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We'd be willing to bet that you already own a basic black dress. We'd also be willing to bet that you haven't purchased said dress recently. But even if you have, you could definitely use another. And that's because a black dress is a timeless closet staple that never goes out of style. There's a little black dress for every occasion, and don't tell us otherwise.
The black dress is the perfect place to start, having graced wardrobes since Coco Chanel popularized them back in the 1920s and then were cemented in the 1930s Great Depression. And while we love our classic LBDs, a black dress is more than just that one style. A black dress is there for you through all of stages of life. Interviews to work parties, weddings to funerals, co*cktails to galas—there's a silhouette for every occasion. Choose a fit-and-flare that's perfect for a co*cktail party or opt for a structured midi at the office. Whatever you've got to do, you can do it in a snazzy black dress.
So stock up on this wardrobe essential—we've got the 15 best black dresses to add to your closet ASAP. Trust us, you will be wearing one sooner than you think.
Our Top Black Dress Picks:
1
Most Comfortable Black Dress
Hill House Home Ophelia Cotton Smocked Dress
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2
Best Black Midi Dress
Old Navy Puff-Sleeve V-Neck Crepe Midi Dress for Women
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3
4
5
Best Black Maxi Dress
Reformation Ballari Off-the-Shoulder Dress
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6
Best Black Dress on Amazon
Grecerelle V-Neck Wrap Black Midi Dress
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7
Best Black Sweater Dress
Abercrombie x HFR x Nicole Benefield Long-Sleeved Maxi Sweater Dress
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8
Most Versatile Black Dress
Ann Taylor Belted Pleated Flare Dress
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9
Best Black Dress for Fall
Vince Camuto Long-Sleeved Sweater Dress
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10
1
Most Comfortable Black Dress
Hill House Home Ophelia Cotton Smocked Dress
1
Most Comfortable Black Dress
Hill House Home Ophelia Cotton Smocked Dress
Hill House Home brings elements from its signature nap dress to the Ophelia silhouette. The elastic smocking in the back coupled with the adjustable neckline adds comfort and ease.
Available Sizes: XXS to 2X
2
Best Black Midi Dress
Old Navy Puff-Sleeve V-Neck Crepe Midi Dress for Women
2
Best Black Midi Dress
Old Navy Puff-Sleeve V-Neck Crepe Midi Dress for Women
Now 30% Off
Featuring a V-neck, ruched details, and short puffed sleeves, this popular midi dress is oh so flattering. You can easily dress it up with comfortable heels or down with boots or flats.
Available Sizes: XS to 4X
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4
Best Black Wrap Dress
ASOS Textured Collared Wrap Midi Dress in Black
4
Best Black Wrap Dress
ASOS Textured Collared Wrap Midi Dress in Black
With a flattering wrap front and midweight crepe fabric, what's not to love about this versatile dress? We bet this will end up as your go-to for everything from important meetings to dinners with family and friends.
Available Sizes: 0 to 14
5
Best Black Maxi Dress
Reformation Ballari Off-the-Shoulder Dress
5
Best Black Maxi Dress
Reformation Ballari Off-the-Shoulder Dress
Crafted from Reformation's signature crepe, this off-the-shoulder maxi dress looks as gorgeous in photos as it feels on. It's fitted at the waist and flares out for a highly flattering silhouette that moves with you. We love that it also comes in extended plus sizes.
Available Sizes: 0 to 24
From the flutter cap sleeves to the Empire waist and midi length, this LBD is as comfortable as it is flattering. You can dress it up with comfortable heels, or down with your favorite white sneakers or booties.
Available Sizes: S to XXL
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7
Best Black Sweater Dress
Abercrombie x HFR x Nicole Benefield Long-Sleeved Maxi Sweater Dress
7
Best Black Sweater Dress
Abercrombie x HFR x Nicole Benefield Long-Sleeved Maxi Sweater Dress
This gorgeously relaxed sweater dress is part of the collection of sophisticated modern classics from Abercrombie's partnership with Harlem's Fashion Row and designer Nicole Benefield. Crafted from a premium knit fabric, you can style the side buttons depending on the occasion.
