When Alexandria Martin challenged herself to reject the economic system and do away with over consumption she tapped into a nascent trend by wearing the same brown dress every day for a year. Also anything she paired it with such as accessories, shoes or layering pieces was either second-hand in origin or already in her wardrobe – thereby circumventing the pressure on women to look good by buying things that trended.
Historically, fashionista Sheena Matheiken who launched the “Uniform Project”, wearing the same LBD for a year as an exercise in sustainable fashion, while NYC designer Mal Sirrah through the collaboration with over 1000 women around the world set the trend for the perfect universal dress- the little black dress.
What has become clear is that there is a movement afoot to reexamine the McTaste factor in rampant fashion consumerism – that you had to be new each day – she tested the boundaries of personal style. But as it turns out, one little black dress can actually take you a long, long way.
By 2017, Alexandria’s year-long experiment in fashion multitasking led to the creation of 31 Days of High Style, an online photo diary that documents her ensembles and how she accessorized them. The result is a veritable cornucopia of fashion inspiration, with Martin demonstrating just how much mileage you can get out of a single piece if you get creative with it.
While most of us don’t have the time or inclination to churn out our clothes , Martin’s project is a great reminder that with a little imagination, one good dress can go a very long way. Here are some tips for getting the most out of your own LBD:
1. Layer it up: A simple black dress can be transformed into something special with the addition of some well-chosen layers especially if its an Asymmetrical Neck Long Sleeve. Throw on a cardigan or blazer for an office-appropriate look, or add a statement necklace or scarf for a night on the town.
2. Play with texture: Mixing different textures is one surefire way to add interest to any outfit. Try pairing your LBD with velvet heels, leather gloves or a fur stole for an instant dose of glamour.
3. Go bold: Don’t be afraid to experiment with color and pattern when accessorizing your little black dress – after all, it provides the perfect blank canvas for showing off your personality. A brightly colored clutch or printed scarf can really make an outfit pop.
4. Keep it simple: Sometimes less really is more, and that’s definitely the case when it comes to styling an LBD. A pair of nude heels and understated jewelry will let the dress speak for itself – perfect for when you want to make a sophisticated statement.