The 20 Black Dresses Your Wardrobe Is Missing

A black sheath dress should be something of a foundation for all women's wardrobes. Timeless and easily adaptable for many of life's events, the sheath dress can be dressed up with jewelry and accessories for a party or toned down with basics for somber funeral attire.

Made with a cotton-linen blend, this lightweight mini dress is ideal for hot weather and vacation times—perfect for wearing to dinners as it is ideal throwing on over a bikini. The puffed sleeves add a stylish finish to the dress.

When it comes to a LBD, do you want a high-end look without the high-end price tag? Look no further than this classic Chanel-inspired dress. Made with wool-blend bouclé, the dress has a very strong 1960s silhouette, complemented by metallic details to the belt.

A shirtdress is a great option for effortless style, especially when in black. Whether you're commuting to work, traveling, or out for brunch, this dress is occasion-appropriate for all. Made with recycled polyester and spandex, the dress offers up to 50+ UPF, making if ideal for vacation wear, too.

This dress is perfect for times when you want a little bit of drama and movement. Inspired by the timeless style of Hollywood legend Audrey Hepburn, it features 3/4-length sleeves, a voluminous 1950s-inspired skirt that almost demands you to take a twirl, and ruched detail to the waist. Simple, affordable, yet oh so impactful.

A mini long-sleeved knit dress is a great transitional piece. You can dress it down with some loafers for daytime, and then you can dress it up with a pair of over-the-knee boots for a nighttime style.

Easy to wear and made of breathable, all-around stretch fabric, this dress is sure to become one of your go-to staples. The cinched waist flatters all shapes, while the semi-fitted design skims easily over the body. A crew neckline adds a decidedly contemporary finish.

We love a good sweater dress, and Free People puts a little twist on the typical style. Strapless and with a slit in the back, this sweater dress is subtly flirty without giving too much away.

If you are headed to a wedding (or really any kind of fête), AllSaints makes a cowl-neck gown that's perfect for the occasion. The sequins reflect the lights, and the slit up the leg makes it flare out when you twirl the night away.

Hill House Home brings elements from its signature nap dress to this silhouette. The elastic smocking in the back coupled with the adjustable neckline adds comfort and ease.

From backyard barbeques to garden parties, this pretty tie-front dress has you covered. The ruffled hem adds movement, which is mirrored in the short flutter sleeves. Wear it with some cork platform sandals or espadrilles and statement jewelry for a look that you'll love to rock time and time again.

Nothing demands confidence quite like a body-con dress, and this one from Skims is no exception. Made with modal and spandex, this dress is as comfortable as it is chic.

The lace overlay makes this dress an elegant choice, while the plunge neckline adds a contemporary touch to the style. Paired with some strappy stilettos, it makes for a simple yet classic outfit.

This shirtdress is great for going from the office to out and about on the town. It can be buttoned up for a more modest appearance, and then unbuttoned once you leave work.

A black slip dress in an absolute necessity. It can go with just about anything, and the midi one is a great example of that.

The crystal-trimmed bodice elevates the simple silhouette of this dress. The iridescence feeds into the straps, giving a daintiness to the piece. If you have a special event to attend or just want to add some pizzazz to a Saturday night out, then this is the dress for you.

Okay, it's not entirely black, but it still counts. This dress is sophisticated and timeless, something that you can wear to work for years to come.

Since a bandage dress is also a staple, you can't go wrong with this pick. It has a little bit of fit-and-flare action, with an A-line skirt to add structure.

A knee-length cocktail dress with floral lace is something you are sure to get use out of. This one is great if you are going to a funeral, as the high neckline keeps it demure and classy.

A seamed shift dress is another style that's going to grace your wardrobe for decades to come. Plus, coming in at just under $30, it's a steal.