While I hesitate to call any piece of clothing a “must have”, the little black dress is iconic for a reason. It’s slimming, powerful, and easily accessorized — not to mention sexy. It always amazes me, though, how designers can take something so simple and do so much with details.

Here are five bargain LBDs to illustrate that point.

For starters, here’s a simple ponte dress from Barrie Pace. The simple design, modest neckline, and knit material make it office appropriate, but grab a clutch, put on some stilettos and you’re set for the evening. It’s now $89, down from $118, and available in sizes 4-14.

This beaded, velvet cocktail dress from Calvin Klein is also simple in design, but the velvet and beading add a bit more glamor. And the straighter neckline gives the illusion of wider shoulders. Originally $178, it’s not only $100.12 and available in sizes 2-14.

Kenneth Cole played up the little black dress even more with this beaded ponte keyhole dress. It’s just $72.56, down from $129, and available in sizes X-small to large.

This black Swiss-dot cotton dress from Isaac Mizrahi is a fun twist on a party favorite. The A-line skirt is great whether you want to create or conceal curves. Plus, it’s now on clearance for just $15.99! It’s available in sizes 2-18.

Finally, there’s this bead-trimmed sleeveless dress from Nine West. It’s not just sexy, it’s over 75% off the original price of $139 — now just $31.27! Sizes 2-10 are available.

With trends coming and going, it’s nice to still have plenty of LBDs to choose from when you want something easy to wear year after year. I’m curious, though, which of the above dresses do you like the most?

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