In the world of fashion, ‘LBD’ might as well be ‘ABC’: it’s essential, it forms the foundation of many wardrobes, plus some would argue it’s probably the most versatile piece you can own. Of course, not every LBD is identical, so we’ve created this cheat sheet for that LBD, including things to keep in mind when locating the perfect little black dress for your type.

Coco Chanel is credited with ‘inventing’ the small black dress in the 1920s, also it was an ideal dress because of its time: simple, affordable for women of classes, and then, when textiles were rationed throughout the war, a method to look elegant with limited funds. In 1926, VOGUE featured a drawing of the long-sleeved black dress by Chanel, accessorized having a single pearl necklace, and named it ‘Chanel’s Ford’ because of its accessibility. Chanel herself stated, “I imposed black; it’s still going strong today, for black wipes out anything else around”—and indeed, an LBD can frequently feel like it trumps other dress options.

We also provide Audrey Hepburn by way of thanking them for continuing to construct the legacy from the LBD, having famously worn just a little black dress by Hubert de Givenchy, complete having a coffee and croissant at hand, within the 1961 film Breakfast at Tiffany’s.

feeltimes Hepburn’s LBD or short formal dresses was quite long, which just proves that just a little black dress doesn’t need to be, well, little. Indeed, when hunting down an ideal little black dress for your type, length is a key consideration. What’s more, simply because the LBD is straightforward in theory doesn't make locating the perfect little black dress an easy process. Here are a few additional factors to bear in mind.

When you are looking at LBDs, the term ‘little’ might evoke a mini style or something that hits mid-thigh. However, a black dress that comes towards the knee, as well as mid-calf, is equally as versatile—if no more than—a shorter version.

Like any fashion item, just a little black dress that’s produced from silk may ultimately feel not the same as the one that’s produced from cotton jerseys. Some materials are naturally dressier than others, so locating the perfect black dress also depends upon how formal (or casual) you need to look. The same goes for seasonality: a wool LBD is much more suited to winter than summer, while a linen LBD is an ideal black dress for any hot August day.

Sure, you’re unlikely to categorize a gown being an LBD—floor-length isn’t exactly ‘little’—but like fabric, little black dress styles can function for almost any occasion. A structured satin or intricately beaded mini dress, for example, is an elegant, fashion-forward option for any cocktail party or formal event, while a mid-length, black linen slip dress is most likely more suitable for date night or dinner with friends.

This pleated style is an ideal little black dress inspiration for each body type. It’s long, although not floor-length, so works no matter the height, as the draped neckline and softly cinched waist accentuate the natural curves of your body. Long sleeves are forgiving, modest—or simply practical.

With its fit-and-flare shape, this is an ideal black dress for petite physical structure looking to create or accentuate curves. The one-shoulder detail also draws the attention up—ideal if you’re happy with your shoulders or décolletage or wish to shift attention from your bottom half.

Say hello to an ideal little black dress. Its short, ruffled hem elongates legs (and enables you to show off great gams), as the high neckline and short sleeves are flattering regardless of your shoulder width or bust size.