Cocktail Dresses 101: Helping You Choose A Super Style

BY ADRIAN LEIGHTON

Cocktail Dresses 101 – Your Guide To These Fun Dresses

Cocktail dresses as we know them have been around since the 1920s. You’re probably aware of that iconic ‘flapper’ style like in the picture below. Unlike many older fashions though, cocktail dresses have stuck around and are now a dress that we find in almost every woman’s closet today.  

1920s chanel cocktail dress

This is an early cocktail dress from Chanel, and as you can see it looks quite similar to today’s styles!

Commonly worn at casual or semi-formal events, cocktail dresses are your ‘go-to’ choice for a night on the town, a meal with friends, or a hot date. Lighter, shorter, and usually less decorated than ball gowns, and other formal dresses, the cocktail dress is a versatile choice; and this include ‘little black dresses’ and we all know how adaptable they are!

Don’t think that they’re only short dresses though, as in fact they come in knee length, tea length, or ankle length, meaning that there’s a style for everyone’s tastes and every occasion!

Cocktail dresses can be made from many different fabrics and in different styles. Let’s explore some of them here:

A Line Cocktail Dresses

This is the iconic party dress style and was invented by Christian Dior in the 1950s. It’s a very flattering style for most women, as it has a defined waist, and tapers outwards over hips, tummies, and thighs in a capital ‘A’ shape. This makes it a great choice for almost every body shape, and why it’s beloved of women looking for a versatile dress that would suit everyone on occasions such as their wedding.

A line cocktail dresses

Do you love the classic lines of this cocktail dress style?

Strapless Cocktail Dresses

A strapless dress is a fun, flirty choice as it highlights your neckline and shoulders.

While not as forgiving as A-line dresses, they are more fun! Because they lack straps they often take the form of a bodice which grips around your upper back, not sliding down and also offering support to your chest (think corset, but part of the dress itself).

These dresses often include fitted waists, fitted bodices, body-skimming lines, and bubble, or A-line skirts.

strapless cocktail dresses

Strapless cocktail dresses are a popular and beautiful choice.

Sheath Cocktail Dresses

A figure-hugging style for women with curvy or slim figures, this dress typically features a straight skirt and a high neckline. If you’re into parties and want to show off your figure, then a sheath dress is definitely the style for you!

sheath cocktail dresses

Flirty and great for clubbing and parties, the sheath will show off your curves.

Defined Sheath Cocktail Dress

Much like the sheath dress above, this style features a defined waistline instead.
The problem with a sheath is that if you don’t have curves they can somewhat hang from you which is unflattering, but if the waist is defined with a belt then this gives your silhouette a natural curvy look.

defined sheath cocktail dresses

The defined sheath will add extra curves, giving you a feminine silhouette.

Little Black Dresses

Probably the one ‘must have’ dress for any woman’s closet, any cocktail dress in black is an LBD. The beauty of these dresses is that they’re versatile, can be worn on most occasions, and are slimming thanks to the color.

When it comes to an LBD, just choose a style you love and remember to accessorize with some colorful make-up and accessories. 

little black cocktail dresses

Little black dresses are one of the most versatile dress styles, and can be worn at most kinds of events!

Your Turn…

Which kinds of cocktail dresses do you prefer? When do you like to wear them?

Let us know by commenting below!

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Little Black Dresses: Be Sexy and Sophisticated

Little Black Dresses: Be Sexy and Sophisticated

BY: Ana Karina Lazaro

Little Black Dresses at OuterInner

People say that little black dresses are for the sole purpose of seducing a men.

Do you agree on this?

As a matter of fact most women have at least one in the recesses of their closet. This is a dress that is just a little too short. Just a little too tight. One that hugs curves you never knew you had. One that looks as if it was made for your body and your body only. This is a dress that can make you feel sexy the second you put it on.

Yes I know, now you are wondering what makes this dress so special?

You are about to see that by yourself with the OuterInner Little Black Dresses collection here!

Little Black Dresses For Casual Occasions

Feel cute and beautiful with this Shoulder Tied Cowl Neck little black dress showing the princess inside you. This little black dress has a beautiful cowl neckline that perfectly match with the sashes and ribbons embellishments.

