A little black dress is a short, unfussy evening or cocktail dress, popularized in the 1920s by the fashion designer Coco Chanel. Chanel's dress was designed not to show stains, and to fit every woman.

The "little black dress" is considered by many women to be an essential part of a complete wardrobe. It is a well-known "rule of fashion" that every woman should own a "little black dress" that is simple and elegant, and that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. For example, a simple black cocktail dress could be made into an evening dress with diamond accessories, stilettos , and long gloves. The same dress could be worn to a daytime business meeting with a black suit jacket, demure accessories, and simple pumps.