Lets call it THE Classic Black Dress (CBD)!

Every working lady SHOULD have a plain classic black dress in her wardrobe. Hell, every female SHOULD have a plain classic black dress in her wardrobe. Period.

Now I'm not talking about the Little Black Dress or LBDs here, because in the end we are talking about the corporate world. So let's keep it professional and call it the CBDs or the Classic Black Dress!

It could be a straight cut, which is perfect for those with a not-so-slim waist and a heavier bottom. It will definitely make you feel taller and slimmer. 

It could be slightly flared from the bottom, like the A line. Perfect for the skinny corporate ladies. 

Or it could also be sharp and fitting - Ideal for those regularly hitting the gym! 

Now there may be more variations in the cuts and styles thanks to the burgeoning fashion and apparel industry. But haven't all of us tried to carry off our one precious perfect CBD in different ways!? 

I have listed my secrets below:

SHRUG: As we (or at least I am) hell bent on keeping it formal here, lets avoid the tight snuggly shrugs just barely covering your shoulders and instead pick up the more formal short jackets or formal boleros as Mango calls it.

Wherever acceptable, or if you just feel like having some fun, opt for the crotchet shrug as below

Since the base will be a classic black dress, you are at a liberty to choose shrugs with block prints or classy designs apart from shrugs in contrasting colors. So experiment away and tell me how you made your CBD stand out with a shrug!

FORMAL COATS: Formal wear gives you the luxury of wearing coats in office that can actually help you flaunt a toned torso even if you don't have one..Sssshhhh!

 A half sleeved formal coat you can find at most retailers

 I absolutely love this one! Price - INR 6,390 (Mango)

 Price - INR 3,490 (Mango)

Price - INR 4,990 (Mango)

BELTS: Both slim as well as broad belts help you transform your CBD into..well...a better CBD! Broad belts help you hide those love handles your love loves!

TOPS: Turn your CBDs into a skirt by putting a nice top over and keep 'em guessing!

All the best gals! Would love to hear any related ideas and more pics! :)

Keep it fun and formal!!