Shoulder Tied Cowl Neck LBD Dress. Style Code: 08630. US$145

Shoulder Tied Cowl Neck LBD Dress. Style Code: 08630. US$145

Check this great option for a Sunday or for a cute date. The Chiffon Sleeveless Short Portrait Little Black Dresses is simple and cute. I just love the way the ruffles allow the bust to be highlighted and the fact that it looks fresh and natural.

Chiffon Sleeveless Short Portrait Little Black Dresses. Style Code: 01298. US$89

Chiffon Sleeveless Short Portrait Little Black Dresses. Style Code: 01298. US$89

If you are attending a cocktail or an evening event, a little black dress is always a great option according the type of gathering. Now I invite you to continue discovering more elegant styles.

Little Black Dresses For Elegant Evening Parties

A-line Strapless Knee-length Satin Little Black Dresses. Style Code: 05355. US$79

A-line Strapless Knee-length Satin Little Black Dresses. Style Code: 05355. US$79

With an A-line silhouette and strapless neckline, this little black dress is a great option for an evening event. As petite black dresses are considered as essential robes in any women’s closet, everyone should own a sample that can allow them to wear it for different occasions with different accessories. That is just simply a “rule of fashion”.

Ruffles Short Strapless Sheath Little Black Dresses. Style Code: 00182. US$69

Ruffles Short Strapless Sheath Little Black Dresses. Style Code: 00182. US$69

This cocktail little black dress is not common. Which makes this dress unique! The gorgeous bow on the left side goes from the bust to the waist. This dress clearly shows your curves and shape plus it is elegant, classic and very formal.

These have been a range of cute and formal dresses for casual and elegant events, but do you think little black dresses are for informal events also?

Well yes! Take a look at the next collection of party petite black dresses and let’s get the party started!

Beading Sheath Straps Knee-Length Bandage Dress. Style Code: 10839. US$96

The Beading Sheath Straps Knee-Length Bandage Dress it’s sexy and glamorous. Make your date go crazy with this beautiful piece! The neckline is made with straps and the skirt is 3 to 5cm above the knees, but at OuterInner we can make it with your own measurements!

Short Ruffles Sleeveless Black Little Black Dresses. Style Code: 01789. US$74

Short Ruffles Sleeveless Black Little Black Dresses. Style Code: 01789. US$74

Black and White, the perfect combination of sobriety! This little black dress has it all! It’s made in chiffon fabric with ruffle details. The design of the dress is on the left side and it simply helps your shape to become more molded. It’s just perfect for a night out with your friends!

Feeling in a sexy mood? This is a call for lace!

Sheath Black Sleeveless Jewel Little Black Dresses. Style Code: 02181. US$94

Sheath Black Sleeveless Jewel Little Black Dresses. Style Code: 02181. US$94

This fabric has always been a good complement along with any dress. It can variate according the type of dress. In this case, the lace gives a touch of sex-appeal and distinction to this dress.

Wanna check more little black dresses? Check them here!

Discover more: OuterInner Collection in Homecoming Dresses & V-neck A-line Black Tie Event Dresses

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Or get amazing ideas about night out dresses, party dresses and accessories by following the OuterInner Pinterest page.

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7 Reasons Why YOU Should Wear Little Black Dresses At Prom!

By Adrian Leighton

Why Wearing Little Black Dresses To Prom Is A Great Idea For Any Girl!

little black dresses for prom

Who doesn’t love little black dresses? They’re the classic dress style that you can just never go wrong with! I’m sure we’ve all got them in our closet (at least one surely?), but have you considered that they could be a good option for prom?

If you’re in the position that many prom-goers find themselves in, where you just can’t seem to find a prom dress that’s ‘just so,’ then why not consider wearing little black dresses?

What Should I Know About Little Black Dresses?

If you don’t know the strengths of little black dresses yet, then take a look at these:

  1. Black goes with everything, making it so much easier to choose accessories and make-up!
  2. It’s a flattering color that will help any shape or size to look and feel great!
  3. LBDs are available in many different styles, fit for any taste and event.

