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"Fashions fade, style is eternal." Yves Saint Laurent

Who hasn’t marveled at the sight of Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany’s when she strolls down Fifth Avenue in that iconic Givenchy black dress. Black is instantly slimming and glamorous. With a new year upon us, simplify your wardrobe with the addition of The Perfect Little Black Dress or LBD. Even the LBD needs to be replaced with an updated version every few seasons. I absolutely adore a stunning boutique line called Kirribilla.  They make the most chic, well-cut dresses full of Parisian mystique and grace.  Check out the Genevieve dress above, and the Charlotte, below.  Perfection.

I recently spoke with Joey Jagod, fashion expert. Joey has worked for major fashion houses like Calvin Klein, DKNY, Donna Karan, Liz Claiborne, and knows a thing or two about putting the right look together. He’s also got that eye for the perfect accessories to give your outfit that extra punch. As Joey says, “The LBD is classic and will never go out of style. Jazz it up with fabulous accessories and you can create different looks. It’s all in the mix.” Try some of these ideas to liven up your LBD:

Channel Audrey.  Add a dramatic statement pearl and crystal necklace to your LBD. Keep your legs bare and wear ladylike high-heeled pumps to complement your legs. Carry a sleek black patent or satin clutch in a fun color, such as pink. Put your hair in an updo to show off your lovely neck, and perhaps a rhinestone clip for added glamour. It worked for Audrey, so why not try this sophisticated look?

Feeling a little Edie? Play up the mod 1960’s and Edie Sedgwick’s look. Wear your LBD with a wide black patent belt to accentuate your waist. Dramatic crystal chandelier earrings will frame and illuminate your face. Want to experiment? Add a pop of color with opaque hose in an unexpected color – like red – and wear with shiny black patent platform pumps. Fogal makes a fabulous hose in Rouge (orange-red) and Laque (red-blue).  It’s well worth the extra bucks. Wear your hair back with a wide stretch headband in black satin. Smoky eyes and pale or nude lips accentuate the positive.

Do the hustle. Bring sparkle and flair to your LBD by wearing a sequined jacket in black, silver or bronze. Try Isabel Lu’s Sequined Blazer in Black ($253.00, Nordstrom.com). Add some fun metallic strappy sandals that complement your top and dance the night away. Stay in that color range and focus your makeup on bronze and champagne shadows, creamy pink blush, and berry lips. Keep it all dewy and soft. What is more kissable than a rosy pout? 

Go ahead, zgoddesses, and bring out your inner flirt. It's a new year and a new you.  Push the envelope with a few new bold accessories, and your LBD is ready for prime time. Let me know how it goes. I’d love to hear all about how you make your LBD your own!