The Best Little Black Dresses For Every Single Occasion

Whether you’re lounging around the house, running errands in the city or attending a swanky soirée, an LBD is always the right choice.
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Where would the world of fashion be without the eternally classic little black dress? It’s a garment that has transcended nearly every era in history and, from a personal standpoint, has helped influence my own ideals of style and beauty. From a young age I can remember watching “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” and obsessing over the now-iconic Givenchy gown Audrey Hepburn wore in the opening credits.    

 

Because of its universally flattering potential, the LBD has transcended the cocktail dresses seen in classic films. It exists at every style and budget, staking its claim as the one article of clothing that you can never go wrong wearing. Ahead, I gathered the best little black dresses I could find for every occasion, from lounging around the house to a night on the town.

 

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Dresses for everyday

Ideal for a weekend errand run, a Saturday brunch with friends or traipsing through a winery, these options promise versatility, elevated comfort and effortless style.   

A textured cotton button-down
I love a button-down dress and the slim-fitting, mid-length design of this one makes it a particular favorite. It's made with a textured cotton fabric and has a front slit that you can make longer depending on how many buttons you choose to keep closed.
A black wash denim mini dress
I've been on a denim dress kick lately, and this casual black mini was an easy sway for me. I love the simple utility, versatility and the fact that it has both front and back pockets that mimic a pair of jeans. There's also a little bit of stretch so it doesn't feel as restrictive as you might expect from an all-denim dress.
A linen tiered maxi
This smock-waist dress from Anthropologie is apparently one of the company's bestsellers for its versatile design and ability to look good on every body type. I personally love the oversized short sleeves and A-line tiered skirt.
A flouncy peasant-style mini
The balloon sleeves, fitted bust, flared silhouette and open back of this dress have all the makings of a flattering day-time look that is perfect for transitioning into fall.
An oversized knit turtleneck dress
When the weather turns colder, I love the idea of throwing on a cozy and oversized sweater that looks chic without any effort. This slouchy ribbed-knit turtleneck applies this concept to a dress that I'm dying to pair with sheer tights and mid-calf boots.

Dresses for the office

This lineup proves that business attire doesn’t need to be stuffy to be professional. Find a robust mixture of sleek, polished and empowered garments for the workplace that also have the potential to transition into night.     

A lantern-sleeve tie dress
I like that this mini departs from the typical tie dress with the wide belt design that could either be tied in front or back. Plus, it's made with a stretchy knit fabric so it can be comfortable enough to wear all day.
A ribbed-knit wrap dress
There's something to say about the timeless design of a wrap dress and its ability to fit any occasion, but especially in professional settings. I like this one in particular because it has a wide ribbed knit and the adjustable tie can really cinch in your waist.
A crew-neck knit dress with button detailing
Whether it's the little bit Twiggy, the little bit Parisian or the little bit Blair Waldorf that makes me love this, I can't say for sure. Whatever the case may be, this knitted midi-dress with button detailing and a scalloped-trim waist is completely office-friendly without being drab.
A collared Italian wool classic
Made of polished Italian wool and with a hemline that falls just below the knee, this collared dress is designed with a sheath silhouette and a flattering belted waist. In my opinion, it lands perfectly between modernized professionalism and something truly classic.

Dresses for special occasions 

Whether you’re on the lookout for a slinky night-out dress, a gala-worthy number, a cocktail mini a la Audrey Hepburn or elegant wedding guest attire, these LBDs are for you.     

