LBD...

There is something about this time of year that gets me all-a-flutter about the party season. And I turn to the quintessential little black dress. Is this iconic item of clothing a must in every woman's wardrobe? I love the drama of it, captured in these wonderful images of some of my favourite ladies. It's no wonder we feel we fall short when compared to media images - so much beauty it makes my heart hurt.

Kate Moss

...lace dress by Prada...

Emily Blunt getting the accessories right...

Gisele in Harper's Bazaar

Kate Hudson

by Olivia Graham

Anne Hathaway

Penelope Cruz...can't even see the dress but you know it's going to be black and little...

Olivia P

Gwyneth Paltrow

Helena Christensen

Angelina Jolie

Or break tradition and go tuxedo like Kirsten Scott-Thomas...