a stash of Bad Religion on your iPod. If your LBD has ornate detailing, play it up by wearing minimal jewelry and carry a small clutch purse.

If your style is Bohemian-chic…

Splurge: Try a floral mesh lace dress that is a little bit flowy in its design and features a trimmed lace hemline. Price: $128 at Free People.

Save: A sleeveless chiffon shift dress with a silver beaded embroidered neckline. Price: $14.95 at H&M.

If your style is classic…

Splurge: This Ralph Lauren dress with a classic silhouette pairs perfect with pearls and has a scoopline neck and a flowing skirt with a taffeta sash. Price: $194 at Macy’s.

Save: A sleeveless shift dress with a little built-in stretch hits mid-thigh, giving it a subtle “wow” factor. Wear it with patterned tights to give it a twist. Price: $41.99 at Gap.

If your style is feminine…

Splurge: We love the flirty ruffles on this one-shoulder, strapless dress. It strikes a balance of youthful and fun. Price: $170 at White House, Black Market.

Save: Peplum is synonymous with feminine as it emphasizes curves. Try this peplum sheath dress with a V-neck. Price: $20.98 at New York and Company.

If your style is a little bit punk…

Splurge: The details on this Tadashi Shoji Sleeveless Mesh Jersey Dress (say that 10 times fast) are gorgeous. It features demure cutout stripes near the clavicle and a sophisticated tu-tu kind of flare at the hem line. Bonus: Built-in spandex will flatter the tummy region and larger busts. Price: $288 at Nordstrom.

Save: A sequin bustier plus a full tulle skirt makes is strictly a party dress full of edgy detailing. Price: $27.80 at Forever 21.