Ask Angie: and others LBD & back zipper

Glory

Hi, I am looking at purchasing an Lbd which would be classic and last for several years. I have only occasional need for a dress but would like one so when I need it so I am not scrambling as I am today. I want a classic sheath.
My questions:
1. is v neck or round neck preferred?
2. would a visible back zipper stay on trend or is a hidden zipper preferred?

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12 years ago

Dressing

11 replies

Latest reply was from Glory

Neelie

Veteran

I would go for a hidden zipper. I actually have a LBD with a visible zipper similar to the photo, and it limits what you can do with belts. A belt cutting through the zipper line in back looks strange! I personally would not buy that again.

12 years ago

Elizabeth P

Veteran

I think the v neck vs round neck would be based on which style looks best on YOU. The nice thing about a v neck is that you can put blouses under it. But if this isn't something you think you'd do, or intend to wear it just as a dress, not with layers, then I wouldn't worry about this... just look for a dress that looks fab on you.

Agree with Neelie to look for a hidden zipper.

12 years ago

Kristin L

Veteran

I agree with the others about the zipper. And like Elizabeth P said, the neckline depends on what looks best on you.

12 years ago

Peri

Veteran

Hi Glory,

i found my perfect LBD last Fall at Banana Republic...like you I rarely need a dress but wanted to be prepared. Mine is hidden back zipper and I would rec that for all the above reasons.

mine is v neck because that is the most flattering on me. If you can go either way or find the perfect dress with both necklines, I think round neck would be easier to work with necklaces and scarves, maybe even cardigans. I intend to put cardigans over my v neck but round neck might be a tad easier.

this is a good purchase...I feel very proud of mine! One of the few items I feel no doubts about.

12 years ago

Suz

(website)

Veteran

I agree with the advice so far. If you only have one LBD a concealed zip would give you the most flexibility, and as for the neckline, you need to try them on.

12 years ago

anne

Veteran

If it is going to be something you have on hand for a long time definitly avoid the exposed zipper - it is on trend now but may look dated in a few years.
As for what neckline - I don't think I can remember what you look like.

For someone of my build, which includes square shoulders, a longish neck and a small bust (same as Suz in this area) a roundneck or even higher (boatneck or cowl) would be what I'd go for. I only wear v- necks if the dress has a collar as well (and one of my favourite casual LBD's does).

People with short necks, and perhaps with bigger busts, might do better with a v neck

12 years ago

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

I beg to differ. An exposed zipper is very mainstream. No need to worry about that at all.

As for the neckline, go for one that works best with your body type. It's all fab.

Lastly, no need to do black. Your LBD can be navy, burgundy or any other colour that tickles your fancy

12 years ago

unfrumped

Veteran

I have come across so many items with exposed zippers (tops, dresses, skirts) that I have used kind of a common-sense, it depends approach.
Such as: What are my options? If perfect dress fit at good price point at a time I'm having trouble filling a real need, would go ahead. Not as keen on having an exposed zipper in a major investment piece or budget stretch, and that may speak to versatility rather than trending issues. Or if I know there are lots of hidden zips out there and there's no particular need for exposed, I prefer hidden. Also, I have to like the exposed zipper. Some look weird and detract, to my eye, and others fit in better. And fit in with the way I will wear the garment.

My odd exposed zipper story is this: I bought a couple of tops from BR with exposed back zippers and princess seaming which allowed for a really nice, tailored fit for a top worn over the bottoms in comparison to a knit top. The tops were about mid hip and my jackets mostly covered them, but maybe a half inch peeked out sometimes, but the tops were in colors blending well with the jackets, so almost couldn't tell, anyway, looked fine. Great--a perfect sophisticated outit. Then one day I was checking the back view in the mirror and kept seeing something "winking" or flashing at me. Lo, it was the metal bottom of the zipper catching the light everytime I moved a bit and the jacket rode up 1/2 inch, disrupting an otherwise almost perfect color match/blend. It was funny because it was right around my tail bone, and it was off and on, and that seemed to make things more odd! I did try "coloring" that bit of metal to make it less reflective.

12 years ago

Glory

Veteran

Thanks ladies. I think it will take some time to find the one. I have several versions of black dresses. The last one I purchased was for a wedding last year and had cream peplum down the front. I don't regret it at all. I suspect I may never wear it again but I loved how it felt on that day.
However, I feel the need for something classic so I don't have to do the rush around whenever I need something. I think it has to be a sheath
I have found one with a silver zipper, and one with a gold zipper - both round necks
I haven't seen any in petite with a vneck or with a concealed zipper
But being based in Canada is perhaps limiting.
May the search continue!

12 years ago

Elizabeth P

Veteran

Any chance you're a size zero? This dress is amazing, but pretty slim pickin's now. T. Shannon has posted hers several times, and I copied her and got it too

http://bananarepublic.gapcanad.....=230010003

12 years ago

Glory

Veteran

Elizabeth P - nope not a zero but I am not in a total hurry so maybe they will restock...one can hope

12 years ago

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