There are very few autumn capsule wardrobe staples so iconic that they’ve earned their own acronym, but the LBD is just that timeless. But while the shorter style is always on hand for the chicest date night outfit ideas, we can’t deny that it’s not always the most practical for autumn/winter.
Enter Nicole Kidman in custom Chanel to answer our wardrobe inspiration woes. Walking in the Vogue World: Hollywood runway, the actress has us re-awarding the LBD title to the Long Black Dress, as her black gown with a strapless, sweetheart neckline and sultry leg slit perfectly updates the timeless style for the season ahead.
Draped satin brought tons of luxe texture to the bustier of her Chanel gown, with a black satin camellia sitting at the neckline to highlight the intricate pleating. The same technique was used at the hip, with gathered fabric introducing volume to the sleek A-line silhouette.
And while we can't promise you Chanel couture on a budget, we can deliver six long black dresses that echo the style of Nicole Kidman's design. Styled simply with black shoes, this is a look where the dress commands centre of attention, and we'd recommend keeping jewellery pared-back here to allow your dress to shine.
If you want additional coverage, look to cropped jackets or boleros to deliver sleek upper arm coverage without interrupting the line of your dress too much. And if you feel the chill, we've seen stars revisiting low-denier tights with longer length hems, meaning you can be fashionable and warm this winter.
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This Mango dress is the dreamiest high-street alternative to Nicole's custom Chanel look, with its classic fitted shape adorned by a similar ruffled detail at the neckline, a sultry slit at the leg and even side ruffles that emulate the style of her gathered skirt.
With a ruched, strapless bodice, voluminous maxi skirt and glamorous satin texture, this gown screams old school Hollywood glam, just as Nicole's does. Ideal for evening attire, if you have a big holiday party or black tie affair on the horizon, this is a fantastic choice.
With the same strapless design, simple A-line silhouette and ruched detailing at the waist and hips, this H&M dress is a great, budget-friendly alternative to help you channel Nicole's look. The drapery through the middle of the dress adds an extra flattering finish.
Simple, sleek and understated, it's the drop waist that gives this classic black dress a fun twist. Elongating the figure, a flared poplin skirt introduces volume and movement. The slightly more relaxed silhouette means you can take this design from AM to PM with a few simple accessory switches.
While this Zara dress differs in shape and style to Nicole's gown, there's no denying the timeless feel of the understated halter neckline and shimmering satin fabric. A low back and bow detail at the nape of the neck adds a glamorous finish.
Bow details at the hip and shoulder of this gown give a fashion-forward twist to the classic shape. With a fluted hem line, the gentle swish adds a feminine finish that is still fairly streamlined for those who are low on fussy details.
Oozing old school Hollywood glamour, the custom Chanel look opened the Vogue World: Hollywood runway, which appropriately took place at the Paramount Pictures Studio lot in Hollywood. Inspired by the long black gown worn by Rita Hayworth in her classic 1946 noir film Gilda, the dress boasted the same timeless A-line shape and simple, strapless neckline as the iconic 40s style, with modern twists complementing the original design.
Draping at the bodice added a feminine and fluid feel to the dress, with the gathered fabric at the hips helping Nicole to glide effortlessly down the runway.
A classic pair of slingback heels was all that was needed to finish off the outfit, proving that an LBD (long black gown) speaks for itself this autumn/winter season. Only simple accessories, such as an understated silver necklace, were needed to complement the style. As with all our festive party outfits, a swipe of red lippy was a welcome finishing touch, complementing Nicole’s short, red manicure.
