UPDATE Note 10/6/2019: This post, together with the others in the LBD series, was originally “built” with embedded Polyvores.  When Polyvore disbanded, all my illustrations disappeared, so I’m working to reconstruct them as best I can, using Pin images, etc.  So my apologies for missing illustrations you may stumble across, and that the links to the product sources are no longer present.

Most people know that the advantage of the “Little Black Dress” (which, in my case, is brown) is its versatility.  But you might still not know how to put that versatility to work — or need a bit of a creativity booster.  To get you started, I’m going to show 12 different pieces (categories, if you will) that can be paired with a LBD.  Many of them can be used together, so mix-and-match for even more options.

A skirt extender/petticoat is probably pretty self-explanatory.  But don’t overlook the possibility of using a skirt to serve in this capacity.  Not every skirt will work well for that, of course, but don’t rule it out without consideration.

Lucky Love Dress and Skirt Extender with Lace Trim (Small, Cream Scallop Lace)Get ItMelody Womens Lace Extender Slip Skirt Half Slip (Medium, Ivory)Get ItPeekaboo-Chic Iris Chiffon Half Slip Skirt Extender (black, s/m)Get ItPeekaboo-Chic Bring on the Frill Half Slip Skirt Extender (black, s/m)Get ItEve and Moilla Women’s Chiffon Lace-hem Slip Skirt Extender (Small, Navy)Get It

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Tights are good for warmth, for adding a pop of color, or just for fun.  You can get them in not only a variety of colors, but also multiple textures or prints, depending on what look you’re going for.

A button-up shirt will generally add a casual feel to your outfit.  Different colors and prints can change it up.   You can knot it at the waist, or wear a belt over top.

A chunky sweater is great for warmth.  (Pair it with leggings or tights.)  Worn over top of your LBD, it lets the dress function as a skirt.

Leggings are another option for adding warmth, as well as a pop of color/some fun.  Wear a solid pair that’s matched to your dress, and they’ll seem slightly less casual/playful.

A vest is a really fun and unexpected addition.  (I love the one pictured here!  I wouldn’t have thought of it if I hadn’t come across it, but I love the very different look it gives the dress.)  Of course, different vest styles can be very different, so experiment, because different ones may give very different impressions.  This one, for instance, is clearly pretty casual.  More of a tuxedo-style vest would be considerably less so.

Jackets are, perhaps, an obvious choice.  Keep in mind, though, that the style of jacket will make a big difference in the overall style of your outfit.  The jean jacket here gives a different look than a leather moto jacket would, and both are very different from what a traditional blazer would convey.  A bolero would be still different.

A collar may be one of the hardest options on this list to find, but if you come across one that works with your dress, it can be a very effective way to change things up!  This can be a jewelry-type collar, or simply a detachable collar.  (This option will work better with some dresses than others, because of differences in necklines.)

A cardigan is a classic choice.  Vary the style to vary the look, or just keep it classic.

A tank top, or other relatively fitted sleeveless top layered under your dress can add a pop of color to the main portion of your outfit.  Depending on necklines, you might have to experiment a little bit, but as long as the necklines work okay together, and the tank is fitted enough to not be lumpy underneath your dress, you’re good to go!

Scarves are, of course, a familiar layering option.  They come in a variety of styles and can be worn in a plethora of ways, so they’re a pretty versatile option.

Halftees (or fitted tees) are another option for layering under.  Essentially, with this option you’re treating the dress as a jumper (if  you’re using non-American English, I don’t know what that’s called; sorry!), so it will definitely work better with a sleeveless dress option.  Halftees (that’s a brand name) are cropped because they’re specifically designed to layer under things without bulk.  You may also find something similar from other companies called “demi tees.” Or just look for “cropped.” Sari blouses are a very similar option you can find on Amazon or eBay.

If you can’t find these cropped tops, or wouldn’t wear them often enough to be worth the investment, you can wear any t-shirt underneath that’s fitted enough to not be lumpy under the dress.

Are you starting to get some ideas about mixing-and-matching?  Sweaters and leggings.  Button-up shirts and tights.  Button-up shirts layered over and tank tops layered under.  The possibilities are almost endless!  (And this is all before adding shoes or jewelry!)

I’d love to see you style your own LBD and share it on social media with the #Dressember hashtag!