The Iconic Black Cocktail Dress

You have to own at least one. Flattering and practical, the ubiquitous genre should be adapted to your body, age, and social needs.

One Shoulder     (left to right)

Chauncey Asymmetric Midi Dress by Shoshanna: Coated texture lends a leathery feel to this asymmetric, slim-fit midi dress. One-shoulder neckline Shoulder straps Concealed back zip Seamed waist Pencil skirt Lined Polyester/polyurethane $560.00

Tiffany One-Shoulder Midi Dress by Dress the Population: Figure-hugging silhouette with two panels that cascade over the single shoulder. Machine washable, lined polyester. Hidden zipper. $148.00

Anne Silk Faille Dress by Alexia Maria: Asymmetric neck Shoulder bow detail Back skirt slit Back zipper closure 100% silk $1150.00

Fuller Skirts   ( left to right)

Naomi Dress by Sachin & Babi: A modified mermaid silhouette. Halter neckline opens up the décolletage. Ruching is seen at the side to hug the hip, falling away from the body. The bodice features a self-belt with hand-wrapped buckle. Side zipper. Polyester$495.00

Faille Strapless Dress by Amsale: Strapless neckline with foldover trim Full A-line skirt with front and back pleats Side slit pockets Back concealed zip closure Lined polyester $440.00

Pleated Halter Dress by 1.State: Elastic waistline, mock neck, center back button loop, pleated skirt. Machine washable polyester. $129.00

Almost the very same dress as above can be had in an expensive version should you need label reassurance: Renzo Pleated Halter Dress by A.L.C.: mocked waistband  A-line silhouette  Keyhole back Asymmetric hem Midi length Polyester $595.00

AND     (left to right)

Allegra Dress by Khaite: Finely ribbed and shaped to a bustier silhouette. Features a sweetheart neckline, cap sleeves, and svelte fit through the body. 82% viscose, 17% polyester, 1% polyamide. $1280.00

Asymmetrical Jeweled Midi Dress by Mac Duggal: Applied crystal detailing adds shine to the cuffs of this asymmetrical jersey midi dress. Concealed back zip Ruched bodice and waist Side slit Flutter hem Lined polyester. $358.00                                                        

Irena Open-Back Midi Dress by Rotate Birger Christensen: Oopen back with button fastening and fluted mesh details at the cuffs and hem. 65% viscose, 30% polyamide, 5% elastane $250.00

The items featured in this article have been chosen by the editors of Woman Around Town simply because we like them and think you may, too. No advertising fees have been paid to Woman Around Town for this article.

Top photo: Bigstock