They call a little black dress classic [1] for a reason — it truly transcends time, trends [2], and seasons. But especially right now, when we could all use an excuse to pack on a little extra glamour, you should allow it to be the foundation of your look, rather than the entirety. We're here to provide you with holiday party outfit ideas [3] that start simple and are easy to wear, but look a little more involved. Whether you layer a vest, oversize blazer, or sequinned cardigan [4] over your LBD or accessorise it proudly with a thick belt [5] or statement earrings [6], you're going to turn heads as one of the most sophisticated guests in the room. Scroll for some simple tricks [7] and shop inspired pieces in case you're excited to revamp your closet with a fresh silhouette or two. From the peasant midi to the fringed-finished hem, there's definitely a style here you don't own yet.
Black Blazer Dress
Style an oversize blazer as a dress complete with an ornate choker necklace and a mid-rise heeled leather boot.
ASOS Design Curve Fallen Shoulder Wrap Shirt Minidress
ASOS Design Curve Fallen Shoulder Wrap Shirt Minidress in Black [8] ($50)
Black Victorian Dress
Cinch a modest, high-neck number at the bodice with a figure defining vest.
Selva Negra Bianca Dress
Selva Negra Bianca Dress (Negra Silk) [9] ($130)
Black Ruffled Dress
Play to the cuteness of a flouncy ruffle trim with a bow in your hair and wedges on your feet.
COS Ruffled Maxi Dress
COS Ruffled Maxi Dress [10] ($135)
Black Fringe Dress
A lace-up stiletto bootie helps attract the eye South, leading to the detail at your hemline without taking away from it.
Jonathan Simkhai Madelyn Dress
Jonathan Simkhai Madelyn Fringed Cutout Satin Jacquard Dress [11] ($845)
Black Pussy-Bow Dress
Aim for sophistication with regal gold studs, a box bag, and slicked back hairstyle.
RED Valentino Pussy-Bow Dress
RED Valentino Pussy-Bow Dress [12] ($595)
Black Silk Wrap Dress
Simple is better. Work your dress with a go-to strappy sandal you're comfortable in and a statement earring.
Mara Hoffman Agnella Dress
Mara Hoffman Agnella Dress [13] ($450)
Black Lace Dress
Leather and lace is where it's at. Try this foolproof combination with a midi dress that falls over the top of your knee-high boots.
Self-Portrait Black Fine Corded Lace Tiered Midi Dress
Self-Portrait Black Fine Corded Lace Tiered Midi Dress [14] ($365, originally $530)
Black Tube Dress
Your LBD instantly becomes fancy enough for the holiday party when you throw on a sequin duster and a pair of slingbacks. Even in a jersey fabric, allow it to be the foundation of your look.
Naked Wardrobe Meant Tu-Be Dress
Naked Wardrobe Meant Tu-Be Dress [15] ($50)
Black Peasant Dress
Opt for a silhouette that stops before the ankle so you can have a shoe moment with a pair of smart, strappy ballet flats.
Sandro High Neck Ruffle Midi Dress
Sandro High Neck Ruffle Midi Dress [16] ($520)
Black Strapless A-Line Dress
Belt your look with a thick leather belt at the waist and play up the fluted hemline with a natural-toned mule.
Norma Kamali Strapless Fishtail Dress
Norma Kamali Strapless Fishtail Dress [17] ($195)
Black Pouf-Sleeved Dress
A whimsical dress like this one can be pared back for a more casual event with a leather lug sole boot.
Sea Patrizia Lace Midi Dress
Sea Patrizia Lace Midi Dress [18] ($395)
Black Ribbed Turtleneck Dress
Style yours over sheer tights with a knee-high boot and professional blazer that comes to just the same length.
Good American Plaited Rib Midi Dress
Good American Plaited Rib Midi Dress [19] ($149)