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How the Royal Family Wears Little Black Dresses

Even the royals can't resist this fashion staple.

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The royal family may be known for their affection for a colorful ensemble, but even they aren't immune to the classic, timeless appeal of the Little Black Dress. While the royals may don a dark shade with less regularity than some of us, they still turn to the closet essential LBD in times of fashion need—and it's hardly surprising that they always pull it off with aplomb. If you're looking to update your LBD, take a note from a few of the royal family's most stylish ladies on the most fashionable Little Black Dresses to add to your collection now.

April 19, 2018

chogm london 2018 day 4
Chris Jackson//Getty Images

For a women's empowerment reception in London, Meghan Markle donned this artfully asymmetrical LBD from Black Halo.

Black Halo Jackie O Belted Dress

Jackie O Belted Dress

Black Halo Jackie O Belted Dress

$375 at Amazon

The off-center neckline of this simple sheath adds modern interest to an otherwise understated silhouette.

March 12, 2015

"alexander mcqueen savage beauty" private view red carpet arrivals
Karwai Tang//Getty Images

Princess Beatrice opted for a slinky, feminine take on the tux to visit the "Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty" exhibition at Victoria & Albert Museum.

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Adrianna Papell Jersey Tuxedo Gown

Jersey Tuxedo Gown

Adrianna Papell Jersey Tuxedo Gown

Contrasting lapels add an instant black tie appeal to this simple black gown.

June 29, 1994

diana at serpentine
Princess Diana Archive//Getty Images

No list of royal LBDs would be complete without the infamous Christina Stambolian-designed "revenge dress" that Princess Diana wore to the Serpentine Gallery party on the same night that Prince Charles admitted to his affair with Camilla Parker Bowles on national television.

Rooscier Ruched V Neck Off Shoulder Dress

Ruched V Neck Off Shoulder Dress

Rooscier Ruched V Neck Off Shoulder Dress

This curve-hugging, off-the-shoulder dress is sure to cause a stir.

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January 26, 2016

launch of gp nutrition supplements
David M. Benett//Getty Images

Princess Eugenie added an element of surprise to her LBD in a leather look at an event in London.

Paige Lowen Faux Leather Dress

Lowen Faux Leather Dress

Paige Lowen Faux Leather Dress

The wrap style of this faux leather dress is flattering, while the luxe sheen gives it cool girl cred.

February 7, 2001

british royals attend press complaints commission
UK Press//Getty Images

For a reception at London's Somerset House, the future Queen Camilla donned a classic black sheath, updated with sheer sleeves.

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Norma Kamali Long Sleeve Diana Gown

Long Sleeve Diana Gown

Norma Kamali Long Sleeve Diana Gown

Mesh sleeves add just the right touch of sex appeal to this body flattering style without showing too much skin.

November 7, 2015

the royal family attend the annual festival of remembrance
Chris Jackson//Getty Images

Kate Middleton proved lace is always a good choice with this long-sleeved lace number at the Royal Albert Hall's annual Festival of Remembrance.

Karen Kane Blake Long Sleeve Lace Cocktail Dress

Blake Long Sleeve Lace Cocktail Dress

Karen Kane Blake Long Sleeve Lace Cocktail Dress

Now 29% Off

The lace upper on this black cocktail dress is destined to make it a go-to for all of your events.

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December 13, 1990

diana at film premiere
Tim Graham//Getty Images

Princess Diana brought some essential 90s style with the gold-toned buttons on the black dress she wore to this film premiere.

Endless Rose Long Sleeve Tweed Minidress

Long Sleeve Tweed Minidress

Endless Rose Long Sleeve Tweed Minidress

Long sleeves, a touch of tweed, and those brilliant buttons? This dress is a '90s revival "yes" all the way around.

March 27, 2014

prince edward and the countess of wessex visit the isle of wight
Max Mumby/Indigo//Getty Images

Sophie, Countess of Wessex opted for a square-necked dress with a knee-skimming hem and elbow-length sleeves for a fundraiser at the Royal Yacht Squadron with her husband, Prince Edward.

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Clayten Knit Dress

Clayten Knit Dress

Clayten Knit Dress

This versatile LBD is sure to be a wardrobe workhorse for everything from the office to your next black tie wedding invite.

January 18, 2013

princess beatrice and princess eugenie of york visit hanover during the great britain mini tour
Chris Jackson//Getty Images

Princess Eugenie chose this lace-sleeved look for a visit to Germany.

kensie Lace Sheath Dress

Lace Sheath Dress

kensie Lace Sheath Dress

A streamlined shape gets an extra touch of interest from this lace overlay.

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July 10, 2018

the duke and duchess of sussex visit ireland
Pool/Samir Hussein//Getty Images

Meghan proved that an LBD can work just as well as a sundress at a summer party at Glencairn House during a visit to Ireland.

Reformation Mika Fit-&-Flare Midi-Dress

Mika Fit-&-Flare Midi-Dress

Reformation Mika Fit-&-Flare Midi-Dress

Wide straps give this low-key fit and flare dress an elegant feel.

Headshot of Lauren Hubbard
Lauren Hubbard
Writer

Lauren Hubbard is a freelance writer and Town & Country contributor who covers beauty, shopping, entertainment, travel, home decor, wine, and cocktails.

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