Best alternatives to a little black dress

Finding an alternative to the little black dress that is as chic as it is wearable is no easy task.For years the humble LBD has served us well, and worked harder than most pieces in our party wardrobe.Cool, versatile and timeless– theres been very little need to look elsewhere for that hero evening staple, until now.

From lace to lamé, slouchy silk slips to sleek two-piece trouser suits - designers have been slowly tempting us to try something new over the past few seasons, and we think its not a bad idea.

The LBD will always reign supreme, but should you be looking to give yours a much-deserved break, heres a few of our favourite little black dress alternatives…

Equally as chic and every bit as easy to throw on as the LBD, the jumpsuit has come to be something of a partywear essential.Slim-fit styles in dark shades feel both elegant and demure.Avoid anything too baggy or standout if youre looking for something timeless, and go for styles that highlight the waist for the ultimate figure-flattering silhouette.

Jumpsuit, £49.99, Zara

If youre a big fan of all things slinky, the 90s-style sip dress is the one for you.Length is versatile – go maxi for extra glamour, midi for dinner and mini for everything else – the drape design is incredibly flattering and colours come in rich berry tones and high-shine metallics.Just add a longlineleather jacket, barely-there heels and delicate gold hoops to finish.

The trouser suit is back and looking better than ever.This time around the suit should be minimal, well cut and under no circumstances should it be worn with a matching bra.Look to Reiss for classic styles and Topshop for trend-led optionsthat wont blow the budget.

All hail the lace dress.Theres good reason this classic fabric remains one of the chicest styles for eveningwear.Not only is lace incredibly elegant, but looks far more expensive than it really is, feels amazing to wear and never quite falls out of style.Why buyanything else?Head to Whistles for midi dresses, LK Bennett for occasionwear and H&M for fun lace separates.

If the dress just isnt your thing, go for a metallic midi skirt and feel every bit as party-ready as the rest.A high-shine style teamed with a fuss-free camisole makes the top and skirt combo feel fresh and demure.Wear with mules and a box clutch bag for evening, and for day, thrown on with a grey marl sweatshirt and trainers.