Our Five Favorite Black Cocktail Dresses
By Heidi Green
, last updated October 4, 2011
Our five favorite black cocktail dresses bring new twists to classic looks. Whether you're looking for a dress to wear with the girls or on an important date, we've got you covered.
The Perfect Black Cocktail Dress for Fall and Winter
A great black cocktail dress for fall or winter should provide a little more coverage than the average cocktail dress, but it should also be sexy. The Illusion Neck Cocktail Dress by Monique Lhuillier, available at Neiman Marcus, is a drop-dead gorgeous choice. The dress, which features dark and light black vertical panels, has a sweetheart bodice and a hem that falls just below the knee. However, the entire dress is covered in a sheer lace wrap, which extends across the chest and all the way down the arms in delicate sleeves.
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The Perfect Black Cocktail Dress for Flirty Vintage Flair
Vintage trends are on the rise, so you may want to incorporate a vintage-inspired black cocktail dress into your wardrobe. The Vicky Tiel Blow Detail Cocktail Dress, available at Saks Fifth Avenue, looks just like something Audrey Hepburn would wear. This empire-waist dress is backless and has a deep v-cut in the back, which transitions down into a slight a-line skirt that falls a couple of inches above the knees. The best part of the dress, however, is the oversized bow detail at the waist.
The Perfect Black Cocktail Dress for a Date
If you're going on a make-it-or-break-it date, you need a black cocktail dress that's sophisticated and sexy without being overly revealing. The JS Collection Back Cocktail Dress, available online at eDressme, is exactly the kind of dress you want to wear. This dress is satiny on the top, and features a generous boat neck with delicate ruffled sleeves. Ruffled detail appears along the neckline before transitioning into a lovely empire waist. From there, the dress drops down into a stunning pencil silhouette that shows off just the right curves. It's formal enough to wear to an upscale dinner, but it's playful enough to look great on the dance floor.
The Perfect Black Cocktail Dress for a Night Out Dancing
When you go out dancing, you want a black cocktail dress that hugs your curves but allows for plenty of movement. The BCBGMAXAZRIA Moore Strapless Cocktail Dress, available online at Zappos, is just the dress you want to wear. This dress has a short (but not too short) hemline, and a cute sweetheart bodice that's revealing without being raunchy. The silhouette is fitted, but you'll have plenty of room to shake your groove thang.
The Perfect Black Cocktail Dress for a Semi-Formal Event
Whether you're attending a gallery opening or a fundraiser, you might be in need of a black cocktail dress that's just a little on the formal side. That's where the Tadashi Shoji Lace Cocktail Dress comes in. Available at Neiman Marcus, this stunning dress features dainty cap sleeves and a scalloped boat neckline that's truly elegant. A lace overlay hugs the entire dress, creating interesting texture and depth. It's fitted throughout, with a small belt at the waist. Wear this dress with a sleek up do and tasteful heels.
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