A silk maxi-gown with lace detailing
If I'm ever invited to a formal event, this gorgeous silk charmeuse number will be the first thing I grab. I love that the sheer lace paneling and button closure detailing on the back embodies both the sex appeal of a vintage nightgown and the elegance that comes with any thoughtfully crafted formalwear.
A strappy body-con dress in a buttery soft fabric
I recently purchased this dress as a way to dip my toe in the hyper-sexy dress pond, and I'm so happy I did. The ultra-soft body-hugging fabric has the perfect amount of stretch and the cut-out back detailing is incredibly flattering. I love that it hits just mid-shin to elongate my figure –– a welcome detail considering I'm a little on the shorter side.
A lace-paneled sheath dress
It's easy to picture this dress at a wedding, a work party, the opening of an art gallery or even a nice dinner. I absolutely love the interesting play of the paneling and sheer points of lace because it feels entirely seductive without trying too hard.
A classic tailored cocktail dress
When I hear the word "cocktail dress" this painfully elegant inky black mini is exactly what my mind conjures up. The boat neck, fitted waist, silken fabric and V-neck back would make Holly Golightly proud.
A tailored blazer cape dress
I have personally never had the guts to wear a blazer dress, but the sophisticated and interesting design of this particular one may have me changing my mind. It has a double-breasted button closure with a deep plunging neckline and a shawl collar.

Dresses for lounging 

The nap dress, the lounge dress, the work-from-home dress: Whatever label you choose to give this garment of comfort, these leisure-loving dresses feel like you’re wearing pajamas but won’t garner side-eyes when you run outside to grab the mail.   

A cozy knit V-neck dress
The side slits, straight lines and soft-brushed stretchy fabric of this dress all make for a cozy garment that still looks pulled together.
An internet-famous athletic dress
I may be late to the game when it comes to the athletic dress craze, but I can see why it's caught on. Made from a soft, slightly compressive activewear fabric, this internet-revered dress has built-in shorts, a light-support bra and the ability to take you from your couch to the yoga studio.
A side-ruched T-shirt dress
I like that this is a closer-fitting approach to a lounge dress, and the ruching detail on the side is a nice touch while still honoring a super minimalist design. It's also made with a stretch jersey fabric which is sure to be comfy and soft.
A midi cotton tank dress
The ease of a summer tank is infused in this just-below-the-knee-length dress made with super soft slub cotton and roomy fit. I can see myself taking a snooze on the couch in this or throwing on a pair of Vans and running to the corner store, all in one outfit.

Before You Go

37 Things That'll Have You Looking Looking Oh-So-Stylish In A Flash
An off-shoulder maxi dress with a flouncy top design(01 of37)
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Available in sizes XS–XXL and in 25 colors.

Promising review:
"I bought this dress with the intent of wearing it once to a rehearsal dinner. Little did I know I would end up wearing it ALL summer long! It is opaque, breezy, comfortable, and fit like a glove with some movement. I got endless compliments and no one could believe I found it on Amazon! I would recommend this to anyone looking for a classy, simple, long term closet sample." — SCram
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A two-piece yoga set with a slightly compressive feel(02 of37)
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Available in sizes S-XL and in 11 colors.

Promising review:
"This workout set is so comfortable! I bought the baby blue and fell in love with the way it hugged my body and then I came back and bought the purple set and love it too! Seriously comfy." — curtis
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A pair of chic and affordable cat-eye sunglasses(03 of37)
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Available in three colors.

Promising review:
"These are so cute! I got both the black and the red shades, and I am obsessed! The price is unbeatable, they are well made, and they fit super nice!" — Amazon customer
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An open-front blazer that works for the office or a night out(04 of37)
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Available in sizes 4–22 and 29 colors.

Promising review:
"I got this for a new job and it’s amazing! I wore the black one my first day and loved it so much that I ordered a pink one. It is comfortable, cute, and keeps me warm when I wear a short-sleeve blouse. I got several compliments. It’s easy to wear and professional. One girl even commented, 'Stop wearing those jackets, you are making us look bad!' (In regard to dress code). With COVID, it’s hard to shop in stores right now so I took a chance. Glad I did!" — Gina
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A JW Pei vegan leather purse in a popular rounded design(05 of37)
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Available in 14 colors.

Promising review: "This bag is so gorgeous in person. The quality is amazing and I love that it comes in a box and with a dust bag. Definitely will be buying more from the company." — Shay M.
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A draped wrap skirt made from a soft and stretchy fabric(06 of37)
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Available in sizes XS–2XL and in 44 colors.

