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Coco Chanel once said 'Fashion changes, style remains'. And what single item in your wardrobe expresses that more than a Little Black Dress. It's the unchanging go-to that never fails you, if you're anything like me then you will have fallen back on the LBD more times than you can remember, and no doubt many more to come. Given the LBD's versatility, there are many reasons why it sits in various forms in my wardrobe – ready for just about anything.

Little Black Dress for work

Take the work Little Black Dress, I've had a woollen three quarter sleeve from the High Priestess of flattering dresses, Diane von Furstenberg, for nearly a decade. So far the moths in my house haven't got to it, and so it comes out for weekly meetings or days in the office. Perfect with simple flats or a pair of black patent heels, the look is always simple, polished and shows you mean business.

Cocktail dresses

Next up there's the cocktail Little Black Dress. Here, mine is a short floaty number in a light silk chiffon and airy puff sleeves. In winter it needs some tights, maybe patterned (I like Posh's recent woven numbers). Or else accessories do all the hard work here, some bright shoes and a sparkly clutch to give some evening glamour.

Black Tie dresses

Or what about those Black Tie occasions? Whilst I personally love the chance to go full-length (although I'll confess these events don't come around as often as I'd like), here the black maxi LBD sees off the competition hands down. Forget fussy prints and too much all-over colour, the maxi LBD is formal yet effortlessly elegant. It's also unfailingly flattering as many celebs proved as the dress of choice at the Golden Globes this year. Mine is waiting patiently, I bought it for no particular occasion in a sale, simply because its beautiful Grecian jewelled neckline gives it such an edge. I've taken it out of the cupboard, looked at it and tried it on again, refused to lend it to my sister and put it back in the cupboard where it waits for its premiere. I'm not worried though, it's always going to look sparkling new, and the same can't be said for those harem trousers in a couple of seasons, time.

Versatlity

And that's the best thing about a LBD, it's always worth investing in a new one and I say 'invest' truthfully for once because it'll last me for years. So this season I'll be looking for a one-shouldered to wear in the evenings (chandelier earrings look great with this style) and something with lace that'll be perfect when Spring finally arrives. Whatever event it is you're looking for, the LBD has it all. Furthermore, it's as fashionable today as when Coco first designed it way back in 1923. Happy Shopping! This month I'm: -Mourning the end of my best Christmas present, Series 3 of Mad Men. And waiting not so patiently for Series 4 on boxset. What will Betty wear now? -Using Guerlain's new tinted moisturiser, it's light reflecting and gives my skin a much needed extra boost during these final Winter weeks. Smells divine too. -Adding stacking bracelets to any LBD. The more the better for a statement look, keep the rest of your jewellery simple though – it's essential to emphasise the arms. Add a touch of luxe with Astley Clarke's"¦.XXXX