Everyone knows the LBD. The always chic and sophisticated little black dress that takes a woman from work to dinner to night club – always looking amazingly apropos. Made iconic by the likes of Coco Chanel and Audrey Hepburn, it remains a beacon. However, when the dark days of winter are done, a woman needs a bright light in her wardrobe. A symbol of spring awakening that moves just as easily across her day, as well as in to her upcoming summer holidays.
Enter the LWD. Feminine, clean and pristine – the little white dress is the new classic piece that lights up any room. And while prim at first-glance, it’s actually quite the bold fashion choice – navigating past dusty park benches, spring showers and dreaded red wine drinkers alike.
Despite the risks of wearing the LWD, I recently purchased this new dress from Banana Republic. Crafted from cotton, this sweater dress is like wearing a glove, comfortably hugging all the body’s curves. Its tiered scalloped lines add a girlish flair, while enhancing a womanly shape. And its intricate knit leaves just a few small notes of skin underneath for the ultra-perceptive observer – all making this LWD far from demure. And more like Marilyn than Audrey.
Here, it’s worn solo (with some nude shoes and sunnies) for a walk through London’s gardens. But because of its inherent versatility, this dress will be transformed over the course of my summer – styled-up for my upcoming trips to Morocco, Greece and New York. Stay tuned…
dress: Banana Republic / shoes: L.K. Bennett / sunglasses: Celine
Seven Little White Dresses
In the meanwhile, here are seven more LWDs. Each with their own unique cues, cuts and costs… and all less than £250. Because tis the summer to be more Marilyn.
L.K. Bennett Danika White Lace Detail Shift Dress £225
Conservative in construction, but adorned with lace in all the right places.
Whistles Lila Bardot Linen Dress £110
Embracing this season’s off-the-shoulder trend in light and airy linen.
Top Shop Cut-Out Midi Sundress £42
Spaghetti straps and peek-a-boo detailing that add a little extra sex appeal for summery days.
Reiss Hermione Sleeve-Detail Dress £180
Effecting the Grecian goddess look with slit sleeves, a skinny belt and fluid fabric.
Self-Portrait Guipure Lace and Twill Mini Dress £250
Short and sweet, with Rococo details upon details upon details, Maria Antoinette would approve.
Theory Cut-Out Cotton Dress £137
Clean lines with an eyelet overlay make this a steal.
Clementine Cotton Midi Dress £170
Embracing that ethereal hippie vibe makes this frock festival-worthy.
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