MANILA, Philippines - Ever since Coco Chanel revolutionized the way women dress in the 1920s with her sleeveless black sheath just cut above the knee, the Little Black Dress or LBD has become a timeless fashion classic.
More than that, images of Audrey Hepburn in her Hubert de Givenchy LBD and pearls as Holly Golightly in Breakfast at Tiffany’s, French folk icon performing her poignant songs in a black sheath dress, and the Duchess of Windsor’s quote (“When a little black dress is right, there is nothing else to wear in its placeâ€) have elevated the LBD to iconic status.
Wearing the LBD has, in fact, become an art form of sorts, as it brings to mind everything that is elegant, modern, functional, and chic. And with LBDs on the 2013 runways of designers like Valentino, Prada, and Dior, SM Ladies Fashion brings its latest incarnation to the store racks with shaped shifts, peplum and drape detailing, neat A-line silhouettes, embellished pieces, and luxe lace numbers.
The LBD has survived the test of time and trends because of its versatility. When combined with a blazer, it can make a stylish work outfit. Throw in a pair of high heels and a pearl necklace, and you transform it into a formal outfit.
Art meets fashion as SM’s LBD collection is photographed amid the beautiful and insightful works of contemporary artists Carlo Gabuco, Nolet Soliven and Lyle Buencamino at the Finale Art Gallery at Warehouse 17. Like art, the LBD is only limited by one’s imagination. And one thing is sure: the little black dress will never go out of style.
The Little Black Dress collection is available at SM Ladies Fashion of SM Department Stores.