Taking all of these factors into account, you can see why prom is a good event to wear an LBD! Many girls will be wearing very big prom dresses that have their place of course, but you can look cool, stylish, and unique in your LBD. Also, if you do pick up a new one, then you’re going to be pleased as an LBD can be worn time and time again, whereas finding a less than formal occasion where you can re-wear your prom dress is going to be rarer!

What Kinds Of Little Black Dresses Suit Me?

It’s a good question! Now that we know why little black dresses are a good choice for a prom dress, it’s time to look at 7 different LBDs to suit almost any girl’s shape. Can you find yourself in this list?

1. A-line Little Black Dresses For Bottom Heavy Girls

The great thing about A-line little black dresses is that they skirt over your lower half, meaning that they’re very flattering for girls with a bottom-heavy figure. Some straps or a strapless design will also draw the eye to your upper body, decreasing the amount of attention on your lower half!

Here’s a good example:

A-line Beading Elastic Woven Satin Sleeveless Little Black Dresses, Style Code: 01677, $109

A-line Beading Elastic Woven Satin Sleeveless Little Black Dresses, Style Code: 01677, $109



2. Choose Sleeves If You Wish To Cover Your Arms

Many people think that sleeves look very old-fashioned and will age you, certainly not what you want at prom! However there are many little black dresses with sleeves that look stylish and will help you to feel more confident about your arms.

Such as this style:

Sheath Black Sleeveless Jewel Little Black Dresses, Style Code: 02181, $94

Sheath Black Sleeveless Jewel Little Black Dresses, Style Code: 02181, $94



3. LBDs For Plus Sizes

Having curves doesn’t mean that you can’t join the fun with an LBD! On the contrary, there are heaps of styles that you can choose from that are flattering, and will disguise any extra curves! Just keep fabrics light, choose a flowy design that’s not too snug, and consider some sleeves and you’re all good!

Here’s a nice one:

Black V-neck Princess Capped Chiffon Homecoming Dresses, Style Code: 05976, $89

Black V-neck Princess Capped Chiffon Homecoming Dresses, Style Code: 05976, $89



4. Cover Your Legs

If your legs aren’t your strong point then you’ll want to choose a longer little black dress, but don’t worry as you’ve got a lot of options! Not all LBDs are super short, and you can see that this has a pretty illusion asymmetrical dress!

Black Ruffles Sweetheart Sleeveless Little Black Dresses, Style Code: 00780, $99

Black Ruffles Sweetheart Sleeveless Little Black Dresses, Style Code: 00780, $99



5. Flattering For Bigger Busts

You know what they say, “If you’ve got it, flaunt.” This is the key to looking great for top heavy girls, so you’ll want to focus on LBDs with a V-neck, portrait, or square neck.

Look at this portrait style below and you’ll see why it flatters a fuller bust.

Chiffon Sleeveless Short Portrait Little Black Dresses, Style Code: 01298, $89

Chiffon Sleeveless Short Portrait Little Black Dresses, Style Code: 01298, $89



6. Flattering For Smaller Busts

On the other hand if you have a smaller bust then you’ll need to choose a little black dress that gives your chest a subtle boost. Think decoration, as elements like ruffles, ruching, bows, etc, will add some bulk there and help to balance your figure.

This LBD has a lot of ruffles, and is the ideal illustration of how they can give you more ‘size’ up top to balance with your lower body.

Strapless Sleeveless Black Short Little Black Dresses, Style Code: 02442, $74

Strapless Sleeveless Black Short Little Black Dresses, Style Code: 02442, $74



7. Good LBDs For Skinny Girls

There’s nothing wrong with being thin, but it can mean that your profile lacks curves and the feminine sexiness that comes with them. In this case you’ll want to choose an LBD that can boost your body’s natural shape, so think a belt to cinch in your waist and create an hourglass silhouette. Ruffles, peplums, and various other decorations that add volume to the dress are also your allies in this!

The belt on the dress below gives your wasit definition, and the tiered skirt adds shape to your silhouette.

Tiered Skirt Sweetheart with Ribbon Cocktail Dress, Style Code: 08326, $84

Tiered Skirt Sweetheart with Ribbon Cocktail Dress, Style Code: 08326, $84



If none of these types describe you then that’s fine, most little black dresses are likely to suit you, so it’s just a case of finding one that you love!

