Summer Dresses from Luxe to Less: The LBD

Well, party season is in full swing isn’t it?

I reckon the first weekend in December is always our busiest socially – with four events this weekend (plus a kid’s party and basketball game thrown in to the mix), it’s going to be a goodie.

And I say BRING. IT. ON.

I’m all pumped and sorted for party season and have picked up a few fab frocks in anticipation, including this ripper – the Broderie Hankerchief Dress from Country Road.

Who doesn’t love a new LBD?

SnS on Steps 2

Have you seen it in store at Country Road? I took one look at it last week (during the Spend and Save promotion) and once I saw those uber flattering kimono sleeves and on trend black broderie, I took it straight to the pool slash change room.

I wasn’t sure about the asymmetrical hem but my Mum told me I had to buy it, so I did. What do you think? Was she right?

I’m wearing a 10 instead of my usual 12, so don’t be surprised if you need to size down.

SnS LBDS from Luxe to Less - CR - On step

If you’re still looking for the perfect LBD dress to see you through the next three weeks and beyond – with possible guernseys at parties, Christmas Day and New Year’s – check out this selection below (Above, I’m wearing #9).

LBDs from Luxe to Less

1. Cold Shoulder Dress, $79 from Target; 2. Christie High Neck Wrap dress, $99 from Forever New; 3. Marilyn Dress, $145 from Birdsnest; 4. Cut Out Kimono Dress, $149.95 from Witchery; 5. Paloma Silk dress $159 from Jeanswest; 6. Foil Pleated Dress, $169.95 from French Connection; 7. Annabelle dress, $188.30 (currently 30% off) from Saba; 8. Modern Cleopatra dress, $210 from Leonard St; 9. Broderie Hankerchief Dress, $249 from Country Road; 10. Squid Ink Dress, $329 from Gorman.

As you can see from the selection above, I’ve tried to find a variety of styles, sleeve lengths and cuts, all of which can be dressed up with heels and wedges or down with flats.

From the drapey, A-line styles (1, 3, 4, 8 and 9) through to classic shift styles (2 and 7) which have been brought up to date with cut away necklines, there’s a style to suit everyone and a range of price points to choose from.

Gorman aren’t really in the classic LBD market but this new season squid print dress (10) has been eagerly awaited by Gorman fans, and is all sorts of fun and fabulousness while the silk fabrication keeps things sufficiently dressy.

In terms of working out which LBD is right for you, I think the trick is to try on a few and find a shape and style that works for you and the occasions you have in mind.

If you have more casual do’s than dressy, opt for a cotton option or a maxi that can be dressed up or down.

If you have more formal soirees in your calendar, a dressier style might be the best approach. I’m totally crushing on this French Connection frock (6) – it’s foiled take on the LBD is all Hello Bling and would be perfect for a dressier cocktail party or NYE drinks.

In terms of styling, check out this How to Style a Navy dress post for inspo (the same principles apply) and how I styled a fabulous Leonard St black dress here.

For more frock inspo, you might also like to check out my recent posts on maxis, printed frocks and last week’s everyday style post.

If you’re looking for a colourful party dress, stay tuned for Friday’s post.

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Is there an LBD in your wardrobe? What’s your favourite style?