Promising review:
"This was an amazing buy! I love the fit, style, and color. The fabric is soft and still stretchy. It doesn’t wrinkle easily which I loved. Was the perfect Valentine’s Day outfit piece." — Kim
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A fedora hat that's ideal for fall(07 of37)
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Available in 24 colors.

Promising review:
"This is seriously a great find! I've been looking for a hat for a long time for an upcoming trip, and all the hats I've tried on were either too floppy, too small for my face, or just plain uncomfortable. The brim on this hat is a perfect size to keep the sun off your face and stays perfectly in place so it won't obstruct your vision! You can adjust the sizing using a ribbon hidden in the lining, making the fit perfect even for a windy day. Absolutely love this hat!" — Jess
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A lace-trimmed cami(08 of37)
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Available in sizes XS–5X and in 12 colors.

Promising review
: "Love love love this lace top!! Bought in black I loved it so much. I wear blazers over it for a sexy professional look then throw on some jeans for happy hour. Definitely my favorite top for the year!" — Michelle P
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A high-waisted palazzo trouser(09 of37)
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Available in sizes XS–3X and 31 colors.

Promising review:
"These pants are so comfortable and flowy! I stepped outside of my usual skinny jean outfit to try this style and I never want to take them off! They are great casual pants for work, and can be dressed up for the evening with a fancy shirt and heels. They are as comfortable as pajamas, without looking like it." — Nash
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A pair of blue-light-blocking glasses(10 of37)
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Available in nine colors.

Promising review
: "I love these! I tried three different brands before deciding on this one. They definitely block blue light, and they are high quality (which was not the case with other brands). Got them in black also, as well as another style. I can tell my eyes strain less when I wear them and I fall asleep better at night." — Dark Star
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A sleeveless tank made from magically soft cotton(11 of37)
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Available in sizes S–XL and three colors.

Promising review:
"Saw a similar top with another vendor for twice the amount. Went with this one, and just received it today. The fit is PERFECT and the material is very nice & comfy. Ok, Going to order more colors!" — Amazon customer
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High-waisted pants featuring an adjustable bow detailing at the ankles(12 of37)
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Available in sizes S–XXL and 51 colors.

Promising review
: "Absolutely perfect! I ordered them in black for work pants but after getting them in I ordered them in multiple other colors because they are now my go to pants for going to work and going out 10/10 would recommend. I waited to make this review to be sure I could afford to buy all the colors I wanted first because I know this product will TAKE OFF when people try them on!" — Addison Stick
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Pointed-toe, ankle-strap pumps in brushed nubuck material(13 of37)
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Available in sizes 5–11 and 17 designs.

Promising review:
"I was hesitant to buy these heels. I decided to go for it and I'm so glad I did!! They are super lightweight, comfortable, and stay on well without slipping. I love the adjustable strap around the ankle too. They don't hurt my feet or ankles while walking. I'm probably ordering another color. I've gotten lots of compliments my first time wearing them!!" — Holly Hobbs
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A flouncy floral print romper(14 of37)
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Available in sizes S–XL and in 11 colors.

Promising review:
"Love this romper! It is so comfortable. I was a little worried about the length because I am 5’8 but it was perfect! The back is a little longer than the front and provides extra coverage. I’ll definitely buy this in multiple colors!" — Bailey Kaufmann
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A breathable and versatile button-up shirt that is a truly reliable basic(15 of37)
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Available in sizes S–XXL and 31 colors.

Promising review:
"I love this shirt, it's light and can be worn in or out, or tight in a knot. Dress up or dress down, the material is not see-through. I'm considering buying it in a different color." — Tatiana
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An essential cropped tank with a high-neck design(16 of37)
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Available in sizes S–XXL and 16 colors.

Promising review:
"Don’t hesitate, just buy it. I bought it in one color and as soon as I tried it on I purchased three more. The material is like butter. It doesn’t have a built-in bra, but it’s lined. You could put on a bra with this if you’d like but there’s no need. It’s cropped but still long enough that it doesn’t roll up weirdly at the bottom. Can dress this up or down! I’ll probably end up buying every color by the end of the year, it’s just that incredible." — Danijtate
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A belted one-shoulder blouse(17 of37)
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Available in sizes XS–XXL and in 20 colors.

