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The Little Black Dress: A Comprehensive Guide by Taylor Swift

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Amanda Edelman Student Contributor, Florida State University
FSU Contributor Student Contributor, Florida State University
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at FSU chapter and does not reflect the views of Her Campus.

While Taylor Swift can’t seem to get her boyfriend situation figured out, there’s one thing Taylor Swift always gets right: the Little Black Dress.

Whether you consider yourself part of the Swift fan club or not, Taylor Swift has never faltered in presenting a sleek take on what Lauren Conrad and fashion magazines galore call a “closet staple”.

Swift’s expansive wardrobe consists of quirky cat shoes, a bevy of retro sunglasses and enough J Brand shorts to make your head spin. While her style has transformed through various phases, from cowboy boots and knee-length sundresses to high-waisted shorts and sparkly oxfords, her take on the LBD remains timeless.

I present to you a quick synopsis of Taylor Swift’s black dress collection; a collection so stylish and diverse it’ll make you wish you owned as many as this country-turned-pop superstar. By scrolling through, I hope you’ll gather a couple useful style tips from the master herself. Enjoy, and don’t forget the red lipstick!

Two-Piece Sets

Swift in NYC, October 13, 2016. Arriving at a Kings of Leon concert because why not?

Courtesy: tswiftdaily.tumblr.com

 

If you’ll notice, this is actually a shirt and skirt combo, but you wouldn’t know at first glance! This outfit is a great take on the LBD staple, because there are so many versions you can throw together. A black t-shirt and pencil skirt are the foregrounds for greatness, am I right? Here, Taylor adds some edginess in the form of slashes in the shoulder material. It’s easy to do, and even if you don’t have a shirt exactly like this, there are a variety of other styles you can choose from. Get a formfitting tank top and tuck it into the skirt instead. Nobody will know the difference, and everyone will be shocked when you reveal it’s actually a two-piece outfit instead. It’s the equivalent of finding pockets in your favorite shift dress: Innovative, unnecessarily placed and a joy to discover.

Below, you can easily see the t-shirt and skirt combination. It’s simple, versatile and easily manageable for everyone.

Courtesy: tswfitdaily.tumblr.com

 

Throw a jacket over the outfit to add some variety. Grab a friend (Above: Swift pictured with Lorde) and coordinate matching all-black ensembles. You’ll be a hit at the next party. Plus, if the party gets boring, the all-black look can swiftly transform you from decadent dresser to shifty spy.

 Classic Ribbed Mini-dress

Courtesy: tswiftdaily.tumblr.com

 

You can find it at American Apparel or Forever 21. It’s a constant. Wearing a black tank dress, both form fitting and flattering, Taylor is seen exiting dinner with friends. She incorporates a tan trench coat into the look, bringing it from comfy classic to business casual. There are many options for this look. I found a couple from Forever 21, check them out below!

Scoop Neck LBD

Y-Neck LBD

Fun Prints

Finally, to throw it back a little: January, 2012: As the Speak Now times were ending and Red era was starting, Taylor wore a simple black dress on a casual walk around London. This outfit was notable not only for its flattering silhouette and sleek accessories, but because the dress featured cats. Take a look below and marvel in the great classic leather jacket and loafer combo elevated to another quirky level by the fun cat print.

Courtesy: Pinterest​

 

A little black dress can be dressed up or down with a simple addition. Swift adds dimension to her looks, creating a personalized feeling to every outfit. It’s relatively easy to do yourself, and can be updated from classic staple to a trendy outfit that turns heads in an instant. Add a glittery necklace or a swipe of red lipstick and BAM! You’re good to go for the day. Little black dresses really never go out of style. *cue Style, multi-platinum hit by Swift herself. Play the tune as you get ready for your next night out!

Hi, I'm Amanda. I'm a Creative Writing major with an affinity for take-your-breath-away-sentences. I also like solid 80s rock jams and blogging about my feelings. I'm constantly hopeful I can one day escape to the moon. For now, I'm enjoying attending a wonderfully diverse school and take pride in my beautiful group of friends.
Her Campus at Florida State University.