Are you a fan of LBDs? When do you wear them? Would you wear one to prom? Tell us by commenting please…


Click Here To Win A FREE Prom Dress! This Pinterest Contest Ends March 25th 2013!



quality dresses online Satin Prom Dress From OuterInner

Bedazzle Even The Most ‘Normal’ Dress With Sparkly Clutches

Grab Inexpensive Clutches To See Off 2012 In Style

Grab Inexpensive Clutches To See Off 2012 In Style
By Adrian Leighton

The right clutches can liven up even the most pedestrian black dress during the holiday season! The burden of spicing up your outfit doesn’t need to fall on your dress, because with the right accessories you can add a pop of color, or a talking-point to even the most staid dress.

Take this little black dress above for instance. Nothing wrong with it, it’s a perfectly nice, simple black dress…but when you add the impact of one of the following clutches it transforms the ‘look’ altogether!

Our clutches are all very inexpensive too, so they also make a great stocking-filler, or just a little treat for yourself :-)

Which Of These OuterInner.com Clutches Do You Like?

 

Gold Stud Embellished Clutch, Style Code: 10778, US$27.00

Gold Stud Embellished Clutch, Style Code: 10778, US$27.00

This gold clutch has a kind of raunchy studded look, and gold is the perfect complement for black! Seen a lot of this on the red carpets of late, so it’s a look worth noticing!

Rhinestone Belted Pleated Satin Clutch, Style Code: 08715, US$16.00

Rhinestone Belted Pleated Satin Clutch, Style Code: 08715, US$16.00

Pretty pleated satin clutch topped with sparkly rhinestones. Simple, but effective!

Clutches, Style Code: 07776, US$25.00

Clutches, Style Code: 07776, US$25.00

Funky purple leather clutch, which would go so well with purple makeup ;-)

Black Crystals Clutch, Style Code: 08727, US$69.00

Black Crystals Clutch, Style Code: 08727, US$69.00

Not many clutches have this many crystals, so it’s a unique look indeed!

Clutches, Style Code: 07730, US$28.00

Clutches, Style Code: 07730, US$28.00

Don’t kill pythons, it’s not cool. But this faux-python leather clutch really hits the spot of serious chic!

 

Which do you prefer? Do you accessorize your black dress with clutches, or jewelry? These 5 clutches are merely a taster of the many available, so why not have a look?

Awesome Makeup Ideas To Make Your Little Black Dresses Pop!

Makeup to go with little black dresses

By Adrian Leighton

makeup for little black dresses

We don’t need to tell you how appealing the classic little black dress look is, but your outfit doesn’t stop with the dress as you know! The question is, what’s the best kind of makeup to match little black dresses?

Actually there is no one style to choose from, and different makeup will serve to dress up or down your look. So let’s look at soem different black dresses, and the type of makeup that you might like to wear with those…

Black Formal Event Dresses For Balls

Let’s say you’re going to a ball, or similar, and wearing black. Like this dress below:

Sequins Halter Wide Ruched Waist Front Slip Black Tie Event Dress, Style Code: 00144, US$159.00

Sequins Halter Wide Ruched Waist Front Slip Black Tie Event Dress, Style Code: 00144, US$159.00

Because this is a formal event you’ll want to go to town and choose full makeup. That means thick lashes, blush, and colored eye shadow. Try a mixture of darker, yet lively colors, like purples and blues, as well as heavy liner. Add also some rose blush to your cheeks for a lively glow.Finally rich colors will work well for lips too, as black’s quite a strong color. How about a bold crimson, because reds have really been popular this year!

Strapless Little Black Dresses For A Sunny Day

This is one of the more casual styles of little black dresses and so it calls for its own kind of lighter makeup.

Strapless Column Knee-length Sleeveless Ruffles Little Black Dresses, Style Code: 05199, US$69.00

Strapless Column Knee-length Sleeveless Ruffles Little Black Dresses, Style Code: 05199, US$69.00

You’re strapless, so you need to take attention to your collarbone and face by wearing natural-looking makeup with subtle hints of color. Wear light makeup such as light pink metallic eyes, and don’t go overboard with the mascara! A touch of gloss on your lips, and some light bronzer will make you glow. Sometimes, less is more!