Promising review: "I'm so happy with this top! It looks so stylish and def more expensive than the price. The fabric is very comfortable (although you will have to iron or steam it after arrival), plus the sleeve is a great fit for my arm size and left me enough space to move around. It looks so chic and classy with blue jeans!! Just love this piece." — Eduardo Muniz
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A comfortable T-shirt dress equipped with both a tie-waist and pockets(18 of37)
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Available in sizes S–XL and 24 colors.

Promising review:
"The go-to dress. With a nice-weight fabric and a front tie, this very comfortable T-shirt dress is kicked up a notch into a decent-looking outfit. I love how I can just throw it on, add earrings and a pair of flats or heels, and I get compliments for being nicely dressed. I love the pockets! Whenever I take a trip, this easily packable dress comes with me. I bought grey and blue, and then this year I bought green. All are true to color." — PAM
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A lace peplum top with sleeves(19 of37)
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Available in sizes XS–XXL and in nine colors.

Promising review:
"This is one of my best purchases on Amazon! Cute top, great price, and fits as expected. Plus, it's easy to zip and not tight in the bust area or arm." — LVL1920
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A lightweight jumpsuit with all the comfort of the pajama set(20 of37)
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Available in sizes S–3X and in 31 colors.

Promising review:
"I LOVE this outfit because as cliché as it sounds, you can dress it up or dress it down. I threw on a long necklace and some heels, ready for a night out. You could easily pair it with your favorite flats and a cute jacket. It’s soft, has pockets, and a nice jogger-style cut which makes pairing shoes a much easier task." — Amanda Schafer
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A sleeveless swing mini dress with tons of movement and a roomy fit(21 of37)
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Available in sizes L–4X and 14 colors.

Promising review:
"This dress is so comfortable! The material is stretchy and soft and does not cling to your body. I originally got this dress because I needed something roomy after my shoulder surgery. I've already ordered another one in a different color. I really recommend this dress. It's fantastic!" — Susan Kirby
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A pair of slouchy linen overalls with pockets(22 of37)
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Available in sizes S–3X and in 14 colors.

Promising review:
"I am literally obsessed with these! I have been wanting to order overalls for a couple of years now. I thought this was a cute way to wear them without trying to look too young. Spot on. I actually bought it as my lounging outfit. With all this time being spent at home with the recent crisis, I wanted something comfortable but cute so I’m not in sweats all day. Thinking about getting a couple of other colors. I would totally wear these out and about." — WamQQk
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A pair of upscale-looking black loafers(23 of37)
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Available in sizes 5–15 and in five colors.

Promising review:
"These are great!! I’m a kindergarten teacher and these were perfect for wearing all day. They were super comfortable, which is hard for me to find with my feet, so I really mean it. They are also very professional and went great with my black skinny jeans." — Katie Dobbs
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A long-sleeved off-shoulder peplum top(24 of37)
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Available in sizes L–5X and nine colors.

Promising review:
"It fit perfectly. I was concerned about it being short over my jeans but it wasn’t. I would definitely recommend purchasing." — Mrs J
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A pair of delicate and dangly snake earrings(25 of37)
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Promising review: "These are super cute! Lightweight and comfortable. I thought that they would look cheap but they don’t at all. I also thought they were going to be a little bit bigger but I absolutely love the size they are. These look great alone or with other earrings." — Holly (credit:Amazon)
A simple satin button-up blouse with a loose fit(26 of37)
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Available in sizes XS–5XL and over 30 colors.

Promising review:
"Wow! I never write reviews and honestly I never got anything great on Amazon but this top is fantastic! It was inexpensive but does not look cheap, the golden color is beautiful. I could have gone down a size but it’s fine, I will be tucking in. Beautiful soft blouse. I’m very happy with this purchase!" — Lori
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A high-waisted pleated skirt(27 of37)
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Available in sizes XS–XXL and in 38 colors.