Available Sizes: XXS to 3X
8
Most Versatile Black Dress
Ann Taylor Belted Pleated Flare Dress
8
Most Versatile Black Dress
Ann Taylor Belted Pleated Flare Dress
Consider this your foolproof, wear-everywhere dress. The covered sleeves and midi length are appropriate for everything from days at the office to family gatherings, while the pleated fit-and-flare skirt is pretty for a night out.
Available Sizes: 00 to 20/22
9
Best Black Dress for Fall
Vince Camuto Long-Sleeved Sweater Dress
9
Best Black Dress for Fall
Vince Camuto Long-Sleeved Sweater Dress
Now 40% Off
As temperatures drop, a comfy and stylish sweater dress is a simple wardrobe piece that you can wear to the office, date night, or wherever the day may take you. You can try using a belt at the waist to keep shape to an oversize look.
Available Sizes: XS to XXL
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Featuring long kimono sleeves and a maxi hem length, this wrap-waist pleated black dress provides all the coverage you'll need leading into cooler months. Thanks to the fabric's breathability, you won't have to worry about getting too hot while making a sartorial statement.
Available Sizes: XS to 2X
11
Best Black Midi Dress
Fenjar Ruched 3/4-Sleeve Midi A-Line Dress
11
Best Black Midi Dress
Fenjar Ruched 3/4-Sleeve Midi A-Line Dress
This dress is ideal for times when you want a little bit of drama and movement. Inspired by the timeless style of Hollywood legend Audrey Hepburn, it features 3/4-length sleeves, a voluminous 1950s-inspired skirt that almost demands you to take a twirl, and ruched detail at the waist. Simple, affordable, yet oh so impactful.
Available Sizes: XS to 2X
12
Best Black Wedding Guest Dress
WHBM Pleated Halter Midi Dress
12
Best Black Wedding Guest Dress
WHBM Pleated Halter Midi Dress
Now 25% Off
There's something undeniably sophisticated about a halter top. When paired with a pleated chiffon skirt, all bets are off! This black co*cktail dress is perfect for fall weddings and festivities.
Available Sizes: 00 to 18
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13
Best Black Sheath Dress
Calvin Klein Seamed Scuba Crepe Sheath Dress
13
Best Black Sheath Dress
Calvin Klein Seamed Scuba Crepe Sheath Dress
Now 27% Off
A black sheath dress should be something of a foundation for all women's wardrobes. Timeless and easily adaptable for many of life's events, the sheath dress can be dressed up with jewelry and accessories for a party or toned down with basics for somber funeral attire.
Available Sizes: 2 to 16
14
Best Black Shirtdress
Scoop Women's Faux-Leather Pleated Shirtdress
14
Best Black Shirtdress
Scoop Women's Faux-Leather Pleated Shirtdress
A shirtdress is a great option for effortless style, especially when in black. Whether you're commuting to work, attending post-work events, or out for brunch, this dress is occasion-appropriate for all.
Available Sizes: XS to 2X
15
Best Black Lace Dress
Bebe Black Tiered Lace Midi Dress
15
Best Black Lace Dress
Bebe Black Tiered Lace Midi Dress
With its lace paneling, cap sleeves, and below-the-knee hemline, somehow this LBD manages to be romantic while providing coverage where you need it. If you're looking for a special flair, the black lace tiering at the hem steps up your look without asking for too much of the spotlight.
Available Sizes: XS to XL
Sara Klausing
Sara Klausing covers all things fashion and style for Oprah Daily. Follow her on Instagram.
Gaby Keiderling
Gaby Keiderling is a New York–based writer working on fashion, lifestyle, travel, and sports features. She also covers celebrity style for Esquire's “Get Ready with Me” franchise. Her work can also be seen in Vogue, Harper's Bazaar, and more. Sometimes you can spot her around the West Village, out on a walk with her dog, Sneakers.