Stretch LBD For Nights Out

If you’re on a date or partying with friends at the club, then this style of body con LBD will make you irresistible, but you need to maximize your ‘Wow-factor’ by adding the right make up.

Sheath Short Sleeveless High Neck Little Black Dresses, Style Code: 01790, US$74.00

Sheath Short Sleeveless High Neck Little Black Dresses, Style Code: 01790, US$74.00

The trick here is to really sex up your look! Smoky eyes (think Kim Kardashian) are the order of the day here, so use a blend of dark colors, such as green, gray, or blue, and some glitter. Finish off the look with a touch of white metallic shadow to the inside corner of your eyes. Finally, how about neon pink lips? Pow!

Halter Black Dresses For Dinner Or A Date

A halter dress has that touch of class that you’ll enjoy if you’re out at dinner, or on a date with that special someone!

Sleeveless Short Black Beading Little Black Dresses, Style Code: 01388, US$74.00

Sleeveless Short Black Beading Little Black Dresses, Style Code: 01388, US$74.00

Halter dresses will work well with makeup that will highlight your face as the halter covers your neckline. A dab of light, glittery, shadow at the inside corner of your eyes will again draw the eye. Greens, blues or even gun-metal gray on the rest of your eye will make your own eye color really pop. Lip gloss makes your lips kissable, but keep it light so as not to steal your eyes’ thunder!

If you’re like us then you love little black dresses, but what’s your usual makeup style when you’re wearing your favorite LBD? Tell us below…

Gallery

This gallery contains 2 photos.

What a lovely pair!These little black dresses are just perfect for so many events!  On the left you can see: Chiffon Black Short Sleeveless Little Black Dress Style Code: 01284 US$59.00 | US$50.15 On the right we have: Ruffles Short … Continue reading

The Surprising Truth About Your Little Black Dress

Facts You Never Knew About Your Little Black Dress

Audrey Hepburn in her trademark little black dress
What is a little black dress to you? A timeless classic? That faithful dress that’s always the first to get tried on for a party? One thing’s for sure, the LBD is going nowhere and has been a style icon since the days of the 50s bombshells like Audrey hepburn who you can see above in one of her famous little black dresses.

Despite the little black dress being immensely popular and only in one colour, a recent survey of 2000 women featured in the ‘Mail online’ is quite an eye-opener, as it suggests that it takes us a lot longer to choose an LBD than you may think! Let’s take a look.

LBDs are beloved of many celebrities like Victoria Beckham here, who is often seen in them:

Victoria Beckham in little black dress

Finding And Keeping An LBD Is A Labor Of Love

Believe it or not, the survey showed that finding a new LBD will take the average woman a massive 30 hours of shopping! That’s 5 full days! Does it take you that long to find a new dress?

That’s not all though, as it suggests that the average woman parts with nearly US$200 per dress and only wears it twice because she’s worried about being seen in the same dress too many times!

The Little Black Dress Is The Commando Of Your Wardrobe

An interesting fact to come out of this was that ’8 out of 10 women claim to own an LBD,’ thinking that no wardrobe is complete without it. Do you agree, or are you not an LBD fan?

However most LBDs are almost never worn, rather spending an average of 11 years in your wardrobe. So it seems that just having an LBD ready for action, should there ever be an occasion where it’s needed, is enough to make most of us feel satisfied with our wardrobes!

If you’d like to see the whole article you can read it here.

So do you fit the profile of the women interviewed here? How often do you wear your little black dress? Let us know by leaving a reply please :-)

 

You could be the OuterInner Prom Queen 2012!

OuterInner Prom Queen 2012

You could be famous and have your prom picture featured for a whole month on our FB page if you send us a pic of you in your OI prom dress. You can also win FREE shoes and dresses! Read this blog to join in! Good luck!

 

Be the FIRST to get special offers, great deals and see OuterInner.com’s new products! Simply register for FREE here for an OuterInner account and you’ll get our great newsletter and be able to shop with us when you’re ready!
 

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