Promising review:
"The skirt is as beautiful as I imagined it would be; it's exactly as pictured. It's very comfortable, and due to the elastic waistband, it's great for fit. It's perfect for work or a casual day out!" — Elayne
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A lantern sleeve mini dress with a ruffled square neckline(28 of37)
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Available in sizes S–XXL and in 14 colors.

Promising review:
"This dress is SOOOO adorable. Absolutely in love. Gives very old fashioned feels and I'm all for it! I got the light blue and I'm definitely buying in more colors. Worth every penny." — Olivia
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A loose-fitting and sleeveless tank top-style mini dress(29 of37)
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Available in sizes S–XXL and in 33 colors.

Promising review:
"I ordered a few dresses and new clothes to stay at a resort on the beach. But this dress was all I wanted to wear. It worked great as a cover up and just for walking around and was perfect with pockets to bring my phone around with me." — Sara
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A pair of strappy platform pumps that are actually comfortable to wear(30 of37)
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Available in sizes 5–12 and in 16 colors.

Promising review:
"I typically like to get shoes that are under three inches because I find high heels to be very uncomfortable. But these shoes are the exception. About 5 inches high, these heels are very comfortable and very very cute. I wore these shoes during my graduation yesterday, and my feet did not hurt even after walking for much of the day. Note that I didn't even break these shoes in, (it was my first time wearing them) and yet they were very comfortable on the first wear! I would 10 out of 10 recommend this! Get yourself these shoes if you are looking for an easy-to-wear pair of cute heels." — TMJ
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A seamless and supportive athletic set featuring a ribbed knit material(31 of37)
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Available in sizes XS–L and in 16 colors.

Promising review:
"This outfit fits so well but doesn't feel suffocating. The pants at first looked too small but once I put them on they stretched out easily and the material is thick enough for it not to be see-through or show panty lines. The top is cozy to wear, supportive, and va-va voom if you wear it as a top on its own. It covers the back well too. I plan on ordering more colors." — Jenny
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A ribbed knit pencil skirt that falls mid-shin(32 of37)
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Available in sizes XS–XL and in 23 colors.

Promising review:
"Love the fit of this skirt! Material is soft and stretchy and the ribbed pattern is very flattering. The color is beautiful as well." — Amylia
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A two-piece maxi-skirt and bandeau set(33 of37)
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Available in sizes XS–XL and in 14 colors.

Promising review:
"This outfit is perfect for weekend plans; you can dress up and down. Super classy and comfortable! I get so many compliments on it and it's a great vacation outfit." — Marisa Silva
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A slinky midi wrap skirt(34 of37)
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Available in sizes S–XL and 20 colors.

Promising review:
"I bought this skirt as part of an outfit to wear for my 30th birthday a bit back! This has become my FAVORITE skirt ever. So versatile! This will be perfect for whatever may come my way. Super cute and I feel sexy. Love it!" — Christina W.
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A jersey knit racer-back mini dress(35 of37)
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Available in sizes S–XL and in four colors.

Promising review:
"I bought this dress on a whim because I needed a plain black dress. I spent a few hours at the mall trying to look for something like this before giving up and ordering this one hoping it would be ok. Well, it has surpassed my expectations! This dress is a thick, cottony soft, flowy material and it does not wrinkle easily." — T.Fia
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An off-shoulder jumpsuit made from a breathable, no-cling and lightweight fabric(36 of37)
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Available in sizes S–XXL and in 23 colors.

Promising review:
"Loveeeeeee this thing! Holy crap. I was kinda skeptical but I just received it and I'm in love! It’s so comfy and lightweight but has a casual dressy feel." — Jilldal
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An off-shoulder maxi dress with thigh slit detail(37 of37)
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Available in sizes XS–4X and in 48 colors.

Promising review: "My daughter picked this dress for a summer wedding! Fit her beautifully and the size was spot on! Pairs great with a cute denim jacket and sandals." — Kristen
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