Written By Wendy Mak

So, everyone talks about needing a classic LBD (little black dress) in your wardrobe. Heck, even I mention it as one of the only 30 items you need in my book. But is there another option? Can a coloured dress be as versatile as a LBD?

A few weeks ago I was debating getting this dress below and I thought long and hard about whether I should. It wasn't cheap, so I needed to know I would get LOTS of value from it.

Doing a few "outfits" in my head I realised that this cobalt blue dress could offer me as much versatility as the traditional LBD - and is now my new LBD.....

Introducing the Little Blue Dress

This dress from Rodeo Show is a classic cut - not tight or very fitted but with enough shape. It also has some leather look sleeves, which naturally begs the question - just how versatile IS this little number???

1. Wear it to work

A classic heel or wedge, and a black blazer is all you need to take this dress straight into the office, as the leather sleeves are hidden - making it perfectly work appropriate.

The beauty of this shade of blue is you can wear it exactly like a black - all your existing black accessories will match.

2. Keep it simple for summer

Unlike most of my black dresses which I feel (colour-wise) look too "heavy" for summer, I'll have no problems busting this baby out with some little heels, even sandals and a skinny belt.

The trick here is to keep the belt thin and not too tight on the waist - otherwise you'll risk having the fabric bunch across the belt which just isn't how the fashion gods wanted you to wear this dress....

3. Kick it up a notch for nights

A quick change of shoes, small clutch and a big, bold necklace will take this dress straight from desk to play, or for dinner out with the gals or hubby.

Even if you're not normally a "leather" wearer - the tiny addition of leather in the sleeves & cage shoes will just have you feeling a bit more edgy, a bit cooler, a bit 50 Shades Of Grey but without all the weird stuff.

4. Layer up for winter

A thin black layer underneath is all you need to make this dress work for winter (you could also throw a blazer over it but you lose the leather detail).

Match it with some flat or heeled patent knee high boots and you're good to go!

There you have it, my love affair with the little blue dress.

Over to you - do you have a dress that ISN'T black that you love just as much and wear everywhere? Let me know in the comments area below, or just join me below to simply say "hi" !!!

PS. This ASOS dress will work just as well as the dress above - it doesn't have the leather sleeves but will be as versatile and is a lot more budget-friendly and goes up to a size 18.

Until next time, wishing you love, style & success!

The new LBD - and it isn't the colour you think it is